<span data-sheets-value="{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Embark on a captivating cruise from Lisbon to the UK, exploring the picturesque coastlines on your way. Enjoy edgy yet beautiful Porto first, not forgetting to taste some of the city’s eponymous drink. Relax and enjoy the serenity of a sea day as you make your way to San Sebastian, a coastal gem famous for its stunning beaches and culinary delights. Next, spend three memorable days in Bordeaux, savoring world-class wines and exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage. Enjoy another sea day as you sail to the UK via the very pretty St. Peter Port in the Channel Islands before reaching the mainland in Plymouth. Disembark in Portsmouth.&quot;}" data-sheets-userformat="{&quot;2&quot;:8961,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;11&quot;:4,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;16&quot;:10}">Embark on a captivating cruise from Lisbon to the UK, exploring the picturesque coastlines on your way. Enjoy edgy yet beautiful Porto first, not forgetting to taste some of the city’s eponymous drink. Relax and enjoy the serenity of a sea day as you make your way to San Sebastian, a coastal gem famous for its stunning beaches and culinary delights. Next, spend three memorable days in Bordeaux, savoring world-class wines and exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage. Enjoy another sea day as you sail to the UK via the very pretty St. Peter Port in the Channel Islands before reaching the mainland in Plymouth. Disembark in Portsmouth.

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Discover the world’s last colonial empire, turned bustling cosmopolitan city. Lisbon has dozens of Moorish castles, pastel buildings, and white sand beaches to explore. This Atlantic-coast city perfectly encapsulates Mediterranean charm with its wine, food, and architecture.

This picturesque city is popular for its colorful tile-decorated buildings, its many hills and the iconic bridges by the Douro River. For an authentic Portuguese experience, go to the Ribeira neighborhood and cross the Dom Luis I bridge to watch the magical sunset among the locals.

The attraction of the second largest city of this country lies in its workday atmosphere, and the city that we see today dates mainly from the 18th Century when trade was booming, and the merchants financed fine houses for themselves and fine buildings for their city that you will have the chance to see during this excursion. View the imposing Tower of Clerigos, the viewpoint, and control of the city, a Baroque 18th-century construction, as well as the cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque building that served as a church and fortress. Oporto has imposing streets and squares; the Avenida Dos Aliados, with its magnificent buildings, shows a prosperous city, part of an 18th-century European community, and that agriculture is not the be-all and end-all of northern Portugal. We then proceed to the &ldquo;Ribeira&rdquo; quarter, where we take a river cruise boat that gives us a different panoramic view over Oporto City and its impressive six bridges. Finally, on the other bank of the river, the city of Vila Nova de Gaia is where we will find the wine cellars of the well-known drink - port wine. We will visit one of the leading port wine cellars, followed by a port tasting before returning to your Crystal ship by motor coach.

Explore Oporto by land and from the water on this informative excursion. Take a cruise on the Douro River before arriving at a local wine cellar to taste the famous Port Wine. &nbsp;

Douro River Cruise & Port Wine Tasting

Take a walking tour to discover Oporto&rsquo;s old town and the splendid tiles adorning many historic buildings. Later visit a local port wine cellar to taste this special wine. &nbsp; Begin your exploration as you drive to the city center, which provides a glimpse of modern and old housing in Oporto. The working riverside area that became the elegant part of town for the wealthy families and the old warehouses now transformed into apartment blocks. The imposing Arr&aacute;bida Bridge is one of the six linking riversides. Inaugurated in 1963, it was innovative in terms of engineering and construction technics and turned the spotlight on a brilliant young engineer Edgar Cardoso, who has been unstoppable ever since. Passing under the bridge, we understand the light aspect of this robust structure and the arch subdivided in two to allow the strong winter wind to pass without damaging it. As we start our guided walking tour, you will see the striking Torre dos Cl&eacute;rigos which rises to a height of 75 meters and is staggered in six floors of different scales, ending in a beautiful and audacious crown, and then, on the side, the wonderful square in front of the Carmo church with 1912 hand painted tiles outside, the &#39;Lions&#39; fountain, one of the inspirations for the Harry Potter books that started to take shape at the Lello Bookstore, a temple for local culture since 1906. Walking down Aliados Avenue, you will find the 'beaux arts' buildings from the turn of the 20th century. For example, the train station, with its 20,000 hand-painted tiles, was done between 1916 and 1920, depicting both historical and daily episodes of Portugal. We will also see the Cathedral of Oporto. As you continue along the streets of Oporto, you will admire the fa&ccedil;ade of the Misericordia church. Our walk will take us to Ribeira, the old part of town, to see the full glory of the old harbor area. Enjoy some free time and then cross the lower deck of this fantastic bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia for a visit and a taste of the famous port wine.

