Honor those who helped change the tides of WWII. Join us aboard Crystal Symphonyon a round trip from Dover (London) and sail through destinations where history was made. Stop in Ijmuiden, just 17 miles from Amsterdam, during the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden. Then sail on to Zeebrugge, followed by three days in Rouen, where you’ll be able to visit the D-Day landing sites of Normandy. This anniversary cruise, featuring world-famous speakers and themed destination experiences, is a must for all historians.

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Dr. Erica Miller

Join us on a compelling journey with Dr. Erica Miller, an international best-selling author, Ph.D.

Robert Smolik

Robert Smolik is a veteran American diplomat and scholar offering an expert perspective on the history, culture, and current affairs. 

George Luz Jr

George Luz, Jr., was blessed by an early introduction to the men of Company E, 506th PIR, 101st Airborne Division, in 1965 at the 101st Airborne Reunion.

Alec Murphy 

Professor Alexander (Alec) Murphy (Eugene, Oregon) is a long-time faculty member in the Geography Department at the University of Oregon

Robert E. Bradshaw

Throughout his career, he earned honors such as the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2), Combat Action Ribbon (2), and numerous Campaign Medals.

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FIVE FARM-TO-TABLE EXPERIENCES TO MAKE YOUR MOUTH WATER

CRYSTAL'S EXQUISITE ONBOARD REDESIGN BY TILLBERG AND GEM

CRYSTAL SIGNATURE MANHATTAN

MEET DALILA ROGLIERI: CRYSTAL’S NEW CULINARY NUTRITIONIST

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For centuries, Dover has been a symbol of England`s royal fortitude. The port`s legendary White Cliffs have long been a welcomed landmark for seafaring travelers. The solid Dover Castle has faced invasions by Roman, French and even English troops. London`s legendary sights, including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, Whitehall and the fashionable West End, lie just 80 miles from historic Dover.

At just 17 miles from Amsterdam, many visitors to Ijmuiden opt to go straight to the capital. But, while the bright lights of the big city might be the biggest attraction, Ijmuiden provides easy access to many of the country’s highlights. The vast beaches of Ijmuiden Strand are just 2 miles away and easily reachable by foot, while Haarlem, the Netherlands’ finest example of cafés, canals, cobbled streets and cosy bars is only 30-minutes by train.

This transfer is for those who would like to explore Amsterdam on their own. Leaving the pier by bus, you will drive approximately 1-hour to reach the center of Amsterdam, accompagnied by an escort, who will provided you with a map of the city. You will have approximately 4-hours to explore the city at your discretion. Although this is a non-guided tour, an escort will available for 30 minutes after arrival to answer any questions you may have. At the appointed time and location, you will re-join your coach for the return transfer to the ship. t t t t t t t

Explore Amsterdam in the Evening on your own with this transfer to and from the city. You will have approximately 4 hours to explore Amsterdam on your own. t t t t t

Amsterdam on your own - Transfer only

Your private canal cruise boat will await you. Enjoy this 1,5 hour canal cruise through the canals of Amsterdam and experience why they are on the World heritage list of UNESCO. See the beautiful houses with their fascinating gables alongside the canals and feel why Amsterdam is also called Venice of the Nort. During this boat ride, you will have the opportunity to taste a variety of 3 different types of Dutch Jenever (gin), a true local delicacy.

Explore Amsterdam&rsquo;s central canals by glass topped boat.&nbsp;Taste the typical Dutch gin.

Canal Cruise with Gin Tasting

Haarlem is the capital of the province of North Holland and the second biggest city in the province after Amsterdam. In Early Modern Times Haarlem became an important scene for industrial (textile) and artistic (painters) development. Nowadays it is a dynamic city with charming streets, a vibrant shopping area and beautiful churches. During your guided city walk in Haarlem you&#39;ll pass beautiful crow-stepped gable houses with idyllic gardens. Along the way your guide will explain the history of Haarlem and the Netherlands. During the guided walk, the charm of the houses will be reinforced by the small canals running through the city. The highlights of this city walk are the market square with the town hall and a visit inside the St. Bavo Church. This Gothic church with a tower of 75 meters is UNESCO World Heritage and displays magnificent stained glass windows. Furthermore, it is home to one of the world&#39;s largest organs. Many famous musicians have played on the organ (Mozart, H&auml;ndel, Mendelssohn). After this visit guests can enjoy some free time in the center of Haarlem before boarding the coach back to IJmuiden.

