Seabourn Northern Europe: 28 nights from Dover with Seabourn Sojourn
May 31, 2025

Portland (GB)

Cork

Fishguard

Isola di Man

Belfast

Discover Belfast: A Historic Gem in the United Kingdom

Belfast, located in Northern Ireland, is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes that offer visitors a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Founded in the 17th century, Belfast has transformed into a dynamic urban center known for its warm hospitality, historic landmarks, and thriving arts scene.

Moderate Climate of Belfast

Belfast experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. Summer months are ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like Botanic Gardens or taking a leisurely stroll along the River Lagan. Winter brings opportunities to visit cozy pubs, enjoy cultural events, and explore indoor attractions such as museums and galleries.

Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Belfast

Explore Belfast's top attractions, including the iconic Titanic Belfast museum commemorating the city's maritime heritage, the historic Crumlin Road Gaol offering insights into Northern Ireland's past, and the vibrant St. George's Market for local crafts and food. Visit the Ulster Museum for art and history exhibits, hike Cave Hill for panoramic views, or take a Black Taxi tour to learn about Belfast's political history.

Local Cuisine: Flavors of Northern Ireland

Indulge in Belfast's culinary delights with traditional dishes like Irish stew, soda bread, Ulster fry (a hearty breakfast), and fresh seafood from the nearby coast. Sample local specialties such as champ (mashed potatoes with scallions), dulse (seaweed snack), and potato bread. Explore the city's gastropubs for modern twists on classic recipes and enjoy a pint of Guinness or local craft beer.

Embark on an Unforgettable Cruise from Belfast

Enhance your Belfast experience by booking a cruise departing from this historic port city. Choose from cruise options exploring the rugged coastlines of Ireland, visiting picturesque ports along the British Isles, or sailing to destinations like Scotland or Iceland. A cruise from Belfast promises scenic views of coastal cliffs, cultural experiences in charming towns, and memorable adventures on the high seas.

Rothesay

Oban

Ullapool

Newhaven

Newcastle

Historical Insight

Newcastle, located in the heart of New South Wales, Australia, is steeped in a rich tapestry of history. Initially inhabited by the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, it became a pivotal site for convicts sent to mine coal in the early 19th century. This era laid the groundwork for Newcastle's transformation into a significant industrial hub. Today, the city honors its past through preserved historical sites and the revitalization of its heritage areas, inviting visitors to explore its storied beginnings.

Embracing the Climate

Newcastle enjoys a temperate climate, making it an ideal destination year-round. With warm, humid summers and mild winters, the weather perfectly complements the city's vibrant beach culture. This balmy climate encourages outdoor activities, from surfing at the famed beaches to relaxing in its numerous parks, ensuring visitors can enjoy everything Newcastle has to offer, irrespective of the season.

Attractions Galore

The city's allure lies in its diverse attractions, from stunning beaches like Nobbys and Merewether to historical sites such as the Fort Scratchley Historic Site. The Bathers Way coastal walk offers breathtaking views and leads explorers from the historic lighthouse down to the artistic hub of the city. For art enthusiasts, the Newcastle Art Gallery showcases both contemporary and traditional works, making it a cultural treasure trove. This blend of natural beauty and rich culture makes Newcastle a must-visit destination.

Local Cuisine and Delicacies

Newcastle's culinary scene is a reflection of its multicultural community, offering a delectable range of local and international flavors. Seafood, naturally, is a highlight, with local restaurants serving freshly caught produce. The city's markets are a food lover's paradise, offering everything from gourmet cheeses to artisan breads. Don't miss the chance to savor the locally produced wines, a testament to the region's burgeoning wine industry.

Your Gateway to Exploration

Embarking on a cruise from Newcastle not only unlocks the treasures within the city but also serves as a gateway to the wider wonders of Australia and beyond. With its strategic location, modern facilities, and stunning backdrop, Newcastle is the perfect starting point for your maritime adventure. Imagine setting sail from a city that offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This is your invitation to discover the world in a way that only Newcastle can offer.

Great Yarmouth

Dover

History of Dover

Enveloped by the passage of time, Dover stands as a monumental beacon of Britain's heritage. Situated at the closest point to continental Europe, it has served as the gateway to England for centuries. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover, symbolic of hope and freedom, have witnessed the ebb and flow of conquerors, traders, and travelers. Central to its historical narrative is Dover Castle, known as the "Key to England," boasting an extensive history dating back to the Iron Age and later fortified by the Romans and Normans. This town is not just a witness but a storyteller of England's tumultuous history.

Climate in Dover

Dover's climate is characterized by its mildness, a trait particularly appealing to those seeking to escape extreme weather conditions. Summers are pleasantly warm without being oppressively hot, with average temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F), making it an ideal time for exploring. Winters are moderate, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. This temperate climate ensures that Dover can be enjoyed year-round, offering a comfortable environment for all its visitors.

Attractions and Places to Visit

Dover is not just a historical gem but also a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural sites. Beyond the White Cliffs, Dover Castle stands as a formidable reminder of the past, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into history. The Secret Wartime Tunnels weave beneath the castle, offering an immersive experience into WWII strategies. For nature lovers, the Samphire Hoe Country Park, created from the material dug to build the Channel Tunnel, offers serene walks and stunning vistas. Each site in Dover tells its own unique story, inviting exploration and discovery.

