This Reinvented Axe Design Splits Wood In Record Time

Table Of Content

• Forestry companies turned axe making into an industry
• Device “Sniffs” Your Food And Tells You If It’s Safe To Eat
• Best Felling Axes-The Complete 2021 Buyer’s Guide
• Viking axe
• How Thick Should An Axe Handle Be?
• Custom Damascus Steel Viking Black Cobra Axe, Viking Bearded Camping Axe, Best Birthday&Anniversary Gift For Him,
• Building a Forge

The size of these axes varied greatly, though most were double-handed, with handles being as long as 55 inches. The best quality axes have wooden handles, though increasingly big box stores are selling axes with rubber handles. If one blade isn’t enough, then a double bit axe may be a good option. These heavy, symmetrical axes have a second blade where the butt is normally located. A crash axe is usually all metal and has a short handle – it can cut through sheet metal relatively easily.

Forestry companies turned axe making into an industry

Today, battle axes are primarily used for historical reenactments and as decorative pieces, showcasing their rich historical significance. With their distinct design and historical importance, battle axes continue to captivate the imagination of people interested in the Middle Ages and the art of warfare. A pick axe is a versatile tool commonly used for digging, breaking up hard soil, and removing rocks or roots. It consists of a long handle with a pointed pick on one end and a flat blade on the other. The pick end is designed for breaking up hard surfaces, while the blade end can be used for chopping or splitting wood. Pick axes are commonly used in construction, landscaping, and mining industries.

Device “Sniffs” Your Food And Tells You If It’s Safe To Eat

Axes are an important tool that humankind has relied on for centuries. Constructed of two main components, a handle and an axe head, today, there are countless styles of axes to help tackle a wide variety of tasks. A shingling hatchet or roofing axe is a small, straight-handled axe used by carpenters and builders. Its main features are that the poll is hardened to work as a hammer, and many models have a notch at the bottom of the axehead to use as a nail puller.

Best Felling Axes-The Complete 2021 Buyer’s Guide

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Although no longer in mainstream production, these axes would traditionally have one sharp blade for felling trees and a blunt second blade for splitting kindling. A carpenter’s axe is a little larger than a hatchet and is used for intricate woodwork projects. It has a very sharp blade, and the high-quality ones have an extremely straight edge for accurate cutting.

Pay attention to the weight and length of the axe, as this will greatly impact comfort and usability. Additionally, consider the type of head that is best suited for your needs, such as a splitting maul for splitting logs or a felling axe for cutting down trees. To make an informed decision, seek advice from experts in the field and read reviews from other users who have experience with different axes.

How Thick Should An Axe Handle Be?

For the last one, she shows them Odysseus’ bow and says that she will marry anyone who can shoot an arrow through the hole in 12 axes in a row. One after the other they try, but they are unable to even pull back the bow. Odysseus, who has just returned disguised as a beggar, asks to have a go and shoots the perfect arrow through the 12 axes. According to Greek mythology Hephaestus, god of blacksmiths, struck Zeus, Father of the Gods, over the head with his double-headed axe. Athena, goddess of wisdom, is said to have leapt from the cloven head of Zeus, fully grown and armed.

If you already have some basic forging and welding knowledge, then you can give this project a shot. If possible, I recommend learning forging and welding from a pro before you attempt to make your own axe. There are probably many local workshops you can take at community colleges.

Double Bit Axe

In fact, some common uses included chopping firewood, building shelter, and even as a tool for butchering animals. The versatility of these axes is truly impressive, and it’s a testament to the ingenuity of the vikings. Instead, they used a variety of materials to keep their axes sharp and ready for battle. One of the most common materials was a type of whetstone made from a soft, fine-grained sandstone.

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Axe throwing competitions and recreation facilities are rapidly growing in popularity. If you want to take part regularly, you’ll need a set of throwing axes. These are specially made axes that are sturdy and weighted for precision throwing. This T-shaped tool usually has a metal head with a pointed pick on both sides. Today’s pickaxes often have a pick on one side and a chisel on the other, useful for prying apart rocks and earth.

