Who better to recommend spots in Europe than someone who’s there all the time? Luckily for you, we’ve got the insider tips on Europe, from none other than the captains of cruise ships!
The captains hail from Azamara Club Cruises and Celebrity cruises – which have just released their annual Europe early bird deals.
To get you pumped up, captains have shared their Europe highlights and insider info, from where to devour the freshest seafood to finding those picture perfect views.
And who better to guide you than someone who’s been there a thousand times?
CAPTAIN CARL SMITH OF AZAMARA QUEST
Favourite European Port: Kotor, Montenegro
“Kotor has been my favourite port ever since I visited for the first time some 15 years ago! There’s nothing quite like sailing into the stunningly beautiful fjord-like Bay of Kotor on a cruise ship; and the old-world atmosphere of the town is breathtaking.”
What to do: Hike up to St John’s Fortress at the top of the hill. Dotted with old churches and war-time ruins, the walk is rich in history as well as beauty. And the view at the top looking out upon Kotor Bay is out of this world.
What to eat: The pizza with Njegušk prosciutto is this captains fave. Montenegro’s crisp sea and mountain air apparently give this cured meat its flavour.
Insider tip: Visit “The Lady of the Rock” opposite Perast – this beautiful church sitting atop a man-made island is teeming with maritime history and mythology, and is considered a guardian angel to all sailors – and cruise ships – that pass by.
CAPTAIN MICHAEL KATZAS OF CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION
Favourite European Port: Gibraltar, UK territory on Spain’s south coast
“The Gibraltar Straits connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and at their narrowest point, separate Gibraltar from Africa by only seven nautical miles – making the tiny British territory a curious melting pot of languages and customs.”
What to do: Visit the Rock of Gibraltar. At over 4000 metres high, the Rock boasts a wealth of fascinating sights, including Europa Point, one of the rocks many lookouts offering breathtaking views, including the Moroccan Coast in Africa on a clear day. And don’t forget the famous Barbary Macaque monkeys, who call the Rock of Gibraltar home.
What to eat: Katzas’ favourites are Rosto, a delicious pasta dish with meat sauce, and Torta De Acelga, a spinach pie which is actually of Italian origin but very popular in Gibraltar.
Insider tip: For anyone planning a trip to the top of the rock be sure to make it back onboard with all your belongings – those monkeys like to take souvenirs from tourists!
CAPTAIN PANAGIOTIS SKYLOGIANNIS OF CELEBRITY REFLECTION
Favourite European Cruise Port: Mykonos, Greece
“Mykonos is a medley of modernity and tradition and its allure is hard to resist. I love the blue skies, the vibrant fishing boats peppering its shores, the bursting purple bougainvilleas and whitewashed cube houses and the white-sand beaches – combined, they all create a picture of enormous beauty.”
What to do: If it is your first time visiting Mykonos, this captain recommends discovering its rich history by visiting the small island of Delos, which features prominently in Greek mythology.
What to eat: Seafood – of course! You can’t leave port without trying fresh calamari and sea bass in a local restaurant.
Insider tip: Take advantage of one of the ship’s organised excursions.
Feeling inspired yet? To celebrate the Europe early bird booking season, Celebrity Cruises is giving away $300 onboard credit and two free beverage packages to guests who book an Oceanview or above on selected 2018 Europe sailings by 1 November 2017.
And you can also book a Verandah stateroom for the price of an Interior Stateroom with Azamara Club Cruises on selected Europe 2018 voyages – but only if you book by 30 November. Start planning!
