Dutch traditions are the theme of this excursion which takes you from the port by coach for a guided tour of the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM01T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM01D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $73.00Adults $51.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Dutch traditions are the theme of this excursion which takes you from the port by coach for a guided tour of the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM01T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM01D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $73.00Adults $51.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Combining two of the things for which Amsterdam is best known – the Van Gogh Museum and diamonds – this enjoyable tour begins with am 1-hour coach drive to Amsterdam and with a sightseeing leg through the city’s historical centre. The route will first take you past Dam Square and the Mint Tower before dropping you at Museum Square and the Van Gogh Museum, which is home to the largest collection of works by the renowned Dutch post-Impressionist master, who only lived to the age of 37. Largely unknown and unappreciated his short lifetime, the artist seemed always on the move from one place to next, during which time he produced an abundance of groundbreaking art. Following your museum visit, the tour slowly draws to a close with a visit to a store selling one of nature’s most beautiful masterpieces: diamonds. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. Taking photos or shooting videos inside Van Gogh Museum is prohibited. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM02T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM02D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $85.00Adults $60.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Combining two of the things for which Amsterdam is best known – the Van Gogh Museum and diamonds – this enjoyable tour begins with am 1-hour coach drive to Amsterdam and with a sightseeing leg through the city’s historical centre. The route will first take you past Dam Square and the Mint Tower before dropping you at Museum Square and the Van Gogh Museum, which is home to the largest collection of works by the renowned Dutch post-Impressionist master, who only lived to the age of 37. Largely unknown and unappreciated his short lifetime, the artist seemed always on the move from one place to next, during which time he produced an abundance of groundbreaking art. Following your museum visit, the tour slowly draws to a close with a visit to a store selling one of nature’s most beautiful masterpieces: diamonds. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. Taking photos or shooting videos inside Van Gogh Museum is prohibited. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM02T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM02D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $85.00Adults $60.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port of Ijmuiden for a 1-hour drive to Amsterdam. Your tour will include highlights such as the Dam Square, the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk, the museum district and Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the concert building and the lively Leidseplein district. On reaching the heart of the city, we will enjoy an hour-long canal cruise through the historic centre, admiring the gabled historic buildings such as Anne Frank’s house, Westerchurch, the Twin Houses and Amsterdam’s historic bridges from the water. We will end the tour with a visit to an exclusive diamond retailer. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM03T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM03D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port of Ijmuiden for a 1-hour drive to Amsterdam. Your tour will include highlights such as the Dam Square, the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk, the museum district and Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the concert building and the lively Leidseplein district. On reaching the heart of the city, we will enjoy an hour-long canal cruise through the historic centre, admiring the gabled historic buildings such as Anne Frank’s house, Westerchurch, the Twin Houses and Amsterdam’s historic bridges from the water. We will end the tour with a visit to an exclusive diamond retailer. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.00 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM03T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM03D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   This whistle-stop tour of Amsterdam’s main attractions – perfect for guests booked on early flights out of Amsterdam – will give you a succinct overview of the Netherlands’ principal city. Known the world over for its bicycles, canals and bridges, Amsterdam is a delightfully relaxed and friendly place with cosmopolitan charm to spare. Your tour begins with an hour coach drive and takes you past the city’s main sights, including elegant squares, lovely old streets, beautiful architecture that spans the centuries and also the vibrant flower market, another feature for which Amsterdam is famed. The iconic canal system dates back to the 17th century and has since formed the city’s beating heart. The whole area was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites as recently as 2010. Your tour ends at the airport. Please note: this excursion is only for guests who are disembarking and booked on a flight at or after 17.30. The duration of the tour also includes the time of transfer to the airport.