They also sharpened the tips of the blade which allowed them to slash their enemy like a using a knife. Things can get messy and slippery fast when you’re chopping up meat in the rain. The best brands have a specially grooved handle that is non-slip for extra safety. The dagger axe was used in ancient China as a weapon in battle, but today is great to put on display. Those who kept going had to rationalize their operation severely to reduce production costs and survive.

Today, there are various specialized axes available, including hatchets, double-bit axes, and throwing axes, each designed for specific tasks or recreational purposes. The evolution of axes showcases how these versatile tools have adapted and improved over time to meet the needs of different civilizations and cultures. When it comes to the different types of axes, there is a wide variety to choose from based on specific tasks and needs. One such type is the hatchet, which is a small and versatile axe commonly used for splitting wood and camping. Another type is the splitting maul, specifically designed for splitting logs with its heavy head and long handle. For felling trees, the felling axe is ideal, featuring a thin and sharp blade along with a longer handle for leverage.

Stainless steels are much softer than carbon steel, but they also have a higher level of resistance to corrosion due to the added chromium. When you’re at this point, you can remove the axe from the forge, dipping it into a bucket of water to rapidly cool the steel hardening. This will lock the carbon atoms in closely with the iron atoms, making the steel very hard. The edge of the rough axe head must be tempered and hardened which helps to create a balance between being too hard and too soft. Allow edge retention while helping to prevent fracturing and chipping.

So, the impact from the object you hit from this axe may sometimes be uncontrollable and challenging to grip the tool. To harden, you’ll need to heat the edged side of the axe up to eight hundred degrees, allowing it to heat up evenly and slowly, turning and flipping it every few minutes. This is when the carbon will basically dissolve into the ferrite structure. When the ends are closed down onto the slab of steel and borax, place it back into the forge and heat it up again. Take it off the forge and add more borax and start hammering the layers together.

They are lighter and smaller than hatchets and are therefore easier to carry around. They are multifunctional, able to be used for a range of bushcraft activities. Tomahawks are also popular for use in knife throwing competitions, where they have their own category.

Ideally, you’ll want to keep the temperature under 2500 degrees for steel, so it doesn’t start to liquefy. When foraging your axe, you don’t have to use steel, you can use other types of metal, such as ones that begin to melt at a lower temperature. This type of material isn’t going to be nearly as tough as steel though. A tactical axe is primarily used as a chopping device but can include a range of other tools. Screwing, digging, prying, hammering are some ways you may be able to use it. A compass, file, flint or even fishing line are some other popular additions to the tactical axe.

19 Types of Axes and Their Uses Photos Plus Buying Guide

Table Of Content

• Evolution of Axes Through the Ages
• The Cultural Significance of Viking Axes
• Firefighter crest cookie cutters Fire fighter Career designs OOAK gift for new Firemen Polymer Clay and fondant press
• Hatchet
• Consult Your Hand Tool Expert for Help

The pick end will sometimes have a curve to it or may be completely straight. The chisel also serves as a weight to balance out the axe, and the added weight increases the momentum of the pick when it is swung. They are extremely heavy-duty tools and are too cumbersome to carry around on camping trips, but it would be great to store permanently at a cabin in the woods. These axes have extra long handles and are intended to cut down very large trees. A forest axe will have a sharp and flared blade with a slightly curved tip. When choosing the right tool for your needs, it’s important to consider the weight and balance of an axe.

Evolution of Axes Through the Ages

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Also called a fire axe, one side of the axe head is a blade, and the other end is a pick-shaped point. These tools are easy to spot in emergencies as they are often painted in bright yellow and red shades. Other features of a carpenter’s axe are a flat butt for hammering and a groove to remove nails. If you need to fell trees and split wood this type of axe isn’t recommended. An everyday axe may do a great job of chopping wood, but that’s not their only use. Whether you’re looking to sculpt, toss, split, or destroy, there’s a specific tool to complete the task.