&nbsp;A walking tour of the dynamic city of Haarlem, with its charming streets, small canals, vibrant shopping and beautiful churches.&nbsp;

Discover Haarlem

Discover the Green Heart of Holland, a typical Dutch nature area with windmills, cows, cheese, farms and traditional crafts. Enjoy its vast nature reserves and its leisure lakes during your boat trip on the Kagerplassen. This is a vast lake area in the Green Heart, which is characterized by shallow lakes and polder islands. The islands are still drained by 18 working and restored polder mills. See first-hand how the windmills have been working for centuries with explanation by the miller. The Lisserpoelmolen was built in 1676 and is the world&rsquo;s oldest working windmill with a screw pump. For a total of 313 years, until 1989, this windmill was responsible for draining the polder. Initially, it was supported by a couple of other mills. In 1989, an electric pumping station took over. Enjoy the scenic ride back to the coach on the second part of the canal cruise.

Take a beautiful boat trip on the Kagerplassen: a vast lake area in The Green Heart of Holland.&nbsp;Visit the oldest working windmill with a screw pump.

The Green Heart of Holland 

Board your coach and drive to Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands is 1 hour away from Ijmuiden. Take a guided walk through the city and experience an exclusive Dutch cheese and wine sampling. Although not the official seat of the government, Amsterdam is widely considered the capital of the Netherlands.&nbsp;Originating as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, the city became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age. It was also during this age that their delicious cheeses received worldwide fame. After a transfer to Amsterdam city center, you&rsquo;ll embark on a guided walk, passing by the floating flower market, the quiet and serene bougienage, and Dam Square, home to the classical style Royal Palace. After taking in enough historical facts from your knowledgeable guide, it is time to sample some delicious Dutch cheeses. Over the course of 1 hour, 5 delicious cheeses and accompanying wines will concur your taste buds. In the meantime you will learn more about the process and history of cheese making.

While exploring the city of Amsterdam on foot, sample 5 delicious cheeses and accompanying wines on your way to become a Dutch cheese connoisseur.

Amsterdam with Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting

Boarding your coach at the pier, you&#39;ll leave the port behind and enjoy a drive through the beautiful countryside to the authentic Dutch village of Broek in Waterland. This utterly charming village is well known for its classic wooden houses and farms. After a leisurely stroll through this fairy-like community, you&#39;ll re-join your coach and proceed to Beemster Polder, the oldest area of reclaimed land in the Netherlands. In 1999, this well-preserved and historic area was registered on UNESCO&#39;s World Heritage Site list. The highlight of your time here will surely be the visit to an original 17th century windmill. There, you will learn how the Dutch have managed to successfully live below sea level. A scenic drive through the lowlands will bring you back to the ship. &nbsp;

Visit the countryside with authentic Dutch villages, explore the authentic Dutch village of Broek in Waterland, and enter&nbsp;an original 17th century windmill. &nbsp;

The First Reclaimed Land

Boarding your coach at the pier. Your narrated drive will then take you through The Hague, the third largest city in the Netherlands. While The Hague is the seat of government for the country, it is not the capital. Along with being the home of King Willem-Alexander, it is also recognized as the judicial capital of the United Nations. During your narrated panoramic tour, you will pass the Houses of Parliament, the Peace Palace, which houses the International Court of Justice, as well as several royal palaces. Your tour then continues to the Mauritshuis Museum, which was originally a palace of Prince Johan Maurits. In the 19th century, the palace was turned into a museum and the collection today consists of masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including paintings by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Steen and Frans Hals. The works on permanent display here provide a magnificent panorama of Dutch and Flemish art from the 15th to 17th century; ranging from Flemish primitives to sunlit landscapes, from biblical characters to meticulous still lives, and from calm interiors to humorous genre scenes.&nbsp; Following an unforgettable visit to the Museum, you will then be afforded approximately 1 hour of free time in The Hague to browse and explore the nearby shops before it&#39;s time to re-board your coach and return to the ship.

Take in the sights of The Hague, the official seat of the Dutch Government and then visit the Mauritshuis Museum which houses a world-famous collection of Dutch masterpieces from the 17th century.