Tour the streets of Oporto and down the riverside, crossing the bridge, to understand the local cuture. Then, visit a wine lodge for a taste of Oporto&rsquo;s famous Port Wine.&nbsp;

Oporto&#39;s Old Town Walk

Drive along the riverside to see architectural mixtures displaying the old and new housing plus the social status division. As we occasionally stop for cultural visits, you will be surprised by the atmosphere in the Ribeira district, which is full of life. Along this tour, you will: Visit to the Church of Saint Francis. Visit the Bolsa Palace, where you will have a chance to admire the garden in front that features a statue of Prince Henry pointing down to the ocean side. Explore the difference between the old part of town on the riverside and the 18th-century baroque area. See the Clerigos Tower, measuring 76 meters. This impressive construction dates back to 1763, when an architect of Italian origin tried very hard to cut the sheer aspect of a watch tower. Visit Lello Bookstore, the most visited monument in Oporto. The inside is spectacular with its puzzling staircase; the steps are painted red, with a decorated handrail and stained-glass ceiling. Visit the church of Carmo with its side wall covered in tiles from 1908, adding beauty to this open square. Continue to Aliados Avenue, where the tower rises to 70 meters with a carillon clock in its center, rivaling the Clerigos Tower. Pass by the building that took part in the modern transformation of Oporto. The train and the S&atilde;o Bento station are known for the 20,000 hand-painted tiles, as an expression of the local art. Cross the Infante bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and stop for a scenic view of Oporto. Both D. Luis and D. Maria Bridges can be seen here. Stop at the old monastery for a photo op, now the military headquarters of Pilar. There you will see the traditional boats that used to transport the port wine barrels, the big rooftops for the wine cellars, the bishop&rsquo;s palace from the XVIII century, the lively colors of the Ribeira houses, and finally, at a distance to the left, the Arr&aacute;bida bridge.

Be amazed at the different architecture in the city of Oporto while walking through the main streets. See the Stock Exchange Palace, the church of St. Francis, the Ribeira Quarter, and more.

Fascinating Architecture of Oporto

Discover the green fields of Minho province as we drive to Guimar&atilde;es along the highway of the north. Guimaraes is the city where the independence of Portugal was proclaimed in 1143 and therefore it is known as the cradle of the Nation. Upon arrival, enjoy an approximate 25-minute photo stop in the park filled with ruins of the medieval Castle, the little Romanesque style church of our first kings, and the Palace of the Dukes of Bragan&ccedil;a. The program then continues with a walking tour through the old city. This is a town to be appreciated on foot, with its very narrow old streets, picturesque medieval houses, and elegant 18th century fa&ccedil;ades. One of the most charming squares is the 'Nossa Senhora da Oliveira' with its cafes and terraces surrounding the 10TH century Church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The walking tour ends at the &ldquo;Torre da Alfandega&rdquo; old tower in a lovely avenue bordered with gardens, shops of arts and crafts, and local cafes. There will be some free time to enjoy the area before returning by coach directly to your Crystal ship.

Step back into time as you visit the Portuguese city of Guimar&atilde;es where the country was born all the initial decision were taken to form this great nation.&nbsp;

Guimarães: Where the Country was Born

Drive south of Oporto to the city of Aveiro. &nbsp; Situated on the inland side of a saltwater lagoon, the city of Aveiro is unique in Portugal because it is threaded with canals that connect the lagoon with the Atlantic Ocean. Consequently, Aveiro is known as the Portuguese Venice. &nbsp; Because of its location, Aveiro has always been a busy port and it became very important in the 16th century when ships set sail from here&nbsp; that used to go as far as Newfoundland and Greenland to catch Cod fish (salted cod is still highly valued by the Portuguese). Today, this charming town is also one of the most prosperous in northern Portugal with plenty of private industries, an important university, and highly developed for tourism.&nbsp; On this tour, we take you on a cruise along the canals on board a typical boat called a &ldquo;moliceiro;&rdquo; it looks like a gondola painted with naive motifs.&nbsp; 'Ovos Moles&rdquo; pastry and sparkling wine will be served on board.&nbsp; Afterwards, the guide will lead the group on a walking tour around the city center. Aveiro is known for its architecture and guests will see several lovely facades decorated in art nouveau style.&nbsp; Before joining the bus to return to Oporto, there will still be some leisure time for shopping or simply to relax in one of the many outdoor terraces.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A visit to Aveiro, known as Portugal&rsquo;s Venice, would not be complete without a boat ride in the canals from where you will be able to see the typical houses and old factories. Sweets and drinks will be served on your ride. Your guide will then take you through the streets of this city, so you can get a sense of daily life.&nbsp;

Aveiro Canal Cruise & Town Walk

Cycle through the streets of the historical center of Oporto (classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996). &nbsp; Those who know Oporto&#39;s layout may think this tour is something of a Mission Impossible. Well, there is good news and bad news. Let&#39;s start with the bad news: Oporto has some steep hills. Here&#39;s the good news: Our bikes are electric, surprisingly easy to ride, and eco-friendly. Go up and down Oporto&#39;s narrow streets without breaking a sweat. &nbsp; We have hand-picked the very best highlights of this gorgeous city for you to visit including Cordoaria Garden, Cl&eacute;rigos Tower, Gomes Teixeira Square, Lello Bookstore, C&acirc;ndido dos Reis and Galerias, Aliados Avenue, S&atilde;o Bento Train Station, Oporto Cathedral, Bridge D. Lu&iacute;s, and Ribeira. &nbsp;

