A World Affairs Voyage from Copenhagen to London

ITINERARY

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’.

Warnemünde, officially a suburb of Rostock, is a quaint seaside resort town with the best hotels and restaurants in the area, as well as 20 km (12 miles) of beautiful white-sand beach. It's been a popular summer getaway for families in eastern Germany for years.There is little to do in Warnemünde except relax, and the town excels brilliantly at that. However, Warnemünde is a major cruise-ship terminal. Whenever there is more than one ship at dock, the town explodes with a county fair–like atmosphere, and shops and restaurants stay open until the ships leave at midnight. The city celebrates the dreifache Anlauf, when three ships dock simultaneously, with fireworks.

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.

Explore Antwerp, Belgium's second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.

About 8 miles downstream—which means seaward, to the east—from central London, Greenwich is a small borough that looms large across the world. Once the seat of British naval power, it is not only home to the Old Royal Observatory, which measures time for our entire planet, but also the Greenwich Meridian, which divides the world into two—you can stand astride it with one foot in either hemisphere. Bear in mind that the journey to Greenwich is an event in itself. In a rush, you can take the driverless DLR train—but many opt for arriving by boat along the Thames. This way, you glide past famous sights on the London skyline (there’s a guaranteed spine chill on passing the Tower) and ever-changing docklands, and there’s usually a chirpy Cock-er-ney navigator enlivening the journey with his fun commentary. A visit to Greenwich feels like a trip to a rather elegant seaside town—albeit one with more than its fair share of historic sites. The grandiose Old Royal Naval Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, was originally a home for veteran sailors. Today it’s a popular visitor attraction, with a more glamorous second life as one of the most widely used movie locations in Britain. Greenwich was originally home to one of England's finest Tudor palaces, and the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. Inigo Jones built what is considered the first "classical" building in England in 1616—the Queen's House, which now houses a collection of fine art. Britain was the world’s preeminent naval power for over 500 years, and the excellent National Maritime Museum> details that history in an engaging way. Its prize exhibits include the coat worn by Admiral Lord Nelson (1758–1805) in his final battle—bullet hole and all. The 19th-century tea clipper Cutty Sark was nearly destroyed by fire in 2007, but reopened in 2012 after a painstaking restoration. Now it’s more pristine than ever, complete with an impressive new visitor center. Greenwich Park, London's oldest royal park, is still home to fallow red deer, just as it has been since they were first introduced here for hunting by Henry VIII. The Ranger's House now houses a private art collection, next door to a beautifully manicured rose garden. Above it all is the Royal Observatory, where you can be in two hemispheres at once by standing along the Greenwich Meridian Line, before seeing a high-tech planetarium show. Toward north Greenwich, the hopelessly ambitious Millennium Dome has been successfully reborn as the O2 and now hosts major concerts and stand-up comedy gigs. More adventurous visitors can also go Up the O2 on a climbing expedition across the massive domed surface. Meanwhile, those who prefer excursions of a gentler kind may prefer to journey a couple of miles south of the borough, farther out into London’s southern suburbs, to the shamefully underappreciated Eltham Palace. Once a favorite of Henry VIII, parts of the mansion were transformed into an art deco masterpiece during the 1930s.

Day 1

Copenhagen

26 Aug 2026

Copenhagen

Warnemünde

27 Aug 2026

Warnemünde

Wismar

28 Aug 2026

Wismar

Day 4

Cruising the Kiel Canal

29 Aug 2026

Cruising the Kiel Canal

Day 5

Harlingen

30 Aug 2026

Harlingen

Day 6

Amsterdam

31 Aug 2026

Amsterdam

The Hague

01 Sep 2026

The Hague

Day 8

Antwerp

02 Sep 2026

Antwerp

Explore Antwerp, Belgium's second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.

Oostende (Ostend)

03 Sep 2026

Oostende (Ostend)

Day 10

Dunkerque

04 Sep 2026

Dunkerque

Day 11

London (Greenwich)

05 Sep 2026

London (Greenwich)

This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

Explore Le Champlain

Le Nautilus

At the back of deck 4, our gourmet restaurant, complete with wine cellar, offers French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for your breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Grill Restaurant

In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 3 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Explorations

Because your desires for escape are many, we offer a range of explorations, each promising unique experiences. Timeless, Discoveries, or Expeditions: each collection offers a distinct and tailored approach, allowing you to experience your chosen destination as closely as possible.