The Hague & Mauritshuis

Discover the Dutch masters with a guided visit to the Rijksmuseum. Depart by coach for the approximately 1 hour drive to Amsterdam. Upon arrival, take a 15-minute walk through the city center to the Rijksmuseum. The Museum is probably most famous for the Nightwatch and the Milkmaid, but it has more to offer. Let your guide take you on a tour through the museum, passing major highlights and sharing important art history with you.&nbsp; The tour continues with a canal cruise lunch through Amsterdam. The city has always had strong ties to the water. Spread out over 70 islands, this cosmopolitan city boasts 60 miles of canals and 1000 bridges. From the 13th century, tiny ships sailed from this port into the challenging Zuider Sea. Journey through the Amsterdam canals passing major monuments while enjoying your meal. Sit back and relax onboard, as you glide past the narrow, gabled houses that line the canals that Amsterdam is famous for. Board the coach for the drive beack to the ship.&nbsp; t

Visit the iconic Rijksmuseum in a small group with an expert guide, then continue with a canal cruise through Amsterdam while enjoying a hot and cold buffet lunch. t

Rijksmuseum & Amsterdam Canal Cruise Lunch

A crossroad in the English Channel for centuries, Zeebrugge is the gateway to Flanders, whose Golden Age heritage resides in three historic cities: Ghent, Antwerp and Bruges. Here, museums display the glories of the old Flemish masters, from Van Dyck to Rubens. Summertime is a delight, showcasing colorful flower-filled window boxes, the graceful arcs of windmills, a patchwork of farms and picturesque rivers. 

Gracing the river Seine, Rouen is picturesque, cultured and vibrant, its skyline crowned by the iconic spires of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame made famous by Claude Monet. This historic capital is where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and where Joan of Arc remains a symbolic figure. Rich with medieval history and vestiges of its English occupation during the 100 Years War, explore its cobblestoned pedestrian centers to see Gothic churches including Saint-Maclou and Saint-Ouen. 

Honfleur was an important stronghold until the 15th Century and acquired true glory through the part played by its mariners in the 17th-century Norman voyages of discovery.&nbsp; The town, through all of its glorious past, has continued to be a center or the arts as painters, writers and musicians draw inspiration from its character and atmosphere.&nbsp; Today Honfleur offers visitors a unique heritage that can be best glimpsed by strolling along the picturesque narrow streets that are lined with timber-framed houses. After a 90 minutes drive to Honfleur, your guide will lead you on a walking exploration of the town, walking through the narrow streets, beginning with the St. Catherine&rsquo;s Church.&nbsp; A rare sight in western Europe, the 15th-century church is constructed entirely of wood by carpenters of a local shipyard. You will stroll past the tile-covered Salt Warehouses, the Old Port and its picturesque quayside, as well as the Lieutenance, the 16th-century house in which the King&rsquo;s lieutenant, Governor of Honfleur, once lived. Gustave Courbet, Eugene Boudin and Claude Monet are among the artists who painted colorful impressionist images of Honfleur, forming the &eacute;cole de Honfleur, or Honfleur School of painting. Look through your own artistic lens as you stroll through the historic center and past the old slate-shingled houses of Place Arthur Martin, the Louis XIII house, the tile-covered stone buildings of the 17th century, and picturesque Prison Street with its distinct half-timber houses. Also admire the Old Bassin and clock of the Duquesne quayside, along with La Lieutenancies where the governor of Honfleur once lived. After the guided walking visit, you will have time to explore furthermore by yourself also grab something to eat in one of the numerous brasseries or restaurants in Honfleur. You will have free time to explore and have lunch on your own, before yout drive back to Rouen.

Explore the historic town of Honfleur, once a maritime stronghold and a muse for renowned artists like Monet and Courbet. Wander through picturesque streets, visit St. Catherine&#39;s Church made entirely of wood, and soak in the charming atmosphere of this art-inspired coastal gem.

Honfleur Walking Exploration

Panoramic 90 minutes drive to Saint Martin de Boscherville via Seine Valley. Upon arrival at Saint Martin de Boscherville, you will start your guided visit of St. Georges de Boscherville Abbey. This Benedictine abbey founded in the 12th Century became St. Martin&#39;s parish church at the time of the Revolution and was saved from the destruction and it remains today one of the Seine Valley&rsquo;s finest small monuments.&nbsp; The building which was constructed from the 11th to the 12th Century has a striking unity of style and harmony of proportions. The reconstruction of the Abbey Garden terrace includes medicinal plants, fruit trees and vegetable gardens.&nbsp; After the visit, drive to Jumi&egrave;ges.&nbsp; Jumi&egrave;ges, in a splendid setting on the Lower Seine, is one of the greatest ruins in France.&nbsp; The Abbey was built in the 10th Century by Duke William Logsword on the ruins of a former abbey founded in the 7th Century and destroyed by the Vikings. The new Benedictine Abbey soon became popularly known through its benefactions as Jumi&egrave;ges Almshouse. But charity did not preclude learning and Jumi&egrave;ges also became recognized as a center of scholarship and wisdom. During the French Revolution, the last monks were dispersed and the Abbey was bought at a public auction by a timber merchant who undertook to make use of Jumi&egrave;ges as a stone quarry.&nbsp; In 1852, a new owner set about saving the ruins which now belong to the nation.&nbsp; After the visit, some time will be allowed for a refreshment stop, before driving back to Rouen. &nbsp;