Grab an electric bike and enjoy this unique way of getting acquainted with the lovely city of Oporto.&nbsp;

Historical Oporto by E-Bike 

Quinta da Aveleda is a beautiful private estate where a unique and still relatively unknown Portuguese wine is produced, called &ldquo;Vinho Verde,&rdquo; which literally means green wine.&nbsp; You will love the well-kept gardens and park, the charm of the owner&rsquo;s manor house, the fountain with the representation of the family, and the view of the vineyards. It all comes together during this guided visit that ends with a wine tasting.&nbsp; &ldquo;Vinho Verde&rdquo; is made at the demarcated region starting south of Oporto and continues eastwards all the way to the Spanish border. It is a light, semi-sparkling wine, which is bottled after production and not left to mature, like other wines, in casks of oak. Therefore, it is a wine to be consumed within a year of the harvest. Scenic drive to Penafiel (the town where Aveleda is located) while you discover the lovely countryside of northern Portugal.&nbsp; The large entrance gate of Aveleda is surrounded by magnificent century-old trees and, as you enter the estate, you will discover the beautiful gardens and vineyards. In this area, the vines are draped on trees or on specially built trellises to keep them clear of the ground. This technique serves a double purpose: first, to free the land beneath for cultivation and, second, to protect the vine against damp and parasitic rot.&nbsp; After touring the gardens, you will visit the bottling factory to see the wine-making process, followed by the highlight of the tour &ndash; a wine tasting.&nbsp; Drive back to Oporto and your awaiting ship. Please note: This tour involves approximately 45 minutes of walking over uneven ground and there are some steps to negotiate. Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair accessible.

An unexpected, enchanted garden is waiting for you at this lovely wine estate. Walk through all the greenery and, at the end, enjoy a nice wine, ensuring that&nbsp;your memories of this place come back to you in sights, scents, and flavors.&nbsp;

Quinta da Aveleda – The Green Wine Estate & its Gardens

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person (only one person in the party needs to book it). Private cars accommodate a maximum of two guests seated in the back of the vehicle. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 120 kilometers (approximately 74 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this experience require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated. &nbsp;

For guests wishing to explore independently, Crystal is pleased to offer this private vehicle service and English-speaking guide.&nbsp;

Private Half-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Oporto

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for eight hours. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person (only one person in the party needs to book it). Private cars accommodate a maximum of two guests seated in the back of the vehicle. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 150 kilometers (approximately 93 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this experience require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.

Private Full-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide - Oporto

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private van and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance with confirmation provided 72-hours following your request. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Private vans accommodate four guests comfortably with a maximum of six guests seated in the back of the vehicle. The guests in the middle seats will not have a window. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 120 kilometers (approximately 74 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.

Private Half-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Oporto

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private van and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. We recommend this Destination Experience be booked in advance with confirmation provided 72-hours following your request. While private vehicles may be requested on board 48 hours prior to arrival to the port of call, confirmation is based on availability and subject to a 100% cancellation fee. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person. Private vans accommodate four guests comfortably with a maximum of six guests seated in the back of the vehicle. The guests in the middle seats will not have a window. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 150 kilometers (approximately 93 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this excursion require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated. &nbsp;

For guests wishing to explore independently, Crystal is pleased to offer this private vehicle service and English-speaking guide. &nbsp;

Private Full-Day Van & English-Speaking Guide - Oporto

San Sebastian, also known as Donostia, is set in the Basque Country of northern Spain, on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, just 15 miles from the border with France. Its strategic location makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a mix of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, culinary excellence, and vibrant cultural scene, this city offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity. If you want to take your fill of Mother Nature&rsquo;s wonders, then head to the dramatic cliffs of Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay, or head to La Concha or Zurriola Beaches for a taste of Basque Country beach life. The city is a food lover's paradise, acclaimed for its pintxos&mdash;small, delectable Basque tapas. The Old Town's narrow streets are lined with pintxos bars, offering a gastronomic adventure. San Sebastian is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, elevating its reputation as a culinary capital. Stroll through the charming jumble of cobblestone street for a plate of the famous Tortilla de Patatas on your way to historic buildings like the San Telmo Museum and the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus.

This UNESCO-designated city known as Port of the Moon due the natural shape of its harbor is celebrated for its glorious chateaux, its mouth-watering cuisine and its incomparable wines – Bordeaux is surrounded by the world`s most famous vineyards including Medoc, St-Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes. One time the richest community and largest port in France, Bordeaux today is second only to Paris as the country`s most densely populated city.