Price per Person Starting from: $61.00Adults $43.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  Take a journey into the heart of Dutch culture. After an-hour drive you will reach Volendam where the residents still dress in traditional costumes and wear the typical wooden clogs. Time is scheduled here for shopping or to have lunch (not included). You will continue to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.30 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM05T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM05D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $80.00Adults $56.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  Take a journey into the heart of Dutch culture. After an-hour drive you will reach Volendam where the residents still dress in traditional costumes and wear the typical wooden clogs. Time is scheduled here for shopping or to have lunch (not included). You will continue to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. The name derives from the defending wall “Schans”, which was erected at the end of XVI century for the war against the Spanish. Although the wall has since disappeared, the name was revived in 1950 when houses and small businesses from several neighbouring villages from the XVII and XVIII centuries were relocated here. Most of the houses are made of wood and sport the pretty green painted façades typical of the Zaan area. The village is home to traditional Dutch craft production, including a wooden shoe factory where you can see how the Dutch clogs are made. From Zaanse Schans we will continue through the countryside to a local cheese farm. Learn about the age-old process of cheese making. Please note: the tour ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19.30 hours. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM05T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM05D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $80.00Adults $56.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port for an hour-long drive to Amsterdam and use the day to visit what is perhaps one of the world's most poignant sights - the Anne Frank Museum, where the courageous young diarist hid with her family from Nazi persecution. Before the museum visit we will leave the port for a tour through old and new Amsterdam, viewing the famous tree-lined canals and soaking up the multi-cultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere. We will tour the famous Anne Frank Museum and see the movable bookcase that concealed the annex where the Franks hid for over two years. You will learn more about the history of this remarkable girl while visiting the museum. Back outside, you can appreciate the scenic side of this attractive city with a visit to the popular flower market. Free time is scheduled for strolling the city or visiting the ‘Bloemenmarkt’ which stretches for a whole block and where you can admire a huge array of flowers, plants and purchase bulbs of Holland’s national flower, the tulip. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:00 hours. The old part of Anne Frank’s House is not suitable for wheelchairs and there are also stairs in some parts of the House. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM06T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM06D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $81.00Adults $57.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Leave the port for an hour-long drive to Amsterdam and use the day to visit what is perhaps one of the world's most poignant sights - the Anne Frank Museum, where the courageous young diarist hid with her family from Nazi persecution. Before the museum visit we will leave the port for a tour through old and new Amsterdam, viewing the famous tree-lined canals and soaking up the multi-cultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere. We will tour the famous Anne Frank Museum and see the movable bookcase that concealed the annex where the Franks hid for over two years. You will learn more about the history of this remarkable girl while visiting the museum. Back outside, you can appreciate the scenic side of this attractive city with a visit to the popular flower market. Free time is scheduled for strolling the city or visiting the ‘Bloemenmarkt’ which stretches for a whole block and where you can admire a huge array of flowers, plants and purchase bulbs of Holland’s national flower, the tulip. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:00 hours. The old part of Anne Frank’s House is not suitable for wheelchairs and there are also stairs in some parts of the House. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM06T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM06D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $81.00Adults $57.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    A 1-hour drive takes you to Amsterdam for a 60-minute cruise on the canals in the historical city centre with its typical gabled buildings. Your boat will take you past Anne Frank’s house, the Wester Church and the Twin Houses as well as under Amsterdam’s many bridges. Next up is a walk to the Albert Cuyp open-air market, selling everything from fruit and veg to clothing and cameras, for time to spend on your own. Your tour draws to a close with a walk to the former Heineken Brewery and the fascinating “Heineken Experience” for a chance to learn about the history of one of the world’s best-known beer brands. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:30 hours. This tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM08T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM08D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $107.00Adults $75.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    A 1-hour drive takes you to Amsterdam for a 60-minute cruise on the canals in the historical city centre with its typical gabled buildings. Your boat will take you past Anne Frank’s house, the Wester Church and the Twin Houses as well as under Amsterdam’s many bridges. Next up is a walk to the Albert Cuyp open-air market, selling everything from fruit and veg to clothing and cameras, for time to spend on your own. Your tour draws to a close with a walk to the former Heineken Brewery and the fascinating “Heineken Experience” for a chance to learn about the history of one of the world’s best-known beer brands. Please note: this excursion ends at the port for transit guests and at the airport for guests who are disembarking and booked on flights after 19:30 hours. This tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair. The duration of the tour also includes the time for transfer to the airport. To book and prepay this tour before your cruise, please use code IJM08T if you will be in transit in Ijmuiden or code IJM08D if you will be disembarking in Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $107.00Adults $75.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    On leaving the port of IJmuiden, a pleasant 1-hour coach drive will first take you to Amsterdam, the cosmopolitan capital of the Netherlands and the country’s main financial, cultural and creative centre. Founded in the late 12th century, the city boasts a wealth of architectural heritage, among which one can count the 1,500 bridges criss-crossing the city’s trademark network of canals. You will have 2 hours of free time to explore the city at your own pace. Some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights include Anne Frank’s house, the Rijksmuseum, the Hortus Botanicus botanical gardens and the Nieuwe Kerk church where Queen Beatrix was crowned in 1980, to name but a few. The tour concludes with your return to the port and your ship. Please note: this tours is only for guests in transit in the port of Ijmuiden.

