
MSC Cruises venture further afield: Heligoland, Germany’s natural archipelago is revealedThe sunny sea island of Heligoland (also Helgoland) in northern Germany is a unique place, only visited by a handful of travellers at any one time. Located 70 km off the mainland, Helgoland is a small archipelago; a tranquil, car-free oasis and one of Germany’s unique natural monuments. With the Gulf Stream promoting a warm climate, this delightful, remote little destination is conducive to unique fauna and wildlife. Your luxury MSC cruise liner will dock at the local cruise terminal where you can leave the cruise ship for the day and be guided by our selection of shore excursion packages offering the best deals on top attractions. Whether you’re looking for a moment of natural beauty during your cruise vacation or some great holiday bargains (Heligoland is a duty-free zone), this little island offers a relaxing and enjoyable day onshore. Tour the island on a small ferry and spot the seals and sea lions that live freely here. Heligoland is also a haven for seabirds, especially the elegant white gannets, with great opportunities for keen nature photographers. Relax on the waterfront in the colourful quayside cafes and enjoy some ‘time out’ in a little-known destination during our MSC Northern European and Nordic cruise itineraries |
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HGL01 - Heligoland Walking Tour : 2 hours - 2012
As Germany's only permanently inhabited North Sea island, Heligoland rises out of the water as a mass of red sandstone that provides a habitat for a unique flora and fauna. Famed for its mild climate, this lovely little island is ideal to explore on foot. Starting in the little lanes of the so-called Lower Land along with its typical lobster booths, art galleries and antiques' stores, the tour then proceeds to the so-called Upper Land for a brief stop at the "Lummenfelsen" (Birds' Rock), located about 70 metres above sea level. The Rock is named after the thousands of birds that come to nest here every year. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the local flora and fauna, and show you the area in which the birds breed.Price per person $34.00 Adults $24.00 Children
HGL02 - HISTORIC BUNKER TOUR : 1.5 hours - 2012
Due to its ideal strategic North Sea location, the island of Heligoland was developed as a sea fortification during the 19th and 20th centuries. As part of these activities, a bunker was created for the purpose of accommodating 3,500 people during WWII. After the war, the British used the island as a detonation site for seized ammunition. The 6,700 tonnes of explosives detonated by the British in 1947 - known as the "Big Bang" - has gone down in history as the biggest non-nuclear explosion ever. It also changed the topology of the island and created the so-called Middle Land. The remaining parts of the bunker are open to the public today. Its history is brought to life with illustrations, pictures and stories.Price per person $41.00 Adults $29.00 Children
HGL03 - DÜNE: HELIGOLAND’S KID SISTER : 2 hours - 2012
Despite its northern location, the sea port of Molde enjoys a comparatively mild climate due to the warm Atlantic gulf stream and the town's sheltered mountain location. Molde has been rebuilt twice, first after a fire in 1916 and again after heavy bombing during World War II. Your enjoyable sightseeing tour of this lovely city includes a visit to its modern church and open-air folk museum. You will also pass by the city hall, which is renowned for its beautiful rose garden. You will also be able to enjoy lovely views over the city from the Varden vantage point. Be sure to take your camera and seize the opportunity to capture the splendour of the scenery on film for posterity - and your family album. The tour concludes with your return journey back to the port and your ship.Price per person $46.00 Adults $32.00 Children