The Cultural Significance of Viking Axes

Professional roofers and DIY enthusiasts often use roofing axes for tasks such as cutting shingles, trimming flashing, and removing old roofing materials. Therefore, even if one edge does get dull or damaged, you still have a sharp, fit-for-work second edge. This makes the double bit axehead heavier, of course, but that is also not always a bad thing, especially when felling trees. They used it to chop firewood while on extended trips to the cold north, and also as an all-purpose axe for other tasks.

Firefighter crest cookie cutters Fire fighter Career designs OOAK gift for new Firemen Polymer Clay and fondant press

Mauls are usually big and heavy, as splitting wood demands a lot of force. Mauls are often used together with splitting wedges, and many mauls have hardened polls that allow the user to hammer wedges into the wood with them. Swamper’s axes were used by swampers – the men who limbed a tree after it had been felled and then cut it up into sections to make transportable logs. Swampers cleared brush before fellers got to work and made logging roads and trails in the forests. Swamper’s axes were meant for limbing and bucking a tree, and working fast was important.

Hatchet

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A broad axe, or hewing axe, is a purpose-built tool to help carpenters transform round logs into timber with a flat edge. The axe head has one flat side and one side with a beveled edge, great for chopping. Timber mills and modern tools mean that the broad axe isn’t as popular as in previous centuries. Known as a valaška in Slovak and Czech, a fokos in Hungarian, or a ciupaga in Polish, it was a tool used by European shepherds on the job. It had a long, straight shaft and the small axehead also doubled as the handle when used as a walking stick.

Vintage indian sikh maratha islamic rajput steel, kamani katar, handforged blade, sharp blade, pattern design on blade

Specifically designed for digging and cutting through roots and hard soil, the grub axe features a shorter handle and a heavier head compared to other types of axes. The blade of a grub axe is wider and flatter, providing better leverage when digging or chopping. This tool is commonly used to remove tree stumps and clear out root systems. To ensure safety while using a grub axe, it’s important to wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses.

Consult Your Hand Tool Expert for Help

Different types of axes are designed for specific functions and uses. One such type is the hatchet, which is a small and lightweight axe that is ideal for camping and outdoor activities. Hatchets are perfect for tasks like chopping kindling or small branches.

Were there any superstitions or rituals associated with Viking axe use?

To provide leverage for powerful swings, miner’s axes often have a longer handle than other types of axes. As a result, they are widely utilized in the mining, construction, and landscaping industries. With a shorter handle and a narrow, curved blade, they are ideal for shaping and smoothing wood. The blade of a carpenter’s axe may be single-beveled or double-beveled, depending on the intended use. These axes are commonly used by carpenters, furniture makers, and woodworkers for tasks such as hewing, carving, and shaping timber. In addition to woodworking, carpenter’s axes can also be used for general chopping and splitting tasks, making them versatile tools for woodworkers.

In Scandinavia axes in copper and bronze have been found in the Early Bronze Age (c. 2000 BC). Gradually, the design was refined to include knives, scrapers and arrowheads, amongst other things. For example, some Vikings believed that the way they swung their axe would determine their fate in battle.

Axe throwing has become a popular pastime, with leagues and tournaments popping up all over the world. As a fan of Viking history and culture, I have always been fascinated by the iconic weapon of the Norse people – the axe. Stainless steel is a good option as it’s resistant to corrosion, but it’s softer than carbon steel with moderate edge retention. If you use steel, make sure it has at least 12% chromium, to ensure it is stainless steel.

In addition to its primary function, a felling axe can also be used for tasks such as splitting firewood. Various types of axes include felling axes, splitting axes, hatchets, tomahawks, carpenter’s axes, forest axes, adzes, and double-bit axes. Each type serves specific purposes, such as cutting down trees, splitting wood, carving, combat, and woodworking, showcasing their versatility across diverse applications. Whether you’re chopping wood, felling trees, or going camping, it’s important to select the right tool for the job.

It’s also home to a whole host of one-of-a-kind items made with love and extraordinary care. While many of the items on Etsy are handmade, you’ll also find craft supplies, digital items, and more. The key idea behind this innovation was to employ simple physics principles to come up with a more efficient and safer design for axe.