Embark on a captivating journey through history as you immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Normandy by visiting two iconic abbeys: St. George&#39;s Abbey and Jumi&egrave;ge Abbey. These historic sites, each with their unique tales to tell, offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of Normann architecture and monastic life. Be prepared to be transported back in time and discover the spiritual and architectural wonders that await you at St. George&#39;s Abbey and Jumi&egrave;ge Abbey.

Abbey St. Georges de Boscherville & Jumièges

Drive 25 miles (40 Kms) to a near-fairy tale village, set in the heart of one of Europe&rsquo;s most beautiful beech forests, east of Rouen. Originally called Saint Denis, the village of Lyons-la-Foret is a classified as one of the &#39;most beautiful villages of France&#39; and offers a postcard setting.&nbsp; It was founded on the site of a castle that once stood here, constructed in the 12th century. At the end of 16th century, the village was destroyed by a fire. Nowadays, the village is well known for its half-timbered houses and red brick houses, mostly dating back from the 17th and 18th centuries, built after the fire. This little village, with some 800 inhabitants, became a favorite place for those set to come and find peace and for artists to find inspiration; the composer Maurice Ravel even created some beautiful pieces in Lyons-la-Foret. Your guide will give you an orientation through the main highlights and then you will have plenty of free time for exploring yourself. Your next destination will be a visit to&nbsp;Fleury la Foret. A true French Historical Monument, taking you back to the 17th century. Enjoy the outside too, you will be amazed by its French garden bordered by avenues of century-old Linden trees.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Explore the fairy tale village, set in the heart of one of Europe&rsquo;s most beautiful beech forests, east of Rouen. Visit the village of Lyons-la-Foret and Mortemer Abbey.

Lyons-la-Foret Discovery

Your day of artistic discovery begins with an approximately 90-minute journey to Giverny. Situated on the right bank of the Seine, this charming city is known the world over as the home of Claude Monet, who lived here from 1883 to his death in 1926. Monet&rsquo;s house and gardens are now a museum, which you will visit for a chance to delve into the life and works of the beloved artist. Explore the picturesque home, restored to its original pink and green and containing Monet&rsquo;s collection of 18th- and 19th-century prints, fine pieces of china and reproductions of his works. Especially noteworthy are the dining room with its yellow painted furniture, the bedroom, the &ldquo;blue&rdquo; reading room and the kitchen with its attractive wall tiles. Then there is the gardens, replanted to Monet&rsquo;s original design, they display a spectacular array of color and feature the Japanese-inspired water garden. In a lush and lovely landscape, the water garden features gracefully arched bridges, bamboo trees, rhododendrons, a majestic weeping willow and, of course, the lily pond, the subject of Monet&rsquo;s iconic Water Lilies paintings. After the visit, free time will be allowed before driving back to Rouen via the Seine Valley.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visit Giverny, the enchanting city where Claude Monet lived and created his masterpieces. Explore Monet&#39;s vibrant home, filled with 18th- and 19th-century art, and wander through the meticulously restored gardens, including the iconic water garden that inspired his renowned Water Lilies paintings.&nbsp;

Discover Monet&#39;s Giverny: A Day of Art & Beauty

Drive to Bayeux. Bayeux is a small town that lies on the Aure River in Normandy, located 16 miles west-northwest of Caen. Bayeux is home to the famous tapestry which bears its name. Queen Mathilda Museum displays the famous Bayeux Tapestry she embroidered herself together with her court ladies. This exceptional needlework tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 by her husband William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy and then King of England. The Tapestry stretches 231 feet long and is 19.5 inches wide. It was made of a seamless strip of linen, embroidered with eight colors of woolen thread. It is a needlework panorama of 72 individual scenes, and 1512 figures, with identifying Latin inscriptions, of the Norman Conquest.&nbsp;Bayeux Cathedral (Cath&eacute;drale Notre-Dame de Bayeux) is a Norman-Romanesque cathedral, located in the town of Bayeux. This beautiful cathedral was inaugurated in 1077 and William, Duke of Normandy and King of England attended the ceremony. Bayeux traditional products are, lace, the lace school provides courses to teach lacing and tapestry embroidery lesson. Enjoy free time in Bayeux for shopping &amp; lunch on your own.

