Hanseatic Inspiration, INT France & Channel Islands ex Bilbao to Hamburg – 28 Apr 2021

9 Night cruise departing from Bilbao to Hamburg onboard Hanseatic Inspiration.

Revived by the spring, blessed by the muse: where nature inspires artists and architecture tells of historical events, experiences speak to the hearts of all fans of nature and culture.

Highlights of this cruise:

Ile d’Yeu/France
If you love diverse scenery and cultural treasures, then you will enjoy this cruise with all your senses. Small islands and picturesque old towns, iconic architecture and medieval heritage, culinary delights and thoughtful reflection: on the HANSEATIC inspiration, spring begins to awaken on Europe’s west coast in Port Joinville on Ile d’Yeu. Explore France’s insider tip on a walk or bike ride and soak in the island’s authentic flair. Charming places like these provide plenty of opportunities for individual explorations and thrilling excursions along your route.

Nantes
On a city walk of Nantes* in Pays de la Loire, a region full of character, the birthplace of Jules Verne tells of kings and the power of the church, of dukes and holy people. Discover impressive examples of medieval feudal architecture when you visit the castles on the Loire: Chateau d’Angers and Chateau de Brissac* – the first with mighty walls, 17 towers and an elegant interior garden, the second built in the impressive Renaissance style with circular towers. Spend the evening amidst the natural canvas when you cruise on the Loire and experience the landscape from a very special perspective. Join other cultural enthusiasts on board to discuss the diversity of the French river valley, which reflects practically every historic era of European art.

Sark, Guernsey/Channel Islands
Magnificent and wildly romantic, the Channel Islands are the perfect destination for nature lovers. Sark has an idyllic calm that will accompany you through the multi-award-winning La Seigneurie Gardens. Saint Peter Port on Guernsey is considered the island group’s most beautiful town. Experience this Mediterranean-like place for yourself: a fascinating labyrinth of terraces and hidden gardens is just waiting to be discovered. Explore the island on a vintage bus* and get to know the smallest church in the world – a short but unforgettable visit.

Rouen/France
Back on the French mainland, Normandy’s eventful history is brought to life. In Rouen, half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, the Gothic cathedral and the Le Gros-Horloge astronomical clock tell of turbulent times – for example the life of freedom fighter Joan of Arc, who met a tragic end on the old market square in 1431. Follow in the footsteps of history on a walk through Rouen’s old town*. The city of 100 steeples was immortalised by Monet in his famous cathedral series. Be inspired by a visit to Claude Monet’s garden in Giverny*, the place where he spent his final years of creativity. Alternatively, take a scenic tour through the Pays d’Auge*, the home of cider, Calvados and Camembert. Rouen is the perfect place to explore on your own, and so the HANSEATIC inspiration will stay here overnight. This will give you time to stroll through the streets and savour the savoir vivre in one of the little bistros.

Cruise on the Seine
French painters too were inspired by this way of life, and by the landscape. Many impressionists found their muse along the meandering course of the Seine in Normandy. See for yourself on a short cruise on the Seine – a river with a unique connection to France’s soul.

Zeebrugge/Belgium
Zeebrugge, Belgium’s largest fishing port, is now an important trading centre. Centuries ago, trade and the textile industry helped the region to prosper. Gain an impression of the past in romantic Brugge*. In the old town, the lustre of bygone times will seem as vibrant as ever when you visit the medieval centre and Michelangelo’s Madonna in the Church of Our Lady. Alternatively, sweeten your day with a walking tour of Ghent and Belgian chocolate*. In Flanders’ second-largest city, discover many facets of its history with magnificent Gothic buildings and gain insights into the production of its world-famous chocolates when you visit a chocolatier. The North Sea air has a salty tang when the HANSEATIC inspiration sets sail for German Bight.

Borkum
On the largest of the East Frisian Islands, you will see how the tides determine the rhythm of life – both ashore and on a hike through the mudflats of the national park in Borkum*. Whether barefoot or in rubber boots, discover the habitat between the tides with an expert at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to a DGzRS sea rescue cruiser* also provides a look behind the scenes – a most unusual flying visit.

Hamburg
As you approach Hamburg, think back on the intensive and eventful days that have spoken to both your heart and your senses.