They provide excellent support when walking over ice and snow, a lot like a hiking pole. They can also be used for cutting steps into hard snow on gentle slopes and act as an anchor on steep slopes. Whether you’re hacking up wood for a fire or your kill, this is a super-useful tool. Grub axes have a long horizontal adze on one side and a shorter vertical axe on the other.

There are two organizations that have specific criteria for throwing axes used in axe throwing competitions. When you consider how much we rely on tools made out of metal, it’s safe to say that blacksmithing is one of the most important survival skills to learn. Most people will learn how to forge and weld in a pro workshop, where it will be very easy to control the temperature during the forging process. The tactical axe is a modern invention, which is something of a multi-tool. Also commonly known as a tactical tomahawk, this axe has gained popularity among law enforcement officers, soldiers, and security staff, as well as survivalists.

A pick mattock doesn’t have an axe edge – it has a pick on one side of the head and an adze on the other. This axe however comes with a unique difference; instead of opting for the force wedge momentum design, this particular axe works like a lever. This has been achieved by altering the centre of gravity’s position and the wedge has been placed with an offset to the handle. Upon striking, when the axe comes in contact with the wood and penetrates it, the rest of the energy that would have otherwise gone to waste is used to create a turning effect. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Viking axe design, particularly in the area of bushcraft and outdoor survival. The compact size and durability of these axes make them ideal for chopping wood, clearing brush, and building shelters in the wilderness.

What to Expect on a Cruise: Cruise Ship Food

Table Of Content

• The Captain’s Pasta Bar
• Beverage Packages
• How many meals a day on a carnival cruise?
• Free Carnival Cruise Dining Options
• Lido Marketplace

With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold. Here you’ll find slow-smoked meats and classic grilling sides such as baked beans, rolls and macaroni and cheese, along with a selection of sauces you can slather on to your heart’s desire. While the exact dining options vary on different ships, the most popular free dining choices on Carnival ships range from classic fare to customizable tastes to decadent deliciousness. At any of the three Emeril's Bistro restaurants at sea, you can get a taste of the world-famous New Orleans chef's take on Creole cuisine. We're talking Crescent City classics like fried oysters, barbecue shrimp, po'boys, muffuletta sandwiches and jambalaya.

The Captain’s Pasta Bar

For breakfast one day, I had the seafood tower followed by a plate of smoked salmon (you can order as many items as you like at no extra charge). For lunch one day, I had one of the best renditions of huevos rancheros I’ve ever had. There are no additional charges or gratuities required for the complimentary dining options. However, if you choose to dine at specialty restaurants or order certain beverages, there may be additional costs as well as gratuities to consider.

Beverage Packages

Ken Byrne, my excellent room manager, not only made it happen but served it Indian-style (curried with rice, raita and pickled mango). Byrne was also quite the showman, entertaining with a song or two during dinners. Get your carbo-load with delicious pasta at Pasta Bella (called The Captain’s Pasta Bar on some ships). Here, you choose your pasta, sauce, meats and fresh toppings for a customized dish, which you can easily pair with fresh bread or a crispy Caesar salad. Don’t wait for a better opportunity, however – this venue is only open for lunch. Carnival’s dining venues have various operating hours, ensuring food is available around the clock.

How many meals a day on a carnival cruise?

There are no better burgers at sea than the fresh grilled creations of Guy’s Burger Joint, a Carnival exclusive venture with renowned chef Guy Fieri. In addition to several burger options – which you can customize at the extensive toppings bar – you can also enjoy the hand-cut fries. Don’t wait to get your burger fix, though, since Guy’s Burger Joint is only open during lunch hours. If you're planning your next cruise and want to know which Carnival restaurants to expect on board, you've come to the right place. While certain dining venues remain a standard across all ships — like the much-loved Lido Deck buffet — the options keep expanding with every new ship launch.

