Canary Islands & British Isles Collectors' Voyage

Cruise Itinerary

• Day 1: Dover, UK

  Embark on board Holland America Nieuw Statendam for your 28-night cruise.

• Day 2: Rotterdam, Netherlands

  The Dutch maritime city of Rotterdam is your next port of call. See the city's oldest harbour, Oude Haven, before taking a look at the 'glass palace' of Van Nelle Fabriek — an UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the ever-changing exhibitions at the Kunsthal and the expansive collection of Dutch and European art at Museum Boijmans van Beuningen. Ride to the top of Euromast observation tower for 360-degree city-wide views, stop by Miniworld Rotterdam to view the city in miniature, or pop into the Kubuswoningen cube house and museum.

• Day 3-5: At sea

  Days at sea

• Day 6: Casablanca, Morocco

  The Moroccan city of Casablanca blends old and new in glorious style. Discover a vibrant mix of local bazaars and temples infused with a French colonial twist. Take in the sights of this marvellous city and visit the modern Hassan II Mosque with its 210-metre-high minaret, the bustling Medina, Central Market, and Souq Haboos; the 1930s Cathedral du Sacre Coeur, and Place Mohamed V's buildings with their neo-Moorish facades. Stroll along the beachfront Corniche and enjoy the picturesque scenery en-route to the beachfront district of Ain Diab. Travel to the nearby sleepy seaside city of Mohammedia and further afield to El Jadida's UNESCO-listed Citadel and the ancient port of Safi.

• Day 7: Agadir, Morocco

  Sitting at the foot of the Anti-Atlas Mountains alongside the Atlantic Ocean in Morocco; the southern coast resort of Agadir is a vibrant place to visit. Spend time hiking to the hilltop Kasbah to gaze at the medieval architecture and catch a bird’s eye view of the city, which was destroyed by an earthquake and received a modern re-build in the sixties. Wander the avenues lined with palm trees and high-rise hotels which contrast with traditional minarets and bustling bazaars. Visit the beautiful stretch of beach for a peaceful afternoon's sunbathing and swimming. Get up close to the crocodiles at Crocopark east of the city or go on a birdwatching trip amongst the pink flamingoes, ducks, herons, and cormorants at Souss-Massa National Park.

• Day 8: Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands

  Today the ship drops anchor at Arrecife, the capital of the Canarian island of Lanzarote. Two splendid castles form the backdrop to the harbour - the 15th-century Castillo San Gabriel and 17th-century Castillo San Jose. Meander through the Old Quarter and admire the 17th-century San Ginés Church with its bell tower and Mudéjar-style ceiling. Indulge in retail therapy at Centro Comercial Marina Lanzarote before relaxing with a lunch of paella or fresh fish overlooking Charco San Ginés. The beautiful golden sands of Playa de Reducto are the perfect place to spend a few hours sunbathing. Venture inland to explore the lunar landscapes of Timanfaya National Park's fire mountains and Cesar Manrique's unique Jardin de Cactus on the outskirts of Guatiza and Jameos Del Agua cave.

• Day 9: Santa Cruz Tenerife, Canary Islands

  Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the island's best-kept secrets. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, known locally as Santa Cruz, is a bustling centre of culture and activity. Visit the Museum of Man and Nature and discover the evolution of the Canary Islands. Alternatively, head to the award-winning Loro Parque wildlife park and come face-to-face with amazing animals and exotic birds. Head down to the Downtown Santa Cruz shopping district and enjoy a superb range of shops and tapas bars. Soak up the sun on the golden sands of La Teresitas beach or hike around the surrounding mountains and savour the picturesque views.

• Day 10: Funchal, Portugal

  It is very easy to see why Madeira has gained the name of 'The Garden Island'. Lush greenery with an array of tropical fruits, this island is a favourite on many cruise itineraries. Take gondola ride to the mountain village of Monte to experience some of the most breathtaking views of the island, then take the thrilling way down on a local toboggan, winding and bending over the cobbles; this is something you won’t want to miss. For wine lovers, venture out into the vineyards and experience some of the famous wine of the region.