Bordeaux, a world heritage since 2007, offers 18th-century marvels in terms of architecture, including a rich past starting in the gallo roman period. Bordeaux is known for having the second-largest 18th-century patrimony after St. Petersburg. In addition, the city was recently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This distinction recognizes the beauty and unity of the style of Bordeaux&#39;s architectural heritage, which has developed harmoniously over the centuries and remained remarkably well preserved. This excursion is an opportunity to discover most of its treasures. Depart by bus from the ship berth for a panoramic and walking tour of Bordeaux. Along the way, you will taste Bordeaux&#39;s treasured local cake: the canel&eacute;! Onboard your coach, you will get to view the Chartrons district, a lively quarter that used to be the cradle of the wine trade in Bordeaux from the Middle Ages. Continue your drive to the &#39;Esplanade des Quinconces&#39;, one of Europe&#39;s largest squares (12 hectares) with a column commemorating the French Revolution; the Cailhau Gate (15th) and the Big Bell (14th). Passing by Palais Rohan (18th), now known as the City Hall, you will view the 13th-century Cathedral of St Andrew, where Alienor d&#39;Aquitaine married Louis VII, for an inside visit. You will then reach Bordeaux Opera House, or 'Grand Theatre,' which was built by Victor Louis in 1773 and is one of the most beautiful in Europe: a pure work of art from the 18th century. From there, your guide will offer you some free time or follow them through the Old Bordeaux area, where you will discover beautiful squares such as &#39;La Place du Parlement,&#39; the former royal marketplace (1760) with harmonious facades and fountains and &#39;La Place de la Bourse,&#39; the former royal square dedicated to Louis XV (1729). &nbsp; The tour concludes with a taste of canel&eacute;s, a typical local pastry.

Enjoy a brief panoramic drive through Bordeaux, designated a UNESCO world heritage site. After a short walk to the old district area, guests will enjoy a canel&eacute;, or cake tasting.

Panoramic Bordeaux & Caneles

Going to a museum is an excellent way to see some incredible and iconic works of art, but there are few places where you can go somewhere to feel fully immersed in the art you are looking at. Transfer to The Bassins de Lumi&egrave;res in Bordeaux, a new digital art center that opened in 2020. It is located in what used to be one of France&#39;s largest bunkers during WWII, used by Germans to house U-boats. The monumental space, which stretches over 14,500 square meters (about 156,000 square feet), is dedicated to the great Master of Art History and contemporary art. The digital exhibitions are perfectly adapted to the monumental architecture of the submarine base. They are reflected in the water of the four enormous basins, thereby adding a new dimension to the immersive experience. Visits will be conducted on gangways above the water and along the quays of the enormous basin.

On this brief but informative excursion, visit Les Bassins de Lumi&egrave;res, a unique art museum located in Bordeaux&#39;s former submarine base. &nbsp;

Bassins de Lumières

Written sources confirmed the presence of a small Jewish community in Bordeaux from the start of the 6th century. In the Middle Ages, a small number of Jews living in Bordeaux set up a home outside the town, near the Saint-Seurin area. At the end of the 15th century, Louis XI granted privileges to foreigners wanting to settle in Bordeaux. Avoiding the persecutions of the Inquisition, many of them decided to settle down beyond the Pyrenees. The Jewish community of Bordeaux remained prosperous for several centuries, supplying some great names in the domains of Literature, Arts, and Trade. Then, they settled in the Jewish district, which still keeps (in the name of some streets) track of this past: the Jewish Street, or the 'Dijeaux' door (meaning 'of the Jews' in Occitan language).&nbsp; In 1809, the great synagogue was built under its impulse at Causserouge Street in Bordeaux. After the first synagogue was ravaged by fire in 1873, the decision was very quickly taken to build another one, which was inaugurated in 1882. Your guide will tell you all about the history of the Jewish community in Bordeaux as your coach drives you around to see Bordeaux and its Jewish heritage. First, stop at the Bordeaux Synagogue for an exclusive inside visit. Bordeaux&#39;s synagogue is one of France&#39;s most monumental and largest synagogues. The memorial for Martyrs of the Community, victims of Nazi barbarism, was inaugurated on the western wall, facing the square. Since the beginning of the 21st century, it has undergone many repairs to its roof, floor, and paintings, as well as restoration of the stained-glass windows and cleaning of the fa&ccedil;ade. Your tour concludes with the drive back to your Crystal ship.

Follow our Jewish heritage specialist guide for an orientation tour of Bordeaux with a focus on its Jewish community&#39;s heritage, ending with an exclusive visit to the Great Synagogue of Bordeaux.

Jewish Heritage & Synagogue Visit

After driving along the famous Quai des Chartrons, the cradle of the Bordeaux wine trade, your guide will take you to the Margaux vineyards, the southernmost part of the M&eacute;doc area and starting point of the famous 'Route des Ch&acirc;teaux.' The Medoc wine road, located between the Gironde estuary and the Landes forest, provides magnificent views of vine-covered gravelly rises as far as the eye can see. You will have the chance to stop at celebrated Ch&acirc;teau Margaux for a photo opportunity before heading towards a classified wine estate, where you will learn all about the wine-making techniques and taste two different wines, paired with bread and cheese.&nbsp;

Travel to a classified wine estate where you will learn about wine making techniques. Enjoy a taste of two wines from the estate, paired with bread and cheese.&nbsp;

Wine & Cheese at Grand Cru Classé Wine Estate

For J&eacute;r&ocirc;me &amp; Nathalie, a visit to Chateau Boutinet rhymes with conviviality. This beautiful 17th-century winery has been brought back to life with the owners&#39; passion for wine-making and tourism. You will start by walking around the property &ndash;discovering the grapevine and the beautiful surrounding forest. Then, Nathalie and her dog will guide you on foot through the vineyard, explaining the work done in the vines, the challenges of a wine producer&#39;s life, and organic wine-making technics. In the meantime, J&eacute;r&ocirc;me will prepare the tapas you will enjoy later. Finally, after effort comes comfort: back to Ch&acirc;teau Boutinet, and after a visit to the estate, J&eacute;r&ocirc;me will invite you to a homemade tapas tasting, sampling some of the local delicacies paired with three wines from the estate.

