full itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Day
1:
En Route from U.S.
Thursday, October 1, 2026
Day
2:
Arrive in Bordeaux, France – Embarkation
Friday, October 2, 2026 (R,D)
Upon arriving at Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hospitality room prior to embarkation.
Late afternoon continue to Le Lapérouse, your home away from home for the next 10 days. This masterpiece of first-class cruising features spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and impeccably designed public spaces. As embarkation begins, take time to unpack and become familiar with your accommodations.
Among the vessel's unique features is the Blue Eye Lounge, an innovative and immersive underwater observation area featuring large, curved windows that provide views of the subaquatic environment. The lounge is a multi-sensory experience—you can feel the ocean's vibrations through the seats and listen for marine sounds using the hydrophone headsets. Visit the reception desk on board to schedule time to visit the Blue Eye Lounge, as hours of operation vary and guest capacity is limited.
This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception to celebrate the exciting journey ahead.
Day
3:
La Rochelle
Saturday, October 3, 2026 (B,L,D)
After breakfast disembark for a guided panoramic tour of Île de Ré, a picture-perfect island off the coast of La Rochelle. Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saint-Martin-de-Ré enclosed by Vauban-designed ramparts. Then stop for a fresh seafood tasting along the coast.
Return to the ship for lunch before an afternoon exploring La Rochelle, a picturesque port city known for its old town lined with medieval half-timbered houses and arcaded streets. The 14th-century Vieux Port (Old Harbor) features two iconic towers—Tour Saint-Nicolas and Tour de la Chaîne—which once guarded the entrance.
Conclude today's touring with a delightful cognac tasting experience at Chatêau de la Péraudière before returning to the ship for an afternoon cruise to Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
Day
4:
Biarritz | Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Sunday, October 4, 2026 (B,L,D)
This morning set out for Biarritz. Once the resort destination of European royalty, this stylish seaside town radiates an air of sophistication from its Belle Époque mansions to its world-class surf culture. Driving into the city capture a glimpse of Grande Plage, a golden stretch of sand lined with colorful striped cabanas, and the grand façade of Hôtel du Palais—a former imperial residence built by Napoleon III for Empress Eugénie. Biarritz itself is reachable only by crossing an imposing bridge constructed by the Eiffel Tower's designer, Gustave Eiffel. Continue along the oceanfront with your guide for a walking tour to see the ancient whaling port followed by free time to explore independently.
After lunch visit Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a diverse fishing town with a tapestry of colorful Basque traditions. The Basque people are one of the oldest ethnic groups in Europe with roots tracing back thousands of years, throughout which they have maintained a strong sense of identity and community.
Continue to the Church of Jean Baptiste for an inside visit. This is where King Louis XIV (le Roi Soleil) married Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660.
The afternoon includes a special activity on board. Gather by the pool for a festive wine tasting hosted by Le Lapérouse's sommelier featuring a selection of locally produced varietals.
In the evening after dinner, stop by the ship's theater for live entertainment or a film on the big screen.
Day
5:
Bilbao, Spain
Monday, October 5, 2026 (B,L,D)
Following breakfast, set off on a guided walking tour of Bilbao's medieval quarter, Casco Viejo. The oldest part of Bilbao, dating back to the 14th century when the city was officially founded, Casco Viejo was a bustling port town that thrived on trade. The area expanded over centuries to include seven main streets called Las Siete Calles and showcases Bilbao’s historical architecture blend of medieval, Baroque and neoclassical styles. Key landmarks include: Santiago Cathedral, the oldest building in Bilbao; Iglesia de San Antón, an iconic Gothic church that is part of Bilbao’s coat of arms; and Plaza Nueva, a neoclassical square completed in the 19th century.
Enjoy time to explore Casco Viejo independently before returning to the ship.
This afternoon depart for the Basque countryside to partake in an entertaining cooking demonstration and food tasting experience. Traditional Basque dishes emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients rather than complex preparations. Learn about pinchos (or pintxos)—small, flavorful bites (similar to tapas) often served on bread showcasing a variety of toppings including seafood, chorizo and local cheeses.
