Cruise the seas like the early seafaring adventurers, while benefitting from the relaxing and care-free environment of a luxury cruise ship. This journey will bring you from the sunny shores of Barcelona, through the Mediterranean Sea, passing out into the Atlantic Ocean before cruising through the Gulf of Biscaya to the English Channel. All the while, you can relax and cruise the along in luxury aboard the Crystal Symphony, voted into a Top 2 spot of best cruise ships in the world. Walk the 360 degree promenade deck, enjoy the sun while reclining with a cocktail at the pool deck, test your luck at the Crystal Casino, or simply indulge in delightful cuisine- there is always plenty to do in between calls to port before you arrive in your final destination, London, England. Enjoy many cultural experiences along the way, with calls to port in Spain, Morocco, Portugal, and France before disembarking in England.

Highlights: luxury cruise, Codorniu Winery, panoramic Barcelona tour, Palma de Mallorca castle and cathedrals, caving in San Jose, Malaga countryside, Tangier with coastal city Asilah, Lisbon highlights tour, Duoro River cruise, UNESCO World Heritage city Bordeaux with wine country vineyard tour.

Available Cruise Departure Dates (2012):
May 9

In Barcelona, and throughout Catalonia, there are two official languages: Catalan, the language of the Catalans, and Spanish, the official language of Spain.Wherever you are in Barcelona, there's always something to see nearby around the neighbourhood or district: jewels of home-grown Catalan architecture, modernisme, and contemporary architecture, markets that are a treat for the senses, treasures of the ancient Roman and medieval city, parks where you can unwind … And the best thing of all is, you don't have to be a great explorer to find and discover all of Barcelona’s neighbourhoods. Barcelona is legendary for its nightlife, but don't venture out for dinner before 11pm, the restaurants don't really get going till midnight, and the clubs start hopping from the wee hours till dawn.

Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.

Hotel Barcelona Catedral (4*) is located right in the city centre, and is exclusive, modern and comfortable. It offers guests excellent quality rooms and an efficient service. The hotel features a swimming-pool, gym, personal trainer, patio-chill out, restaurant with outdoors terrace and smoking area, parking, free internet computers, wireless internet connection throughout the hotel and cooking lessons.

Overnight at Barcelona Catedral (4*).

Meet your private driver and guide this morning at the hotel for a full day tour of the lively Mediterranean city of Barcelona. Head to the city's most renowned landmark, Gaudi's Sagrada Familia- a monumental piece of architecture still under construction over 100 years after building commenced. Stop for some photographs before continuing to Paseo de Gracia in the Gothic Quarter, an area with many fantastic modernist buildings. Walk through the medieval streets to the Gothic Cathedral, completed in 1450, for a visit of its interior. Return to your car for a drive along Paralel Avenue and Espanya Square, before heading to the top of Montjuic Hill, site of the 1992 Olympic Stadium. Circle the Columbus Monument and drive past the maritime facade of Barcelona, before heading to the renowned Picasso Museum for a guided tour. Here you can see one of the most extensive collections of famed 20th century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Afterward, enjoy a return to your hotel. 

Hotel Barcelona Catedral (4*) is located right in the city centre, and is exclusive, modern and comfortable. It offers guests excellent quality rooms and an efficient service. The hotel features a swimming-pool, gym, personal trainer, patio-chill out, restaurant with outdoors terrace and smoking area, parking, free internet computers, wireless internet connection throughout the hotel and cooking lessons.

Overnight at Barcelona Catedral (4*).

Cruise the historic waters of the Mediterranean aboard your luxury cruise vessel, making calls-to-port at many of the region's most triumphant cities of bygone eras. Your onboard experience will be enriched with shore excursions out to explore the local culture, the beaches, or well-preserved relics of the past, such as great mosques or hand-masoned city walls.

Port transfer to/from city centre accommodation with private vehicle and driver.

Welcome on board to Crystal Symphony.  

With a sleek silhouette, the Crystal Symphony finds a natural home in the world's most glamorous harbours and idyllic ports of call. The luxurious 50,000-ton, 922-guest ship is one of the most spacious cruise ships at sea, joining Crystal Serenity in the top two spots among Condé Nast Traveler’s best ships in the world. Onboard amenities include grand lounges, full-service fitness facility, Crystal Casino, Feng Shui-inspired spa, 360° teak Promenade Deck, lap pool, Jacuzzi, acclaimed cuisine and spectacular entertainment.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Palma de Mallorca, rich in monuments of many ages, was founded by the Romans more than 2,100 years ago. A magnificent rose-colored Gothic cathedral dominates the palm-fringed waterfront of its urban center. Mallorca, known as the "Island of Tranquility," is the largest and most developed of the Balearic group. Steep mountains, serene valleys and wide plains form its varied landscape. Don't miss seeing the island's quaint villages and the monastery where George Sand and Frederic Chopin spent a winter.

