- The Levadas of Madeira
This 1,350-mile-long drainage project brought vital rainwater from the fertile north of the island to the dry south.
- Cape Verde
Despite being located just 450-miles off the coast of Senegal, this archipelago enjoys a distinctively Latin feel.
- Casa de Colón, Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
In Vagueta you will find a house at which Columbus stayed before departing for the New World. It is now a fascinating museum.
- Explore La Palma
Go walking in Taburiente National Park where clouds pool in its vast caldera.


Saga Cruises
Archipelagos of the Atlantic
Spirit of Adventure departing Southampton
from £3,974 per person2 passengers 19 nights 19th November 2022 Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction of £75 if not required
-
No fly
-
Chauffeur service
-
All Inclusive
Discover the Canary Islands, Cape Verde and Madeira
Be mesmerised by the night skies above Tenerife, and contrast the lush landscapes of Madeira with the sand dunes of Gran Canaria and lunar-like terrain of Lanzarote.
Discover the delights of the Atlantic Ocean on this 19-night archipelago exploration. Your time with us will reveal palm-lined valleys, volcanic lunarscapes, beautiful beachfronts and so much more. Madeira, your first destination, is rocky, rugged and green, crisscrossed by a vital network of waterworks that offered early settlers an agricultural lifeline. Tenerife is no less impressive, dominated by the dramatically rising form of Mount Teide, from which stargazing scientists observe the night sky and behaviour of the sun. Today’s astronomers search the night sky for new discoveries; however, it was during Europe’s Age of Discovery that Tenerife came into its own, illustrated by Santa Cruz’s extensive collection of 16th-century architecture.
Spend time on the Island of La Palma to visit Caldera de Taburiente, one of the largest extinct volcanoes in the world before setting sail for Cape Verde, an archipelago located off Senegal’s coastline. Due to the islands’ importance for colonialist trade and travel – and despite their geographic position – they have retained a distinctly Latin feel, illustrated by Mindelo’s pastel-coloured architecture on the island of São Vicente. During your time on Santiago, Cape Verde’s largest island, you have the opportunity to visit Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and once the capital of these islands, offering an insight into the area’s colonial past.
Back in the Canary Islands, you are invited to admire Gran Canaria’s variety of scenery – often described as a continent in miniature – and explore Lanzarote’s extensive and unspoilt volcanic landscapes. Enjoy the history and sights of Lisbon, including Belém Tower and Castelo de Sao Jorge – perhaps also taking a ride on one of the city’s vintage trams – before returning home having explored these fascinating Archipelagos of the Atlantic.
Your five sightseeing tours will be in
- Funchal, Madeira
- Santa Cruz, La Palma
- Santa Cruz, Tenerife
- Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
- Lisbon, Portugal
View Full Itinerary
Archipelagos of the Atlantic
19/11/2022 Southampton
Southampton
Embark Spirit of Adventure.
Depart 1800.

20/11/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
21/11/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
22/11/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
23/11/2022 Funchal, Madeira
Funchal, Madeira
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Once a safe haven for pirates and smugglers, today’s Funchal is a picturesque cruise destination, framed by green hills to the north and reflected in the Atlantic Ocean. Despite boasting almost 100 miles of coastline, it is rare that you will come across a sandy beach. Instead, rugged cliffs and crumbling rocks direct you towards Madeira’s interior, perhaps first to the Madeira Botanical Garden, accessed by most via a cable car. After capturing the garden’s burst of colour on your camera, consider taking a toboggan ride back down - a thrilling experience.
Further inland, just off the beaten track, you are sure to stumble across the ‘Levadas of Madeira’. This 1,350-mile-long drainage project does not, on the face of it, sound exciting, however it provides an extensive glimpse of the island’s history. The name ‘Levada’ comes from the Portuguese verb ‘levar’ which means ‘to bring’ and the first of its kind was built during the 15th century to bring water from the fertile north, to the dry south, allowing for agriculture to flourish. It offered many Madeirans the opportunity to access running water for the first time and those who visit the island today can enjoy plenty of walking trails that follow these marvels of hydro engineering. Worth remembering if you are hiking along the levadas is that in certain places they tunnel straight through the landscape, inaccessible without a flashlight and hard hat. To see the sights that punctuate the island’s capital, join an included sightseeing excursion.

