Crucibles Of West Africa

ITINERARY

DAY 1
TEMA (ACCRA)
Sail into the coastal city of Tema, a short drive from Ghana’s buzzing capital, Accra. Once named ‘Africa’s Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times, Accra has become one of West Africa’s top destination cities. Marvel at the towering statues in the city’s Black Star Square, wander through Kwame Nkrumah National Park, the resting place of Ghana’s first prime minister and president, or shop for locally made arts and crafts in the Centre for National Culture.

DAY 2
CAPE COAST (FORT WILLIAM)
The British built Fort William in the 17th century as a trading post for gold and ivory. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction. The fort has been restored and now houses a museum that tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on Ghana and the world.

DAY 2
ELMINA POINT
Elmina is a town in Ghana known for its historic castle, Elmina Castle. The Portuguese built the castle in 1482, and it was used as a trading post for gold and ivory. It was later used as a prison and a slave fort. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction.

DAY 2-3
TAKORADI
The twin cities of Sekondi-Takoradi, often called Tadi, are a major commercial hub on Ghana’s deepwater port. There’s a low-key beachfront, a 17th-century Dutch fort, and inland, a frenetic commercial centre dominated by Market Circle, the largest market circle in Africa, where you can indulge in everything from coconuts to dried fish and a staple local dish – tangy jollof rice. Further afield, you can see fishing boats in the harbour or watch a traditional drumming ceremony.

DAY 4
ABIDJAN
A city pulsing with energy, this former capital of Côte D’Ivoire is a hub of creativity and innovation. The thriving arts and music scene intertwines with the intoxicating blend of cultures, cuisines and traditions that define Abidjan. A window into West Africa, the tropical mood that permeates Abidjan is infectious and unforgettable in equal measure. Immerse yourself in the city’s distinct atmosphere, browse the many galleries and markets, and stop at the fascinating National Museum of Abidjan.

DAY 5
DAY AT SEA
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.

DAY 6
MONROVIA
Liberia’s coastal capital was founded in the 1800s as a settlement for formerly enslaved people from North America. The National Museum offers an introduction to the region’s history and art. Today’s bustling city is a mix of architectural styles, lively beaches, and street markets. For a taste of local flavour, explore the jumbled Waterside Market, filled with colourful fabric and crafts, and sample a hearty meat stew with rice.

DAY 7
DAY AT SEA
Days at sea are the perfect chance to relax, unwind and do whatever takes your fancy. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, trying to spot a whale from the deck, reading a chapter or two, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to the green days spent exploring on land.

DAY 8
FREETOWN
Sierra Leone’s portside capital city occupies a major position in history as the home of formerly enslaved people from North America and Britain. Sites like Cotton Tree and the King’s Yard Gate symbolise the town’s sombre past. Freetown today is a diverse city with a rich heritage – colourful Krio architecture, hearty, rice-based cuisine, and lively beaches. Stop by the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary to visit rescued, endangered primates in a rainforest.

DAY 9
DAY AT SEA
Today as you sail, you’ll bask in the endless comforts of your ship. From the deck, marvel at the dramatic sea views. Relax with a nurturing facial treatment or massage in the spa or delve into the ship’s learning resources. Or, simply take refuge in your cabin and enjoy the opportunity to rest.

DAY 10-11
BIJAGOS ARCHIPELAGO
Off the coast of Guinea-Bissau lie 88 islands – most of them uninhabited – covered in mangroves and mudflats, savannah and palm forests. The remote Bijagos archipelago is a protected biosphere reserve, known as the home of the rare saltwater hippo, as well as migratory birds and pygmy cows. The islands remained largely unaffected by colonial influence, resulting in a strong cultural identity with traditional coming-of-age ceremonies like difuntu and fanado still in practice.

DAY 12
BANJUL
At the meeting point of the Gambia River and the Atlantic Ocean, Gambia’s relaxed capital city sits on a little island filled with colonial buildings and vibrant markets. At the 19th-century Albert Market, you can browse souvenirs and the vibrant traditional clothing of The Gambia’s diverse ethnic groups. For a true taste of local culture, sign up to visit a typical Gambian home or ‘compound’, where local hosts will tell you about their heritage as you sip on herbal tea and sample traditional snacks.

DAY 13-14
DAKAR

With fabulous museums, a thriving art scene and elegant seaside dining, the capital city showcases a rich Senegalese culture and a forward-looking spirit. Discover the city’s traditional side in Medina, a bustling quarter of mosques, tea shops, and street markets. French influences remain in many aspects of city life, from architecture to food. Local mbalax music dominates a vibrant nightlife scene. Traditional crafts like wood carvings and glass paintings are easily found at the Soumbédioune market – the best place to shop for souvenirs.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• 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
• All meals onboard
• Onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category
• 24-hour room service
• Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
• Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
• One selected shore excursion/expedition activities per port of call (Kayak not included, bookable for a fee on board)
• Standard WiFi
• Onboard gratuities & port taxes