Enjoy one of the world&rsquo;s most famous pieces of medieval art on a visit to Bayeux. You will visit Queen Mathilda Museum and its famous Tapestry and a guided walk through the town, followed by free time for extra exploration and lunch on your own.&nbsp;

Bayeux & its Tapestry

Embark on a guided exploration of Rouen, a city intricately linked with the legend of Joan of Arc. Begin your walking exploration journey with a short drive to the heart of the Vieux-March&eacute;, the Old Market Square, where the iconic Joan of Arc met her tragic fate in 1431, later to be celebrated as the Patron Saint of France. Admire the modern Joan of Arc Church, completed in 1979, housing a poignant statue of her leaning against the church, gazing towards the historic stake, along with exquisite stained glass dating back to the 16th century. As you continue your walk, meander through the charming Rue du Gros-Horologe, a district steeped in history. This bustling pedestrian street, adorned with 15th- to 17th-century half-timbered houses and large cobblestones, recaptures the essence of its medieval past. Marvel at the Gros-Horologe, a resplendent Renaissance clock that not only tells the time but also reveals the day of the week and the moon&#39;s phases. Your journey will lead you to the Law Courts of Normandy&#39;s parliament and the magnificent St. Maclou Church. This memorable tour offers an immersive experience that connects you with the past, allowing you to linger in Rouen&#39;s rich historical tapestry.

Explore Rouen on Foot: Visit the Old Market Square where Joan was burned, the modern Joan of Arc Church, and the charming Rue du Gros-Horologe, with its historic clock, Law Courts, and St. Maclou Church.

Rouen Walking Exploration

Arrive in the City of Lights after approximately 2 hours from the pier via air-conditioned motor coach. Immediately commence your city overview, learning about Paris as your guide points out the most important sights, including Place de l&rsquo;Etoile, the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysees. At one end of this famous avenue is the Place de la Concorde, boasting the legendary obelisk which once stood in the Temple of Ramses II in Luxor.&nbsp;&nbsp; Continue to the Rive Gauche, the location of more Parisian landmarks, Les Invalides and its Champ de Mars is a favorite park of the locals. &nbsp; At the foot of the iconic Eiffel Tower, a glass-covered sightseeing riverboat awaits to take you on a scenic cruise on the river Seine. Enjoy a different perspective of this timeless city as you pass the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum and much more. Enjoy a Premier-Service for Lunch, served on board while you enjoy your panoramic views of the city. Enjoy free time near Trocadero before re-boarding your motor coach for the return to the port.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Don&rsquo;t miss this opportunity to visit Paris, where you will enjoy a city introduction and a relaxing cruise on the River Seine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Panoramic Paris with River Cruise

Departing the pier by motor coach, travel for almost 3 hours, panoramic drive through Normandy&rsquo;s countryside, where memories will be evoked of D-Day. At Arromanches-les-Bains, situated close to the famous Gold Beach, you will discover the seafront with traces of old tanks used by the allies to build the famous arti?cial &ldquo;Mulberry Harbor.&rdquo; On June 6, 1944, the largest amphibious assault with combined forces of over 190,000 troops invaded the beaches of Normandy. Arromanches owes much of its fame to the &ldquo;Mulberry&rdquo; operation, the Allied establishment of an arti?cial prefabricated port. Some elements of the Normandy invasion remain and visits to the Landing Museum gives helpful insights into the Allied strategy. Afterward, proceed to the restaurant and after lunch, a 45 minutes-drive will take you to Omaha Beach where the amphibious landing of Allied infantry and armored divisions took place. A profoundly moving experience then awaits you at the American Cemetery in Colleville St. Laurent. Here, over 9,000 soldiers were laid to rest, marked by the iconic marble crosses that stand in orderly ranks over Omaha Beach. Pondering the great importance and sacri?ces of D-Day, begin your return journey to your ship.

