The Value of Longer Port Visits
Making the most of a vacation is an art form. Packing a light, modular wardrobe, compiling a well-researched itinerary, arriving at the airport early and (of course) working with a dedicated travel advisor are all sound tips. But finding the time to better explore and experience a destination is the final frontier in optimizing your travel … one that Norwegian Cruise Line is dedicated to helping you master. Read on to see a few prime examples of how their European cruise offerings stand out.
The Sunset of Santorini
Few stretches of horizon are as famous as Santorini’s. As the sun starts to slip down below the ocean, the typically cool blue Aegean Sea (and accompanying sky) ignites into brilliantly rich hues of red, orange and purple. The city itself — renowned for its all-bleached-white facades — seems to soak up this slow-motion fireworks show, briefly creating the effect that you’re somehow trading roles with the sun: it’s heading to bed, and you’re responsible for lighting up the world. Some cruise lines are already casting off by this point, robbing you of the chance to experience this properly — sitting cliffside, with a delectable aperitif in hand. Luckily enough, Norwegian Cruise Line is not your typical cruise line: Thanks to the fact most of their departures occur after 9 p.m., you don’t have to miss the show to make the boat.
Photo: Santorini
The Rousing Nightlife of Reykjavik
While most folks come to Iceland to view the jaw-dropping landscapes scattered around the isle (can you say, “hellooo Blue Lagoon”?), they stay out late for the nightlife. The “World’s Most Peaceful Nation” has a wild side that doesn’t show itself till well after midnight. The streets of downtown Reykjavik come alive with bar-hopping revelry sometime around 2 a.m., and then it doesn’t let up until well after the bakeries open for breakfast. Obviously, experiencing this side of Reykjavik isn’t compatible with a cruise itinerary that demands setting sail for the next port overnight … which is why Norwegian Cruise Line makes it a point to dock overnight in Reykjavik. Even if you’re not typically a night owl or a party animal, this is an experience worth seeking out (if only to have the story to tell down the line!).
Photo: Reykjavík, Iceland
Delve into the Deep History of Jerusalem
Ashdod, Israel, has a sanctified history — serving as the gateway to Jerusalem will certainly bestow that designation. A stroll through the storied history here is far more engaging than any history book or museum; there’s the Western Wall, a holy site looming larger than life. There’s the Old City, comprised of four quarters, each bustling with bazaars and street food stalls for the better part of the day. And there’s the Tower of David — the iconic symbol of Jerusalem that has stood for over 2000 years. In the evening, its time-weathered walls become the stage for a light show depicting the biblical story of King David. Experiencing all the sights of Jerusalem in just a day would be a tall order for most travelers; all the more reason that Norwegian Cruise Line makes sure to stay overnight at this fabled port — you can take your time taking in all that the city has to offer.
Photo: Jerusalem
For these reasons and many more — more than we could hope to fit in a single article — Norwegian Cruise Line is an ideal choice for cruising through Europe. Not only will you have plenty of time to experience the sights and flavors listed above, but you’ll also enjoy all of Norwegian’s ships that pack a wallop of excitement and entertainment. Take for example the Norwegian Prima — between ports you’ll undoubtedly want to catch a showing of Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, a Tony Award®-nominated, Broadway sensation making its debut at sea. Or, on board the Norwegian Viva, Beetlejuice: The Musical awaits — a hauntingly good musical about everyone’s favorite poltergeist. If it wasn’t clear from all of the above, our agents know Norwegian Cruise Line well, so we can help you choose, plan and book your cruise vacation to perfection.