24/11/2022 Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Arrive 1100. Depart 2000.
Tenerife's chequered landscape of golden beaches, rugged caves and sweeping valleys is dominated by Mount Teide, a volcano, the crater of which has a circumference of over 29 miles. Set off on a scenic tour to San Andrés, which enjoys a dramatic setting at the foot of the Anaga mountains, before visiting the island’s capital Santa Cruz with its 16th-century buildings, shady boulevards and pretty squares.
The main, tree-flanked avenue known as ‘Las Ramblas’ leads to the now-disused bullring, a cultural and visually impressive landmark. You’ll also see the grand façade of the Mencey Hotel and the expressionist architecture of the Tenerife Auditorium, which was designed by Santiago Calatrava, during an included panoramic drive.

25/11/2022 Santa Cruz, La Palma
Santa Cruz, La Palma
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Arrive at the ‘pretty isle’ of La Palma, boasting a myriad of compelling scenery, from misty mountains to rocky slopes and lush green valleys. Consider visiting Caldera de Taburiente, one of the largest extinct volcanoes in the world. Travel through the island’s western region to La Palma’s largest town, Los Llanos de Aridane, and enjoy views of Los Llanos, which sits amid cacti and banana plantations.
During your time in port, you are invited to join an included sightseeing excursion to see a selection of Santa Cruz’s most notable landmarks.

26/11/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
27/11/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
28/11/2022 Porto Grande, Cape Verde
Porto Grande, Cape Verde
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Welcome to Cape Verde. Colonised by the Portuguese from the 15th century and used as a supply stop for voyages to Europe, America and Africa, the archipelago retains a Latin flavour, despite being located less than 400 miles from the African continent. São Vicente, the first of Cape Verde’s islands to be visited during this cruise, is dominated by barren mountains; the tallest of which is Mounte Verde, measuring 2,460 feet in height and providing a day’s hike to outdoor enthusiasts.
If you would like to go off the beaten track without the need for walking boots, join us for a four-wheel-drive exploration of the island, stopping at Palha Carga’s beautiful beach and Ribeira de Calhau Valley. São Vicente’s capital, Mindelo - the port of which is ‘Porto Grande - is a feast for the eyes, consisting of colourful colonial houses accessed via cobblestone streets. Ask a local where to visit during your time in Mindelo, and they may point you in the direction of the Museum Centre Cesaria Evora, a modest museum dedicated to the life of Cape Verdean singer Cesária Évora.

29/11/2022 Porto Praia, Cape Verde
Porto Praia, Cape Verde
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The largest island in Cape Verde’s collection and home to the archipelago’s capital city, Praia, Santiago is your next destination on this Atlantic exploration. Upon arrival into Praia, do not let the city’s sprawling suburbs fool you; they bloom out from a charming old town, known as ‘Plateau’ due to its position above the waterfront.
For an insight into the history of Santiago - and colonialism in Cape Verde - make a trip to the island’s old capital, Cidade Velha, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a flavour of Cape Verde’s culinary offerings, seek out the national dish, cachupa, a hearty combination of corn beans, cassava, sweet potato and fish or meat. Each island has its own variation of the dish.

30/11/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
01/12/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
02/12/2022 Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Back in the Canaries, today you are invited to enjoy the delights of Gran Canaria, the sun-soaked archipelago’s third-largest island and a landscape filled with variation. Fancy a stroll after berthing in Las Palmas? Consider the long walk to Vagueta, the city’s old town and where its story began. Located in Vagueta is Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus and the Age of Discovery.
During your time in this historical district, perhaps visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the interior of which features a palm tree-style vaulted ceiling and whose two-towered exterior overlooks a pretty square. During time in Las Palmas, consider joining an included sightseeing excursion.

03/12/2022 Arrecife, Lanzarote
Arrecife, Lanzarote
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
It is often said - with tongue in cheek - that God forgot about Lanzarote during his seven-day creation of the world. Appearing more like a lunar landscape than La Palma or Gran Canaria - both covered by areas of lush forest - Lanzarote’s appeal belongs to its pretty beaches, extensive lava fields and exotic agriculture. One of the most impressive volcanic sights in the Canary Islands is the wine valley of La Geria. Bright green vines grow in 10,000 regimented hollows and provide a captivating contrast with the ash-covered surroundings. It is from here that most of Lanzarote’s wine comes.
On the north side of the island you will find Haria, known as the ‘Valley of a Thousand Palms’ and providing an oasis of colourful vegetation. Back in the island’s capital, Arrecife, consider visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art, located inside the Castillo de San Juan, an 18th-century fortification. It is here, along with many other places on the island, that you will come across the name César Manrique. Manrique was an artist, sculptor and architect, born in Lanzarote, who campaigned for the preservation of the island’s natural appearance. To learn a little more about his life and work, visit the César Manrique House Museum, featuring his preserved studio.

