Start by enjoying the banks of the Elbe and the first-class service provided by the crew during your first evening meal on board.

In northern Europe, the small HANSEATIC inspiration sets a course for spectacular landscapes. Close at hand and still unknown. The cruise begins in southern Norway’s harbour city of Haugesund. The region boasts impressively diverse scenery and many cultural monuments. Dive into the history of the Vikings with a visit to the island of Karmoy*, once host to the court of Harald Fairhair, the first Norwegian monarch. Alternatively, a helicopter flight over the Lysefjord* will offer unique views of the famous Preikestolen – or Pulpit Rock.

Where Hanseatic ships once exchanged stockfish for flour and textiles, old merchant houses now recall the historical significance of the port city of Bergen. Follow in the footsteps of the merchants and visit the popular fish market on a bicycle tour of Bergen*. Or enjoy “pure nature” in the Hardangerfjord* with fascinating insights into fruit-growing in Norway.

The Isle of Noss holds some completely undiscovered island treasures. An independent shore visit will give you the opportunity for birdwatching. Lerwick’s typical architecture is rich in granite. Visit the archaeological site of Jarlshof*, which bears witness to the everyday lives of the Stone Age people and Vikings, or join a local photographer to focus on natural photography on Shetland*. When you land in the Zodiacs for hikes, the uninhabited Isle of Mousa will offer snapshots of the lives of seals and grey seals. Fair Isle is Great Britain’s most remote inhabited island. The spectacular narrow cliffs are a Garden of Eden for countless birds such as northern gannets and puffins.

The legendary Scottish Orkney Islands await you with rugged cliffs and mystical light. Explore the early history of the islands, starting in Kirkwall with the historical treasures of Orkney*. Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the sensational Skara Brae is the best-preserved prehistoric village in northern Europe. The Ring of Brodgar, which dates back to around 2700 BC, is another stone reminder of times gone by. A hike along the coastal cliffs* takes you past Iron Age towers and offers breathtaking views. Explore nature with your experts on the small, untouched island of Westray and look out for puffins, common murres and northern gannets.

On Scotland’s east coast, be surprised as you explore Edinburgh from its port at Leith. The capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an open book of cultural and architectural history. Winding streets, ancient and neoclassical architecture, society and monarchy: a walking tour with a castle visit* reveals many facets, Edinburgh Castle being the crowning glory. You would hardly believe it: in the middle of the city, you can really walk up- and downhill through the lively streets. Enjoy the atmosphere and visit a pub or stop for some typical British afternoon tea. A hike up Arthur's Seat*, the city’s very own mountain at around 250 m (820 ft), is like a fascinating excursion into volcanology. A splendid culmination to your rediscovery of a seemingly familiar Europe.