Price per Person Starting from: $39.00Adults $32.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Spend a few hours off the ship on a tour that is guaranteed to leave you smarter than you were. The family-friendly jaunt begins with a short coach drive from IJmuiden to the Netherlands’ largest science museum, the so-called NEMO. You will then have plenty of time to explore the museum’s five fascinating floors, which are brim-full of interesting things to discover, exciting stuff to do and astounding facts to learn about the worlds of science and technology. All of the fascinating exhibits, creative enactments, films, workshops and demonstrations that make up the NEMO are connected to science and technology in some way. This live-and-direct, multisensory NEMO experience is certainly the most fun you’re ever likely to have encountering your natural environment. If you ever wondered what makes bridges strong or what you will look like in 30 years’ time, why family members resemble one another or how to purify water, what happens to a person when they enjoy a kiss or perhaps how lightning and satellites work, the NEMO will provide the answers to these and many other questions. In short, this informative, immersive and highly entertaining tour is a very clever way to spend a few hours off the ship, no matter how old you are. Please note: this tour is not available on calls falling on a Monday and is available only for transit guests in the port of IJmuiden

Price per Person Starting from: $84.00Adults $59.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Retail is detail, they say, and the details of this shopping trip to a cut-price outlet centre are sure to have you beaming. After leaving the port of IJmuiden by coach, a roughly 1-hour drive will take you to the Batavia Stad complex in Lelystad, a town situated on the shores of the Markermeer and IJsselmeer. Constructed in faux-historical style, complete with “old” city gates, the purpose-built Batavia Stad “shopping village” provides an appealing, car- and dog-free setting in which to shop till you drop – and save money at the same time. With more than 100 top brand outlets offering discounts of between 30% and 70% on regular retail prices, you really can’t go wrong. The old-world appeal of Batavia Stad is added to by the friendly shopkeepers and various eateries, one of which could be the perfect spot to have some lunch (not included in the price of the tour). You, your tired feet and all of your bargain buys will then be taken back to the port in the comfort of a modern coach. Please note: this tour is available only for transit guests in the port of IJmuiden

Price per Person Starting from: $51.00Adults $36.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Starting from the pier in Flåm, your tour begins with a drive through Norway’s stunning landscape to the village of Gudvangen and continues through a narrow valley to reach Stalheim, home to one of Norway’s most spectacular views. Once you have had a chance to relax over pastries and coffee, the coach will take you back down the valley via Norway’s steepest road, the Stalheims-kleivi with its 13 hairpin bends before reaching the tiny village of Undredal where you will briefly stop for picture taking. Do take your camera to capture the many awe-inspiring views of Norway’s ruggedly beautiful and incredibly green countryside on your way back to Flåm and your ship. Please note: this tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from claustrophobia, have walking difficulties or use a wheelchair. The road in Stalheim is very steep and curvy.

Price per Person Starting from: $85.00Adults $60.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    The tour begins at Flåm pier and we will drive along the fjord to the village of Aurland. From here, through the longest tunnel in the world, we will continue our journey to Lærdal. The historic heart of Lærdal village is made up of heritage buildings dating back to the XVIII century. Lærdal is renowned for its excellent salmon fishing, with the Lærdal river known as the “Queen of the Salmon Rivers”. You will have free time to spend in the village before returning to Flåm along the Snow Road. This takes us high up in the mountains, 1.309 metres above sea level. There will be a short break along the way before we return back to the port. During the tour we will also visit the historic wooden Borgund Stave Church. Please note: this tour is not recommended for guests who suffer from claustrophobia or have walking difficulties; there are some steps at the Borgund church. This tour is not available on calls falling in May.