04/12/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
05/12/2022 Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive 0900. Depart 1700.
Lisbon, mainland Europe’s westernmost capital, is a phoenix city that rose from the ashes of natural disaster. In 1755, having grown prosperous through the trade of silk and spices, Lisbon was hit by a sudden and devastating earthquake, triggering a tsunami and a series of firestorms. The damage divided the city’s architecture into two categories: pre-earthquake buildings (of which there were few left) and those which came after the devastation. It was one of the first cities in which newly built architecture was designed to withstand future seismic events. Like Rome, Lisbon is built on seven hills, something that will certainly become apparent as you navigate its steep, cobbled streets.
Alternatively, hop on one of Lisbon’s vintage trams, certainly a novel and practical way to get about. In Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, you will find Sé, the city’s cathedral that was constructed in the 12th century by Christian crusaders, following the eviction of the Moors. Overlooking the charming and compact Alfama district is the Castelo de Sao Jorge, a truly historical fortification from which visitors can enjoy extensive views across the city. An included sightseeing drive will showcase a selection of Lisbon’s landmarks, including Belém Tower, a 15th-century defensive position built on Lisbon’s shoreline.

06/12/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
07/12/2022 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
08/12/2022 Southampton
Southampton
Arrive 0700.
Disembark Spirit of Adventure after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions or by exploring independently.