Enjoy a half-day visit with Nathalie, owner of Ch&acirc;teau de Boutinet, a beautiful 17th century winery that has been brought back to life with the passion of the owner&rsquo;s love of wine making and tourism. End your visit, by enjoying tapas accompanied by three wines from the estate with J&eacute;r&ocirc;me.

Walk, Wine & Tapas Tasting with the Owners of Château de Boutinet

Enjoy a bike ride, passing historical sites of beautiful Bordeaux; the Palais Gallien Roman Amphitheater, Grands Hommes district, the Great Opera House and La Comedie Square.&nbsp; Peddle past the Pey Berland area with St-Andre Cathedral, Palais de Rohan, and the Town Hall. There are so many things to see, Grosse Cloche, Saint Eloi church, Camille Julian Square, Royal Cailhau gate, St Pierre Square and its church, and Le Parlement Square. &nbsp; Stop at a caf&eacute; terrace for a light refreshment during your ride. &nbsp; Finish the bicycle ride with what Bordelais call 'The two bridges boucle.' Ride across the river to reach the right river bank and enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Bordeaux. Cross the modern Chaban Delmas Bridge and the ancient Pont de Pierre Bridge. &nbsp; Return via the La Bourse square and the riverside to your ship.

<div class='fcmtt4a'>Take a bike ride through historic Bordeaux, passing by landmarks like the Roman Amphitheater, St-Andre Cathedral, and the Pont de Pierre Bridge. Finish with the 'two bridges boucle' and enjoy the beautiful view of Bordeaux.</div> <div class='fbz4qca'> <div class='fve4vxu'></div> </div>

Bordeaux by Bicycle

Ch&acirc;teau de La Dauphine at Fronsac was built between 1744 and 1750 in the classical style and set within beautiful gardens. Begin your visit with a presentation of the property&#39;s ethical and environmental initiatives: including work in the vineyard, the beehives, the biodynamic workshop, aquaponics, the permaculture vegetable garden and the scented garden, finishing the talk with a tasting. The property converted to an organic and biodynamic approach with a philosophy of no concessions to convenience, 'the details produce the quality, but quality is not a detail.' &nbsp; Technical decisions are carried out plot-by-plot basis; plowing, grass cover, pruning, the height of trellising, canopy management, enriching agents and even restructuring.&nbsp; Following 'AB' certification (organic agriculture) in 2015, the property&#39;s work ethic has expanded by adopting Biodynamic methods. Natural preparations based on manure, plants and minerals are mixed and applied according to the lunar calendar. This painstaking task is carried out in harmony with natural cycles, with respect for the environment and people living there.

Tour Chateau de La Dauphine &ndash; an organic and biodynamic wine estate, complete with a tasting of their dynamic wines.

Château de La Dauphine Wine Estate

Today you will be invited to a special private wine tasting and visit to Pessac-L&eacute;ognan Classified Great Growth Ch&acirc;teau Smith Haut Lafitte estate. This great growth owes its reputation as 'the quintessential Graves' to its superb G&uuml;nz gravel terroir in a single block. The estate&#39;s history dates back to the Crusades. The Scottish navigator Georges Smith acquired the ch&acirc;teau in the 18th century and Monsieur Duffour-Dubergier, a Mayor of Bordeaux from a famous family of n&eacute;gociants, was a subsequent owner. Since its purchase by Florence and Daniel Cathiard in 1990, Smith Haut Lafitte has become one of the leading lights of Bordeaux thanks to its elegant, powerful red and white wines. &nbsp; In twenty years, the owners have not only brought the wine of Smith Haut Lafitte up to the very highest level, but also restored the ch&acirc;teau&#39;s 16th century tower, completely renovated two underground cellars, built their own cooperage and introduced organic methods into the process. During your visit you will be granted special access to the owners&#39; private, secret cellars, where you will see many wonderful treasures of wines. &nbsp; After visiting this splendid estate, follow your guide for a tasting of 3 wines from the estate; a once in a lifetime occasion to taste both first label wines from the estate (red and white: Ch&acirc;teau Smith Haut Lafitte) and one red wine from its second label (Les Hauts de Smith). After your experience tasting some of the finest wines of the Bordeaux region, you will return to your ship.&nbsp;

Enjoy a special, private wine tasting and visit to Pessac-L&eacute;ognan Classified Great Growth Ch&acirc;teau Smith Haut Lafitte estate, including a sampling of three wines from the estate.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte & its Cellars Private Visit

