The city center is a charming mix of old city walls and a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.

Understand that Zeebrugge literally means Bruges-on-Sea and you immediately appreciate why this ferry port is also Belgium’s major cruise port. A medieval jewel on the North Sea, the charming city of Bruges is just 10 miles away. Sometimes called the Venice of the North because of the picturesque criss-crossing canals on which you can enjoy fascinating and romantic boat rides, Bruges actually has a character all its own. Although it has all the facilities of a modern city – smart shops, restaurants, bars and hotels – these are all found behind the centuries-old facades and weathered gables of the historic buildings at the city’s heart. Bruges is rightly famous for its exquisite lacework, tasty chocolate and huge range of local beers while, from Zeebrugge, you can also visit another historic city, Ghent, the capital Brussels, and historic battlefield sites such as Waterloo and Ypres.

The Cherbourg-Octeville area is known for its international ferry terminal and lively quays, where yachts bob beside attractions like Le Redoutable nuclear submarine museum and La Cité de la Mer aquarium. A 19th-century fort on the Roule mountain houses the WWII-themed Liberation Museum and a lookout point with city views. Crêperies and restaurants serving regional cuisine line the narrow streets in the old town.

The city center is a charming mix of old city walls and a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.