Plus, older ships are constantly being refurbished and updated with new restaurants. That's why we put together this comprehensive list of Carnival cruise restaurants and where you can find them. Dining on a Carnival Cruise can be a delightful experience with a wide variety of food options available. Whether you’re looking for a formal dining experience, a quick bite to eat, or an exclusive meal prepared by a celebrity chef, there’s something for everyone on a Carnival Cruise. With all of these options, you’re sure to find the perfect dining experience to suit your tastes and needs. Carnival Cruise Line presents its guests with diverse dining alternatives.

Dining Etiquette

Ready to dive into a sea of culinary wonders without reaching deeper into your pockets? Look no further than the Carnival Cruise Line's variety of complimentary restaurants that promise flavors from around the globe. From mouth-watering Italian pasta to irresistible Mexican delights, the Carnival complimentary dining experience is sure to tantalize every palate. Here's a comprehensive guide to Carnival's free restaurants that guarantee a delicious journey at sea.

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This round-the-clock ice cream and frozen yogurt station offers the classic favorites vanilla, chocolate and strawberry in self-serve cups or cones, letting you enjoy the treat however you like it. Yes, you are allowed to take food from the dining venues back to your cabin if you prefer to enjoy a meal or snack in the privacy of your own space. Once you get on board, look for staff set up at booths to help you make specialty dining reservations. You can also call or visit the restaurant yourself to make a reservation, but seating times might be limited. Walk-ins are allowed but will get seated based on availability.

Breakfast on the Carnival Venezia

Carnival Cruise has one of the largest fleets of ships, so this is a common question for new cruisers to Carnival. The split chicken grilled with lemon and hot pepper will definitely spice up your morning. Everything you need to know about what is and what isn’t included on a Carnival Cruise.

Kosher food must be pre-ordered before your cruise and is typically pre-made off the ship and frozen for use during the cruise. In general, if you have a strict diet or a severe allergy, it's best to alert your cruise line in advance, either through your travel agent or a cruise line's special needs department. You can then meet with the head chef on the first day of your cruise to make sure you get the meals you need.

Sandwiches are the go-to meal for everyone, and with Carnival Deli, you can have mouthwatering sandwiches. Yes, Carnival Cruise Lines is known for accommodating a range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergies. It is advisable to inform the cruise line in advance to ensure they are prepared to cater to your needs.

The expansive Seaday Brunch is also offered in the Main Dining Room. Reservations for specialty restaurants can be made either online before your cruise or on the ship itself, subject to availability. However, for the main dining room and buffet, there is no need for reservations. Reservations are highly recommended for specialty restaurants, as these locations can book up in advance. Carnival's buffet on the Lido Deck has all the staple stations to keep you fed from morning until night.

I wanted to know every specific detail and I definitely didn’t want to be the person who walks around looking lost the entire trip. For some this is silly—but for others (and you know who you are!), planning is part of the fun of traveling. Freestyle Travelers is the ultimate resource for cruisers seeking to explore the seas. As the leader in all things related to cruising, our travel blog provides expert guidance and valuable information to enhance the cruising experience. We have earned our position as the top search result for cruising by providing unparalleled resources, insights, and inspiration to our over 1 million readers every year.

Chibang and Cucina Del Capitano were wonderful evening options, especially if you're there on your complimentary visit. For a romantic dinner, the elegant setting and doting service of Fahrenheit 555 were unbeatable but this is an extremely popular venue, so make those reservations early. If you haven’t had quite enough with all these tasty treats, don’t forget that 24-hour room service is also included with your Carnival cruise fare. From continental breakfast fare to a selection of sandwiches, salads, juices and desserts, the classic room service menu is free.

Choose your favorite type of pasta and then choose from a selection of sauces and meats and have it cooked up straight away, your pasta dish exactly the way you like it. You’ll find Swirls on the Lido Deck, where you can get complimentary ice cream and frozen yogurts until midnight. In addition to 3 these options there are a number of other places to eat for free, however they are not available on every ship. And I can’t forget about the famous warm chocolate melting cake with vanilla ice cream. Take a spoonful of the warm, fudgy cake with the cold ice cream. You can choose prime New York strip, prime ribeye steak, and filet mignon in the steakhouse but I’m more of a double-cut grilled lamb chops kind of gal.