2024 marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Today, we visit the famous landing beaches of Normandy, where you will experience the history of one of the largest amphibious invasions in world history, comprised of over 190,000 troops and successfully executed by land, sea and air. Although thousands of troops lost their lives, D-Day&rsquo;s success allowed the Allies to achieve a foothold in Europe, which some historians considered to be the turning point in European Theater in World War II. World War II veterans and guests with interest in the events of World War II will not want to miss this journey to the site of the D-Day invasion that took place in Normandy at &ldquo;H&rdquo; hour on June 6, 1944.

D-Day 80th Anniversary Landing Beaches

If you are looking for a unique blend of British and French charm in an idyllic setting, then look no further than St. Peter Port. The Channel Islands` blend of cultural diversity, historical significance, natural beauty, and autonomy make them one of the most coveted archipelagos on travelers’ wish lists. The 19 islands (seven of which are inhabited) possess a distinct identity, they have their own governments, legal systems, and even currency and are known for their olde world charm, stunning landscapes with beautiful beaches, lush countryside, and historical sites. St Peter Port, the largest town on the second largest islands Guernsey, sits around 40 miles off the French coast of Normandy – in the Gulf of St Malo – and the influence of past French culture can still be felt on the island. It’s like stepping back in time: St. Peter Port`s heart lies in its picturesque harbor, where colorful houses cascade down the hillside, creating a postcard-worthy scene and the bustling harbor is dotted with sailboats and fishing vessels, giving it an authentic maritime ambiance. The town boasts a rich history evident in its architecture. St. Peter Port Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and Castle Cornet, a historic fortress, stand as reminders of the island`s past. Georgian and Regency buildings lend an air of timeless elegance to the streets. Naturally, there are plenty of pubs serving pints and fish and chips and tea shops serving cream teas – this is still Britan after all! Be sure to enjoy some authentic Channel Islands fare before you leave.

Depart by coach and drive along the harbor seafront past the 12th-century church and up the winding hill of Les Val des Terres. You will arrive at Sausmarez Manor, where Lord Peter de Sausmarez, will welcome you to his ancestral home.&nbsp; The Seigneurship of de Sausmarez has been vested in his family for nearly 1,000 years. The house, parts of which date back to the 13th century, has been altered by the various occupants throughout the centuries with many changes in Tudor, Queen Anne, Regency and Victorian times. The impressive front fa&ccedil;ade is a fine example of Queen Anne colonial architecture, built between 1714 - 1718 at the bequest of Sir Edward Andros, the first Governor of New York.&nbsp; During your guided tour, you will see a wealth of fascinating artifacts, including a historical log of a voyage that culminated in the capture of the world&rsquo;s largest treasure ship in the 16th century by Admiral Philip de Sausmarez, who&rsquo;s ancestor, Admiral James de Sausmarez fought alongside Admiral Horatio Nelson during the Battle of the Nile.&nbsp; After your introduction to the manor, surrounding woodland, and manicured gardens, return to your vehicle for the short journey back to your ship.

Experience a time capsule of Guernsey&rsquo;s changing fortunes throughout time as you visit Sausmarez Manor, a centuries-old manor house with an intriguing history of naval supremacy and privateering.

Sausmarez Manor

Departing the pier by foot, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating tales of how passengers, porters and privateers made their way from the busy port, up into the steep lanes and passageways which linked the quay with the town. Smuggling, legalized piracy and, of course, the wine trade are the subjects of your guide&rsquo;s commentary as you make your way along the seafront towards the majestic medieval Castle Cornet. Entering the castle, built in the 13th century, you will begin to understand what life was like for those living in this imposing fortress. You will re-live the medieval myths, murders and manifestations which took place in this captivating fortress. During your visit, enjoy a taste of local fruit bread, gache (pronounced 'gosh'), as well as coffee. Subject to sailing time, you may then care to remain at Castle Cornet to independently explore the excellent museums, or you may return on foot towards the center of St. Peter Port and your ship.

On today&#39;s walking excursion, you are invited to learn of an acient era, when St. Peter Port Harbor was alive with the sights and sounds of trade.

St. Peter Port Walk & Castle Coronet

From the pier, you will walk with your guide along the harbor, pass the statue of Prince Albert and venture into the main Church Square at the center of town. Here, you will have the opportunity to view the classic architecture of the 12th-century church of St. Peter Port. Next, a short walk up High Street takes you past the restored fa&ccedil;ade of a Tudor building and an 18th-century granite arch that leads into Lefebvre Street, home to the Parish Officials&rsquo; offices. Situated on the opposite side of the street is the birthplace of Major-General Sir Isaac Brock. Brock is best remembered as a brilliant leader and strategist during the War of 1812. Continuing up Smith Street, you will reach the gates of Candie Gardens. These beautiful gardens are home to a variety of ancient trees, such as the gingko, which was planted in 1900 and remains the oldest example of its type in Europe. The gardens also contain formal flower borders, ponds with aquatic plants and bog gardens. In the lower garden, two glasshouses dating from 1792 are still in use today. A huge bronze statue of Queen Victoria dating from 1900 stands within the courtyard. After your enjoyable journey, make your way back to the tender pier.

