European Spring Explorer – From Lisbon to Dover

Set out from this enchanting city

The Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture. Take a stroll through the classical districts of Baixa and Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama, the old Islamic quarter, where there are remains of a Roman theatre and Moorish fortress. A bit outside the city centre, you can visit the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery before you set sail. 

MS Fram awaits you in the harbour. After being welcomed aboard, settle into your cabin and begin your adventure at sea.   

Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre of Porto

Settle into life on board as we approach our first stop: Leixões, Portugal. From here, you can see the lighthouse of Leça, the Boa Nova Chapel, and the beautiful beach of Praia Azul.    

You can take a shuttle bus to Porto – famed for its port wine and UNESCO-listed historic centre. An undulating city made for walking, you'll fall in love with the pastel houses, colourful tiled façades, street art, ornate churches and panoramic views across the Douro River.   

Here, you can stroll along the bustling promenade by the Ribeira docks, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge, snack on delicious petiscos, and enjoy wine tastings at the port cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. 

See Galicia's heritage in Ferrol

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board. Attend an engaging lecture with the Expedition Team in the Science Centre or soak up the steam in the sauna or a hot tub before we enter the Ría de Ferrol. Admire the imposing forts of La Palma and San Felipe that sit on either side of the headland, protecting the city within.

Ferrol is one of Spain’s best preserved 18th century port cities. While you’re here, criss-cross Barrio de la Magdalena's grid of streets and explore the city’s maritime museums. 

El Camino Inglés, one of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, starts in Ferrol.  You may also be able to join an excursion to Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Christian sites in the world.    

Relax at sea and prepare for the adventures ahead

As we say goodbye to the Iberian Peninsula, MS Fram follows in the wake of Roman and Medieval traders as she heads for the springtime splendour of northern Europe. 

This is the perfect opportunity to make the most of your ship’s onboard comforts. Relax in the hot tubs or panoramic sauna and unwind in our Explorer Lounge & Bar. Look out for dolphins out on deck or join your Expedition Team for a talk or workshop, and discover more in the Science Centre. 

Enjoy crystal waters, sandy beaches and natural beauty

Just 30 miles off the tip of Cornwall are the Isles of Scilly. This enchanting archipelago is home to some exquisite small islands with crystal clear waters, pristine beaches and stunning natural beauty. We’ll anchor the ship here and head ashore aboard local boats.  

If conditions allow, we’ll split our time here. You can explore Tresco’s white sandy beaches and the spectacular 19th century Abbey Gardens, which will be awash with the vibrant colours of spring. We also hope to visit St Mary’s, the largest of the isles. Wander through the charming streets of Hugh Town or follow the coastal paths to discover dramatic seascapes and rocky coves. Perhaps you may also like to join a boat trip around the archipelago, scouting for seals and breeding seabirds.  

Discover a hidden gem on the edge of Europe

Lying between France and mainland Britain, the Channel Islands are a captivating archipelago with intriguing history and a landscape of unspoilt beaches, coastal castles and lush countryside. 

If conditions allow, we’ll anchor off Guernsey, the ‘Island of Flowers’, and take our small expedition boats towards St Peter Port Harbour, passing the 13th century Castle Cornet which stands guard on the headland.  

We also plan to visit Alderney, a small island with an exceptionally varied ecology. Its 36 distinct habitats support a wide range of species across a surprisingly compact area. Join your Expedition Team for a guided walk, keeping an eye out for nesting gannets, blooming wildflowers, and the vibrant sounds of spring birdsong. 

Say farewell by the renowned white cliffs

The sight of the white cliffs of Dover signals the end of this spring expedition cruise.  

As we sail into Dover with the iconic cliffs coming into view, we’ll dock at the harbour, and then it’s time to say a fond farewell to MS Fram and to all those who have made your expedition cruise such a memorable experience.