-
1
Southampton
-
2
At Sea
-
3
At Sea
-
4
At Sea
-
5
Funchal, Madeira
-
6
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
-
7
Santa Cruz, La Palma
-
8
At Sea
-
9
At Sea
-
10
Porto Grande, Cape Verde
-
11
Porto Praia, Cape Verde
-
12
At Sea
-
13
At Sea
-
14
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
-
15
Arrecife, Lanzarote
-
16
At Sea
-
17
Lisbon, Portugal
-
18
At Sea
-
19
At Sea
-
20
Southampton
-
19th November
Southampton
1Southampton
Embark Spirit of Adventure.
Depart 1800.
-
20th November
At Sea
-
21st November
At Sea
-
22nd November
At Sea
-
23rd November
Funchal, Madeira
5Funchal, Madeira
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Once a safe haven for pirates and smugglers, today’s Funchal is a picturesque cruise destination, framed by green hills to the north and reflected in the Atlantic Ocean. Despite boasting almost 100 miles of coastline, it is rare that you will come across a sandy beach. Instead, rugged cliffs and crumbling rocks direct you towards Madeira’s interior, perhaps first to the Madeira Botanical Garden, accessed by most via a cable car. After capturing the garden’s burst of colour on your camera, consider taking a toboggan ride back down - a thrilling experience.
Further inland, just off the beaten track, you are sure to stumble across the ‘Levadas of Madeira’. This 1,350-mile-long drainage project does not, on the face of it, sound exciting, however it provides an extensive glimpse of the island’s history. The name ‘Levada’ comes from the Portuguese verb ‘levar’ which means ‘to bring’ and the first of its kind was built during the 15th century to bring water from the fertile north, to the dry south, allowing for agriculture to flourish. It offered many Madeirans the opportunity to access running water for the first time and those who visit the island today can enjoy plenty of walking trails that follow these marvels of hydro engineering. Worth remembering if you are hiking along the levadas is that in certain places they tunnel straight through the landscape, inaccessible without a flashlight and hard hat. To see the sights that punctuate the island’s capital, join an included sightseeing excursion.
-
24th November
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
6Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Arrive 1100. Depart 2000.
Tenerife's chequered landscape of golden beaches, rugged caves and sweeping valleys is dominated by Mount Teide, a volcano, the crater of which has a circumference of over 29 miles. Set off on a scenic tour to San Andrés, which enjoys a dramatic setting at the foot of the Anaga mountains, before visiting the island’s capital Santa Cruz with its 16th-century buildings, shady boulevards and pretty squares.
The main, tree-flanked avenue known as ‘Las Ramblas’ leads to the now-disused bullring, a cultural and visually impressive landmark. You’ll also see the grand façade of the Mencey Hotel and the expressionist architecture of the Tenerife Auditorium, which was designed by Santiago Calatrava, during an included panoramic drive.
-
25th November
Santa Cruz, La Palma
7Santa Cruz, La Palma
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Arrive at the ‘pretty isle’ of La Palma, boasting a myriad of compelling scenery, from misty mountains to rocky slopes and lush green valleys. Consider visiting Caldera de Taburiente, one of the largest extinct volcanoes in the world. Travel through the island’s western region to La Palma’s largest town, Los Llanos de Aridane, and enjoy views of Los Llanos, which sits amid cacti and banana plantations.
During your time in port, you are invited to join an included sightseeing excursion to see a selection of Santa Cruz’s most notable landmarks.
-
26th November
At Sea
-
27th November
At Sea
-
28th November
Porto Grande, Cape Verde
10Porto Grande, Cape Verde
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Welcome to Cape Verde. Colonised by the Portuguese from the 15th century and used as a supply stop for voyages to Europe, America and Africa, the archipelago retains a Latin flavour, despite being located less than 400 miles from the African continent. São Vicente, the first of Cape Verde’s islands to be visited during this cruise, is dominated by barren mountains; the tallest of which is Mounte Verde, measuring 2,460 feet in height and providing a day’s hike to outdoor enthusiasts.
If you would like to go off the beaten track without the need for walking boots, join us for a four-wheel-drive exploration of the island, stopping at Palha Carga’s beautiful beach and Ribeira de Calhau Valley. São Vicente’s capital, Mindelo - the port of which is ‘Porto Grande - is a feast for the eyes, consisting of colourful colonial houses accessed via cobblestone streets. Ask a local where to visit during your time in Mindelo, and they may point you in the direction of the Museum Centre Cesaria Evora, a modest museum dedicated to the life of Cape Verdean singer Cesária Évora.
-
29th November
Porto Praia, Cape Verde
11Porto Praia, Cape Verde
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The largest island in Cape Verde’s collection and home to the archipelago’s capital city, Praia, Santiago is your next destination on this Atlantic exploration. Upon arrival into Praia, do not let the city’s sprawling suburbs fool you; they bloom out from a charming old town, known as ‘Plateau’ due to its position above the waterfront.
For an insight into the history of Santiago - and colonialism in Cape Verde - make a trip to the island’s old capital, Cidade Velha, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a flavour of Cape Verde’s culinary offerings, seek out the national dish, cachupa, a hearty combination of corn beans, cassava, sweet potato and fish or meat. Each island has its own variation of the dish.
-
30th November
At Sea
-
1st December
At Sea
-
2nd December
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
14Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Back in the Canaries, today you are invited to enjoy the delights of Gran Canaria, the sun-soaked archipelago’s third-largest island and a landscape filled with variation. Fancy a stroll after berthing in Las Palmas? Consider the long walk to Vagueta, the city’s old town and where its story began. Located in Vagueta is Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus and the Age of Discovery.
During your time in this historical district, perhaps visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the interior of which features a palm tree-style vaulted ceiling and whose two-towered exterior overlooks a pretty square. During time in Las Palmas, consider joining an included sightseeing excursion.
-
3rd December
Arrecife, Lanzarote
15Arrecife, Lanzarote
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
It is often said - with tongue in cheek - that God forgot about Lanzarote during his seven-day creation of the world. Appearing more like a lunar landscape than La Palma or Gran Canaria - both covered by areas of lush forest - Lanzarote’s appeal belongs to its pretty beaches, extensive lava fields and exotic agriculture. One of the most impressive volcanic sights in the Canary Islands is the wine valley of La Geria. Bright green vines grow in 10,000 regimented hollows and provide a captivating contrast with the ash-covered surroundings. It is from here that most of Lanzarote’s wine comes.
On the north side of the island you will find Haria, known as the ‘Valley of a Thousand Palms’ and providing an oasis of colourful vegetation. Back in the island’s capital, Arrecife, consider visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art, located inside the Castillo de San Juan, an 18th-century fortification. It is here, along with many other places on the island, that you will come across the name César Manrique. Manrique was an artist, sculptor and architect, born in Lanzarote, who campaigned for the preservation of the island’s natural appearance. To learn a little more about his life and work, visit the César Manrique House Museum, featuring his preserved studio.
-
4th December
At Sea
-
5th December
Lisbon, Portugal
17Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive 0900. Depart 1700.
Lisbon, mainland Europe’s westernmost capital, is a phoenix city that rose from the ashes of natural disaster. In 1755, having grown prosperous through the trade of silk and spices, Lisbon was hit by a sudden and devastating earthquake, triggering a tsunami and a series of firestorms. The damage divided the city’s architecture into two categories: pre-earthquake buildings (of which there were few left) and those which came after the devastation. It was one of the first cities in which newly built architecture was designed to withstand future seismic events. Like Rome, Lisbon is built on seven hills, something that will certainly become apparent as you navigate its steep, cobbled streets.
Alternatively, hop on one of Lisbon’s vintage trams, certainly a novel and practical way to get about. In Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, you will find Sé, the city’s cathedral that was constructed in the 12th century by Christian crusaders, following the eviction of the Moors. Overlooking the charming and compact Alfama district is the Castelo de Sao Jorge, a truly historical fortification from which visitors can enjoy extensive views across the city. An included sightseeing drive will showcase a selection of Lisbon’s landmarks, including Belém Tower, a 15th-century defensive position built on Lisbon’s shoreline.
-
6th December
At Sea
-
7th December
At Sea
-
8th December
Southampton
20Southampton
Arrive 0700.
Disembark Spirit of Adventure after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions or by exploring independently.
Itinerary map for Archipelagos of the Atlantic

Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
This service is a private chauffeur for distances up to 75 miles each way, and a shared chauffeur service from 76-250 miles each way.
Don't want to chauffeur? No problem. We'll also be happy to arrange complimentary car parking near the port, or can provide included rail/coach tickets, or even free flights from your local airport, subject to availability.

Travel insurance
Travel insurance
Optional comprehensive travel insurance, underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance SE, UK Branch, and additional cancellation rights. If you have your own insurance, we will offer you the holiday at a lower price.

All meals
All meals
All meals and snacks on board.

Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea
Daily afternoon tea.

A Choice of wines
A Choice of wines
A choice of wines at lunch and dinner.

All Inclusive
All Inclusive
Includes selected wines at lunch and dinner, Saga house-branded spirits, cocktails containing house-branded spirits, draught beer and lager, non-alcoholic cocktails, all mixers and soft drinks.

Gratuities
Gratuities
All on-board 'tips' and bar service charges.

Entertainment and Activities
Entertainment and Activities
A full programme of live music, entertainment and talks.

Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna and exercise classes.

24-hour room service
24-hour room service
24-hour room service is available at no extra charge.

Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi

Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party and Captain’s dinner.

Porterage of luggage
Porterage of luggage
When you arrive at the port in Dover or Southampton we’ll even carry the bags, with included porterage right to your cabin.

Shuttle bus
Shuttle bus
Free shuttle bus at most ports wherever possible, and when the ship is berthed at least 500 yards away from the nearest town centre.

Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Five sightseeing tours will be in
Funchal, Madeira
Santa Cruz, La Palma
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Lisbon, Portugal
- All inclusive
Enjoy an unlimited selection of drinks in all the on-board bars and lounges.
- The Living Room
Relax in one of the many sociable spaces on the ship.
- Spa
Look forward to included access to a range of wellbeing services.
- Entertainment
Enjoy a colourful show in The Playhouse theatre.
- Enjoy fine cuisine
Make the most of free-to-dine speciality restaurants.
- The Dining Room
The main restaurant brings you the finest in British and international cuisine.
- The Verandah
Dine with stunning alfresco views.
- On board activities
Try shuffleboard and deck quoits, or play virtual golf at sea.
Explore Ashore
Cape Girão Skywalk, Madeira
Certainly not for the faint-hearted, this glass-floored platform extends over some of the highest cliffs in Europe. At almost 2,000 feet above sea-level, you will be able to view waves crashing onto the rocks directly below.
Cape Verde’s national dish - cachupa
This hearty stew features beans, corn, cassava, sweet potato and often meat or fish on its ingredients list. Each island in Cape Verde’s archipelago has its own take on the popular dish which can be enjoyed at many eateries during your time on the islands of Porto Grande and Porto Praia.
Four-wheel drive exploration, Porto Grande
Take the opportunity to explore off the beaten track on this four-wheel drive adventure. Unspoilt scenery accompanies you as you travel to Palha Carga, a beautiful, largely deserted beach. Journey through the island’s agriculture areas towards the valley of Ribeira de Calhau, offering exceptional views to those who visit.
Spirit of Adventure departing Southampton
from £3,974 per person2 passengers
19 nights 19th November 2022 Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction of £75 if not required