Day
6:
Bilbao
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 (B,L,D)
This morning disembark for an inside visit to Bilbao's star attraction—the Guggenheim Museum. This architectural masterpiece houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art including permanent works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, such as Richard Serra's The Matter of Time, Jeff Koons' Puppy, and Louise Bourgeois' Maman. The museum is also known for its multimedia and interactive art installations that encourage guests to engage with the art through movement, sound or digital elements.
While sailing in the Bay of Biscay towards Gijón, delight in another gourmet dinner crafted from locally sourced ingredients, expertly paired with exquisite wines.
Day
7:
Gijón
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 (B,L,D)
A coastal city in Asturias—an autonomous community in northwest Spain—Gijón features a blend of maritime heritage and lush green landscapes.
Join a guide for a walking tour of the Cimavilla historic district, an old fishermen’s quarter and cultural complex. Narrow cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully preserved buildings that date back to the medieval and Renaissance periods. The area exudes a timeless feel, with traditional stone houses, rustic façades and vibrant balconies.
Continue to Mercado del Sur for free time to explore the market's colorful fruits and vegetables, fresh-caught seafood and array of regional cheeses.
Following lunch on the ship, visit a sidrería (or traditional cider house) to sample Asturias' famous cider. Witness the unique technique of cider-pouring, done from high above the glass to aerate it and enhance its flavor.
Return to the ship for an afternoon under way. Retreat to the main lounge for snacks and beverages accompanied by live music.
Day
8:
A Coruña
Thursday, October 8, 2026 (B,L,D)
After breakfast disembark to explore A Coruña. First see the Tower of Hercules, the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use today and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 2nd century and renovated in the 18th century, it stands as a testament to Roman engineering and has guided countless ships along the rugged Galician coastline. Local legends link the tower to Hercules, who is said to have defeated a giant and built the lighthouse on the site of his victory.
Surrounding the tower is a large open-air sculpture garden designed as an artistic tribute to Galician history, mythology and the sea, with installations strategically placed along walking paths that weave through coastal landscape.
Next visit Monte de San Pedro, a beautiful park that was once a military stronghold that protected the city. Board a unique glass-enclosed spherical elevator for a ride from the base of the park to the top for unparalleled views over the ocean.
This region known as Galicia is famous for its seafood specialties thanks to its extensive coastline and fishing traditions. Prepare for a gastronomic experience during lunch at a local restaurant.
Day
9:
Vigo | Santiago de Compostela
Friday, October 9, 2026 (B,L,D)
Today's highlight features an excursion to Santiago de Compostela, a historic city in Galicia and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area rose to prominence during the Middle Ages as a major center of pilgrimage and religious scholarship, and it became an essential part of the Christian reconquest of Spain. Santiago de Compostela’s importance is tied to the Apostle Saint James the Greater, who is believed to have spread Christianity in the Iberian Peninsula. According to tradition, after his martyrdom in Jerusalem, his remains were transported by boat and buried here. The network of pilgrimage routes, known as the Camino de Santiago, passes through various European countries and converges in Santiago de Compostela.
Day
10:
Porto, Portugal
Saturday, October 10, 2026 (B,L,D)
After breakfast explore Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Riberia district, during a guided walking tour. The colorful labyrinthine cobblestone streets dating back to the Middle Ages reveal hidden squares, charming alleyways and stunning views of the Douro River.
The Dom Luís I Bridge is one of Porto's most iconic structures, connecting the city with Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank of the river. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this double-deck iron bridge provides breathtaking 360º views of over the town.
A visit to Porto would be incomplete without experiencing its world-famous port wine. This afternoon take part in a lively port wine tasting accompanied by insights offered from vintners on the history of port wine production, the aging process and the various varietals.
Day
11:
Day at Sea
Sunday, October 11, 2026 (B,L,R,D)
Awake this morning to a leisurely schedule on board as the ship cruises toward Lisbon. Take advantage of time for relaxation and reflection from the comforts of the Panoramic Lounge while admiring the passing scenery.
The final evening on board, gather for a lively farewell reception followed by a convivial gala dinner to commemorate this epic journey cruising the Bay of Biscay and Europe's Atlantic Coast.
Day
12:
Lisbon – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.
Monday, October 12, 2026 (B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
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