Wonders of the Canary Islands

Southampton

Embark Spirit of Discovery.

Depart 1800.

Spend the day at sea.

Spend the day at sea.

Spend the day at sea.

Funchal, Madeira

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Enjoy one of the most memorable approaches as you sail into Funchal, the capital of Madeira. This tiny outpost of Portugal is a living botanical garden, with the island’s rich volcanic soils supporting a wide variety of flora and fauna and vineyards.

Madeira is famous for its natural scenery and picturesque levadas – narrow channels built to transport water from the north of the island to the south. See some of the scenery for yourself during an included sightseeing tour, or perhaps explore independently.

Santa Cruz, Tenerife

Arrive 1300 on November 26. Depart 1700 on November 27.

The island dubbed the ‘King of the Canaries’ features landscapes that range from forests of eucalyptus and pine to otherworldly black-sand beaches. Towering over them all is Mount Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, with Teide Observatory at its feet.

Perhaps take a stroll around Santa Cruz, the capital, or see the sights while relaxing on an included sightseeing tour. An overnight stay provides the opportunity to savour a spectacular sunset, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, and learn about the night sky with the help of an expert guide.

Santa Cruz, La Palma

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

La Palma is an island of rugged beauty adorned with lush forests and flowers. Its capital, Santa Cruz, is perched on the edge of a volcanic crater and is renowned for being one of the prettiest towns in the archipelago.

Explore its quirky mix of colonial and modern attractions, and perhaps shop for authentic leather goods and embroidery. Then again, you may be tempted to set off on a walk through Los Tilos Forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Bound by beautiful beaches and awash with forests and tropical palms, mountainous Gran Canaria has plenty of natural sights to enjoy. The Bandama Caldera, one of the youngest volcanoes on the Canarian archipelago, offers fantastic hiking opportunities and incredible views.

While the bustling capital of Las Palmas has a strong Spanish feel enhanced by its coastal setting. The old quarter dates back to the 15th century and encompasses the Vegueta and Triana districts.

Arrecife, Lanzarote

Arrive 0900. Depart 1700.

Lanzarote is defined by its volcanic landscapes, best seen in Timanfaya National Park, where craters and lava beds were created during six years of eruptions in the 1730s. See some of the main attractions during an included sightseeing tour.

Alternatively, discover life on the ocean floor on an optional sea trek; learn more about the island’s famous artist César Manrique by visiting his former home and studio; or perhaps explore the promenades, parks and shops of Arrecife independently.

Spend the day at sea.

Lisbon, Portugal

Arrive 0900. Depart 1700.

Spirit of Discovery’s final stop will reveal the ancient Portuguese capital, from which many Portuguese explorers set off on their seafaring adventures. The Monument to the Discoveries, a 165-feet high sculpture of famous explorers gathered together on the prow of a ship, commemorates them, and you should see it on your approach to the port.

To discover more about this golden era, visit the historic Alfama district, easily recognisable by its narrow medieval cobbled streets. The avenues of Baixa offer wonderful shopping, while two UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found in Belém – Jeronimos Monastery and Belém Tower. An included sightseeing tour offers a relaxing way to see some of the highlights.

Spend the day at sea.

Spend the day at sea.

Southampton

Arrive 0800.

Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.

Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions, at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.