Price per Person Starting from: $127.00Adults $89.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    After leaving the pier this excursion takes you, through a tunnel, to the village of Gudvangen where we will continue up the Nærøy Valley and on to Tvindefossen Waterfalls where we will make a photostop. “Tvinde” comes from an old Norwegian word meaning “double”; as there are actually two waterfalls that cascade next to each other. We will drive on through more tunnels to the White Cave of Gudvangen where we will trek through the deep caves and along underground pools, ending the visit with coffee in one of the cave chambers. Please note: this tour is not recommended for guests who are claustrophobic or have walking difficulties due to long periods of walking on uneven ground. In Stalheim we will drive along a very steep and curvy road. Taking photos or shooting videos is allowed only at the Main Hall at the White Cave.

Price per Person Starting from: $85.00Adults $60.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Once you are prepared for the steep roads and mountain tunnels of this region, you can sit back and enjoy the ride through spectacular countryside. Leaving the port of Flåm we will traverse a long tunnel which takes us to Gudvangen, and the coach will climb through the steep, narrow Nærøy valley. We will travel up the mountain roads, with some sharp bends, to reach the Sivlefossen Waterfalls. We will stop at the Tvindefossen waterfalls, a twin cascade of two fabulous falls. The excursion continues to the town of Voss, prettily located on the Vangvatnet Lake. We will board a train to continue our outing across a range of stunning natural landscapes, before reaching Myrdal. Here, at 867 metres above sea level, we will change trains and continue down the breathtaking Flåm valley, travelling on the world famous Flåm Line. The train will pass by Kjosfossen waterfall to allow passengers enjoy the lovely view before terminating at Flåm station, on the Sognefjord, from where we can walk back to the ship. Lunch included. Please note: the excursion includes a long train ride through a series of tunnel. The order of the visits may change. Some groups will start the tour by train and end the tour by coach and vice versa. This tour is not suitable for guests who are claustrophobic, have walking difficulties or use a wheelchair. In Stalheim we will drive along a very steep and curvy road.

Price per Person Starting from: $196.00Adults $137.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     The tour starts with a short walk from your ship to the pier located just in front of the railway station. Here you will board the sightseeing boat for a 2-hour pleasure cruise on the Aurlandsfjord and the Nærøyfjord. The cruise covers some of the most beautiful parts of the Sognefjord; we sail past steep, snow-clad mountains, rushing waterfalls and a living cultural landscape before disembarking in Gudvangen. The excursion continues by bus through the narrow and impressive Nærøydalen Valley with more impressive cascades, before arriving at the warm and welcoming Stalheim Hotel, some 1,237 feet above sea level, for coffee. We will continue driving along Stalheimskleivi, the old mountain road, Stalheimsfossen and Sivlefossen waterfalls with its 240 metres cascade; the road is very steep with a series of sharp hairpin bends. The last part of the tour takes us back through a long valley tunnel, through more mountain sceneries before arriving back at the pier in Flam. Please note: this tour is not recommended for guests who are claustrophobic. In Stalheim we will drive along a very steep and curvy road.

Price per Person Starting from: $101.00Adults $71.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Spend a few hours discovering the main sights of Stavanger, Norway’s fourth-largest city on the country’s south-western coast. The tour will take you past the 12th-century, Romanesque-style Stavanger Cathedral, the Market Place and through the modern part of the city. You will also visit the Iron Age Farm, a fascinating complex that illustrates how life was lived in Norway approx. 1,500 years ago. A stop will also be made in Stavanger’s Ullandhaug quarter for a chance to admire the wonderful view. You will then head back into town to explore the centre of Stavanger on foot, taking in the picturesque old town – known as Gamle Stavanger - which is home to Europe’s best-preserved collection of old wooden houses. Your tour ends with your return to the ship. Please note: this tour involves walking on cobbled streets and is not recommended for guests using a wheelchair. Taking photos or shooting videos inside the Iron Age Farm is prohibited.