Meet your private driver and guide at the port for a half day tour of Palma de Mallorca. Discover the Mallorca's North Coast (Costa Nord)—a 40-mile-long mass of lime rock that, for centuries, has formed a wall against winds and invasions. On arrival in Valldemosa, your first stop will be at the Costa Nord Foundation, established to promote the culture and landscape of the Tramuntana mountain range. Enjoy some free time to explore Valldemosa—one of the most beautiful villages on the island, with cypresses, olive trees, almond trees, orange trees and palms dating back to Carthusian times. Upon return to Palma de Mallorca you will make a stop at the Gothic-style Bellver Castle, a unique circle-shaped castle built in the early 14th century, to admire the extensive panoramic view across the city and surrounding countryside. The tour will also make a brief stop at Palma's lovely 13th-century cathedral. Return to port.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

One of the largest cities of Spain, Valencia is also one of the country's most dynamic. Its location on the Mediterranean offers a mild climate, bringing sun worshippers to Valencia's many beaches. Sports aficionados will find activities galore, including golf, diving, cycling and tennis. When the sun goes down, the tempo speeds up as locals and visitors gather in cafes and nightclubs. Given that Valencia was founded by the Romans and has been a witness to, if not directly involved in, the history of the centuries, the city also is a showcase of art and architecture. Old Town boasts a cathedral that is mainly of early gothic style, with Romanesque and baroque additions. In the cathedral's museum are works of Goya and the paintings of the Valencia School, representing art of the 15th to the 17th centuries. Spanning the river are three old bridges, one of which has 15th-century towers that were part of Valencia's fortified walls. Then there is Spain's national hero, El Cid, whose famous battle against the Moors was waged here in Valencia.

Meet your private driver and guide at the port for a half day tour of Valencia and the San Jose Caves. At Vall D’Uxo, in the San José Caves, you will discover a magical site—the longest navigable underground river in Europe. You’ll enter the underground realm in a boat that drifts along calm waters, passing capricious forms of the rocks that the water has molded during thousands of years, and stalactites and stalagmites that have grown at the rate of an inch a century. Discover a beautiful landscape that the nature keeps hidden from the light. Your boat trip will take you through the Bat Cave, the Dog Kennel and Diana’s Lake. It is a relaxing experience and afterwards you'll head back to Valencia to view the highlights of the city. You’ll take the Avenida del Puerto past the Bullring and Central Station to Central Square, where you’ll walk to admire the Gothic-style buildings that house the Silk Exchange with an impressive façade constructed on helicoidal columns. Then take a panoramic drive to the Carmen quarter, Torre de Quart, Case de Beneficencia and the IVAM (a modern art museum). You will proceed to Torres de Serrano to view the Plaza de la Virgen (the Virgin of the Forsaken Basilica) and have some free time at the cathedral to explore outside. Return to the ship by way of the panoramic bridges, passing the City of Art & Sciences designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava. Return to port. NOTE: Visits to the caves may not be possible if recent heavy rainfall has caused them to be flooded.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish:  pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at the state-of-the-art fitness center or Walk-on-Water along our 360o Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skill, learn about art, history and worldly destinations with our engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chi and yoga to PGA golf instruction and paddle tennis on full-size courts, today is all about you.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Prosperous Málaga lies along the beautiful Costa del Sol, approximately 70 miles inside the Strait of Gibraltar. Its wealth of historical sites includes a 16th-century cathedral and the Moorish Alcazaba Fortress. This modern-looking provincial capital was founded by the Phoenicians and later became culturally and economically important as the port of Granada. Sightseeing opportunities abound from Málaga. The charming mountain village of Mijas and the impressive Alhambra are attractions you won't want to miss.

Take a look behind the scenes at Spanish country life. Departing the port with your private driver and guide, you'll head directly to the picturesque village of Mijas, also known as the "White Town." Mijas is a typical Spanish village with a strong Andalusian flavor, and offers incredible views over the coastline. All the houses in Mijas are painted white, in the classic tradition of southern Spain. The layout of the streets was planned hundreds of years ago to protect the houses and their inhabitants from the strong winds of the area. Donkey-taxis will catch your attention and you will have the opportunity to experience a pleasant, if somewhat unusual, sightseeing ride. Take some time to browse in the local stores and shop for ceramics, handmade wood items or any of the other beautiful, locally handmade crafts and souvenirs. You'll enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before the drive back to Málaga. You'll have a short panoramic drive around the highlights of this intriguing city before returning to port.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Situated at the western entrance of the Strait of Gibraltar, the Moroccan city of Tangiers is not only where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, but is also where empires have met to fight and conquer. Founded by Carthaginian colonists in the 5th century BC, Tangiers later came under Roman rule, became part of the Byzantine Empire, fell under Arab control and eventually found itself at the center of a tug of war between Portugal and Spain. Even England came into the picture, as Tangiers was given to Charles II as part of the dowry from the Portuguese Infanta Catherine Braganza.
Morocco's interesting past is on display throughout Tangiers and the surrounding area. Museums and souks reveal Moroccan history and vibrancy, while numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites feature ancient ruins and archaeological sites.

