What are you looking for

Close search

3 Epic Coastal Journeys to Inspire Your Next European Adventure (No Road Trip Required!)

Europe is a traveller’s dream—but the classic rail pass or whirlwind road trip isn’t the only way to see it. If you’ve already “done” the Eiffel Tower, queued at the Colosseum, or navigated cobblestone lanes with Google Maps, it might be time for something different. Enter: the European coastal adventure!

Explore Europe's coast, with zero hassles. Photo: NCL

Imagine waking up to a new country, exploring historic port cities and watching the sun set from your cabin balcony—all without the airport stress or suitcase dragging. These three sea routes offer a fresh (and wildly scenic) way to rediscover Europe, one coast at a time.

 

1. Northern Wonders: Iceland & Norway’s Otherworldly Shores

If your travel dreams involve misty fjords, volcanic beaches and midnight sun magic, this one's for you. Northern Europe’s coast is a showcase of Earth’s raw beauty—from Iceland’s lava-sculpted landscapes and dramatic waterfalls to Norway’s iconic fjords and colourful fishing villages.

Norway's fjords offer up postcard perfect scenery

Cruising this region gives you access to remote places that are tough to reach by land, and lets you experience them with comfort and ease. Think kayaking in Geirangerfjord, soaking in a thermal spa in Reykjavik, or wandering the cobbled streets of Bergen—all in one unforgettable journey.

Vibe: Wild nature, Viking history, and cosy Nordic charm 

Don’t miss: Whale watching near Akureyri and fresh cinnamon buns in Ålesund

Go Here With Sure: Get up to $1,500 off Norwegian Cruise Line’s 10 Night Iceland & Norway Cruise when you book by 25 August 2025. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to enquire/book.

 

2. Atlantic Charms: A Taste of France, Spain, Portugal & England

Some trips are all about contrasts—and few routes offer as much variety as the Atlantic coastline of Western Europe. One day you’re sipping Bordeaux in a sun-drenched French vineyard, the next you’re exploring the Gothic cathedrals of northern Spain, and the next? Fish and chips by the English seaside.

Arrive in Spain from the sea for this view

This journey is a feast for culture lovers and foodies alike. Tapas in Bilbao, port tastings in Porto, seaside strolls in La Coruña—it’s an experience in layers, stitched together by Europe’s rich maritime history.

Vibe: Laid-back coastal life meets city sophistication 

Don’t miss: The medieval walls of Saint-Malo and street art in Lisbon’s Alfama district

Go Here With Sure: Get up to $1,500 off NCL’s 9 Night France, Spain, England & Portugal Cruise when you book by 25 August 2025. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to enquire/book.

 

3. Hidden Histories: France, Germany & Belgium’s Underrated Port Cities

If you're more into charming old towns, riverside cafés and culture over crowds, this third route hits the sweet spot. Often overlooked for the big capitals, the port cities of northern France, Belgium and Germany are steeped in stories—and stunning to boot.

Hop off the ship to take in Antwerp's awe-striking history

From canal-lined Ghent and Antwerp’s buzzing art scene, to the storybook towns along Germany’s coast and France’s hidden coastal gems, this is Europe at its most authentic. Less touristy, more timeworn beauty.

Vibe: Elegant, historic, and deeply local 

Don’t miss: Sampling Belgian chocolates in Bruges and exploring Hamburg’s historic Speicherstadt

Go Here With Sure: Get up to $1,500 off NCL’s 10 Night France, Germany & Belgium Cruisewhen you book by 25 August 2025. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to enquire/book.

 

Why Go by Sea?

Besides the obvious (no unpacking every few days!), exploring Europe by sea offers something slower, more immersive and more relaxed. You get the romance of ocean travel paired with the cultural thrill of multiple destinations—without the chaos of logistics.

The NCL Prima will sail you into the Northern Lights

And of course, there’s NCL’s Europe 2025 Sale, offering up to $1,500 off all European cruises up to 25 August 2025. It gets better… the offer includes NCL’s More at Sea package, which includes: Premium Beverage Package; Speciality Dining Package; Wi-Fi Minutes Package; Shore Excursions Credit; Free 3rd and 4th Guests (on select sailings). Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for quotes/bookings. 

 

Log In to Access Your Suitcase

You need to log in to add packages to, and manage, your suitcase. Please log in or register.