Northern Canals & Kingdoms

London is a fascinating city with storied landmarks, iconic attractions and countless hidden gems. As we navigate the famous River Thames, we pass renowned sights like Greenwich, the Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory and historic locales that have made cinematic history. Our small yacht allows us to dock near the Tower Bridge, sailing under its impressive span, and come closer to the HMS Belfast, a historic ship known worldwide with a story that sparks your curiosity. Photographers often want to head toward central London near the Westminster Bridge. With Big Ben and Westminster Palace on one side and the London Eye on the other side of the river, it’s the best spot for the ultimate picture of the English capital. Among the lesser-known highlights of London is the British Library, where you may see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark-scientific items too. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens.

London is a fascinating city with storied landmarks, iconic attractions and countless hidden gems. As we navigate the famous River Thames, we pass renowned sights like Greenwich, the Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory and historic locales that have made cinematic history. Our small yacht allows us to dock near the Tower Bridge, sailing under its impressive span, and come closer to the HMS Belfast, a historic ship known worldwide with a story that sparks your curiosity. Photographers often want to head toward central London near the Westminster Bridge. With Big Ben and Westminster Palace on one side and the London Eye on the other side of the river, it’s the best spot for the ultimate picture of the English capital. Among the lesser-known highlights of London is the British Library, where you may see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark-scientific items too. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens.

Guarding the windswept shores of the Opal Coast, Boulogne-sur-Mer serves as France’s premier fishing port and a historic gateway to maritime discovery. Ascend from the waterfront to the fortified upper town, where formidable medieval walls encircle cobblestone streets, the striking Basilica of Notre-Dame, and its expansive, labyrinthine crypt. Down by the bustling harbor, savor the daily catch at a local seafood bistro before exploring the Nausicaá National Sea Centre, a vast marine sanctuary celebrating the ocean’s intricate ecosystems. Beyond the city limits, the dramatic chalk cliffs of Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez invite leisurely walks along pristine beaches, rewarding you with far-reaching vistas across the English Channel. This coastal gem of northern France offers the perfect blend of medieval heritage and rugged seaside beauty.

Resting along the shores of the North Sea, Oostende combines maritime heritage with relaxed coastal charm. Stroll the expansive seafront promenade beside wide sandy beaches, and explore the carefully preserved Mercator, a historic three-masted sailing ship anchored in the marina. Along the lively harbor, local eateries invite you to savor fresh seafood caught daily. Just a short journey inland, the remarkable medieval city of Bruges awaits your discovery. Glide along tranquil canals that weave past towering spires, or wander cobblestone streets to the bustling Markt, crowned by the soaring Belfry. In Burg Square, centuries of architectural brilliance surround you, while the nearby Church of Our Lady houses sacred artistic treasures. As you explore, pause to peruse elegant lace boutiques and indulge in the craftsmanship of traditional Belgian chocolate shops.

The capital of the Netherlands located along the banks of the Amstel River, its namesake, is considered among the greatest planned cities of northern Europe. It has played a critical role in the country’s development, having once been the center of world economy and now known as a destination of open-minded values. Since the 17th century, the Jewish culture and religion has influenced life here, and you can see hundreds of years of their history throughout the city. Amsterdam isn’t known for its beachfront scenery, but the Zandvoort aan Zee beach, formerly a fishing port established as far back as 1100, now stands as a popular seaside resort town.

Spend a leisurely day pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

Arendal, the inspiration for the name of the fictional land in Disney’s Frozen, is a popular summer getaway for the locals. Like most destinations in Norway, Arendal offers idyllic villages made for quaint and quieter explorations. Find your way to Tyholmen, the Old Town, a charming scene with cobblestone alleys and small wooden houses. Cool down with a refreshing swim in the ocean or opt for the floating pool by the Arendal marina. When you’re ready to engage the mind, head over to the Science Center for exciting, interactive exhibits that bring out your inner child.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the legendary setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Kronborg Castle stands as Helsingør’s most iconic landmark, its stone ramparts offering commanding views across the Øresund strait as far as Sweden. Just steps away, the award-winning M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark traces centuries of seafaring history within a brilliantly conceived subterranean space. A short drive finds you in Copenhagen, where the colorful canal-front townhouses of Nyhavn reflect in the water alongside traditional wooden boats. Amalienborg Palace anchors the capital’s royal quarter, while the Renaissance rooms of Rosenborg Castle shelter the Danish Crown Jewels. As evening approaches, Tivoli Gardens — open since 1843 — offer a singular blend of illuminated flora, open-air concerts, and timeless atmosphere that few cities in the world can rival.

Home to immense beauty and historic wealth, Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, offers a plethora of treasures. Raise a toast to your adventure with new friends and a refreshing Carlsberg beer, brewed in Denmark since 1847. Sample the local favorite, Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches, to connect with the local community over a bite and a brew. The best way to explore the city and blend with the locals is by bike. Designed for easy navigation, Copenhagen invites you and your fellow explorers to discover its hidden gems. Admire the pastel colors of the Nyhavn waterfront and contrasting architectural structures around the city along the way. Of course, the famous Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale, is a must-see for those with an appreciation for classic literature. Head a few miles out of the city to marvel over the stunning landscapes of the UNESCO-listed par force hunting landscape in North Zealand.

Home to immense beauty and historic wealth, Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, offers a plethora of treasures. Raise a toast to your adventure with new friends and a refreshing Carlsberg beer, brewed in Denmark since 1847. Sample the local favorite, Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches, to connect with the local community over a bite and a brew. The best way to explore the city and blend with the locals is by bike. Designed for easy navigation, Copenhagen invites you and your fellow explorers to discover its hidden gems. Admire the pastel colors of the Nyhavn waterfront and contrasting architectural structures around the city along the way. Of course, the famous Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale, is a must-see for those with an appreciation for classic literature. Head a few miles out of the city to marvel over the stunning landscapes of the UNESCO-listed par force hunting landscape in North Zealand.