Atlantic odyssey from the Canary Islands to the shores of Morocco

Las Palmas sits on the northeast coast of Gran Canaria. From Puerto de la Luz port, walk a short distance to reach Las Canteras beach, lined with palm trees and a long city shoreline. Move through streets and squares filled with palms, then head to Plaza de Santa Ana in the old district. Explore the area around Santa Ana Cathedral and view historic buildings along its square. Visit Casa de Colón, set inside the former governor’s palace, and learn about early transatlantic exploration. Continue to Vegueta Market to walk through covered stalls, meet local vendors, and sample regional food in a busy daily market setting.

With its mild climate, El Hierro, the youngest of the Canary Islands, invites you to explore wide volcanic scenery in a quiet natural setting. You will see volcanic peaks, green forests, steep coastal cliffs, and natural rock pools. You also discover marine life around the Punta de La Restinga Marine Reserve, where clear waters hold diverse fish and volcanic seabeds, making it a strong site for diving and ocean exploration.

Included Excursions
Nature and flavors of El Hierro
Duration : 4h00
You meet your guide, board your coach, and travel across El Hierro’s rural landscapes.
First, you travel south to Mirador de Isora at 1050 meters above sea level. From this viewpoint, you observe long cliffs dropping into the Atlantic Ocean and a wide coastal amphitheater stretching along the shoreline.

Then you continue through a major island tunnel and reach the eco-museum of Guinea. You walk through restored traditional farmhouses and view exhibits of rural life. You also learn about the recovery program for the El Hierro giant lizard, an endemic species rediscovered in 1975 and now protected as part of the island’s natural heritage.

Next, you proceed to Mirador de la Peña, a viewpoint designed by architect César Manrique. From here, you see the green valley of El Golfo and farmland covered with protective greenhouses. At a local restaurant, you taste regional dishes while viewing the surrounding landscape. You then return to the pier and ship.

The tour includes about 2 km of walking over uneven cobblestone and rocky paths. You wear sturdy walking shoes and warm clothing. Weather conditions may change the route.

Authentic Flavors and landscapes of El Hierro
Duration : 4h00
You explore El Hierro’s volcanic terrain on a guided coach route with local food tasting.
You stop at Las Pernadas for wide island views across cliffs and coastline, ideal for photos. You continue to Punta Grande Hotel, once listed as one of the smallest hotels in the world, then move to Pozo de la Salud, known for its historic mineral water source.

You visit a pineapple plantation and observe local farming practices adapted to the island’s terrain. Next, you reach La Maceta, where lava formations create natural seawater pools along the coast. Waves from the Atlantic meet rock barriers that shape protected swimming areas.
Your final stop is Mirador de La Peña, designed by César Manrique, overlooking El Golfo valley. You sample local wine and cheese while viewing the landscape.

You then return to the pier and ship. This tour includes about 1 km of walking on paved and uneven surfaces. You wear comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection, and carry water. The route is not wheelchair accessible.

Discover the charming village of Los Cristianos, in the south of the island of Tenerife. While the former fishing town is edged by some beautiful fine-sand beaches, it is also known for the two protected nature reserves that surround it – Mount Chayofita and Mount Guaza. Both are ideal for hiking and for admiring the captivating views, facing the North Atlantic. Authentic and festive, Los Cristianos is also famous for its many water-based activities, ranging from scuba diving to snorkelling and water sports.

The capital city of Tenerife is located on the north-east coast of the island. Close to the port is the monumental Plaza de España, bedecked with a fountain and plant sculptures. Around the plaza, you can admire the white marble Triunfo de la Candelaria obelisk, the historic casino of Santa Cruz and the majestic Guimera theater. Not far from here, the picturesque Iglesia de la Concepción church features the characteristic traits of Canaries architecture.

Included Excursions
Teide National Park
Duration : 5h00
Tenerife, the largest island in the Canarys archipelago, is a destination full of contrasts. A place with exceptional landscapes, since 82% of the municipal territory of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is considered a natural area, dominated by a volcanic cone of 3,718 meters named Le Teide.
From the pier, board your coach for a one-hour scenic drive inland through the lush forest area known as La Esperanza where you will have the opportunity to stop twice to take photos of the surrounding natural environment.

