Ports of call and days ashore

The main attraction of a cruise is that you get the opportunity to see a wonderful array of destinations and you only have to unpack once.

After an organised excursion or a day’s independent exploration, you can return to the comfort of your ship ready for the evening’s entertainment.

Venturing ashore

Our optional shore excursions are carefully planned to show you the key attractions of the areas you visit. From outstanding natural wonders and historic cities to ancient ruins and beautiful gardens, the trips are designed to suit a variety of tastes.

We endeavour to combine active excursions such as trekking, with less strenuous museum visits or city tours, and at most ports we also include a panoramic coach tour so you can see the sights while you sit back and relax.

By letting us take care of the details, you won’t have the worry of arranging your own transport or exploring without a guide. Excursions may be half a day, a full day or an evening, and are always led by an experienced English-speaking guide who will provide background and historical information to enhance your visit; a Saga representative will also accompany you on the coach.

We include transport on all trips (other than some walking tours) and many full-day excursions include lunch at local restaurants, giving you the opportunity to sample the regional cuisine. We work hard to ensure that all Saga shore excursions offer you value for money.

Choosing your excursions

We will send you a comprehensive Shore Excursion Booklet a few weeks before you sail, so you can read about the excursions available during your cruise and have the opportunity to book them before you embark.

To help you choose the most suitable excursions, we give each one a brief description and a walking grade based on the amount of walking, steps or type of terrain involved. If you have any queries concerning excursions while on board, you can ask our helpful staff at the Tours and Travel Desk, who will be on hand throughout your cruise.

Please note: Any excursions mentioned on this website are optional, at an additional cost and subject to availability and change.

Exploring independently

If you would prefer to explore on your own you could take advantage of our free shuttle bus service from the ship to the town or city centre, which is available at most ports (local regulations allowing) when the distance between the two is over 500 yards.

Alternatively, the Tours and Travel team can arrange a bespoke private car service (and at additional cost), at many ports of call.