Sail across the North Sea on a journey that weaves together centuries of seafaring history, striking coastal landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. From Hanseatic harbors in Northern Germany and Flemish UNESCO sites in Belgium to the historic trails of England’s Northumberland and East Sussex, this expedition traces the maritime spine of northern Europe as you discover how the North Sea has shaped kingdoms and culture for millennia. Actively explore each day while choosing from a variety of excursions that include walking storied streets in medieval port cities, encountering rare wildlife in protected estuaries and hiking hidden islands known more for their seabirds than tourists.
- Roam the pristine estuaries and beaches of Northumberland—home to more than 400 different bird species—and walk the stunning chalk sea cliffs of East Sussex
- Experience dramatic red sandstone cliffs, seabird colonies and a vehicle-free atmosphere on the remote island of Heliogland, the home of one of the renowned captains
- Step into a living history of trade, architecture and Frisian culture in Bremen, where Gothic spires and ornate guild halls recall the height of the Hanseatic League, a powerful alliance of merchant guilds and market towns that dominated trade in Northern Europe for centuries
- In Harlingen, explore the intersection of natural wonder and human ingenuity at the Wadden Sea, the world’s largest unbroken intertidal zone and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Delight in the fairy-tale beauty of Bruges, a UNESCO-listed city known for its perfectly preserved Gothic architecture, tranquil canals and rich Flemish heritage
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Arrive in Edinburgh and transfer to the city center. Known throughout time for its hill fort, and now the iconic Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s capital offers a variety of experiences throughout its streets. Explore the city at your own pace before embarking the ship in the afternoon.
Meals Included: Dinner
Spend the day exploring the estuaries and beaches of Northumberland, the northernmost county in England, home to more than 400 different bird species. Once a medieval Anglo-Saxon kingdom encompassing parts of present-day northern England, this region is rich in striking coastlines and estuaries of the Tyne and Tweed rivers, as well as the ancient cities protecting the area for millennia.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend a relaxing day sailing across the North Sea. Join your captain and crew on the Bridge and learn about the trade route to the Hanseatic cities or attend a presentation led by one of your naturalists. Take advantage of the amenities on board such as a rejuvenating spa treatment with your wellness specialist.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arrive in Germany on the remote island of Heligoland in the North Sea, a destination that has seen many different rulers throughout the ages. Sitting approximately 38 miles from the entrance of the River Elbe and 29 miles off the coast of mainland Germany, Heligoland boasts a unique landscape of red sandstone cliffs, bird colonies that include northern gannets and seal haul-out sites. It's such a small island that there are no private vehicles, and all areas are accessible by walking. Heligoland also happens to be the home of one of National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions' renowned ship captains, Oliver Kruess.
The next day, navigate up the Weser River into the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen. A bustling trade center in the famous Hanseatic League, the modern city continues this rich tradition while protecting the architecture and grandeur of the past, most notably the Town Hall and the 13th-century St. Peter's Cathedral. Choose to uncover Hanseatic history, visit tranquil countryside windmills or take an active bike ride on a network of trails outside the city center.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, you’ll enter northeastern Netherlands through an estuary in Friesland, a region settled by German tribes since the 4th century, controlling lands from Bremen to Bruges. Harlingen sits at the meeting point of the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea—the world’s largest unbroken intertidal zone—and the IJsselmeer, the Netherlands’ largest lake. Choose between exploring the charming streets of one of the oldest seaports in the Netherlands or venturing to the Afsluitdijk Wadden Center to learn about the innovation projects continuing in the Wadden Sea and controlling the waterworks of the Netherlands.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ostend is the North Sea gateway into Flemish Belgium, or Flanders. Rich in intangible cultural heritage, Flanders offers a wide range of subjects to explore—from beer brewing dating back to the Middle Ages and fascinating folklore to captivating arts and religious traditions. The city of Bruges, known as the “Venice of the North,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Gothic architecture and serene canals. You’ll discover this city’s historic wonders on foot during a panoramic walking tour past the Belfort Bell Tower and City Hall. As part of the day, you’ll also have the choice to visit the Beguinages, a series of UNESCO-designated, enclosed communities once home to a religious order of nuns that offer insight into 17th-century spiritual and urban life.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After crossing the English Channel, arrive in East Sussex, known for its rich medieval history, stunning ivory coasts and quaint villages that are approximately 1,000 years old. Spend the day exploring coastal trails that trace these ivory shores with their iconic chalk cliffs, wandering through narrow passages of ancient castles and battlefields or soaking up village life along idyllic winding lanes.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Disembark in Portsmouth after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Itineraries are subject to change.
National Geographic Explorer
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 108 meters
Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)
Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008
National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.
Public areas: Bistro Bar; Chart Room; Restaurant; Global Gallery; Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and Observation Lounge. Our “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation.
Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.
Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls.
Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear.
Special Features: A full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, LEX Photo Specialist and Video Chronicler, Internet Cafe and laundry.
Wellness: The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXspa treatment rooms and Sauna.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