Price per Person Starting from: $77.00Adults $54.00Children

Reservation On Board

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      Spread out in the waters off the northern Norwegian coastline near the town of Stavanger lies a group of larger and smaller islands that is simply referred to as the Stavanger Archipelago. While many of the islands are only sparsely inhabited by humans, they are home to abundant wildlife and boast spectacular scenery. There is no better way to enjoy views of the rugged coastlines and dramatic landscapes of both Norway and these islands than from the comfort of a modern boat, cruising in the direction of Lysefjord and the incredible cliff-top vantage point known as Pulpit Rock. When you see the way it towers over the fjord, you will understand how it got its name. The rock is considered to be one of Norway's natural wonders – and the very best way to admire its impressive proportions is from the fjord in a boat.

Price per Person Starting from: $130.00Adults $91.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    A scenic trip north from Stavanger to the coast begins this tour, after which the coach will drive through the incredible undersea road tunnel that links mainland Norway with Mosterøy island. Thanks to the tunnel, a journey that once took hours can now be completed in a mere 30 minutes. A visit to the island’s beautiful Utstein Abbey is next. It is regarded as Norway’s best-restored monastery and is still in active use today. The monastery is dedicated to St. Laurence and dates back to the 13th century. On returning to the port by main road, a walking tour of Stavanger’s picturesque old town, boasting Europe’s best-preserved collection of wooden houses, brings your tour to a leisurely close. The many sights to see on this tour are certainly worth a photo, so do bring your camera. Please note: this tour includes walking on cobblestone and gravel paths with some steps; it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

Price per Person Starting from: $78.00Adults $55.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     Stavanger, Norway's fourth largest city, is a charming blend of antiquity and modernity. Towards the end of the 18th century Stavanger became a leading commercial and industrial town; the herring fisheries were a key commercial activity and canning factories flourished, as did shipbuilding. Today oil-related activities have grown in importance both in and around Stavanger. Our excursion begins with a drive along the Dirdal River to Byrkjedals-tunet, a former 1920s cheese factory which today houses a restaurant, a candle maker’s workshop and shops selling souvenirs and traditional handicrafts. Refreshments will be served with time afterwards to browse the area. Continue by bus to the nearby Gloppedalsuren, Norway's largest field of boulders - some as big as houses. We will drive through the farming area of Jaeren and past the beaches at Sola before arriving at Stavanger for a short city sightseeing tour before returning to Stavanger pier.

Price per Person Starting from: $112.00Adults $78.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    A short sightseeing excursion that covers the highlights of Stavanger. We will pass Stavanger Cathedral, built in 1125 and the only Cathedral in Norway to retain all of its original architectural features. In front of the Cathedral lies the colourful market square. We will drive through Eiganes Road lined with elegant villas and pass Ledaal Manor, the King’s residence when in town. The excursion continues towards the sandy beaches of Jæreb before returning to the city through Stavanger’s old town, home to the best-preserved wooden village in Europe which dates back to the XVI and XVII centuries.

Price per Person Starting from: $51.00Adults $36.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Towards the end of the 18th century, Stavanger became a prominent industrial town; herring fishing was a key commercial activity and canning factories flourished, as did shipbuilding. Today, though, it is oil that fuels Stavanger’s local economy, and all those with an interest in energy will be keen to visit the Petroleum Museum. Our excursion begins with a drive to the Iron Age Farm at Ullandhaug to see model farmhouses from these times; a local guide will demonstrate how flour was made and clothes were woven 1,500 years ago. En route to the Petroleum Museum, we will pass the impressive ‘Swords in the Rock’ monument, an enormous sculpture composed of three Viking swords, measuring 9 metres high. The monument commemorates the battle of Hafrsfjord, of 872, when Viking King Harald Haarfagre unified Norway’s 29 small kingdoms into one country. The Petroleum Museum opened in 1999 and is located on a peninsula in the middle of Stavanger harbour. Highly educational and of interest to children and adults alike, the museum features interactive guides and demonstrations, explaining the origins of oil. We will return to the ship with a walk through old Stavanger with its narrow lanes of picturesque, well-preserved wooden houses. Please note: this tour involves walking on uneven ground and is not recommended for guests using a wheelchair. Taking photos or shooting videos inside the Iron Age Farm is prohibited.

