Show your pride

On arrival in Barcelona you will be met by our transfer guys and be transferred to the Axel Hotel Barcelona, home for the next two nights. The rest of the day is free for your to do as much or as little as you want... [Overnight: Axel Hotel Barcelona]

Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. This coastal city exudes European charm and welcomes multitudes of travelers every year. It’s a major destination with must-see architectural gems that date back some 2,000 years. You’ll encounter fascinating examples from the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, the Modern masters like Gaudî, and many Cataluñian greats. Outstanding art museums can be found throughout the city, proudly displaying the works of world-renowned artists and countrymen, including Goya, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalî, and Joan Miró. For a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city center, venture to the awaiting Mediterranean Sea and all the seaside has to offer. Maybe a brisk hike in the nearby forest covered Collserola Hills or the hilltop in Montjuïc with its botanical gardens is the perfect recharge for a rollicking evening in one of the premier party capitals of the world. Round out your cruise to Barcelona dining at a tapas bar and savour a variety of delicious small dishes to share—from traditional Spanish to the more innovative.

The Axel Hotel Barcelona: Faithful to the concept and style of Axel-design, comfortable, cosmopolitan atmosphere and good value for price. The 101 rooms combine the touch of decoration from Modernism with the warmth and elegance of the Mediterranean. The beautiful spaces at Axel Hotel Barcelona, have become it the urban meeting point of the heterofriendly and trendy LGBTI scene in the city, offering a unique atmosphere with an environment full of design elements.

After a leisurely breakfast, join your guide and discover the inventive architecture and unique heritage of Barcelona during this 3-hour private walking tour. [Overnight: Axel Hotel Barcelona]

Wander the Paseo de Gracia, one of Barcelona’s most architecturally significant avenues to see masterworks like Gaudí’s La Pedrera and the Casa Lleó i Morera. After taking the necessary stroll on the famous Las Ramblas, explore historic sites like Roman tombs, Canaletes Fountain and the Columbus Monument. A private guide, public transit tickets, refreshments and a welcome pack with a map of gay-friendly city sights are all included. Take a private walking tour of Barcelona's architecture and historic landmarks with a gay-friendly tour operator Explore modernist architectural masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí and others along Paseo de Gracia Stroll the iconic Las Ramblas pedestrian walkway Visit the historic monuments of Barcelona like Roman tombs and the Columbus statue down near the port Great introduction to Barcelona's most-famous sights. 

After breakfast, transfer to the port to board your home for the next week - the Celebrity Apex. [Ocean view stateroom, all meals included, departs 17h00]

Celebrity Apex^℠ is the second ship in our highly anticipated Edge^® series. With an innovative outward-facing design and visionary spaces that stand apart from anything else at sea (with the exception of her equally stunning sister, Celebrity Edge^®, of course), Celebrity Apex^℠ will revolutionize the way you experience the world. Discover the unparalleled luxury of The Retreat^®, exclusively for all suite guests. Unwind in transformational accommodations that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Soar above the sea on the Magic Carpet^℠. Surrender to the carefree pleasures of the Rooftop Garden. And embark on a culinary journey through an unrivaled collection of restaurants, bars, and lounges.

 

 

 

 

Docked from 07h00 to 21h00

Best known as the birthplace of paella, Valencia has steadily moved onto the radar of savvy travelers. It's a vibrant, friendly, mildly chaotic place with two outstanding fine-arts museums, an accessible old quarter, Europe's newest cultural and scientific complex – and one of Spain's most exciting nightlife scenes. Whole sections of the old city, for example the Carmen Quarter, have been extensively renovated. One of the best spots for exploring Valencia's history is at the museum L'Almoina, which opened three years ago in the Carmen on the site where Valencia was founded by the Romans in 138 B.C. Here, you can walk over glass floors, looking down at a stunning assemblage of ruins excavated in the area. The exhibition includes Roman baths, tombs and a medieval Moorish ward for plague victims. This city has quietly built up a great reputation of its own, namely with innovative engineering and ultra-modern architecture. A few of its notable projects include Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias (city of art and sciences); a futuristic complex that houses the family-friendly arts and science museums and the extraordinary futuristic buildings designed by local legend, Santiago Calatrava.

Some of the optional excursions available:

• Valencia Biking Tour: Explore the key monuments in Valencia's historic center on a scenic, three-mile bike ride.
• Beach Transfer to Canet d'en Berenguer: Unwind, relax, and bask in the sun at the spectacular Canet d'en Berenguer white-sand beach.
• Gastronomic Tour of Valencia: Explore beautiful Valencia on this foodie tour, stopping at the Central Market and a taberna to sample local snacks, and the Old Silk Exchange (a UNESCO site) for some history.

