Your cruise through the western Mediterranean begins with a premiere destination: for the first time, the EUROPA will call at the idyllic SANARY-SUR-MER. As you stroll along the glorious promenade, surrounded by elegant yachts and idyllic palm trees, you will immediately start to notice the typical savoir vivre that France is famous for. The ambience is just as tranquil in SETE. The “Venice of the Languedoc” is surrounded by water on all sides, save for one narrow strip of land. Make the most of your time here by watching the hustle and bustle of the boats on the Canal Royal as you enjoy a portion of local mussels. A rich history and southern French flair lend Montpellier* its charm. The best place to soak up the exciting atmosphere is around the Place de la Comedie, laid out in the style of the Parisian boulevards. Peace and quiet are two things you should not really expect to find in BARCELONA. It’s quite the opposite: the Catalan capital specialises in the Spanish vida loca. Whether you choose to stroll around the shops of the elegant Passeig de Gracia or relax in one of the many bars, take the opportunity to embrace the Mediterranean way of life. Or why not let yourself be inspired by Barcelona’s fantastic architecture, for which the city mainly has Antoni Gaudí to thank. His most well-known works are no doubt the Sagrada Familia basilica*, which has been under construction since 1882, and Park Guell*, which is decorated with countless colourful ceramic mosaics.

From stone walls edged with battlements, gaze across the horizon of Andalusia, or enjoy the fine beaches of the Costa del Sol. At midnight, your cruise will continue towards GIBRALTAR, where Africa and Europe come almost close enough to touch. The iconic Rock rises up to greet you from afar. Over the centuries it has become home to entire colonies of imported Barbary macaques. Cruise up the majestic Guadalquivir into the country’s interior, as far as SEVILLE. You will have two days and nights here to embrace the Andalusian way of life: in rustic tavernas, from which Flamenco rhythms can be heard until late into the evening, in typical tapas bars or while sampling sherry in nearby Jerez de la Frontera. Enthralled by the fiery spirit of Spain, you will finally reach Lisbon, and from here you will set off on your journey home.

* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.