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Northwest Africa and its Islands

Dakar - Lisbon - Example 11 Day Cruise aboard SH Diana
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On this 11-day Northwest Africa and its Islands Cruise from Dakar to Casablanca aboard SH Diana, explore the vibrant markets of Dakar and the lush subtropical gardens of Funchal on this adventure along the rugged and windswept Atlantic coasts of Northwest Africa and its islands. Explore the unique cultural fusion of colonial European and traditional African influences. Encounter the desert landscapes of Dakhla and the verdant forests of Madeira as you jump from one port to the next.
Colorful African pirogue canoes on the beachPanoramic photo of beach in SenegalTurquoise waters along the shore near Dakar, SenegalRelax with a stunning view of LisbonExplore for a stunning view of the sea
Highlights
  • Explore Dakar's vibrant markets and Funchal's lush subtropical gardens
  • Witness Atlantic coasts of Northwest Africa and its islands
  • Discover the blend of colonial European and traditional African influences
  • Encounter the desert landscapes of Dakhla and the forests of Madeira
  • Cruise from one port to the next, exploring diverse landscapes and cultures
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Senegal

Arrive in Senegal, relax, and spend overnight in Radisson Blu Hotel Dakar or similar.

*Pre/Post hotels and flights are always subject to change until the Travel Documents are provided.

Day 2: Dakar, Senegal | Embark

Dakar's vibrant culture and modern outlook are highlighted by its impressive museums, flourishing art scene, and sophisticated seaside dining options. The bustling Medina quarter, with its mosques, tea shops, and street markets, stands in stark contrast to the city's French-inspired architecture and cuisine. Mbalax music sets the tone for the lively nightlife scene. Visitors can find traditional crafts, such as woodcarvings and paintings, at the Soumbédioune market, offering ideal souvenir choices.

Day 3: At sea

You can spend your day at sea enjoying the many facilities available. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the jacuzzi whilst taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of the knowledgeable on-board experts.

Day 4-5: Dakhla

Situated on a peninsula where the desert converges with the sea along Morocco's Atlantic coast, the city of Dakhla serves as a distinctive entry point to the landscapes of Western Sahara. Renowned for its diverse birdlife, particularly its thriving flamingo population, the area draws in many birdwatching enthusiasts. Additionally, activities like kitesurfing and desert safaris are highly favored, providing opportunities to encounter various mammals like sand cats and reptiles such as spiny-tailed lizards.

Day 6: Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura Island

Fuerteventura, the most ancient of the Canary Islands, boasts some of the archipelago's finest beaches, featuring extensive stretches of white and golden sands, occasionally punctuated by cliffs and secluded coves. Enjoying sunshine throughout the year along with invigorating breezes, the island is a haven for beach lovers, drawing surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers alike. Offering a surreal vista reminiscent of Mars, the Mirador Astronómico de Sicasumbre viewpoint showcases volcanic formations and otherworldly rock structures.

Shore Excursions: 

Local Flavors: 
  • Discover the origin of Majorero cheese and find out how it's made
  • Taste Salinas del Carmen’s delicious salt paired with local products
  • Discover the cultural impact of Fuerteventura’s windmills over the years

Day 7: Selvagem Islands

The Selvagens Islands Nature Reserve, also referred to as Salvage Island, Portugal's southernmost territory, is situated around 250 km south of Madeira. It serves as a vital bird sanctuary, providing protection to nesting marine bird species like Cory's shearwater. Established as a nature reserve in 1971, it stands as an exceptional and globally unparalleled instance of well-maintained Macaronesian biota, accentuated by notable geological attributes.

Day 8: Funchal, Madeira Island

Renowned for its verdant gardens featuring subtropical flora, Madeira is not only celebrated for its natural beauty; Funchal, the capital of this Garden Island, boasts additional attractions. The vibrant Rua de Santa Maria in the Old Town stands out with its 200 painted doors, adding a colorful touch to the surroundings. Throughout the town, tasting rooms in Madeira wine cellars offer delightful experiences. For a scenic adventure, visitors can embark on a cable car journey to Monte, where they can enjoy panoramic views. From there, carreiros, adorned in straw hats, skillfully steer wicker-basket sleds down the steep streets, providing an exhilarating and unique experience.

Shore Excursions: 
Cable Car & Monte with Wine Tasting
  • Stroll through Monte and visit the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte
  • Sample some of Madeira’s world famous wine
  • Gaze at stunning views from Pico dos Barcelos, 355 metres above sea level

Day 9: Porto Santo Island

Known as ‘the golden island’ due to its 9-kilometer expanse of fine sands, Porto Santo also holds historical significance as a temporary abode for Christopher Columbus during his journey to the Americas. The Columbus House Museum, dating back to the 15th century, commemorates this historical connection. In the island's capital, Vila Baleira, restaurants along the streets adorned with palm trees and bougainvillea offer local delicacies such as bolo do caco, a bread baked on a tile, often served with garlic butter, and yam bread.

Shore Excursions: 
Porto Santo Island Tour
  • See the traditional windmills scattered across Portela’s landscape
  • Enjoy the breath-taking viewpoints in Portela and Pico do Castelo
  • Visit a small museum, set in a 15th century house where Christopher Columbus is said to have lived

Day 10: At Sea

As you cruise today, indulge in the luxurious amenities of your vessel. Admire the sweeping ocean vistas from the deck, unwind with a rejuvenating facial or massage at the spa, explore the educational offerings onboard, or retreat to your cabin for some well-deserved relaxation.

Day 11: Lisbon | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Spread over seven hills with São Jorge Castle views, bustling Lisbon is one of the world's oldest cities. Elegant Baixa, hilltop Alfama with its yellow tram, and scenic Graça overviewing pastel buildings are the top areas. The Jerónimos Monastery in Belém is a World Heritage Gothic site. The classic Portuguese pastel de nata custard tarts are a local treat. Europe’s longest suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril, crosses the river Tagus.

On this day, say goodbye to your fellow travelers and crew, and depart for your flight back home.

Ship/Hotel

SH Diana

SH Diana
SH Diana Observation Lounge
SH Diana Swan Nest

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$4,780 2-3 travelers
SH Diana Oceanview D4
Oceanview D4
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
SH Diana Oceanview M4
Oceanview M4
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
SH Diana Balcony D5
Balcony D5
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
SH Diana Balcony M5
Balcony M5
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
SH Diana Balcony D6
Balcony D6
Located on decks 6, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
SH Diana Junior Suite
Junior Suite
SH Diana’s Junior Suites features a Super King Size bed, separate living room area with homely flame-effect fireplace, private kitchen, luxurious en-suite bathroom and a 7 sq. m private balcony.
SH Diana Suite
Suite
Our Suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom and a 12 sq.m. private balcony.
SH Diana Premium Suite
Premium Suite
SH Diana’s Premium Suites feature a Super King Size bed, separate living room with homely flame-effect fireplace, luxurious en-suite bathroom, spacious walk-in wardrobe and a 12 sq. m private balcony.
Included
  • 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
  • 10 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wifi
  • Self-service laundry 
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
  • Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
  • Onboard gratuities & port taxes
  • Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions.
  • Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
  • One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
  • 24-hour room service
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • We recommend every traveler to take out a travel cancellation insurance, travel interruption insurance and a travel health insurance policy with an assumption of the return transport costs of repatriation

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We are so glad that we chose Adventure Life. The service is top-notch. Everything is well taken care of and we just have to print the documents and go. Franny even gave us timely updates on possible airport strike.
KC Chan

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