Price per Person Starting from: $96.00Adults $67.00Children

Reservation On Board

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  This overview of Oslo provides a brief insight into the rich culture and history that the capital of Norway has to offer. Leaving the port we will embark on a scenic tour of the main streets and squares of Norway’s main city, and en route we pass some of Oslo’s most important architectural landmarks including the Town Hall, the Parliament, the National Theatre and the Royal Residence. Further on we will stop to visit Vigeland Park, which contains magnificent examples of the work of famed Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. Over 150 sculptures are assembled here, and his oeuvres represent the full range of the human lifecycle, depicting all stages of man from birth to old age. Leaving the Park we will head to the hill at Holmenkollen, which provides a panoramic view of Oslo from above, and a chance to take photographs. We will then proceed to Oslo’s modern district, where we will find Oslo’s most contemporary buildings, including the celebrated Oslo Opera House. Home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, this stunning piece of post-modern architecture was only recently completed in 2008; the award-winning structure is built from white Italian marble and characterized by large inclined plateaus. Walk up the sloping banks of this fabulous building to its rooftop, for an expansive view of the attractive harbour. Return to the port. Please note: guests using a wheelchair can take part, but should be aware that several steps lead up to the Opera House roof. The excursion does not include a sightseeing tour of Oslo during the call of the MSC Poesia on 17 May 2013.

Price per Person Starting from: $69.00Adults $48.00Children

Reservation On Board

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     The attractive city of Oslo is Norway’s capital and looks back on a rich history going right back to its foundation by King Harald III c. 1048. This culture-based tour begins with a drive-by look at Oslo’s main landmarks in the city centre, which certainly include the Royal Palace, on your way to Frogner Park. Covering an area of some 45 hectares, this super-sized city park also hosts a fabulous collection of art in the so-called “Vigeland Sculpture Arrangement”. This exhibition of sculptural art comprises the lifework of the famous Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland, and is made up of more than 150 works that represent the full range of the human condition – from birth to death. Vigeland lived from 1869 to 1943 and is also known for having designed the medal that is awarded to winners of the Nobel Peace Prize. The tour then continues on to the nearby Bygdøy peninsula for a first stop at the fascinating Viking Ship Museum, whose copious collection of Viking artefacts includes three authentic longboats dating back to c. 900 to 1,000 A.D.. To round out your Oslo experience, you will also pay a visit to the Kon-Tiki Museum for a look at the famous balsa-wood raft that the legendary Norwegian explorer and zoologist Thor Heyerdahl used to cross the Pacific Ocean in 1969 as well as the reed vessel Heyerdahl used on his Ra II expedition. This maritime experience comes to a close with your return to the port and your ship. Please note: only cameras without a flash are allowed inside the Viking Museum. This tour is not available on 17 May 2013 (MSC Poesia).

Price per Person Starting from: $66.00Adults $46.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Spend a few enjoyable hours off the ship exploring the varied attractions of lovely Oslo, Norway’s capital city. A drive-by tour of Oslo’s main sights makes a fine start to this half-day outing, after which the tour tempo will change to a more sedate pace when you reach Frogner Park. This amazing inner-city recreational area covers a huge 45 hectares and is also home to the wonderful “Vigeland Sculpture Arrangement”. This tribute to the famous Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland, comprises more than 150 works of art that serve to represent the entire cycle of human life, from infancy to old age. Vigeland lived from 1869 to 1943 and is also noted for having designed the medal awarded to winners of the Nobel Peace Prize. You will then make your way to the Bygdøy peninsula, a part of Oslo city, to visit an open-air museum which features 150 wooden buildings that are representative of the styles common in Norway’s various regions. One of the country's oldest structures, the 13th-century Viking Gol Stave Church, also forms part of the complex. The trip is rounded off with a walk around downtown Oslo, with the option of returning to the ship by coach or staying longer to make your own way back on foot. Please note: only cameras without a flash are allowed inside the houses at the Open Air Museum. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair as it includes periods of walking on uneven and sometimes steep surfaces. This tour is not available on 17 May 2013 (MSC Poesia).

