The Atlantic Ocean has played an extraordinary role in the history and development of Europe and the world, from the intrepid seafaring adventures of the early Celtic, Viking, and Basque sailors to the Age of Exploration and the epic world wars of more recent centuries.

Bilbao and Paris will bookend this voyage, with ports of call along the coast of Spain and France such as San Sebastian and St. Malo. At these we'll visit ancient artifacts such as Brittany's enigmatic Carnac stones, arranged 3,000-4,500 years ago, and the Bayeux Tapestry in Normandy, chronicling the 1066 AD Norman invasion of England. We'll explore World War II German underground bunkers in La Rochelle and U-boat pens in Lorient.

As we travel, Cornell historian Barry Strauss will tell us about ancient civilizations and their battles, while Princeton's Kevin Weddle will inform us about the first civilizations to sail far out into the vast Atlantic and about the epic battles that followed.

We'll enjoy an intimate experience aboard the Sea Cloud II, one of the most luxurious vessels afloat, combining the seafaring elegance of a bygone era with the highest modern standards. Throughout the voyage, we'll enjoy the great food and wine for which these regions are celebrated.

This program is part of Cornell's Adult University (CAU), which offers acclaimed education vacations designed and led by Cornell faculty. Programs include off-campus travel adventures and weeklong on-campus summer courses open to all, including Cornell alumni, families, and friends.

For more information and to register, visit cau.cornell.edu, e-mail cauinfo@cornell.edu, or call 607.255.6260.