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2019–20 Upcoming Trips
Timeless Cuba
January 13–20, 2019
Sold Out
Enjoy a week-long luxury cruise with John Williams, Principia College Professor of Political Science, through the heart of this once-forbidden island nation. From Miami, board the Insignia and sail to Havana, Cuba’s largest city and the epicenter of the nation’s lively lifestyle. In Havana, you’ll go beyond the typical tourist destinations, diving deep into the city’s 500 years of history and culture. From there, cruise to the astounding bayside city of Cienfuegos, a paragon of 19th century urban planning, and visit the southeastern cultural hub of Santiago de Cuba, the island’s second largest city.
Baltic and Scandinavian Treasures
June 13–24, 2019
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Discover unforgettable sights—from opulent palaces and sparkling harbors to spire-crowned churches—on this 10-night luxury cruise through northern Europe with John Williams, Principia College Professor of Political Science. Departing from Stockholm, you’ll see Tallinn’s Gothic churches and gabled houses. Next, explore the glittering metropolis of St. Petersburg with its crisscrossing canals and elaborate palaces. Other stops include Helsinki, Riga (home of the Latvian National Museum of Art), and Klaipeda. The adventure concludes in Copenhagen, with the option of visiting the delightful former fishing village of Warnemünde or Germany’s culture-rich capital, Berlin.
Alaska Family Cruise
June 14–21, 2019
Starting at $4,395, with a 30% discount for children under 15
Create family memories on this seven-night cruise as you connect with Alaska’s remarkable wildlife, cultures, and natural wonders in Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, Orca Point Lodge, Tracy Arm-Ford’s Terror Wilderness, Petersburg, Frederick Sound, Saginaw Bay, and Sitka. Along with Principia School teachers Doug and Mary Jane Hoff, an onboard Youth Expedition Leader will lead educational programs for children ages seven and older. In addition, College faculty member Dr. Laurance Doyle will provide instruction tailored for the Principia group.
Galápagos Islands Cruise
July 10–18, 2019
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Join Dr. Scott Eckert to explore the Galápagos Islands, where human presence is relatively minimal. Marvel at the flora and fauna, and observe with remarkable proximity a diversity of species, including boobies, giant tortoises, and marine iguanas. You can even snorkel among colorful tropical fish and playful sea lions or observe them through a glass-bottom boat. Secluded inlets, white sand beaches, and lush highlands are on the itinerary as well. The trip also includes visits to Quito’s ornate Jesuit church, La Compañía de Jesús, and to a curated collection of Pre-Columbian art.
Lucerne and Salzburg Festivals
August 20–31, 2019
Starting at $5,999
Castles, palaces, breathtaking scenery, engaging historic sites, and cultural treats—this musical tour of Lucerne, Salzburg, Munich, and Vienna is sure to delight! Dr. Marie Jureit-Beamish, Principia College Professor Emerita of Music and our trip leader, will select five concerts for the group to attend at the Festivals in Lucerne and Salzburg. Other highlights include Neuschwanstein Castle, cruising the Danube, and a visit to Mozart's birthplace. Innsbruck and Mondsee are on the itinerary as well. Immerse yourself in history, beauty, and classical music on this unforgettable European journey.
Great Pacific Northwest
September 15–23, 2019
Starting at $3,699
Welcome to the Pacific Northwest—where the Columbia and Snake Rivers wind through gentle hills, imposing mountains, dramatic canyons, and fertile fields. The land looks today much as it did to Lewis and Clark in 1805: majestic and unspoiled. From the awe-inspiring beauty of the Columbia River Gorge to the cascading majesty of Multnomah Falls, the region’s unforgettable natural wonders and attractions will astound you. And while you’re cruising the river aboard the American Empress, a luxurious paddlewheel steamboat, Clark Beim-Esche will deliver lively lectures on some of the greatest American achievements in art, poetry, architecture, and government.
Journey through the Holy Land
(with an optional extension to Jordan)
December 28, 2019–January 11, 2020
Starting at $4,800 per person, double occupancy
Journey through Israel and Palestine with Dr. Barry Huff, chair of the Principia College Religion Department, and Janessa Gans Wilder, founder and CEO of Euphrates Institute. The Bible will come alive as we pray at Gethsemane and the Western Wall, sail on the Sea of Galilee, and stand atop Mounts Zion, Carmel, and Nebo. Meeting with inspiring peacebuilders in Jerusalem and Bethlehem will shed light on current issues in the Middle East. The optional Jordan extension includes one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Petra, a school for Syrian refugees, and the locations where Jesus was baptized and where Moses saw the Promised Land.
Egypt and the Nile Valley
March 6–19, 2020
Sold Out
Explore the storied land of pharaohs and kings with Dr. Laurance Doyle. See colossal pyramids, legendary tombs, and towering temples cascading across the terrain. The mighty Nile River welcomes you for an unhurried journey that reveals limitless vistas of seemingly infinite deserts contrasted with metropolitan cities. After four nights of touring in Cairo and two nights in Luxor, you’ll board a dahabiya just for your group in Esna for four nights sailing the Nile River. Following the cruise, enjoy two nights in Aswan before returning to Cairo for departure.
Southern Grandeur: Civil War Saga
March 23–31, 2020
Starting at $2,199 per person, double occupancy
Enjoy seven nights aboard the American Queen steamboat, sailing on the Mississippi River from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Memphis, Tennessee, with Dr. John Glen. Step into the past to see compelling Civil War sites and learn about strategic battle locations. Onboard Riverlorians bring to life the echoes of America’s past through interesting lectures, while onshore memorials and museums make the journey of a nation tangible through statues and artifacts. Though it left many scars in its wake, the conclusion of the Civil War ended the deep chasm of a divided nation.
Galápagos Islands Cruise
July 8–15, 2020
Starting at $5,399
Join biology professor Dr. Scott Eckert and Philosophy Professor Chris Young to explore the Galápagos Islands. Marvel at the flora and fauna, and observe up close a diversity of species, including boobies, tortoises, and marine iguanas. Snorkel among colorful tropical fish and playful sea lions, and see Quito’s ornate Jesuit church and a curated collection of Pre-Columbian art.
Summer Sailing: The Rhône and Saône
(with an optional extension to Barcelona)
July 23–August 2, 2020
Starting at $3,995 per person, double occupancy
In the south of France, the rivers Rhône and Saône take you to endless lavender fields and picturesque olive groves. Absorb the enchanting city highlights such as Lyon or Avignon that alternate with the sundrenched nature reserves of Provence and the Camargue and the beauty of the world famous regions of Burgundy and Beaujolais, and let French “savoir vivre” work its magic on you. Lifelong Learning faculty Madelon Maupin, Susie Ledbetter, and Dr. Brian Roberts will join you aboard along a delightful cruise while sharing talks on religious history, art history, and the European Union.