Price per Person Starting from: $62.00Adults $43.00Children

Reservation On Board

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   Any passengers weary of tramping city streets can take a welcome break and see the sights of Oslo from the comfort of a tour bus. We will drive past the new Opera House, Akershus Fortress, the Parliament building, the Royal Palace, the National Theatre and the Nobel Institute. Continue through Oslo’s attractive residential areas to Holmenkollen Hill from where you have a fantastic view over the city and the fjord below. The last part of the tour will take us to the Bygdøy peninsula where many of the city’s museums are located. Return to the port. Please note: this tour is not available on 17 May 2013 (MSC Poesia).

Price per Person Starting from: $49.00Adults $34.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    This carefully planned itinerary takes you around the key architectural and cultural hotspots of Norway’s capital in just a few hours. Departing from the port, we will head for Oslo’s modern district, home to the city’s most contemporary buildings and to Oslo’s Opera House. Recently completed in 2008, this award-winning structure is built from white Italian marble and characterized by large inclined plateaus. Walk up the sloping banks of this fabulous building to the roof, for an expansive view of the attractive harbour. We will then board a coach for a sightseeing tour of the city, passing the Town Hall, National Theatre and the Royal Residence before reaching the superb Vigeland Park. The Park contains the lifework of the Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland and is home to over 150 sculptures, which represent the full range of the human life cycle. The tour ends with a break in Oslo’s most fashionable hangout – the newly opened Icebar, the third addition to this city’s collection of ‘cool’ hotspots! Made entirely from ice, the interior temperature is never raised above – 5°. Use this occasion to drink to the good health of your fellow travellers with a glass of iced drink! Please note: this tour is not recommended for children under 6 years old because the temperature inside the Ice Bar is always kept below 0°. Moreover it is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. This tour is not available on 17 May 2013 (MSC Poesia).

Price per Person Starting from: $82.00Adults $57.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Your trip to Oslo’s Museum Centre in Bygdøy begins with a drive-by tour of the city’s main attractions such as the City Hall, the National Theatre and the Royal Palace. A chance to steer remote-controlled boats, a panoramic film of Norway’s beautiful coastline as well as various interesting exhibitions await you at the Norwegian Maritime Museum. Kids can even discover their inner “naval architect” and build their own little boats to take home as a great souvenir. At the Fram Museum, you can then board the ship that has travelled the furthest south and north in the world ever. It was built by Colin Archer in 1892 and was used by the Polar explorers Nansen and Amundsen. An Arctic sound-and-light show plus a go in the Polar simulator – giving you a taste of extreme Arctic temperatures and rough seas – round off your tour. Please note: this tour is recommended to children between 05 and 10 years old. This tour is not available on 17 May 2013 (MSC Poesia).

Price per Person Starting from: $70.00Adults $49.00Children

Reservation On Board

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    Having been founded around A.D. 1048 by King Harald III, the city of Oslo is not only Norway’s capital, but also boasts a rich cultural heritage with which this entertaining tour intends to acquaint you. After leaving the pier, a coach will transfer you to your first stop: the huge Frogner Park in the middle of the city. Amid its landscaped greenery, the park houses the “Vigeland Sculpture Arrangement”, an incredible collection of sculptural art created by the Norwegian artist, Gustav Vigeland. Representing the artist’s oeuvre, the 150 works tell the story of the various stages of life – from birth to death. The artist is also noted for having designed the Nobel Peace Prize medal within his lifetime, which began in 1869 and ended in 1943. Next up is the nearby Bygdøy peninsula, where a stop will be made at the Viking Ship Museum. Among the key exhibits of the museum’s collection of Viking artefacts are three authentic longboats that were made around 1,000 years ago. Your ship then awaits you again at the end of the tour. Please note: this tour is only available on 17 May 2013 (MSC Poesia).

Price per Person Starting from: $69.00Adults $48.00Children

Reservation On Board

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