Stargazing in the Canaries: the foothills of Mount Teide

If you’re looking for added interest on a cruise to the Canaries – what could be more exciting than stargazing from the foothills of Mount Teide?

Saga’s expert team of Shore Excursion Executives have been out on the road, finding exciting new tours to add to their programme of Canary Island cruises. And this one is something of a blockbuster!

A perfect sunset

Available when Spirit of Discovery or Spirit of Adventure stay late in the port of Santa Cruz on Tenerife, it makes the most of the Canaries’ pollution-free atmosphere, to reveal the beautiful sunset, followed by stargazing at the constellations twinkling above in the night sky.

After leaving the ship in the late afternoon, the excursion begins by slowing ascending up the craggy landscapes of Mount Teide National Park, into the foothills to a height of 7,500 feet. Even this astonishing height is just over halfway up the mountain; its size is staggering.

Then, as the sun starts to dip below the horizon, the beautiful sunset bathes the ridges and cones of the mountain in soft pinks, reds and purples.

After a coffee break at the Parador Hotel, there will be a brief introduction and video projection before you view the star-filled sky!

A night-time show

By then, it’s night-time outside, so time to wrap up warm for the incredible stargazing part of the tour.

After returning to the mountain, so high you can actually look down on the clouds, the black of night becomes a showcase for the wonders of our galaxy.

Gazing up at the stars in this setting is a real once-in-a-lifetime experience – it actually takes a while for the eyes to adjust, as the blanket of stars so far away, somehow seem close enough to touch.

An expert guide is always on hand, taking everyone on a fascinating journey through the night sky, pointing out the constellations and talking about their history.

This 10,000-year old history is dwarfed by the true age of the stars themselves – some are billions of years old!

Constellations of wonder

It’s estimated that 83 of the 88 known constellations can be seen from Mount Teide National Park – all the constellations of the northern hemisphere and most of the southern.

The stars and planets are visible with the naked eye, although professional telescopes are available too, for a closer view of some of these celestial wonders.

Our Explore Ashore Executives who plans the trips for Saga guests, sums up this magical experience by saying "the peaceful atmosphere of the National Park at this time is truly something else.

During the day it’s full of visitors, but at this time it really looks and feels like you are on a different planet!"

Star Gazing on the Island of Madeira

Enjoy a wonderful opportunity to observe the night skies of Madiera on this evening stargazing excursion.

Late this evening, leave the ship and travel by coach to Pico do Areeiro, where you will stop for your stargazing observation.

After your observation experience, drive to Poiso where you will stop for hot tea and coffee before returning to the ship.

Any excursions mentioned are subject to change and availability.

Find out more about ocean cruises with Saga.