On this exciting walking tour, you will marvel at some of the beautiful examples of medieval architecture in St. Peter Port, as well as visit an elaborate garden holding some of the oldest plants in Europe.

Town Walk with Visit to Candie Gardens

Bring the written word to life by visiting the sights and scenes in the daily lives of the characters in the well-loved Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society international best selling book. Driving along the seafront, with views of Castle Cornet and Havelet Bay, your coach will continue up the Val des Terres and proceed to the Jerbourg area&nbsp; of La Bouvee on the south east cliff top where many scenes from the book are set. &nbsp;Your specialist guide will bring to life the daily turmoil and danger in which the characters conducted their lives. You will see the area where Elizabeth, Lord Tobias,&nbsp; Isola Pribby and Dawsey Adams &ldquo;lived&rdquo;. The landscape is still there, the rutted lanes, the foggy meadows and the farmhouses where the characters held their literary meetings. You can enjoy taking a short walk to see where Elizabeth met her German lover Christian, and see the views from the top of the cliff where Elizabeth and John watched the German bombers flying over&nbsp; on their way to drop their bombs on London. At the same time your local expert guide will inspire you with real life stories of heroism, triumph over adversity and sheer determination shown by the Guernsey people during the long years of Occupation. Re-boarding your coach, you will drive to the little church, which Dawsey took Juliet to see. The little church was built by Brother Deodat and is now known as the smallest consecrated church in the world. In order to impress his Bishop, Brother Deodat decided to cover the church with all manner of shells and broken pieces of pottery. Juliet was delighted to be able to go right inside this beautiful little church. Your coach will now drive down to the west coast for refreshments of tea or coffee and a piece of Guernsey Gache, with a scenic drive around the coast to show you the witches stone and Les Trepieds Dolmen which Dawsey showed Juliet, before returning to the harbour. Before rejoining your ship your coach will stop opposite the memorial to the local people who lost their lives in the German bombing raid of 28 June 1940. This occurred one week after the last evacuation of the children to schools and families in the UK. The last evacuation ship had Eli, Elizabeth&rsquo;s grandson on board.

Inspired by the best-selling epistolary novel, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society, this excursion brings to life the beloved story of the hardship of war and the warmth and lasting power of friendship and love.

Views from `The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society`

A quick minicoach transfer from the pier brings you to the cycling departure point, where you will receive your bike and a safety briefing. Properly equipped, follow your guide it&rsquo;s time to head out onto the open roads.&nbsp; Your route will take you along the West Coast road of Guernsey, including Catioroc, which is rich in tales of witches and fairies. You&rsquo;ll pedal your way past ancient burial chambers and through protected areas such as Shingle Banks and the Colin Best Nature Reserve. &nbsp;You&rsquo;ll also take in the splendid coastline at Rocquaine, and the charming working harbour of Portelet.&nbsp; You&rsquo;ll then head inland to work your way back through &lsquo;Ruette tranquilles&rsquo;. These tiny lanes are where horses and bicycles take priority over motor traffic and wind past meadows full of wild flowers and quaint cottages. Having relished the great outdoors and learned about the interesting history of Guernsey, reboard your minibus and return to St Peter Port and your awaiting ship.

Cycling the tranquil coastal paths of beautiful Guernsey, you will explore the northern corner of the island with today&#39;s invigorating excursion.

Guernsey Coast Cycling Experience

Board your motor coach at the pier and enjoy a half-hour, scenic ride to the cliffs at Pleinmont Point. Here, you will visit the Batterie Dolman Gun Emplacement, a large field gun used by the German army. After this interesting half-hour stop, re-board your motor coach and travel to the west coast of the island. During this 15-minute ride, view fortifications from both the Napoleonic era and the German occupation. You will then arrive for a short stop at Fort Hommet Bunker, a military site that illustrates the German military&rsquo;s fortification of the island. Continue by motor coach to a local venue for a Guernsey cream tea. Then, spend the following hour at the fascinating La Vallette Underground Military Museum. Here, you will learn how war affected these now-idyllic islands, before returning to the port.

