7/12/2023     by Justin Gibson

The Value of Longer Port Visits

Making the most of a vacation is an art form. Packing a light, modular wardrobe, compiling a well-researched itinerary, arriving at the airport early and (of course) working with a dedicated travel advisor are all sound tips. But finding the time to better explore and experience a destination is the final frontier in optimizing your travel … one that Norwegian Cruise Line is dedicated to helping you master. Read on to see a few prime examples of how their European cruise offerings stand out.

SELECT & REPLACE WITH ANOTHER TEMPLATE

Travel Leaders Image
The walls of Santorini seem to soak up the sunset.

The Sunsets of Santorini

Few stretches of horizon are as famous as Santorini’s. As the sun starts to slip down below the ocean, the typically cool blue Aegean Sea (and accompanying sky) ignites into brilliantly rich hues of red, orange and purple. The city itself — renowned for its all-bleached-white facades — seems to soak up this slow-motion fireworks show, briefly creating the effect that you’re somehow trading roles with the sun: it’s heading to bed, and you’re responsible for lighting up the world. Some cruise lines are already casting off by this point, robbing you of the chance to experience this properly — sitting cliffside, with a delectable aperitif in hand. Luckily enough, Norwegian Cruise Line is not your typical cruise line: Thanks to the fact most of their departures occur after 9 p.m., you don’t have to miss the show to make the boat.

SELECT & REPLACE WITH ANOTHER TEMPLATE

Travel Leaders Image
Good drinks with great friends are the ingredients to an incredible night in Reykjavik.

The Rousing Nightlife of Reykjavik

While most folks come to Iceland to view the jaw-dropping landscapes scattered around the isle (can you say, “hellooo Blue Lagoon”?), they stay out late for the nightlife. The “World’s Most Peaceful Nation” has a wild side that doesn’t show itself till well after midnight. The streets of downtown Reykjavik come alive with bar-hopping revelry sometime around 2 a.m., and then it doesn’t let up until well after the bakeries open for breakfast. Obviously, experiencing this side of Reykjavik isn’t compatible with a cruise itinerary that demands setting sail for the next port overnight … which is why Norwegian Cruise Line makes it a point to dock overnight in Reykjavik. Even if you’re not typically a night owl or a party animal, this is an experience worth seeking out (if only to have the story to tell down the line!).

SELECT & REPLACE WITH ANOTHER TEMPLATE

Travel Leaders Image
The history of Jerusalem runs deep in Ashdod.

Delve into the Deep History of Jerusalem

Ashdod, Israel, has a sanctified history — serving as the gateway to Jerusalem will certainly bestow that designation. A stroll through the storied history here is far more engaging than any history book or museum; there’s the Western Wall, a holy site looming larger than life. There’s the Old City, comprised of four quarters, each bustling with bazaars and street food stalls for the better part of the day. And there’s the Tower of David — the iconic symbol of Jerusalem that has stood for over 2000 years. In the evening, its time-weathered walls become the stage for a light show depicting the biblical story of King David. Experiencing all the sights of Jerusalem in just a day would be a tall order for most travelers; all the more reason that Norwegian Cruise Line makes sure to stay overnight at this fabled port — you can take your time taking in all that the city has to offer.

For these reasons and many more — more than we could hope to fit in a single article — Norwegian Cruise Line is an ideal choice for cruising through Europe. Not only will you have plenty of time to experience the sights and flavors listed above, but you’ll also enjoy all of Norwegian’s ships that pack a wallop of excitement and entertainment. Take for example the Norwegian Prima —  between ports you’ll undoubtedly want to catch a showing of Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, a Tony Award®-nominated, Broadway sensation making its debut at sea. Or, on board the Norwegian Viva, Beetlejuice: The Musical awaits — a hauntingly good musical about everyone’s favorite poltergeist. If it wasn’t clear from all of the above, our agents know Norwegian Cruise Line well, so we can help you choose, plan and book your cruise vacation to perfection.

SELECT & REPLACE WITH ANOTHER TEMPLATE

Plan your next trip with
Ryan Munseok
Herndon, VA
Let's Plan Your Next Trip

We are here to help you turn your travel dreams into reality. contact us today!

Ryan Munseok Choi
Ryan Munseok Choi
Herndon, VA
Professional Travel Specialist
Roneka Samalenge
Roneka Samalenge
Sterling, VA
Experience Luxury with Bellavue Travel
Janice Host
Janice Host
Oak Hill, VA
Family, Friends and Corporate travel
How does this work?
Why use a travel agent?
Why use Travel Leaders?

Travel Leaders Network is the largest network of professional travel agents in North America. Wherever you want to go, however you want to get there — we have a travel agent for you.

Magnifying Loupe
Explore
Our database of travel experts & specialists
Phone
Connect
With an agent via text, email or phone
Airplane
Enjoy
A stress-free vacation with a professional by your side