Discover the Canary Islands with Saga Cruises

Day 1 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Portsmouth is one of the most densely populated cities in Southern England and uniquely occupies Portsea Island, connected to the mainland by roads and rail bridges. Although nearby Portchester boasts a Roman fort occupied later by the Saxons and Normans, Portsmouth itself was not mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book. The town’s development accelerated in medieval times, receiving its first charter from King Richard I in 1194 and soon thereafter becoming a major naval base. Known for hosting the world’s oldest dry dock, Portsmouth is home to iconic ships like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose, which was raised from the Solent in 1982. The city remains a pivotal naval base housing a significant portion of the British service fleet. Dominating the waterfront is the Spinnaker Tower, a striking 560-foot structure, the UK's tallest building outside London. Other city highlights include Charles Dickens' birthplace and the City Museum, featuring an exhibition dedicated to another literary giant, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who once called the town home.

Day 2 - At Sea

At Sea: Enjoy a day of relaxation and onboard activities as you sail towards your next destination. This is the perfect opportunity to explore the ship's facilities and perhaps catch a beautiful sunset at sea.

Day 3 - At Sea

At Sea: Continue savouring the open seas and indulge in the ship’s amenities. Whether you choose to dine, unwind, or engage in activities, this is a day for making memorable moments.

Day 4 - At Sea

At Sea: Bask in another day of the peaceful ocean, offering time to relax and explore more of what the onboard experience has to offer. Take in the endless views, perhaps while engaging in leisure activities.

Day 5 - Funchal

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal: Madeira, born from a volcanic eruption, lies invitingly in the Gulf Stream, roughly 500 miles west of Casablanca. Discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, this verdant island became a Portuguese stronghold, named for its dense forest—‘Madeira’ meaning ‘wood’ in Portuguese. Initially enriched by sugar plantations, the island later attracted British emigrants to its capital, Funchal, when King Charles II of England granted exclusive wine trade rights. Modern visitors flock to Madeira for its stunning and diverse landscapes, from vineyard-covered mountainsides to charming villages and abundant wildflowers. Known as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’ and ‘The Island of Eternal Springtime,’ Madeira’s natural allure has inspired initiatives to showcase its beauty.

Day 6 - Santa Cruz de La Palma

Santa Cruz de La Palma, Spain: Known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is renowned for lush forests of pine, laurel, and fern, contrasting with the striking grandeur of the Taburiente crater. The island is peppered with enchanting villages and its capital, Santa Cruz, offers a compelling blend of modern and colonial architecture. Explore attractions like the fascinating Natural History Museum, historic quarters, and the Plaza de España, or venture a short distance to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. If shopping interests you, find local treasures like silver jewellery, leather goods, and intricately embroidered textiles, all specialties of the Canary Islands.

Day 7 - San Sebastian de la Gomera

San Sebastian de la Gomera, Spain: Known as the port where Christopher Columbus prepared for his Atlantic crossings, this charming town provides an intriguing mix of historical sites and natural beauty. Discover its picturesque plazas, historical architecture, and the stunning surrounding landscapes that offer numerous hiking opportunities through lush terrain.

Day 8 - Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain: The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a breathtaking island boasting perpetual sunshine and dominated by Mount Teide. The range stretches through the island’s centre, housing fertile northern valleys and the colossal Cañadas del Teide crater in the middle. Santa Cruz, once a quaint fishing village, has evolved into a modern metropolis while retaining charming 16th-century architecture. Nearby, explore the Santa Cruz Palmetum, a 29-acre Botanical Garden specialising in palms.

Day 9 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Arguably the most picturesque Canary Island, Gran Canaria is an almost perfectly circular isle centred around the peak of Pozo de Las Nieves. Its stunning natural surroundings combine with the vibrant city life of its capital, offering numerous attractions. Wander through the historic Vegueta and Triana districts in Las Palmas’s old quarter, and enjoy the pleasantly warm subtropical climate that nourishes exotic palms and fruits.

Day 10 - Arrecife

Arrecife, Lanzarote, Spain: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Lanzarote is a volcanic gem marked by its dramatic landscapes and an intriguing history. Today, its alluring beaches, dependable sunshine, and duty-free shopping appeal to many visitors. The capital, Arrecife, boasts a modern seafront and blossoming gardens. Venture outside the city limits to uncover the striking contrasts of Janubio's blinding white salt flats, Fire Mountain's rugged expanse, the mysterious caves of Los Verdes, and untouched fishing villages scattered along the coast. Savour Lanzarote's culinary delights, ranging from local stews and traditional dishes to divine seafood. Be mindful: excursions may require you to adjust your onboard meal plans to suit schedules.

Day 11 - At Sea

At Sea: Relish a day of leisure and reflection as the journey continues through open waters. Engage in onboard activities or simply unwind as you move towards the next exciting port of call.

Day 12 - Cádiz

Cádiz, Spain: Steeped in history and thought to be the oldest city on the Iberian Peninsula, Cádiz sits on a stunning six-mile promontory. With over 3,000 years of history, the town charms visitors with its delightful white houses adorned with vibrant floral balconies. Discover the expansive Plaza de España with its prominent monument celebrating the first Spanish constitution signed in 1812. Cádiz offers lively seafront promenades with spectacular Atlantic views and a tranquil park, Parque Genoves, conveniently located by the sea and featuring an open-air theatre and impressive palm gardens. Don’t miss the noteworthy neo-Classical cathedral crowned by a striking golden dome.

Day 13 - At Sea

At Sea: Enjoy ample space to relax and immerse yourself in onboard activities as the voyage continues. Take in the sea's serenity and endless horizon views while preparing for the concluding journey stages.

Day 14 - At Sea

At Sea: The expansive ship and limitless ocean provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding. Dive deep into relaxation or entertainment options as the holiday nears its final destination.

Day 15 - At Sea

At Sea: Spend the last full day at sea appreciating the ship’s varied offerings. Whether it’s rest or recreation, the day is yours to enjoy the open ocean’s tranquil beauty.

Day 16 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Portsmouth, a bustling city rooted in rich naval history, offers an impressive introduction to Southern England with its unique Portsea Island location, connected by bridges. Known for its world’s oldest dry dock and iconic ships like HMS Victory, Portsmouth continues as a vital naval base. The striking Spinnaker Tower at 560 feet highlights the cityscape. Visitors can explore the houses of literary figures Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and discover vibrant museums celebrating the city's storied past and cultural offerings.