Throughout history, the small coastal city of Asilah has been coveted by both Portugal and Spain, and thus has been the scene of great bloodshed. Fortunately, Asilah’s history has a kinder side as well, as the city is also know for its enormous cultural and artistic contribution. After pickup at the Tangier port from a private driver and guide, you'll drive to Asilah for a guided walk through the Old Town with its narrow streets and fascinating history. You will pass the ancient gates of the city and the Palais de la Culture—former residence of the ancient spiritual leader of the city. Stop for a refreshment before heading back to Tangier and the ship.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Cosmopolitan Lisbon was the center of the world's last great colonial empire. Today the city nostalgically reveres its imperial past while adapting to Portugal's role as a member of the European Economic Community. Although located on the Atlantic coast, Lisbon has the soul of a Mediterranean city with Moorish castles, pastel and white buildings, orange-tiled roofs and luminous blue skies. Set amid the hills and valleys of the northern shore of the River Tagus, it is one of the loveliest capitals in the world.

Departure from the pier with private driver and guide along the Tagus River front to Baixa, the old business and shopping district, with its narrow streets and famous squares of Comircio and Rossio. Drive along Liberty Avenue, a charming old boulevard lined with gardens and known for its unique black and white mosaics on the sidewalks. At King Edward VII Park, enjoy a splendid view over Lisbon's center and old town. Passing under an 18th-century aqueduct, you will reach the express road to Estoril—a resort town known for the many famous personalities exiled here during World War II. There will be some free time to stroll along the sea walk, photograph the Casino gardens or relax in an outdoor cafi. The drive back to the ship will be along the beautiful scenic road of the Atlantic coastline. At the mouth of the harbour, you will enter Lisbon via its famous monumental district that celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Short stop at Jeronimos Monastery - a World Heritage monument and the final resting place of Vasco De Gama. Jeronimos’ spires have been carefully hand-sculpted over 500 years ago; and view of Belem Tower Originally a fortress to defend Lisbon. One last photo stop near the spectacular memorial to Prince Henry the Navigator is also the ideal place to see the suspension bridge across the river and the statue of Christ the King on the far bank. Return to ship.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Ideally placed where the Douro River meets the Atlantic, Oporto brings together the best of Portugal: warm sunshine, a relaxed riverside setting, grand churches, winding medieval streets, houses garnished with wrought iron, courtyards filled with geraniums.Perhaps what Oporto is most famous for, however, is its port wine. Crafted in the neighboring Vila Nova da Gaia district, ports from all over the region can be sampled in the lodges just across the river or at Solar Vinho do Porto, an Oporto tasting room housed in a gracious, rose-clad villa. After your wine tasting, wander through historic Ribeira, the recently restored riverside district and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Departure from the pier with private driver and guide. A brief panoramic drive brings you to central Porto. In this city that dates mainly from the 18th-century, you will stop to view the façade of the church of Clerigos, a Baroque and Rococo building from the 18th century, and the cathedral, a 12th-century Baroque building that began life as a Gothic structure. At the banks of the Douro River, embark a riverboat to catch a glimpse of Oporto from the sea. Clinging to the opposite bank of the Douro and nestled between impressive bridges sits the city of Vila Nova de Gaia—the port wine capital of the world. Visit a well-known port wine cellar and hear about the wine-making process. Sample this regional specialty before you return to the ship.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Bordeaux was at one time France's richest community and largest port. It is second only to Paris as the country's most densely populated city. Today it is best-known for its glorious châteaux, mouth-watering cuisine and incomparable wines. It is surrounded by the world's most famous vineyards including Médoc, St-Emilion, Pomerol, Graves and Sauternes. Crystal Symphony's sojourn in this world-renowned wine capital is bound to please even the most discerning bon vivant.

Departing from the port, your private guided tour of Bordeaux, designated as a UNESCO world heritage site, takes you along the Chartrons riverfront where the city's famous wine industry, began, the 18th-century Place de la Bourse, the Cailhau Gate (15th century) the 14th-century Big Bell, and Place des Quinconces, one of Europe’s largest squares, with its column commemorating the French Revolution. Stop at the 18th-century Palais Rohan, now the City Hall, and walk to the nearby 13th-century Cathedral of St. Andrew, where Alienor d’Aquitaine married Louis VII, for an inside visit. Re-join your transportation and drive through Gambetta and Tourny Squares. Stop at the Grand Theatre, built by Victor Louis in 1773, and renouned as one of the finest 18th century theatres in Europe. Return to port.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Sleep in this morning and relax at your hotel.

Overnight at Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E)).

Enjoy a transfer between the Southampton port and your London hotel with your personal vehicle and driver.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).