SUN SPLASHED SERENADE

ITINERARY

Apr 18 Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Canary Islands, Spain Depart: 7:00 pm

One of Spain’s Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa, Gran Canaria is best known for its black lava and white sand beaches. Its capital, Las Palmas, offers some of the best beaches on the island with shorelines bordered by coral barriers that shelter swimmers. Make the trek up to the neighborhoods of San Nicolas and San Juan for remarkable views of the homes below. Within the capital’s heart you can find the Pueblo Canario, a replica of a traditional Canarian village where you can learn about the island’s culture and how it has evolved.

Apr 19 Puerto del Rosario(Fuerteventura), Canary Islands, Spain

Off of the African coast, in the resplendent province of Las Palmas, Fuerteventura was the first of the Canary Islands to start emerging from the Atlantic Ocean millions of years ago. Its topography is unlike anywhere in the world, which is why it has earned the designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Explore the austere landscapes of Puerto del Rosario, the capital, and be amazed by the beauty of its rolling hills, a landscape that is outshined only by heavenly, golden-sand beaches along the coast. With strong wind and glorious waves, it is the destination for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Apr 20 Agadir, Morocco

Most famous for its seaside promenade, golf courses and crescent-shaped beach, Agadir invites you to revel in simple pleasures. Find the Vallée des Oiseaux, a lush public space with an aviary where you can delight in the colorful parrots and flamingos. You may even come across some lingering deer and kangaroos. Take a short drive to the Medina d’Agadir. This detailed replica gives you a glimpse of Adir before the earthquake and is also a work of art. Journey further into the city’s past with a hike up to the Agadir Oufella ruins. This hilltop fortress looks over the beach and fishing port, offering stunning vistas.

Apr 21 Safi, Morocco

Located in Western Morocco along the Atlantic, Safi is a city that has been heavily influenced by Portuguese rule, as evidenced by a centuries-old fort that still stands today, Ksar El-Bahr. It’s also one of the oldest cities in the country, so it holds a great deal of rich history. But it is perhaps best known as a city of potters, as it is here you find colorful, delicate and artistic pieces of pottery that are part of a great Moroccan tradition. Le Plus Grand Tajine Du Monde stands as the largest tagine in the world, a feat crafted by 200 artisans. Wind your way through Safi’s medina, a lively atmosphere of vendors selling carpets, leather, pottery and lighting pieces. The Kechla ruins bring the past to life with its preserved architecture of ancient cannons, crenelated walls and spectacular towers..

Apr 22 Casablanca, Morocco

Iconic in its own right, the Moroccan city of Casablanca is a pillar of the local culture before French colonization. Marrakesh, meanwhile, offers an abundance of classical, Moorish architecture and the breathtaking gardens of the Bahia Palace dating back to the 12th century. The energy hums amid the Central Market of Casablanca and your senses are enthralled at Marrakesh’s Jemaa el-Fnaa. The monumental Hassan II mosque is a triumph of traditional, Moorish architecture combined with innovations of the 20th century. Known for having the largest minaret in the world and towering above the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a magnificent sight from afar, but a closer look inside provides an even grander sight, as its glass floor gives way to views of the Atlantic beneath its foundations

Apr 23 At Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Apr 24 Alicante, Spain

The area surrounding Alicante has been inhabited by people for more than 7,000 years, starting with the first tribes of hunter-gatherers of the region. Visit the Plaza de San Cristobal in Alicante’s Old Town where buildings dating back to between the 15th and 18th centuries display an array of architectural styles that show the city’s evolution. Overlooking the famous Playa del Postiguet, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara on Mount Benacantil offers exquisite views. Find your way to the Alicante Central Market to sample delicious, local seafood, produce, meat and other Spanish delicacies.

Apr 25 Palma de Mallorca, Spain

You know you have arrived in Palma de Mallorca, a major city of the Balearics of Spain, when you are met with majestic limestone cliffs plunging into glimmering blue water. On shore, its rich history is evident in its wonderful buildings, castles, and cathedrals. Take in the landmark Gothic cathedral, La Seu, with its enormous rose window and its wrought-iron canopy over the main altar designed by famed Spanish architect Antonio Gaudí. Go for a run or bike ride along the seaside promenade that connects Palma de Mallorca to the neighboring villages of Portitxol and Es Molinar. Beyond the city, explore the lush Sierra de Tramuntana Valley, the island’s major mountain range and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Apr 26 Port Vendres, France

Port Vendres is a charming seaside town on the Côte Vermeille. From the moment you arrive in its kaleidoscopic port, you are enveloped in French history. Mere steps from the promenade you can witness Fort Fanal, one of the 12 UNESCO-listed Fortifications of Vauban. Explore another World Heritage Site in Carcassonne. Seen from the hilltop it is straight out of a fairy-tale with breathtaking turrets, churches and fortifications. Up close, the medieval city is even more impressive, with foundations dating to the late Roman period and its cathedral from the 11th century.

