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Cape Verde to Casablanca – Discover Cape Verde, the Western Sahara & Morocco

Cape Verde to Casablanca – Discover Cape Verde, the Western Sahara & Morocco

From GBP £9,495

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Description

Like the Azores but even more remote, the Cape Verde Islands are an intriguing archipelago located off the coast of Senegal. They are an amazingly varied group of islands that have been used as a staging post by mariners through the ages. From these volcanic landscapes to the historic ports of Morocco, this fascinating voyage follows a little-travelled route along the Atlantic coast of Africa, linking vibrant island cultures with ancient trading cities and dramatic desert shores. Travelling aboard the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky, we have the privilege of exploring regions that remain refreshingly uncrowded, where centuries of maritime history, African, Portuguese and Berber influences, and striking natural beauty combine to create an endlessly rewarding journey.
During our time in Cape Verde, we will discover Sal’s salt pans, the lush mountain scenery and agricultural valleys of Sao Nicolau and Santo Antao, and the colourful colonial streets and rich musical traditions of Sao Vicente. On Santiago we can learn of the archipelago’s complex past in Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was founded by the Portuguese in 1462 and is the oldest settlement in Cape Verde. Leaving the islands behind, we then cross the Atlantic waters to the seldom-visited shores of Western Sahara, where vast dune landscapes, remote settlements and a unique cultural heritage provide an intriguing contrast. Continuing north, the volcanic wonders of Lanzarote offer an extraordinary natural landscape shaped by fire and celebrated through the visionary work of César Manrique.
Our journey concludes along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, where bustling souks and magnificent monuments reveal the country’s rich history and enduring traditions. From Agadir’s historic fortress to the artisan workshops of Safi or the atmospheric streets of Essaouira to the grand Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, our final few days are a fitting conclusion to our voyage that combines some spectacular scenery, fascinating history and authentic cultural encounters. With the MS Hebridean Sky as our base and accompanied by just 100 fellow travellers, our cruise promises to be a most memorable experience and unique opportunity for those who enjoy visiting out of the way islands and ports where tourists are a rarity.

