The compact city of Newcastle has plenty to be discovered during a day onshore. Once an industrial hub, it has successfully transformed into a quirky and stylish destination, popular particularly for its vibrant nightlife. But, as well as the restaurants, bars and clubs, you'll find over 2,000 years of history and architecture thanks to the city's Roman origins. Discover the Roman ruins, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, many museums, parks and galleries to learn more about Newcastle.
Things to do in Newcastle:
Discovery Museum
A scientific and local history museum, The Discovery Museum is located in Blandford Square in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are several local history exhibits there, including the Turbinia ship. Showcasing the renowned maritime history, alongside fashion, science and technology, this diverse museum is fun for all the family.
Newcastle Castle
The castle is situated in the heart of the city, and is a prominent mediaeval fortification that was constructed on the site of an ancient fortress. Within the castle, you’ll find the iconic fortified gatehouse (the Black Gate) as well as the Castle Keep and other impressive features.
Biscuit Factory
Newcastle upon Tyne is home to the contemporary art gallery The Biscuit Factory. The Gallery underwent extensive renovations before opening in 2002, and was originally constructed in the late 19th century. The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial gallery for art, craft, and design, making it a popular attraction for those visiting the city.
Visby, Gotland. Sweden
DAY 605 Sep 2023
Situated on the Swedish Island of Gotland in the Baltic sea, Visby is one of Scandinavia's best preserved medieval towns. Follow the labyrinth of quaint cobblestone streets to picturesque cottages and ancient Gothic churches, and discover the 12th century history of this hidden gem. Whether you're looking for a simple walking tour to admire the historic architecture, or are looking to get stuck into museums, ruins and cathedrals, Visby is a must-visit for a glimpse into Scandinavia's past.
Things to do in Visby, Gotland. Sweden:
DBW Park
One of the most upscale parks in the city is DBW Park, which is situated on the shore of the Baltic Sea. In addition to several walking and jogging trails, and a variety of native and foreign species, this botanical park also has lush trees and vibrant flowers. A must when you visit the city, its tranquil atmosphere will be a welcome break from the hustle and bustle.
Kneippbyn
A short journey from Visby is the Kneippbyn theme park. Full of waterslides, rides and live performances throughout the day, it’s inspired by the iconic Pippi Longstocking films and is a fun day out for all the family.
Lummelunda
The Lummelunda Cave is situated in a nature preserve north of Visby on the Swedish island of Gotland. One of the longest caverns in Sweden, the investigated portion of this karst cave is nearly 4.5 km long.
Stockholm - Overnight onboard
DAY 7-806 Sep 2023
Combining ancient history and architecture with modern urban flair, Stockholm is known as one of the most welcoming cities in the world. Culture vultures, in particular, will be delighted by the range of attractions on offer, such as the fairytale-esque Old Town, the extravagant royal palace and the Vasa Museum. For ultimate relaxation, head to a Swedish sauna to soak in an ambient setting. Just don't forget to leave time for authentic Swedish street food!
Things to do in Stockholm - Overnight onboard:
Royal Palace
One of most impressive palaces in Europe, the Royal Palace of Stockholm holds the majority of the monarchy's formal receptions year-round, as well as being the King of Sweden's official home. The palace, designed to resemble a Roman palace, was constructed in the baroque style by architect Nicodemus Tessin. With a state apartment overlooking the city and smaller living rooms facing the inner courtyard, the palace includes more than 600 rooms spread across eleven storeys.
Fotografiska
Housed in an impressive brick building, the Fotografiska is a photography museum filled with contemporary exhibitions. Showcasing world-class photography, this unique attraction is located within the centre of the city.
ABBA Museum
Whether you love ABBA or you simply want to learn more about the band's iconic past, ABBA The Museum in Stockholm makes for a fun day out. See costumes they wore, artwork and more at this fascinating museum in the heart of the city
Gothenburg
DAY 1009 Sep 2023
Situated on the shores of the Göta älv river on Sweden's west coast is the country's largest city, Gothenburg. A significant seaport, it is renowned for its Dutch-inspired canals and green boulevards like the Avenyn, which is the city's main avenue which is surrounded by an array of popular cafés and shops.
Things to do in Gothenburg:
Liseberg
Featuring a variety of thrilling rides, theatre spaces and a beautifully designed sculpture garden, Liseberg was opened in 1923. With around three million visitors each year, it is one of the most popular theme parks in Scandinavia.
Horticultural Society
In the heart of Gothenburg, Sweden, there is a park and horticultural garden called The Garden Society of Gothenburg. Situated next to Kungsportsavenyen, it was established 1842 and features an array of beautiful plant life from local flowers to tropical plants found within the greenhouse.
VOLVO Museum
Gothenburg is home to the popular Volvo Museum. It covers the growth of Sweden's top automaker, Volvo, from the original "V 4" to the present-day automobiles, lorries, buses, and other goods. A popular attraction with those that love to learn about the history of cars, it's situated just outside of the city centre.
Newcastle
DAY 1211 Sep 2023
The compact city of Newcastle has plenty to be discovered during a day onshore. Once an industrial hub, it has successfully transformed into a quirky and stylish destination, popular particularly for its vibrant nightlife. But, as well as the restaurants, bars and clubs, you'll find over 2,000 years of history and architecture thanks to the city's Roman origins. Discover the Roman ruins, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, many museums, parks and galleries to learn more about Newcastle.
Things to do in Newcastle:
Discovery Museum
A scientific and local history museum, The Discovery Museum is located in Blandford Square in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are several local history exhibits there, including the Turbinia ship. Showcasing the renowned maritime history, alongside fashion, science and technology, this diverse museum is fun for all the family.
Newcastle Castle
The castle is situated in the heart of the city, and is a prominent mediaeval fortification that was constructed on the site of an ancient fortress. Within the castle, you’ll find the iconic fortified gatehouse (the Black Gate) as well as the Castle Keep and other impressive features.
Biscuit Factory
Newcastle upon Tyne is home to the contemporary art gallery The Biscuit Factory. The Gallery underwent extensive renovations before opening in 2002, and was originally constructed in the late 19th century. The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial gallery for art, craft, and design, making it a popular attraction for those visiting the city.
Customer reviews for Balmoral
4.3
Based on 113 reviews
Cabin
4.3
Service
4.3
Excursions
4.3
Dining
4.3
Activities
4.3
Value for money
4.3
Entertainment
4.3
Staff were wonderful, good staff to customer ratio, and food was amazing. Entertainment was Ok. Lots of activities were on offer. Our fellow cruisers were mainly elderly. We were lucky with good weather. It is a small ship so for the less able easier to get around, although in bad weather it would probably have been more uncomfortable. It was the staff and their service which made the trip memorable.
couple
2-5 cruisesSuperior Interior Room
15 May 2023
Used the cruise to visit family and friends in the Netherlands. The disembarkation location in both Amsterdam and Rotterdam were perfect - every sight in walking distance or by shuttle bus.
couple
10+ cruisesOcean View
9 May 2023
The staff are excellent, very friendly and helpful. However, I preferred the food menus on a previous trip I'd taken on Balmoral.
couple
2-5 cruisesSuperior Ocean View
13 Apr 2023
Very friendly, both passengers and crew. Nothing seemed too much trouble. Ship was clean but older. A paper copy of the port where we docked would have made a huge difference, as it was difficult to navigate our way with no guidance. Staff suggested the local 'tourist information' but we didn't know where that was.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