You will then reach Parador del Teide, where you will enjoy a coffee break. This is where the volcanic Mount Teide is located, whose summit reaches a height of 7,500 meters above ocean floor, considered the third highest volcanic structure in the world. The visual impact of the site is further enhanced by the atmospheric conditions that create constantly changing textures and tones in the landscape and a "sea of clouds" that forms a visually impressive backdrop.
Your tour then continues to the rock of Mirador, known also as el Dedo de Dios, which translates as "The Finger of God". You will make a photo stop in front of this incredible geological formation.

Finally, you will drive back to your ship, enjoying further breathtaking views of the lovely island of Tenerife.

This tour involves approximately one mile of moderate walking on uneven surfaces. The team recommends you wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes. The order of visits may vary due to adverse weather conditions. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart problems due to the height reached. This tour is limited to 40 participants.

La Laguna and Vineyards
Duration : 4h30
Visit two uniquely compelling villages, tour a captivating wine museum and sample local vintages at an established family-owned winery on this satisfying tour. 
Depart from the pier and board your coach for a 30-minute drive to La Laguna. First, you will admire the meticulously preserved historic buildings in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the idyllic Aguere Valley and capital of the Canary Islands until 1723. You will see streets that have remained largely unchanged since the 16th century, imbuing the city's heart with a distinct character. Survey carefully maintained landmarks in this cultural and religious center, including San Fernando University and the Bishop's Palace.

Then you will join the iconic Casino of La Laguna and enjoy local products paired with regional wines. Founded in 1899, this magnificent building combines different architectural styles, including neoclassical and modernist elements, and features elegant interiors with refined decor.

Afterward, you will travel to the charming coastal village of El Sauzal, where you will tour beguiling La Casa del Vino wine museum, housed in a 17th-century farmhouse. You will learn the fascinating history of the Canary Islands' wine production and have the opportunity to taste two wines. You will delight in magnificent views of the northern coastline from the museum's terrace and reflect on the historical and delectable pleasures of your day.

Guests are encouraged to wear warm clothes. The tour could be rerouted by adverse weather conditions! This tour includes nearly 3 hours of moderate to easy walking, at times over uneven and cobblestoned surfaces. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. 1 hour walking tour through La Laguna, surface city paved and some cobblestoned.

The gardens of Tenerife
Duration : 7h00
During this excursion with a botanical twist, discover the landscapes and varied vegetation of Tenerife. The bus will take the coastal road via La Laguna, Tacoronte and El Sauzal on the west coast. You will make a first stop at the Mirador Humboldt to admire the panoramic views over the surprising Orotava Valley.

You will then arrive at the famous Puerto de la Cruz Botanical Gardens, founded in 1788 by King Charles III of Spain to house hundreds of plant species brought back from America, Asia and Africa.

Over 4,000 species, some of them delicate, have managed to adapt to this climatization garden and some of them have now reached gigantic proportions, such as the massive Coussapoa Dealbata palm or the Palo Borracho, from South America. The garden also has a collection of local flora and develops various research programmes.

You will then continue to the Sitio Litre Orchard Garden, the oldest private botanical garden in Tenerife. This historic 18th-century mansion features over 3,000 plant species, including a renowned orchid collection, and has been visiteed by famous figures such as Agatha Christie. A charming stop to enjoy nature, and a touch of local culture.

The visit will be crowned with a tasting of a glass of local wine. Leaving the hill of the Taoro Park, you will have lunch at the Meson El Monasterio, a former monastery converted into a spacious restaurant located on La Montañeta hill, from where you will be able to enjoy views over the valley.

You will get back on the road western-bound to Icod de los Vinos. The Parque del Drago is next to the San Marcos Church. The famous “El Drago Milenario” millennial dragon tree (although its official age is only 800 years) is the oldest tree in the Canary Islands. A garden of endemic species has been created around the tree with, among others, small dragon trees, euphorbia cactus and sweet euphorbia.

This excursion involves walking approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) on uneven ground. The team recommends you wear good walking shoes and comfortable clothing and bring your water bottle.

The capital of the island of Palma, Santa Cruz de la Palma is the pearl of the Canaries. Founded in 1493 by the conquistador Alonso Fernandez de Lugo, the city has preserved a large and atypical architectural heritage from its colonial past, with its traditional Canarian houses adorned with brightly colored wooden balconies, its cobbled streets, its sumptuous palaces and its numerous religious buildings. The Santa Catalina Castle is the symbol of the city. This 16th century military fortification helped defend the city from repeated attacks by French privateers.