Docked: 08h00 to 23h59 - Onboard Pride Celebrations & Party

Ibiza is an island in the Mediterranean Sea off the eastern coast of Spain that is often synonymous with world-famous mega-clubs and is a summertime meccas for many celebrities and DJs. However, you’ll find on your cruise to Ibiza that the island is simply one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. With mystical islets and hidden coves that beg to be explored, Ibiza Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the ramparts of the ancient capital, D’Alt Vila and enjoy a Cava Sangria tasting. Or, spend an afternoon relaxing on the soft sands of the secluded north-coast cove.  Thanks to Ibiza’s booming club scene, an assortment of eclectic and fashionable shops have popped up and are well worth exploring. And head to Las Dalias for a market filled with merchants and artisans selling authentic Bohemian clothes. Traditional Ibiza cuisine comes from the sea and the island’s rich farmland. Stroll to just about any local bistro or restaurant for fried Ibizan fish, shellfish, lobster stew, or roasted lamb. Whether it’s the lush beats and sounds of the summertime mega-clubs that call you to Ibiza, or the beautiful sandy beaches, there’s an abundance of culture and history to discover and experience on your Ibiza cruise.

Some of the optional excursions available:

• Ses Salines Beach Transfer: There's no better way to soak up Ibiza's lively spirit and spectacular scenery than with a fun day along the shore at Ses Salines beach, where you’ll enjoy approximately five hours at your leisure.
• Kayaking and Snorkeling: Spend the day kayaking and snorkeling in Ibiza, one of the world’s premier destinations for aquatic activities. The island’s crystal clear and tranquil waters are ideal for underwater exploration and kayaking.
• Ibiza Coastline and Scenic Bike Tour: Explore some of Ibiza’s most beautiful and historic spots on a fun-filled bike tour. Begin your scenic bike ride along the southeast coastline of the island along the tourist beach of Plaja d'en Bossa

While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

Docked: 07h00 to 18h00

The distinct Italian accent you'll find here is a remnant of the 2nd century B.C. Romans. Finding the climate and inland of what is now known as Provence so inviting, they stayed and Toulon didn't become part of France until the 15^th century.

Some of the optional excursions available:

• Aix-en-Provence: Visit the town of Aix en Provence, a cultural wonderland where history, the arts and 101 fountains all come together.
• Explore St. Tropez: Follow in the footsteps of celebrities, writers, and artists on this journey to the glamorous and renowned French Riviera resort town of Saint-Tropez.
• Bandol and Beaches Transfer: Bendol is a distinctly French town that tantalizes guests with lovely promenades, fabulous boutiques, fine wines and perfect beaches.

Tendered: 07h00 to 20h30

This jewel of the French Riviera is home to some of the world's most luxurious hotels and terraced cafes. Stroll the ultra-famous Promenade des Anglais or see masterpieces by Matisse, Renoir, Monet and Chagall in one of Nice's many museums.

Some of the optional excursions available:

• A Day in Nice & Eze Discovery: Embark on a spectacular coastal drive along the French Riviera, followed by guided walking tours in the towns of Nice and Èze.
• Nice, Eze & Monaco Discovery: Discover the wonders of the three jewels of the French Riviera: Nice, Eze, and Monaco.

Docked: 07h00 to 18h30

Florence, Pisa or La Spezia the choice is yours! La Spezia which lies between Genoa and Pisa, and is just minutes to the east of Cinque Terre-the five fishing ports that enjoy National Park status-is home to the Palio del Golfo, an annual boat race that sees the Gulf of Poets; 13 historic villages face off against one another in celebration of the annual Festa del Mare. The town also offers fantastic shopping opportunities, as well as plenty of trattorias to enjoy local, Ligurian cuisine

Some of the optional excursions available:

• Florence Fashion & Gourmet: Explore Florence, one of the world's most beautiful and artistic cities, and glimpse the rich history of two fashion giants at the Gucci and Ferragamo museums, on this cultural excursion.
• Tuscan Farmhouse Experience: Be transported to another world as you drive through Tuscany, storied land of vineyards set amid rolling hills, to an authentic farmhouse for a horse-drawn tour and palate-pleasing tasting.
• Cinque Terre Drive and Lunch: Visit three charming villages (Monterosso, Manarola, and Rio Maggiore) in Cinque Terre and explore them at your own pace, punctuated by a relaxing lunch.

Arrival: 05h00

After breakfast, complete check-out formalities and disembark. Transfer to Fiumicino Airport for your mid-morning flight back to Barcelona. On arrival in Barcelona, our guys will transfer you back to the Axel Hotel Barcelona in time for Barcelona Pride.

Additional information for Barcelona Pride will be made available as it is released by PRIDE! BCN (https://www.pridebarcelona.org/en/)
[Overnight: Axel Hotel]

 

 

 

Breakfast and then a day at leisure - do as little or as much as you would like! [Overnight: Axel Hotel Barcelona]

Take your time and enjoy a late breakfast before we start check-out formalities and transfer you to Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport for your flight home.