Timeless

Preserved and authentic towns and villages, iconic or more secluded sites… Discover the cultural and gastronomic riches of your destination through the eyes of inspiring local guides and your onboard lecturer, experts in the regions visited.

Timeless: your experiences

Disembarkation at the dock or by tender, excursions by air-conditioned bus or local transport, depending on the destinations
One excursion per day and per stopover, accompanied by local guides
Optional paid excursions, available depending on the port of call, to further explore the destination
Lectures led by expert guides or distinguished guests
Activities supervised by Kids Club staff for children aged 4 to 13, depending on departure times.

Discoveries

Explore your destination in all its facets: cultural, natural, historical or even gastronomic… Each itinerary is designed to offer you the best of your stopovers thanks to the expertise of local guides or naturalist guides, depending on the destination.

Discoveries: your experiences

Disembarkations at the dock, by tender or Zodiac, excursions by air-conditioned bus or local transport, depending on the destination
One activity per day and per stopover, accompanied by local guides or naturalist guides
Optional paid excursions, available depending on the port of call, to further explore the destination
Lectures given by tour guides, naturalist guides, or distinguished guests

Shipments

Sail to the most secluded shores on the planet. An all-inclusive immersive experience, co-created with local communities, accompanied by a team of naturalist guides passionate about the world's wildlife, flora, and cultures. These experts share their knowledge through inspiring onboard lectures, Zodiac excursions, walks or hikes in small groups, and opportunities to connect with peoples whose traditions are thousands of years old.

The program for all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months before departure. Booking takes place approximately two months before departure.

Experts by your side

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy... Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.

Captains

Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.

Expedition leaders

Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.

Photo ambassadors

During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.

Activity guides

Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding... Whether it's for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.

Guests and partners

Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers... Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.

Speakers

Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists... Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.

The Hydraulic Platform

Deck 2
Much easier onboard access than on any other cruise ship
Easier disembarking and embarking by Zodiac when participating in expeditions
Swimming and bathing in the sea and various nautical sports, such as kayaking and paddle-boarding

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Swimming pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun. From the marina platform, embark on your sea excursions or water activities in complete tranquility.

Theatre

Settle into your seat for thought-provoking lectures led by guest experts and naturalists, as well as live shows, concerts, and performances by professional dancers and musicians.

When the night comes alive

Concerts, dance performances, or film screenings: every night on board is a promise of wonder and sharing of emotions.

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

The Main Lounge Room

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

The Blue Eye

Located below the waterline of the ship, the Blue Eye is an innovative underwater lounge. Its design, inspired by the beauty of cetaceans, pays tribute to oceanographic environments.

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Excursion Reception and Office

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

Open Bar

From boarding and throughout the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served freely and at any time of the day. Some premium alcoholic beverages listed on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.

The Spa

In partnership with SOTHYS™ and Davines®, the spa offers a wide range of treatments, massages, hairdressing services, as well as a hammam and a fitness room perfect for self-care and well-being.

The Gym

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

The Hairdressing Salon

Provided in partnership with KÉRASTASE® and L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL®, the hairdressing salon offers a complete range of top quality treatments designed to strengthen, nourish and reinvigorate hair's shine and brilliance. Our stylists are available to serve all your styling, highlighting, colouring, cutting and tailored hair advice needs.

The Kids Explorers Club

During your cruise, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a program of activities dedicated to children, from 4 to 13 years old on our entire fleet.

A team of experienced facilitators on board offers daily manual activities, educational workshops, board games, introductory meditation sessions, and much more, as well as content specific to each itinerary and the number of participants.

Kid Explorers have the opportunity to extend this experience on land with the possibility of enjoying a tailor-made excursion, swimming outings, walks and scavenger hunts.

This program of activities will be offered to children every day. (The exact times will be communicated to you by the activity leaders.)

To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to your cruise itinerary. For more information, please contact the entertainment team beforehand.

The program of entertainment and activities is communicated daily in the logbook.

A welcome kit with gifts is offered to each child on board.

Le Champlain Cabins & Suites