Scenic drive to the Cognac region. Cognac, home of the world-famous brandy, is a pretty little town located on the Charente River banks, with an old 13th century ch&acirc;teau where French King Fran&ccedil;ois I was born. &nbsp; Visit one of the world&#39;s most-famous houses of Cognac, Hennessy. Explore the cellars and discover the secrets of the swan&rsquo;s neck-shaped alembic, still in use to distill cognac. After learning about the oak cask ageing process and the art of blending, your visit will conclude with a tasting.&nbsp; After the tasting, lunch will be served at one of the town&#39;s Brasserie-style restaurants, followed by a brief guided walking tour of Cognac. Aftre your visit, drive back to your ship. &nbsp;

On this full-day excursion, enjoy a visit to one of the world&rsquo;s most famous cognac houses, Hennessy. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of some of their finest Hennessy liquors, as well as lunch at a local Brasserie-style restaurant.

Hennessy Cognac Distillery & Lunch

There can be no better place to start a visit to this beautiful region than at the UNESCO World Heritage Classified Saint Emilion &nbsp;village, the home of the Merlot grape. The vines on the 'hill with a thousand ch&acirc;teaux' reach right up to Saint-Emilion&#39;s 13th century town walls and surrounding moat dug out of solid rock.&nbsp; On arrival, your guide will take you for a short orientation tour in the medieval village. You will visit the main monuments of the town: the Collegiale church and its magnificent cloister from the 12th century, the ramparts, and the marketplace. Strolling in the charming streets of the village, you will also see the Cadene gate and the King&#39;s Tower.&nbsp; Then, you will either visit the underground monuments of the village, with its monolithic church, catacombs and the hermitage, OR enjoy some free time. Continue your visit to the region by going to a nearby wine estate. You will learn about the techniques of wine making during your visit to the cellars, before tasting the wines of the estate.

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage classified village of Saint Emilion, followed by a visit to a local wine estate.

UNESCO World Heritage Village of Saint-Emilion 

Enjoy a personalized destination experience allowing you to choose how you spend your time ashore. Go sightseeing or shopping. Maybe linger at a famous landmark or dine at a favorite restaurant. Crystal is pleased to offer you the option to explore independently with the service of a private vehicle with an English-speaking guide. Beginning from your ship, embark on an itinerary of your own design to explore the city&#39;s main attractions, or sights off the beaten path. The local beauty, history, and culture are yours to discover as you travel at your leisure, enjoying the comfort of a private car and the expertise of an English-speaking guide, both at your disposal for four hours. Pricing and reservations are based per vehicle, not per person (only one person in the party needs to book it). Private cars accommodate a maximum of two guests seated in the back of the vehicle. Maximum round-trip mileage for this service is 150 kilometers (approximately 93 miles). Mile overages may be subject to additional costs and will be billed onboard. While this service does not include a tour program, entrance fees, meals, refreshments, gratuities or any other incidental charges, including parking and/or tolls, you can either tell your guide where you would like to go or take the guide&rsquo;s suggestions. The departure date and time, as well as the model and type of private vehicle, will depend on availability. In some destinations, only driver/guides are available. Foreign-language guides may be available upon request but may incur additional fees. Kindly email <a href='mailto:CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com'>CrystalDestinations@crystalcruises.com</a> for availability. Requests for this experience require a valid booking ID number for all participants. Unfortunately, visitors and outside guests cannot be accommodated.

For guests wishing to explore independently, Crystal Cruises is pleased to offer this private vehicle service and English-speaking guide.

Private Half-Day Car & English-Speaking Guide

Within its fortified walls, this city of bustling shops, cafés and bars is home to the highest concentration of seafood restaurants in Europe. Heavily bombed during World War II, it was lovingly restored to its original splendor. The city`s top destination is the citadel, from where Corsairs would raid enemy ships in the name of the King. Be sure to take a stroll atop the ramparts for magical views, and save time for a journey to the medieval Mont St-Michel abbey. 

Located in the southwest of England, Plymouth is a coastal town known for its maritime attractions and indie shopping culture. Home of the famous gin brand, its distilleries are open for tours and, after that, you can visit the city’s colorful art galleries and refined restaurants.

You would be hard pressed to find a city with a more significant naval heritage than Portsmouth. The world`s oldest dry dock, it is home to some of history`s most storied ships, including Lord Nelson`s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, HMS Victory; Henry VII`s Tudor warship, Mary Rose; and the world`s first iron hulled armored ship, HMS Warrior. The city also has impressive cultural and entertainment credentials. It is the birthplace of author Charles Dickens and comedian Peter Sellers and has served as a shooting location for a variety of films, including the James Bond installment, Tomorrow Never Dies. For all its high-level associations, Portsmouth remains a wonderfully low-key destination. Enjoy a pass along the cobbled streets of the shopping district or step aboard a high-speed elevator of the Spinnaker Tower, the sail-inspired observation tower that rises 560 feet above the port to showcase magnificent views.