Trip Name
Cape Verde to Casablanca - Discover Cape Verde, the Western Sahara & Morocco
Days
15
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 90.6 metres Passenger Capacity: 118 Built / Refurbished: 1992 / 2016 The MS Hebridean Sky is a beautifully appointed small ship, designed to offer an atmosphere of refined elegance and intimate comfort. With just 59 spacious suites, many featuring private balconies, she provides all guests with an outside view and a sense of relaxed luxury. Suites are finished in warm wood panelling and brass, with thoughtful details such as rainfall showers, dressing gowns, Noble Isle toiletries and flexible bed configurations. The public areas are equally welcoming, from the bright dining room and convivial Club bar to the well-stocked library and panoramic observation deck. A clinic with doctor, hairdressing facilities, a lift serving all decks and complimentary Wi-Fi ensure that every journey is made in comfort and ease. Life on board the MS Hebridean Sky is calm, sociable, and tailored to those who value discovery and relaxation over large-scale entertainment. Dining is a highlight, with talented chefs crafting exquisite à la carte menus often enhanced by fresh local produce, complemented by fine wines included with meals. Guests may enjoy al fresco meals on the Lido Deck, afternoon tea, or informal evenings with music in the lounge. Enrichment comes through fascinating lectures, daily briefings, and the company of like-minded travellers, while the warm and attentive service creates the feel of a private yacht or country house hotel. With her understated elegance, exceptional service, and focus on exploration, the Hebridean Sky offers a truly memorable and distinguished cruising experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 London to Sal, Cape Verde.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky in Palmeira and embark. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 - Day 2 Palmeira, Sal.
The island of Sal was relatively undeveloped until the mid-nineteenth century when salt export business was developed and this morning we will visit one of the original sites at Pedra de Lume. We will see the salt pans, learn of the salt extraction process and even have the opportunity to float in the waters. After lunch on board there will be time to relax or join a transfer to the town of Santa Maria where you can visit the beach or explore the local shops for Cape Verdean crafts.
Day 3 - Day 3 Praia, Santiago.
Today we explore the historic capital of Praia on the island of Santiago. Praia has a wonderful African feel and we will visit Cidade Velha, the old Portuguese capital which has a rich history and was once the centre of the slave trade. See the fort and cathedral which dominate the narrow, cobbled lanes and stone houses. Enjoy a traditional performance of Batuco dance before we continue into the green interior, climbing the steep mountains and enjoying the colours as we make our way to Rui Vaz where we enjoy a lunch of local produce in the shadow of Pico da Antonia. We will see local farms and drive past the only water dam in Cape Verde before returning to the MS Hebridean Sky and sailing this evening.
Day 4 - Day 4 Tarrafal, Sao Nicolau.
Sao Nicolau is a charming, peaceful and attractive island of plantations, small holdings and busy farming villages. It also has impressive, almost untouched mountain scenery, friendly residents and lively traditions. During our tour we will drive through a spectacular landscape towards the historical capital of Ribeira Brava. Here we will discover the lively centre of the island which reflects the character of the people and learn why Ribeira Brava was the bedrock of Cape Verdean intellect in the 19th century. After lunch enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Day 5 - Day 5 Porto Novo, Santo Antao.
We have a full day on the most beautiful of the islands, Santo Antao. Driving up the old trading route, we pass the volcanic crater ‘Cova’ with its agricultural plantations and enjoy panoramic views of the island. After lunch in the seaside village of Ponta do Sol, we will take the coastal road towards the greenest valley in the archipelago, The Itinerary the valley of Paul. Here we will enjoy a coffee break whilst learning about the production of sugarcane on the island. Also discover ‘Grogue’, the national drink of the islands and have a taste of it at the oldest traditional Grogue distillery on the island. Drive back along the coast to the southern side of the island and the MS Hebridean Sky. This evening we sail the short distance to Mindelo where we moor overnight.
Day 6 - Day 6 Mindelo, Sao Vicente.
Enjoy a full day in Mindelo, one of the most attractive of all the Cape Verde towns with its colonial buildings, cobbled streets, cafes and lively restaurants. This morning we will depart on a morning discovery tour of the lively markets and the secret corners of the harbour town followed by a coffee break in a typical Cape Verdean bar. The afternoon is free to further explore the vibrant town independently. Before we sail this evening, we will be entertained by local music and capoeira on board.
Day 7 - Days 7 & 8 At Sea.
Spend two relaxing days at sea as we continue our journey north. Take the opportunity to find a spot on deck, join a lecture in the lounge or relax with a book in the library.
Day 8 - Day 9 Dakhla, Western Sahara.
Over breakfast we arrive on the African mainland at the port of Dakhla. The town occupies a long peninsula which juts out into the Atlantic. During our morning ashore we will drive past stunning sand dunes before arriving at this friendly town with its white-washed houses and learn about some of the traditions of this remote region. Return to the ship as we continue our journey north with an afternoon at sea.
Day 9 - Day 10 El Marsa.
From the port of El Marsa we will drive across the sand dunes to the city of Laayoune. There are not many travellers who can boast of a visit to the territory of Western Sahara. Mostly consisting of flat desert, it is one of the least populated regions in the world. Surprisingly, it makes for a really interesting visit as we spend an afternoon taking in the unique Spanish- Saharan architecture in the old town including the Catholic cathedral, the camel market and the craft workshops.
Day 10 - Day 11 Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands.
The easternmost corner of the Canary Islands, the island of Lanzarote features a bizarre landscape, born of volcanic activity over many millennia, having a rare beauty that is not unlike the surface of the moon. Few places on earth can offer such diverse natural phenomena in such a small area, from eerie formations of petrified lava to beaches of black volcanic sand and fertile fields to vineyards growing in the depths of volcanic craters. It was this landscape that inspired artist Cesar Manrique, a multifaceted artist who knew how to combine art and nature like nobody else. He left part of his artistic legacy in Lanzarote and perhaps the greatest exponent is Los Jameos del Agua. This volcanic tunnel, with its famous, spectacular natural auditorium, is home to a highly singular geological formation. The Mirador del Rio is another creation of his, a natural vantage point offering spectacular views of the Chinijo Archipelago.
Day 11 - Day 12 Agadir, Morocco.
We make our first call in Morocco in the vast Bay of Agadir for our exploration of the city. Almost completely destroyed in the 1960 earthquake, some of the city’s heritage did survive including the hilltop Kasbah. We will take a scenic cable car ride to the Kasbah Oufella, offering panoramic views of the bay. After viewing this historic fortress we continue to Souk El Had, the city’s vibrant central market and the Talborjt Mosque, before we end at the charming artisan village of the Coco Polizzi Medina with its unique architecture and local art. Return to the ship for lunch and a leisurely afternoon on board as we sail to Safi.
Day 12 - Day 13 Safi for Essaouira.
Arrive this morning in Safi, one of the ancient cities in Morocco. Founded by the Almohades, the city became an important religious and cultural centre and is still the largest of five historic Atlantic ports. You may choose to explore the city on a morning tour, taking in the views from the Sidi Bouzid promenade before visiting the Ceramic Museum and the heart of the medina. Visit the stalls in the ‘Rue du Souq’ before continuing to the pottery quarter to see the local craftsmen creating brightly coloured ceramics by traditional methods. Alternatively a full day tour will head along the coast to Essaouira. Founded in the 18th century, Essaouira was built to be a rival city to Agadir. Formerly known as Mogador, meaning small fortress, it was designed as a fortified town surrounded by Vauban-style ramparts and played a major role as an international trading seaport, linking Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa with Europe and the rest of the world. We will see the amazing mixture of Portuguese and Berber architecture, the 16th century sea bastions built to protect the city, the 18th century Medina, and in the Mellah we will find the souks dedicated to gold, spices and fish. Enjoy lunch near the beach before returning to the MS Hebridean Sky. Sail this evening.
Day 13 - Day 14 Casablanca.
Over lunch we arrive in Casablanca and on a guided afternoon tour we will visit the city’s most important sights including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the market. The highlight of our tour is a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, the largest religious monument in the world after Mecca. It took 3300 traditional Moroccan artisans to create the beautiful mosaics, marble floors and splendid wood ceilings. The mosque also features the world’s tallest minaret, soaring 200 metres above the city. Dinner is served on board as we moor overnight.
Day 14 - Day 15 Casablanca to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 15 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £9,495Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £9,795Byrd Deck Superior Suite
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £9,995Mawson Deck Premium Suite
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £10,295Mawson Deck Corner Suite
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £10,895Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £10,995Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £11,495Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £11,795Byrd Deck Superior Sole
21-02-202806-03-2028GBP £11,995Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite

Inclusions

    • Discover the remote Cape Verde Islands – Explore volcanic landscapes, historic Cidade Velha, lush mountain valleys, traditional villages and the colourful streets and musical culture of Mindelo.
    • Journey through Western Sahara and Lanzarote – Visit the remote desert settlements of Dakhla and Laayoune before discovering Lanzarote’s extraordinary volcanic landscapes and César Manrique’s distinctive art and architecture.
    • Explore Morocco’s Atlantic coast – Experience Agadir’s historic Kasbah and bustling souks, discover the ceramics and medina of Safi or atmospheric Essaouira, and visit Casablanca’s magnificent Hassan II Mosque.

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