Local Cuisine and Specialty Products

The culinary landscape of Dover is as rich and varied as its history. Known for its fresh seafood, the town boasts dishes like Dover sole, celebrated worldwide for its delicate taste. Local pubs and restaurants also offer traditional English fare, from hearty stews to the classic fish and chips, often with a contemporary twist. Regional produce, like Kentish apples and artisanal cheeses, add to the gastronomic experience, making Dover a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Concluding Remarks: Embark on a Cruise from Dover

Embarking on a cruise from Dover is not just a journey; it's an adventure steeped in history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. This port, renowned for its strategic importance and breathtaking views, serves as the perfect gateway to exploring the British Isles and beyond. With its convenient location, temperate climate, and rich cultural tapestry, Dover invites cruisers to begin their voyage in a city that promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn by the call of history, the allure of gastronomy, or the simple joy of scenic landscapes, Dover is a destination that transcends expectations, making it an ideal starting point for your next cruise adventure.

Trondheim

Brønnøysund

Svolvaer

Tromsoe

Tromsø is the biggest city in Northern Norway and one of the most populated. It is situated about 350 km far from the Arctic Circle. The city centre develops in an isle called Tromsøya, while the population lives on the mainland, Tromsdalen, which can be reached thanks to bridges that confer the city a peculiar character. The area where Tromsø was established, has been inhabited since the Glacial Era. During the Middle Age, the Sami settled down here and it was in this period that Tromsø became a frontier town with Russia.
Due to the proximity with the Arctic Circle, it is possible to enjoy natural spectacles such as midnight sun, that happens during the period of Summer Solstice and that is the reason why the night does not fall. Tromsø is a touristic destination mainly for the phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis: between the end of September and the end of March, it is possible to enjoy this natural enchantment that attracts visitors from all over the world that are not afraid of the low temperatures, as it is really worthy. Photography lovers will find their ideal dimension and will take back home their photographic trophies.
Tromsø is a university city and many local and foreign students populate the city. In the city centre, it is possible to visit a museum that collects relics from the expeditions towards the Arctic Circle. The majority of these expeditions started in Tromsø.
Tromsø is also an important port for the cruise market. It is a stop-over for the Cruises to Norwegian Fjords, whose passengers can enjoy their beauty. In Spring and Summer, the only period where you can cruise along this area, the valley are painted in a shiny green and are a real spectacle to enjoy on board of a cruise ship.

Honningsvåg

Olden

Bergen

Surrounded by seven hills and seven fjords, Bergen is a beautiful, charming city with beauty and entertainment for all tastes. With the bustling port of Vågen as its centrepiece, Bergen climbs up the hills with hundreds of timber-clad houses, while cable cars offer splendid views from above. Great museums, friendly people and a dynamic cultural life make Bergen a popular destination in recent times, also thanks to the surrounding natural beauty. The wonderful natural beauties of this region will leave you speechless. HardangerFjord, Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord are similar if we consider some aspects such as: steep walls of crystal- clear rock plummeting with sublime force directly into the sea, often decorated with waterfalls and small farms that blend harmoniously with the natural landscape.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a charming city with a particularly relaxing and serene atmosphere, despite its large size. The city has been a World Heritage Site since 2010 and has buildings dating back to the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. It is no coincidence that it is one of the most visited cities in the world.

Dover

History of Dover

Enveloped by the passage of time, Dover stands as a monumental beacon of Britain's heritage. Situated at the closest point to continental Europe, it has served as the gateway to England for centuries. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover, symbolic of hope and freedom, have witnessed the ebb and flow of conquerors, traders, and travelers. Central to its historical narrative is Dover Castle, known as the "Key to England," boasting an extensive history dating back to the Iron Age and later fortified by the Romans and Normans. This town is not just a witness but a storyteller of England's tumultuous history.

Climate in Dover

Dover's climate is characterized by its mildness, a trait particularly appealing to those seeking to escape extreme weather conditions. Summers are pleasantly warm without being oppressively hot, with average temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F), making it an ideal time for exploring. Winters are moderate, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. This temperate climate ensures that Dover can be enjoyed year-round, offering a comfortable environment for all its visitors.

Attractions and Places to Visit

Dover is not just a historical gem but also a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural sites. Beyond the White Cliffs, Dover Castle stands as a formidable reminder of the past, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into history. The Secret Wartime Tunnels weave beneath the castle, offering an immersive experience into WWII strategies. For nature lovers, the Samphire Hoe Country Park, created from the material dug to build the Channel Tunnel, offers serene walks and stunning vistas. Each site in Dover tells its own unique story, inviting exploration and discovery.

Local Cuisine and Specialty Products

The culinary landscape of Dover is as rich and varied as its history. Known for its fresh seafood, the town boasts dishes like Dover sole, celebrated worldwide for its delicate taste. Local pubs and restaurants also offer traditional English fare, from hearty stews to the classic fish and chips, often with a contemporary twist. Regional produce, like Kentish apples and artisanal cheeses, add to the gastronomic experience, making Dover a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Concluding Remarks: Embark on a Cruise from Dover

Embarking on a cruise from Dover is not just a journey; it's an adventure steeped in history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. This port, renowned for its strategic importance and breathtaking views, serves as the perfect gateway to exploring the British Isles and beyond. With its convenient location, temperate climate, and rich cultural tapestry, Dover invites cruisers to begin their voyage in a city that promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn by the call of history, the allure of gastronomy, or the simple joy of scenic landscapes, Dover is a destination that transcends expectations, making it an ideal starting point for your next cruise adventure.