• Day 11: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 12: Lisbon, Portugal

  Spread across seven hills on the shores of River Tagus is Portugal's capital city, Lisbon. Pavement cafes, bustling squares and serene gardens sit alongside palaces, bridges and castles in this waterside city. Immerse yourself in culture at Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and National Museum of Contemporary Art, or enjoy the colourful marine life at Oceanarium. Take a vintage tram ride through the city's cobbled streets, admiring Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower on the way. Haggle for bargains at the lively Thieves Market, or explore designer shops on Rua do Carmo, Rua Garrett and Avenida da Liberdade. Venture further afield and discover the fairytale places and ornate villas in Sintra or go dolphin-watching in Setúbal.

• Day 13-14: At sea

  Days at sea

• Day 15: Dover, UK

  The Port of Dover sits on the Kent coastline in south-east England and is the world's busiest passenger port. Enjoy panoramic views of the world famous White Cliffs of Dover. Pay a visit to the 2000-year-old Dover Castle to learn about the castle’s secret wartime tunnels. Explore maritime history at the Dover Museum. Venture further afield to visit the battlements and captain’s quarters at Deal Castle and the former command post of the Duke of Wellington at nearby Walmer Castle.

• Day 16: Rotterdam, Netherlands

  The Dutch maritime city of Rotterdam is your next port of call. See the city's oldest harbour, Oude Haven, before taking a look at the 'glass palace' of Van Nelle Fabriek — an UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the ever-changing exhibitions at the Kunsthal and the expansive collection of Dutch and European art at Museum Boijmans van Beuningen. Ride to the top of Euromast observation tower for 360-degree city-wide views, stop by Miniworld Rotterdam to view the city in miniature, or pop into the Kubuswoningen cube house and museum.

• Day 17: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 18: South Queensferry, Scotland

  South Queensferry is located on the south shore of the Forth Estuary to the west of the Scottish city of Edinburgh. Step back in time at Queensferry Museum or admire the views from the iconic UNESCO-listed, triple-cantilevered Forth Bridge. Visit the stunning stately homes of Hopetoun House and Dalmeny House on the outskirts of the town and their surrounding gardens. Take a trip aboard one of the Maid of the Forth boats over to the island of Inchcolm to enjoy the 12th-century abbey, the remnants of World War II defences, and two sandy beaches. Stretch your legs with a costal walk from the town centre, along the John Muir Way, towards the village of Cramond. Travel to nearby Edinburgh to get up close to the wildlife at Edinburgh Zoo, visit Edinburgh Castle, indulge in retail therapy on Princes Street, or taste locally-produced spirit at the Scotch Whisky Experience.

• Day 19: Invergordon, Scotland

  Invergordon is located on the north-shore of Cromarty Firth at the heart of the Highlands of Scotland. Pay a visit to Invergordon Naval & Heritage Museum, Cromarty Courthouse, and Hugh Miller's Cottage & Museum. Admire the colourful 'Off the Wall' murals painted on the side of the town's buildings. Take a trip in search of the Loch Ness monster at Loch Ness. Journey to nearby Inverness and explore Landmark Park, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Moor Battlefield, Glen Ord Distillery, and The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre.

• Day 20: Kirkwall, Scotland

  Kirkwall is both the largest town and the capital of the Orkney Islands. This vibrant and busy port town was granted Royal Burgh status by James III of Scotland in 1486 and is the main transport and port hub in the Orkneys. The medieval St Magnus Cathedral dominates the skyline, with the Earl's and Bishop's Palaces close by. Step back in time at Orkney Museum in Tankerness House before strolling around its delightful walled gardens. Explore the art of whisky making at Scapa Distillery or shop for souvenirs at the niche shops and boutiques in the town centre.

• Day 21: Portree, Scotland

  Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye. Visit Somerled Square in the centre of town with its mercat cross and war memorial, before indulging in retail therapy in the quaint shops on Wentworth Street. Pay a visit to the Aros Centre to discover Skye's history, birdlife and dramatic scenery through interactive exhibits and audio-visual presentations. Head out of town to admire the spectacular scenery of Trotternish Ridge and rock formations such as Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr and the pinnacles of the Quaraing.