Are you planning to go on a Carnival Cruise and wondering what’s included? You get to choose what you want in your burrito from type of eggs, to meat, to toppings. Like every other experience in the dining room, you can order as much as you want.

The 8 Best European River Cruises 2024

Table Of Content

• Best Cruises Out Of Port Canaveral
• Visiting the Salvador Dali Museum in Spain
• Best Mediterranean Cruise For Couples: Viking, Viking Saturn
• The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

Then head ashore to savor fresh ingredients and iconic dishes, including fresh Greek salads and Italian gelato. Dive even deeper into the flourishing cultures abroad with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays on select European cruise itineraries. Visit one of Dublin’s pubs and enjoy a night of Irish song, dance and Guinness. Go glamping in Alta and spend the night under the evening sky for a chance to see the Northern Lights. Or dance into the evening at a party in Mykonos — an island famous for its nightlife. Between the castles, towers and ruins, Europe is teeming with ancient architecture.

Best Cruises Out Of Port Canaveral

THE 25 BEST 10 Day Cruises to Europe (Prices & Itineraries) on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

THE 25 BEST 10 Day Cruises to Europe (Prices & Itineraries) on Cruise Critic.

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Silversea invites its guests to dive right in with its 21-day Fusina (Venice) to Barcelona itinerary aboard the Silver Moon, calling upon 21 ports in seven countries, beginning in Venice and ending in Barcelona. Back onboard the Silver Moon, step into the S.A.L.T. Lab to participate in cooking classes and workshops to learn more about regional dishes, including how to make them at home. Holland America Line makes the jewels of the Mediterranean accessible to every budget, all while delivering comfortable accommodations, myriad onboard activities to enjoy during sea days and plenty of dining options. Those cuisine offerings highlight fresh, regional dishes, including new dishes from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, the cruise line’s Global Fresh Fish Ambassador. Sailing roundtrip from Piraeus, near Athens, the 7-Day Jewels of the Mediterranean itinerary calls upon Rhodes, Santorini and Mykonos, Greece, as well as ports in Turkey and Cyprus. Tauck’s all-inclusive European river cruises are a boon for travelers with a thirst for history.

Visiting the Salvador Dali Museum in Spain

The itineraries explore the waterways of Europe, including the Danube River, the Rhine River, and the Seine River. Norwegian Cruise Line is another budget-friendly option, known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept that offers flexibility and customization. Their ships have a contemporary design and a wide range of dining options.

Best Mediterranean Cruise For Couples: Viking, Viking Saturn

This article looks at some of the most popular cruise ships that travel in beautiful European countries with unique features and attractions. Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens."

Life is but a dream in Ireland, whether you down a pint of Guinness and trace tales told by James Joyce in Dublin, or careen along the Cliffs of Moher along the west coast. Many cruises to Europe also stop in Northern Ireland's Belfast, a city that's a testament to rebirth and reconciliation. The Dutch have managed to keep the sea at bay for hundreds of years, but many of the best European cruises still make their way into Amsterdam.

Night Eastern MediterraneanDetails

They cover all premium drinks, including a minibar in every cabin, plus specialty dining, butler service and gratuities. On the cruise line's Norwegian Coastal Express route, Hurtigruten's Richard With ship calls on 34 ports in just seven days. Some are quick stops in the middle of the night while cargo is loaded and unloaded, but you technically could get off the ship in each port if you wanted to.

Cruise fares start from $308 per person, per night, for a windowless inside cabin. You can visit ports like Belfast and Liverpool on cruises from Southampton; Florence and Rome (Civitavecchia) on Barcelona sailings; and Reykjavik, Copenhagen and Lisbon on open-jaw itineraries. The most popular time to cruise to Europe is during the summer months, but the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are prime times to see the continent with fewer crowds. Cruise lines sail to Europe year-round, with special voyages to view the northern lights, visit holiday markets and other wintry wonders, but there are notably less sailings during the months of January through February. This unique Port Canaveral cruise itinerary to Bermuda and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Adventure of the Seas® visits both of Royal Caribbean's private destinations, where paradise is just steps away from the ship.

Independent land travel through Europe adds up fast — between accommodations, restaurants, train travel, taxis and more. But with Princess, you can spend more time exploring Europe and less time checking into your next hotel. Go from exploring the awe-inspiring at the Colosseum in Rome to wandering along the Acropolis in Athens. Admire the architectural splendor of marvels like Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and the blue-domed churches of Santorini.

The company also partners with Smithsonian and Disney on certain sailings. Avalon Waterways offers budget-friendly river cruises with a focus on cultural immersion. Their ships are modern and comfortable, with spacious cabins and panoramic windows. The itineraries cover popular European waterways, including the Rhine River, the Seine River, and the Danube River. With balmy summertime temperatures, Portugal's sublime Douro is an idyllic river cruise destination for couples.

If that's not enough, attend enough daily activities, and you might be invited to a secret nighttime tour of the crew bar, drinks included. Ashore, Disney's family-friendly excursions will take you to laze on the beach, explore museums and learn about history. Prospective cruisers often ask me what the best Europe cruises are, but that question is difficult to answer because Europe is massive. It encompasses some 45 countries and includes such cruise regions as the Mediterranean, the Baltic and Northern Europe, the British Isles and the Canary Islands.

Celebrity Cruises, famous for its stylish and classy ships, offers an ideal counterpart to Europe’s old-style grandeur. From Mediterranean ports to the Norwegian fjords, get amazed by the breathtaking natural splendor as well as learn more about the variety of cultures. Experience modern luxury with spacious accommodations and innovative design. They also have dining options, allowing you to savor global cuisines crafted by renowned chefs.

Some local initiatives protesting against cruise travel have also gathered momentum, so cruisers should be aware of these issues before setting foot ashore. If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the culture of the Vikings or explore what makes people in the Nordic region the so-called happiest on earth, you could do a lot worse than book a Scandinavian cruise. Costa Cruise Line expresses the Viking heritage as it follows the beauty of the northern seas with views of majestic Norwegian fjords. Find Norse villages and see stunning cities such as Oslo, Stockholm, Tallinn, and Copenhagen. Take advantage of Costa's panoramic windows in public spaces and never miss the breathtaking views of the northern seas. Read insider tips and recommendations for things to see and do in beloved European destinations.

Luxury lines offer the ultimate in indulgence, while premium lines provide a balance of luxury and value. Budget-friendly lines are a great option for those seeking an affordable escape, and specialty lines offer unique experiences tailored to specific interests. From cooking classes to architecture tours and thrilling outdoor adventures, our shore excursions are the easiest way to explore the Old Continent. Learn more about Baltic ports like Klaipeda, Lithuania and Tallinn, Estonia, or read up on Bergen, the gateway to Norway's stunning fjords. The Mediterranean provides many options but start by exploring Malaga on Spain's Costa del Sol or the exciting Monte Carlo, Monaco.

A jaunty kids' club with a climbing wall and secret nooks is positioned next to 12 family cabins, each sleeping up to five, featuring nautical-themed bunk beds. The 280-passenger ship—the largest on the Rhine—has a kids’ splash pool next to a larger pool, with some sailings offering kids swimming lessons for an extra fee. Mealtimes are peachy, too, with dishes such as dressed salmon and pork goulash, plus a children's buffet luring kids to the table. After a long day of exploring, parents and grandparents can relax at the spa or in the lounge. Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers an all-inclusive luxury experience, covering everything from shore excursions to gourmet dining and premium beverages. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is designed to appeal to your five senses and focus on the major capitals as well as hidden gems that would let you taste Spanish tapas in the Mediterranean.

Whether you prefer the action-packed ships of Royal Caribbean or MSC, or the smaller ships that can sail along narrower fjords, there will be a Norwegian fjords itinerary for you. Celebrity Beyond, which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board. We make it easy to schedule transfers between the airport and cruise ship.