Looking out over the tranquil islands of the English Channel, you would never know they once played a pivotal role in World War II. The islands&rsquo; location off the coast of occupied France left them vulnerable to attack. Indeed, they were the only part of the United Kingdom to fall to German forces. On this excursion, views of fortresses, gun emplacements, La Vallette Underground Military Museum, and other military installments serve as reminders of a more turbulent time.

Time of War: The German Occupation in Guernsey

The turquoise waters surrounding Guernsey support a wide variety of marine and birdlife. Navigate across the channel to a reef of rocks just to the north of Herm Island, known locally as &ldquo;the Humps.&rdquo; This designated nature reserve supports a breeding colony of Atlantic grey seals. You may catch a glimpse of them relaxing on the rocks as you pass. A short but spectacularly fast trip takes you next to the Guliot Passage, which separates the islands of Sark and Brechou. Here, your RIB will nose into a vast cave under the cliffs before a smooth cruise to the southernmost tip of Sark. Here, your guide and local nature enthusiast will provide commentary about the impressive variety of seabirds that nest amid the rocky ledges. As your one-hour boat trip comes to a close, brace yourself as your captain treats you to an exhilarating thrill ride with a top speed of 38 mph back to your ship.

Experience the wildlife, scenery, and marine wonders the Channel Islands have to offer aboard an exhilarating Rigid Inflatable Boat, or RIB. Your high-speed vessel will allow you to enjoy both the serenity and the thrill that a day at sea can offer.

Channel Islands RIB Adventure

At St. Peter Port, board the modern ferry for the eight-mile crossing to the northern tip of Sark and then along the east coast to Le Maseline Harbor. Arriving at Le Maseline Jetty, you will transfer to a tractor-bus for the ride up to the center of the village. Here, the slow and graceful lifestyle of Sark is evident as you climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a memorable introduction to the island. The smallest of the four main Channel Islands, Sark is one of the area&rsquo;s biggest attractions, thanks in large part to stunning views and an atmosphere of a bygone time. Your leisurely ride will offer striking views of the island and main points of interest, with numerous stops to take it all in. With no cars and only a few tractors being permitted on the island, Sark is imbued with a wonderful sense of quiet and a slower pace, quickly putting visitors in a different frame of mind. See the small post office, the island&rsquo;s prison, and the parish church. A highlight of your island experience is a visit to the splendid gardens at the imposing estate that has been the home of the feudal lords of Sark, also known as the Seigneurs of Sark, since 1730. Arrive at Hathaway&rsquo;s Restaurant, located within the gardens, for refreshments. After glimpsing an island fondly called &ldquo;A Feudal State in Modern Times,&rdquo; make your way back to Guernsey and your ship.&nbsp;

Unspoiled by motor cars and the noise and bustle of modern-day life, Sark is one of the most fascinating of the Channel Islands. It is also one of the most beautiful, boasting some 40 miles of what must be one of the most picturesque coastlines anywhere in the world. &nbsp;

Feudal Sark & Horse-Drawn Carriage

Meeting your guide at the pier, walk to the quay to board your boat for the 20-minute cruise to Herm Island. Ideal for guests who enjoy independent explorations, the easy-to-navigate island affords the opportunity to discover its charms on your own. Maps will be available to make your investigations free of worry and full of interesting sights. However, if a guided walk is more your speed, a local guide will be happy to accompany you on a one-hour introduction. Highlights of either your independent or guided stroll may include Shell Beach, where you will not be able to resist walking along the strand looking for shells. The seaside path continues to Belvoir Bay, a sandy lagoon perfect for relaxing on a warm day. Venturing up a somewhat steep woodland path that stretches to the crest of the island, you can visit the little church of St. Tugual, which dates to the 10th century. Descending the hill, lunch awaits you at The Mermaid Tea Garden before continuing to the mezzanine of little shops, which stock a variety of gifts and souvenirs. After your day of leisurely walks and inspiring views, re-board your boat from either the harbor or the Rosaire Steps, depending on the tide, for the return trip to Guernsey and your ship.

Just three miles off the coast of Guernsey lies the beautiful little paradise called Herm Island. Less than a square mile in area, Herm is the smallest of the Channel Islands. With all you could wish for &ndash; picturesque cliffs, an array of wildflowers, a sparkling blue sea, a pretty harbor, and white, sandy beaches &ndash; Herm Island is a delightful destination.

Herm Island Discovery

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