Boat and Bike Adventures: Top Coastal Tours and Rentals

Crystal Cruises is expanding its selection of active, immersive shore experiences with 16 new bicycle excursions for 2014. These half- and full-day rides, available on May–September itineraries aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, provide guests with an intimate way to explore historic sites, coastal scenery, charming villages and notable architecture that are often easiest — and occasionally only — reached by bike.

The cycling program covers Northern and Western Europe and the Mediterranean and is designed for a variety of interests and abilities. Each route is accompanied by Crystal’s staff and expert local partners who handle logistics and safety, providing helmets, bottled water, terrain-appropriate bicycles and refreshments in most locations. European excursion prices range from $89 to $249 per person.

Featured Bicycle Excursions

Malta: A 12.5-mile route that takes riders through countryside accessible only by bicycle and along the western coastline to the Dingli Cliffs. The cliffs rise sharply from the Mediterranean and offer sweeping panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Tallinn: A ride through time to the Baroque palace and summer residence of Peter the Great and around Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Cyclists pass ancient walls, narrow cobblestone lanes and 16th-century architecture, including a pharmacy that has operated since 1422.
Copenhagen: In one of the world’s most bike-friendly capitals, guests follow a five-mile winding route through a forest to Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park, founded 500 years ago. The excursion blends urban cycling with green space and time to explore the historic park.
Bordeaux/Bassens: A nine-mile course of flat and rolling roads through the picturesque village of Saint-Émilion, whose entire wine region is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Riders view elegant châteaux and expansive vineyards belonging to renowned estates such as Château Angélus, Figeac and Cheval Blanc.
Barcelona: A lively five-mile ride through the city’s bustling streets, offering close-up views of landmark architecture and cathedrals and the chance to enjoy street performances along La Rambla. This tour highlights Barcelona’s contrasts of historic and contemporary urban life.
Guernsey / St. Peter Port: A six-mile coastal route that showcases dramatic shorelines, L’Ancresse and Pembroke beaches, and the Le Dehus Dolmen, a Neolithic burial site that resembles a small-scale Stonehenge.

Crystal’s bicycle excursions are intended for travelers who want an active shore option that connects them directly with the destinations they visit. Routes have been chosen to reveal local character, historic context and scenic highlights while keeping riders comfortable and safe. Local guides share insights on cultural landmarks and natural features along the way, so guests gain context as well as exercise.

These cycling experiences complement Crystal Cruises’ broader shore excursion roster, adding options for guests who prefer smaller-group, active exploration over traditional coach tours. Whether following coastal cliffs, pedaling through medieval streets, or winding past vineyard estates, the bicycle adventures offer a memorable, up-close perspective on each port of call.

For travelers considering one of these outings, Crystal provides clear pre-excursion information on difficulty level, recommended clothing, and any age or fitness requirements. The company’s shore teams and local partners handle equipment and on-site support, so guests can focus on enjoying the ride and the destination.