Apr 27 Toulon, France

Best known as a naval base and harbor for warships and submarines, the port city of Toulon’s maritime heritage is on display at the Musée National de la Marine. But the limestone mountains beyond hint at further adventure. Take a ride on the téléphérique du Faron for impeccable views. Once topside, discover the many hiking trails along Mount Faron. Down at Plage du Mourillon, enjoy a quintessential beach day. Nearby bars and restaurants offer food and drink to replenish your energy. Discover the bustle and color of the Cours Lafayette Market. Filled with stalls and vendors selling seasonal produce, local clothing, home goods and flowers, it’s a treasure trove.

Apr 28 Nice, France

Nice rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Côte d’Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice’s recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera.

Apr 29 At Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Apr 30 Tarragona, Spain

The port of Tarragona, a short distance from Barcelona, offers many of the same charms as the well-known city with fewer crowds. With a past as the first Roman colony in Spain, incredible ruins abound revealing its history, such as the Tarragona Amphitheater overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. In the center of town, discover the beautiful Romanesque and Gothic architecture of Catedral de Tarragona. Of course, being a port city it offers plenty of beaches, like Playa El Miracle, to stretch out on golden sands amid palm trees. The mouthwatering aromas of freshly grilled seafood and other Spanish delicacies will lead you and your fellow culinary connoisseurs to local eateries serving regional favorites like escalivada, xató, calçotada, fideuà, rice dishes, and coca de recapte. Find the perfect pairing of Catalonia wine to go with your cuisine adventures as you share the moment with your new friends.

May 01 At Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

May 02 Gibraltar, UK

Perched on the tip of the Iberian Peninsula between Europe and Africa lies the famous Rock of Gibraltar. The Mediterranean Steps, once a military path, now act as a pedestrian walkway for visitors that seek a challenging adventure that leads to rewarding panoramas. Atop the promontory the 300 Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild-monkey population, greet you and await their feeding.

Down in the Neolithic limestone caves of Gibraltar, where Europe’s Neanderthal ancestors once lived, stalactites and stalagmites tell the story of thousands of years of history. Among this system lies St. Michael’s Cave, where the residents of Gibraltar turned the natural formations into an event auditorium where the staging’s lights cast an ethereal glow against the rocks for a truly magnificent show.

May 03 Tangier, Morocco

A Moroccan port in the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier has acted as the connection between Europe and North Africa since Phoenician times. It’s also a less-traveled port, so it offers a more authentic feel to city life in Morocco. Wander the medina to lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets leading to the Grand Socco marketplace. The Kasbah Museum, the old sultan’s palace restored to its former glory, contains a dazzling array of detailed maps, mesmerizing courtyards and signature Moorish architecture. Explore the Caves of Hercules, near Cap Spartel just outside of Tangier city limits.

May 04 Seville, Spain

With the only inland port in Spain - accessible only by small ship - and lying farther from the coastline than other port cities, Seville offers warmer temperatures that create a mild, Mediterranean climate perfect for sunny day explorations. And over 2,000 years of history make it an intriguing destination made for the curious mind.

Once the host grounds of the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition World’s Fair, Maria Luisa park now stands as a lush paradise of verdant lawns, palm trees, and pristine ponds. From Lawrence of Arabia to the Star Wars franchise, Plaza de España has played a role in film history throughout the years and through many genres.

May 05 Seville, Spain

With the only inland port in Spain - accessible only by small ship - and lying farther from the coastline than other port cities, Seville offers warmer temperatures that create a mild, Mediterranean climate perfect for sunny day explorations. And over 2,000 years of history make it an intriguing destination made for the curious mind.

Once the host grounds of the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition World’s Fair, Maria Luisa park now stands as a lush paradise of verdant lawns, palm trees, and pristine ponds. From Lawrence of Arabia to the Star Wars franchise, Plaza de España has played a role in film history throughout the years and through many genres.

May 06 Portimão, Portugal

Along the southwestern coast of the Algarve region of Portugal lies the vibrant port city of Portimão, equal parts history come to life and modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Megalithic Monuments of Alcalar contain prehistoric remnants of the country’s beginnings while Praia da Rocha (Rock Beach) presents the quintessential beach scene that makes this an ideal, tropical getaway. Not far from here you’ll find Praia dos Três Castelos, a beach well-known for its strange and dramatic rock formations of limestone. Located in the urban setting of Portimão, the Fort of Santa Catarina creates a stark contrast with its medieval construct, where walking the ancient paths call to your inner child and make you feel a sense of wonder and imagination.

May 07 Lisbon, Portugal Arrive: 8:00 am

Portugal’s capital Lisbon comes alive with a rich history seen in every nook and cranny of the city. From the resting place of famous explorer Vasco de Gama at Jeronimos Monastery to the impressive turrets of São Jorge Castle dating all the way back to second century B.C.E., Lisbon offers a deep dive into the past to satiate the most curious travelers. While Western Europe’s oldest city boasts an array of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, that does not mean it has remained stuck in the past. On the contrary, the colorful culture and vibrant life that runs throughout the city’s restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars make it buzz with infectious energy. Taking a tuk tuk through its hard-to-reach passages allows you to experience Lisbon as the locals do.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• FREE cultural immersion on every voyage
• FREE dining venues with ever-changing menus
• FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• FREE in-room minibar with your preferences
• FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• FREE afternoon and high tea
• FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• FREE L'OCCITANE bath amenities
• FREE pre-paid gratuities
• FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
• FREE reusable water bottle
• FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites