Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world’s most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it’s no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you’ll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city’s oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city’s gem cutters. It’s certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It’s pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam’s charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam’s being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe’s great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city’s triple-X reputation. They’re part of Amsterdam’s official coat of arms—three St. Andrew’s crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat’s motto (“Valiant, determined, compassionate”) was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.
Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Stavanger flourished in the 19th century as a fishing port. While other towns in Norway have suffered with the decline of this industry, Stavanger has kept its economy booming by diversifying, first into shipbuilding and now into oil. These two contrasting industries have created a city of two halves – a modern area of high-rise buildings and a historic centre with cobbled streets and old wooden houses. The city centre was the birthplace of Alexander Kielland, one of the great 19th-century Norwegian novelists. Stavanger Cathedral, dating from 1125, is an impressive building and the only medieval cathedral in Norway that has not been substantially altered since it was first built. From Stavanger you can explore the attractive blue waters of Lysefjord, surrounded by cliffs and striking rock formations, and also visit Hafrsfjord where the Viking King Harald won an important battle that started the Unification of Norway. Those preferring to explore on their own may wish to visit the interesting Petroleum Museum.
Nicknamed “Sommerbyen” (“Summer City”), Norway’s fifth-largest city has 78,000 inhabitants. Norwegians come here for its sun-soaked beaches and beautiful harbor. Kristiansand has also become known internationally for the outdoor Quart Festival, which hosts local and international rock bands every July. According to legend, in 1641 King Christian IV marked the four corners of Kristiansand with his walking stick, and within that framework the grid of wide streets was laid down. The center of town, called the Kvadraturen, still retains the grid, even after numerous fires. In the northeast corner is Posebyen, one of northern Europe’s largest collections of low, connected wooden house settlements, and there’s a market here every Saturday in summer. Kristiansand’s Fisketorvet (fish market) is near the south corner of the town’s grid, right on the sea.
Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.
Don’t tell the residents of Göteborg that they live in Sweden’s “second city,” but not because they will get upset (people here are known for their amiability and good humor). They just may not understand what you are talking about. People who call Göteborg (pronounced YOO-teh-bor; most visitors stick with the simpler “Gothenburg”) home seem to forget that the city is diminutive in size and status compared to Stockholm.Spend a couple of days here and you’ll forget, too. You’ll find it’s easier to ask what Göteborg hasn’t got to offer rather than what it has. Culturally it is superb, boasting a fine opera house and theater, one of the country’s best art museums, as well as a fantastic applied-arts museum. There’s plenty of history to soak up, from the ancient port that gave the city its start to the 19th-century factory buildings and workers’ houses that helped put it on the commercial map. For those looking for nature, the wild-west coast and tame green fields are both within striking distance. And don’t forget the food. Since its inception in 1983, more than half of the “Swedish Chef of the Year” competition winners were cooking in Göteborg.
By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.
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Designed with intimate seating arrangements, the spacious main restaurant offers a thoughtfully-designed balance of privacy and social connection. A menu of locally inspired creations change with the seasons to reflect the passing scene. The menu highlights the varied cultures, lands, and sights that are best explored at The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection destinations.
Indulge in a specialty dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton® in Wolfsburg. S.E.A. offers an inspired European tasting menu in a sophisticated setting with a contemporary feel. Cruise dining has never been more refreshing. Reservations required, additional fee applies.
Creative interpretations of Southeast Asian cuisine are paired with sophisticated, laidback luxury in this sleek, contemporary restaurant. Sit down at the sushi bar, enjoy a more family-style table experience, or dine outside and watch the day’s destination disappear with the setting sun.
From a leisurely breakfast for early risers to late-night dining, this casual eatery serves a variety of cuisines prepared à la minute in an open air space. Enjoy a relaxing meal or casual bite at this inspired poolside restaurant.
Come as you are, for lunch or a romantic dinner al fresco. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features fresh local catches, while prime cuts are prepared to order from the grill. The deck serves as one of the best views on the yacht to enjoy dinner or drinks.
Guests will wake to freshly roasted coffees and baked pastries at the espresso counter and bar. An array of ready-made culinary treats is also available for day trips and late nights.
Dine in the comfort of your suite or on your private terrace when you order from the All-Day Dining menu, featuring influences from every dining venue onboard. For guests looking for further flexibility within all of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection suites, a Late-Night Dining menu will also be available.
Sitting right at the water’s edge, the Marina offers sun loungers and a generous choice of water toys. Like a private beach with seamless entry into the sea, it’s the go-to spot while at anchor. Just steps above, the Marina Terrace serves handcrafted cocktails and light bites with stunning views.
Browse through a world-class museum with its curator. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site before opening hours to beat the crowds. Our small-group “must-do” tours to the highlights of a destination are led by local experts for an insider’s perspective.
Our Iconic Sights luxury cruise shore excursions offer intimate tours of each destination’s most iconic, historic and enthralling sights. Ideal for couples, families and all travellers who are yearning to experience the culture of their destinations firsthand.
Go behind the glossy postcards for an insider’s view of the places we visit and locals we meet. Or give back in a unique and immersive way that offers a deep cultural connection.
On select itineraries, deepen your experience mid-voyage to fully immerse yourself beyond the port. On an overnight tour, take a deep dive into immersive cultural experiences before rejoining the yacht at your next destination. Our Overland Programs are among the most immersive of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection shore excursions.
Ignite your adventurous spirit with this selection of excursions from The Shore Collection. Swim, snorkel or dive at world-class reefs. Go whitewater rafting or zip-lining through a rainforest. Climb a waterfall or explore a cave and get your adrenaline flowing. Tick off a box from your bucket list and set your own high-octane pace.
Slow down. De-stress. Practice yoga on a private beach or spend the day at a luxury hotel, relaxing by the infinity pool or at the spa while experts soothe your mind, body, and soul. Stirring the Senses promotes wellness and rejuvenation to help bring your life back into balance.
Guests seeking a truly relaxing and refreshing cruising experience elect our Stirring the Senses Shore Collection excursion.
For the most personalised way to explore a destination, choose from one of our predesigned private excursions and allow our Concierge Ashore to assist with reservations. In addition, our Concierge Ashore can help you organise any Shore Experience on a private basis or customise your own experience tailor-made to your travel style. Our Concierge Ashore services are an extension of our The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection service, with world-class services for guests.
Life is meant to be savoured, and our Epicurean Experiences allow guests to enjoy every bite of this luxury cruise shore excursion package.
Visit a winery with the sommelier in Tuscany or learn how to make patacones from a native chef in Costa Rica. Explore the timeless traditions of a culture through its culinary arts.
Bold shades of blue reflecting the sea provide a vibrant accent to the yacht’s gathering place, with its chic, comfortable furnishings and library with travel guides and best sellers. Diffused lighting transforms the space into a cocktail lounge with piano bar, dancing and live music later on, making The Living Room one of the most popular Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection onboard features.
From exclusive sportswear and branded apparel to jewellery and leather goods, leading labels offer enticing options. In select ports, your shopping experience is further enhanced by bespoke collaborations with local artisans who come on board to showcase their offerings.
Like the yacht itself, entertainment and enrichment onboard are an intimate affair. Our in-house classical and jazz musicians will provide highly personal performances across the many venues onboard throughout each voyage. The yacht’s leisurely pace offers the freedom and flexibility for our team to arrange fully immersive cultural experiences both onboard and ashore. From partnerships with the local arts and music communities to discussions led by renowned experts and lecturers, each experience is designed to stir the senses in an uncommonly profound way. Our commitment to immersive and enriching entertainment offerings sets our luxury cruise features apart from others.
Top-deck views erase the borders between land and sea, an inspired setting for lounging, cocktails or socialising. At twilight, the space is transformed into a venue with cocktails and live entertainment, extending into a late-night hangout. Whether exploring on luxury repositioning cruises, luxury Baltic cruises, US-based cruises, or anything in between, The Observation Lounge is your vantage point for sightseeing anywhere at sea.
Cap off your day with a premium cognac in this intimate lounge with its comfortable furnishings. An excellent selection of premium hand-rolled cigars is showcased in the state-of-the-art humidor.
Begin your evening with a bubbly cocktail, toast a special event or relax with an after-dinner nightcap, this intimate cocktail lounge serves top labels from around the world, as well as premium champagnes with caviar pairings.
Listen to the gentle lap of waves while reclining on a massage table, savouring a therapeutic spa treatment from the private terrace of one of our treatment rooms. Inspired by the destinations we visit and curated to fulfil your needs, our treatments feature the finest ESPA products to awaken the senses, refresh the body and renew the spirit. Arrive early, stay a while and drift away into relaxation aboard your oasis at sea.
Exceptional massages, facials, and a variety of locally inspired treatments await you within our serene onboard oasis. Enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment in one of five private rooms, or al fresco, paired with ocean views. Plus, a full-service Beauty Lounge, Gentleman’s Grooming Salon, as well as a sauna, steam room and quiet zones allow you to truly disconnect. Reservations required, additional fee applies.
An infinity oasis of blue is just steps away from The Pool House, where guests can enjoy all-day dining. Frozen treats, whirlpools to soak in, and refreshing water mistings pamper guests on the sun loungers and banquettes. A spacious venue for deck parties and open-air movies.
The Fitness Studio is home to a health and wellness program that integrates fitness and spa with lectures and nutrition that can be customised for each guest. From personal training to sunrise yoga and mat Pilates, each voyage has opportunities to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The Salon offers a variety of beauty and hair services including manicure and pedicure treatments, hair consultations, cutting, styling and blow drying. Next door at The Barber, gentlemen can enjoy a close shave or invigorating facial before heading ashore to explore the port feeling refreshed and revitalised.
Families exploring the world together are welcome aboard The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. With its own dedicated space on board, Ritz Kids® is an educational and fun-filled program that encourages children to explore the world around them. Enhanced services will be available during holidays and summer months.