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

The Langham, London

Simply Hotel Lisbon

Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade

9 Exceptional Restaurants

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Aurora SPA

Talents (dynamic based on voyage)

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Guests will receive twenty percent (20%) off the cruise-only fare. Full payment of the reduced fare will be due at time of booking. Booking is not refundable. Additional terms and conditions apply.

A&K Travel Group Ltd, along with its subsidiary companies listed below (collectively “A&K Travel,” “us,” “our,” or “we”) recognize the importance of protecting your privacy. This global privacy policy (“Privacy Policy”) describes how we collect, process, and share Guest Personal Data (defined below). This Privacy Policy also describes your rights and choices with respect to Guest Personal Data and other important information. You reached this Privacy Policy by clicking on the privacy policy link when you visited the Crystal Cruises website, however, this Privacy Policy applies to the activities across all of the A&K Travel companies. Please carefully review this Privacy Policy.

A&K Travel Group Ltd is a company incorporated under the laws of the Bahamas. A&K Travel’s subsidiary companies include but are not limited to the following: AK Group Ltd, A&K Corp. Ltd, Abercrombie & Kent Global Travel, AK Monaco Sarl, Abercrombie & Kent Limited, Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC, Crystal Cruises Holding Ltd, Crystal Cruises SAM, Crystal Cruises USA, LLC, Crystal Cruises Pty Ltd and Cox & Kings.

A&K Travel acts as both a controller and processor with respect to the collection, use, and other processing of personal identifying information which can be used to identify, directly or indirectly, or locate guests ("

) in connection with the guest relationship, as described in more detail in this Privacy Policy.

We have appointed a data protection compliance manager who is responsible for overseeing questions in relation to this Privacy Policy. If you have any questions about this privacy notice, including any requests to exercise your legal rights, please contact the data protection compliance manager using the details set out below.

Please see below the relevant contact details of the Data Controller for your country or region. If you are uncertain of have a general question regarding data protection, please use the contact details for the United Kingdom.

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Legal entity: Abercrombie & Kent Ltd.
Company No: 01082430
Name: Data Compliance Officer
Email address: 


Postal address: St George's House, Ambrose Street, Cheltenham, GL50 3LG.

Legal Entity: GRCiLaw ltd
Company No: 11311669
Name: Data Protection Officer as a Service
Email Address: 

Postal address: Unit 3 Clive Court, Bartholomews Walk, Cambridge Business Park, Ely, Cambs. CB7 4EA.
Supervisory body: The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Website URL: 

The contact details for our registered data protection representative in the European Union.

Legal entity: Abercrombie & Kent Italy and Croatia
Name: EU Data Protection Representative
Email address: 


Postal address: Via Fattori 10, Florence, 50132, Italy.
Supervisory body: Garante Per La Protezione Dei Personali
Website URL: 

United States of America, Canada and South/Central America

The contact details for our registered data protection representative for the USA and the Americas

Legal entity: Abercrombie & Kent USA LLC
Name: Data Protection Manager
Email address: 


Postal address: 1411 Opus Place Executive Towers West II, Suite 300, Downers Grove, IL 60515.

The contact details for our registered data protection representative Australia and Asia.

Legal entity: Abercrombie & Kent Australia Pty. Ltd.
Name: Data Protection Manager
Email address: 


Postal address: Level 3, 290 Coventry Street, South Melbourne, VIC 3205.

This Policy is written in the English language. We do not guarantee the accuracy of any translated versions of this Policy. To the extent any translated versions of this Policy conflict with the English language version, the English language version of this Policy shall control.


A&K Travel will collect personal data from you when you interact with any of the A&K Travel websites, contact any of its subsidiary companies’ reservations departments, use our services, or purchase our products.


We collect Guest Personal Data about or generated by any device you have used to access the websites of subsidiary companies, or when you use Wi-Fi while traveling with A&K Travel. Such collected data could include contact details (such as email address) and previous purchase history or interests. When you use our websites, we also collect certain information about you automatically through our use of cookies and similar technologies. Please see below for our cookie policy.


We receive Guest Personal Data about you from our third-party affiliates or partners and from marketing companies that provide us with such information as a part of their relationship with us. We receive Guest Personal Data from third party travel agents who transfer Guest Personal Data to us when you purchase products or services from them in connection with services that we provide, and other service providers performing services on our behalf. We may receive Guest Personal Data from ad networks, behavioral advertising vendors, market research, and social media companies or similar companies that provide us with additional Guest Personal Data. We may also receive Guest Personal Data from Facebook and other social media companies who may transfer Guest Personal Data to us when you register for one of our services or interact with that social media company on or in connection with our services or the purchase of our products.

We may combine this with data that we already have collected about you.