• Day 22: Belfast, Northern Ireland

  Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland, enjoys a wonderful setting of high hills, sea lough and river valley. Its name originated from the Gaelic ‘Beal Feirste’ meaning ‘mouth of the sandy fjord’. Founded in the 17th century, the city prospered becoming one of the world’s leading industrial names, and was home to Harland and Wolff – the shipbuilders who built the ill-fated Titanic. Despite its more recent political troubles, Belfast has emerged as a vibrant, alluring destination. Amidst its beautiful Victorian buildings you can shop in stylish boutiques, sip a Guinness in one of its charming old pubs or take a scenic stroll in Barnett Demesne park. The centrepiece is the City Hall, completed in 1906, with its domed roof and grand Italian marble staircase. Other points of interest on the city include Belfast Cathedral, which has the largest Celtic Cross in Ireland plus Celtic themed mosaics and stained glass, Belfast Castle, sitting on the slopes of Cave Hill, and Belfast Zoo.

• Day 23: Greenock, Scotland

  Located on the River Clyde 20 miles away from Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, Greenock began as a fishing harbour and later became a major centre for shipbuilding. The town's maritime history is celebrated at the Custom House Museum and stained glass art can be seen in McLean Museum and Art Gallery. Greenock is home to the world's first Burn's Club, dedicated to poet, Robert Burns; his love, Mary Campbell, died in the town and is buried in Greenock Cemetery. Travel to Glasgow to explore Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum; works by Charles Rennie Mackintosh at Mackintosh House and House for an Art Lover; and masterpieces by Rubens, Reynolds, and Rembrandt at The University of Glasgow: The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery. Take a tour of Tennents Wellpark Brewery and visit Glasgow Green and the People's Palace. Discover the world of transport at the Riverside Museum or the wonders of science at Glasgow Science Centre. Get up close to Highland Cows at Pollock Country Park and explore the local football scene at Scottish Football Museum.

• Day 24: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 25: Liverpool, England

  The ship drops anchor today on the banks of the River Mersey at Liverpool. With some of the best museums and galleries in the UK, Liverpool is an exciting and historic city. Stop at International Slavery Museum, Walker Art Gallery, World Museum, and Beatles Story — featuring memorabilia and a life-sized replica of the Cavern Club — during your time here. Have lunch and drinks at the many bars and cafes of the modern Albert Dock, or enjoy some sightseeing with visits to Liverpool Cathedral and St George's Hall. See the launch pad of The Beatles, Casbah Club; tour Liverpool FC's home ground, Anfield Stadium; or shop 'til you drop at the Metquarter and Liverpool ONE.

• Day 26: Dublin, Ireland

  Experience the vibrant culture and famous Irish 'craic' in the Republic of Ireland’s capital city — Dublin. Pay a visit to the country's largest church - St Patrick's Cathedral - as well as Dublin Castle, National Museum of Ireland, and Irish Museum of Modern Art. Explore the gardens and elegant squares of Trinity College and sample a glass of the country's favourite drink on a tour of Guinness Storehouse at St James's Gate Brewery. Indulge in retail therapy at the city's premier shopping location, Grafton Street, or head to Phoenix Park to get up close to rare and exotic animals at Dublin Zoo. Wander the famous streets of the Temple Bar district and enjoy delicious food, live music, and traditional ales.

• Day 27: Cobh, Ireland

  Nestling on the southern shore of the Great Island of County Cork is the seaport of Cobh. It's famed as the last port of call of the Titanic — an experience that's brought to life at the Titanic Experience. Explore the port's Irish emigration past at Cobh Heritage Centre or enjoy panoramic views of the town on a ride on the Cobh Road Train. Meet the challenge of Escapade Cobh as you try to escape from the virtual Spike Island Prison, or play a game of golf at the 18-hole Marino Point. Get close to exotic wildlife at Fota Wildlife Park and venture further afield to the city of Cork and the nearby Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.

• Day 28: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 29: Dover, UK

  Today your cruise comes to an end.