Included Excursions
Natural Treasures of Northern La Palma
Duration : 4h00
Dive into the luxuriant nature of northern La Palma for a unique experience in the heart of lush forests and admire the natural pools.

The Canary Island of La Palma invites admiration, contemplation and wonder. During this excursion, set off to discover the lush nature of the north of the island from several points on the island. From San Bartolo, the belvedere in the picturesque town of La Galga, you will contemplate the green landscapes that appear before you. In this heaven for nature lovers, you will cross mountain roads to reach the Los Tilos Forest or La Galga forest site (depending on safety restrictions on the day). This natural sanctuary, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to extraordinary biodiversity featuring rich flora: huge forests of bay trees, holly, arbutus, orange blossom, campanula.

As a volcanic island, La Palma is abundant in geological treasures that were formed by lava flows centuries ago. Among them is the Charco Azul natural pool and its crystal clear waters, where you will have time to enjoy a relaxing moment opposite the Atlantic Ocean. The clear waters and lush vegetation create a peaceful atmosphere, just perfect for unwinding.

On the way to a charming rum distillery, you will come across vast expanses of banana plantations, which contribute significantly to the local economy. During your visit of the rum distillery, you will learn more about this alcohol obtained from a sugar cane variety introduced to the island in the 15th century.

This excursion includes around 1.5 km (almost 1 mile) of walking on uneven surfaces, steep and some stairs. The team recommends wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

Volcan and Wine
Duration : 4h00
Set off to discover the spectacular landscapes of La Palma and its vineyards rooted in black soil, renowned for their unique flavors. Leaving from Santa Cruz de La Palma, you will head towards Las Manchas, famous for its superb colorful square designed by Luis Morera, a local artist whose style is reminiscent of the extravagance of the famous Catalan Antonio Gaudí.

You will pursue your exploration towards the south of the island, between vineyards, the remnants of lava flows, and pine forests, to Fuencaliente. This town conserves the most spectacular traces of La Palma’s historic volcanic eruptions and is also renowned as one of its best wine-growing regions.
You will set off to explore two of the island’s emblematic volcanos: San Antonio, the highest peak in the region, which you will be able to admire from the visitor center; then Teneguia, whose summit affords striking views over the surrounding landscapes.

Your adventure will conclude with a visit to one of La Palma’s renowned cellars, where you will be able to taste delicious local wines.

This excursion involves walking approximately 1,5km (0,9 miles) on uneven ground, at times cobbled or graveled. The team recommends wearing comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing. 

This attractive capital of Madeira is located on the southern coast of the island. The walkways of the old town are lined with azulejos, or multi-colored mosaics. If you follow these patterns, they’ll lead you to the appetising Mercado dos Lavradores market stands, the Frederico de Freitas museum, and the golden panelling of the Cathedral de la Sé. Along the waterfront, the palm tree-shaded promenade leads you to the teleféricos de Monte, Madeira's cable cars. Its panoramic cabins transport you over the city to top of Monte, where you can see the picturesque botanical garden.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

A Moroccan jewel nestling on the western coast facing the Atlantic, Safi’s appeal lies in its authentic beauty and soothing atmosphere. This historic port city is renowned for its pottery, making it the Moroccan ceramic capital. Overlooking the city, the Kechla Fortress, built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, has breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic. Walk along its ancient ramparts, where the deep blue of the ocean creates a striking contrast. Smell the heady aromas of the spices and allow yourself to be soothed by the sea breeze during this invitation to discovery, where each corner reveals a story, each moment a precious memory.

Situated along the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is the very image of contemporary Morocco: Westernised and cosmopolitan. Exploring the architectural heritage of the “White City” tells you all you need to know about its cultural and historical diversity. Breathtaking highlights include the majestic Hassan II Mosque, considered to be one of the greatest religious buildings in the world. You can explore the narrow alleys of the old Medina, which stand in sharp contrast to the surrounding modern architecture. To get the most from the seafront, the Ain Diab Corniche provides a pleasant place for strolling with easy access to the beach.