A&K Travel feels strongly about protecting the privacy of children. A&K Travel’s websites are not targeted for use by minors under the age of 18 (“minors”). A&K Travel does not knowingly collect personal information from minors in connection with the features of our websites without the consent of a parent or guardian. A&K Travel requests that all minors who may visit its websites not disclose or provide any personal data. Minors may not access those sections of the websites that require registration. Upon notification that a minor has provided us with personally identifiable information, we will delete the minor’s personally identifiable information from our records. If you believe we might have any information from a child, please email us at 

III. CATEGORIES OF GUEST PERSONAL DATA AND PURPOSE FOR PROCESSING

A&K Travel collects and processes the following categories of Guest Personal Data, for the purposes specified below when you make an inquiry or purchase a service or product:

Personal name and initials (e.g. First Name, Last Name)

Communicate, interact and identify you and customize the content, products and services that are offered to you;

Verify your authority to enter and use our Services; and

Personal characteristics (e.g., age, date of birth, gender, marital status, nationality) and personal preferences (product preferences, online preferences, interests)

Conduct our business and improve our websites and services, develop new products and services, provide information and support, to better understand your needs and interests, personalize communications and advertising, and generally promote a quality experience for you.

Process, fulfil and follow up on transactions and requests for products, services, support, and information

Financial information (e.g., credit card number, financial institution information and number)

Process transactions you enter into with us (e.g., purchase of goods and services, refunds, discounts and offers)

Contact information (e.g., address, phone number, email address)

Perform certain automated decision-making, including profiling, which is used for direct marketing

Contact you with information about A&K Travel products and services and affiliated third-parties;

Send you other marketing materials, for example, via email, and to notify you about products and services that we believe would be of interest to you

Government Issued ID (e.g., Social Security Number, Government ID Number, Passport Number)

Authentication information (e.g., login id, password)

Verify your authority to enter and use our website and other services

Deter, detect, and prevent fraud and other prohibited or illegal activities

Health related information (e.g., information about physical or psychological state of health, prescriptions, vaccinations, temperature, data on health screening questionnaires, COVID-19 testing)

Book or embark on some of our offerings, visit certain properties or visit certain locations where our cruise ships berth

Health information when / if medical care is required while onboard

Enable us to provide you with bespoke services or in connection with our response to health-related incidents

Information obtained from third parties, including:

Casino third parties related to marketing and background checks

Travel Agents and / or Travel Consortiums for booking purposes

Online behaviour information (online activity, preferences, time spent viewing features on our Site)

Measure, analyze and improve our products and services, the effectiveness of our websites, and our advertising and marketing

Provide targeting advertising, including the use of re-targeting technology

The type of Guest Personal Data collected by A&K Travel may vary from country to country, and in some countries A&K Travel might not collect all of the categories of Guest Personal Data listed above.

A&K Travel is committed to only collecting and processing the minimum amount of data from you that is necessary to the purposes of our data processing activities, and to retain such data only if required to fulfil such purposes. Where applicable, if A&K Travel intends to further process the personal data for a purpose other than that for which the personal data was initially collected, A&K Travel shall, prior to such processing, provide you with any relevant information on such additional purpose, and, to the extent required by applicable law, obtain your consent for this.

While traveling with A&K Travel subsidiary companies:

A&K Travel processes Guest Personal Data when you interact with us offline. Additionally, when you use electronic or RFID technologies, or use on-premise digital services, we may collect browsing information including but not limited to, search history, server logs, application logs, browsing data, first party cookies, third party cookies, pixel tags and clear gifs. In addition, we may process this data in combination with other data that we collect and/or create as necessary in connection with certain legitimate business interests in (i) verifying your identity for authentication and security purposes; and (ii) to prevent fraud.


We may operate CCTV or security cameras on properties operated or owned by A&K Travel subsidiary companies. In connection with these systems, we may collect and/or create Guest Personal Data as necessary in connection with certain legitimate business interests, such as (i) ensuring the safety and security of guests and employees; (ii) recording and investigating health and safety incidents; (iii) keeping track of guests and employees for safety and commercial purposes; and (iv) creating aggregate data.

When you use our digital services, we may collect and process device and network data. We use this data as necessary to fulfil guests’ requests. We may also collect and process data that we collect, create, and/or receive (including through the use of cookies and similar technologies). We typically use this data as necessary in connection with certain legitimate business interests, such as ensuring the security of our websites and other technology systems.

We and certain third parties process Guest Personal Data we hold for certain purposes including but not limited to distribute marketing communications and to create marketing profiles, in connection with online advertising, including targeted advertising, data sales, personalization and guest profiles.

In order to understand our guests’ preferences, and better recommend bespoke products and services we may create a “Guest Profile” by linking together and analyzing Guest Personal Data collected in the following circumstances: (i) when you purchase our products and services; (ii) when you travel with companies owned or operated by A&K Travel and its subsidiary companies; (iii) when you use our digital services; (iv) through cookies and other tracking technologies; (v) when you contact us or submit information to us; and (vi) through feedback and surveys.


During our interactions we may collect special categories of personal data about you as detailed below.This may be because you want us to have the information or inadvertently as result of a group you travel with (please see example below).It may also be because we need to know certain personal data about you which is special category data in order that we can provide you with the best possible service and advise you whether a trip is suitable for you.Health is one of the best examples of this.

E.g.If we receive a group booking from a specific religious association we will inadvertently have details of religious beliefs of those individuals.The same can be said for groups from political associations and trade union associations.