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Peregrine Travel Centre

Passage to Cape Verde

Passage to Cape Verde

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Description

Join us aboard the wonderfully comfortable MS Island Sky for a journey that will take us from the Canary Islands, where we will visit some of the lesser known of these captivating islands, along the coastline of Western Sahara and on to the Cape Verde archipelago. Our itinerary has been carefully designed so that we can fully explore the dramatic beauty and cultural vibrancy of these amazingly varied groups of islands, each one having a distinct culture and landscape, and our small ship is the ideal way to make the most of the region. Whether your interests lie in botany, geology or walking, we are confident that you will find this cruise the perfect antidote to the cold and grey October skies at home.

Our voyage begins with an exploration of the Canary Islands; this Atlantic archipelago consists of seven main islands that are formed from the tips of a vast volcanic mountain range that lies beneath the Atlantic Ocean and we will visit La Gomera, La Palma and Gran Canaria where we can enjoy nature at its very best. These volcanic islands impress with their unique flora and fauna and boast rugged, rocky landscapes, evergreen cloud forests, metre-high ferns and bizarre-looking dragon trees. Continue on to Western Sahara where we will call into two little-visited places along the coast and travel overland to the desert city of Laayoune. This region promises to be a most memorable experience and, for those who enjoy visiting out of the way places where tourists are a rarity, it is a unique opportunity. Reaching the Cape Verde Islands, we have three full days to explore this remote archipelago where we will island hop, exploring volcanic landscapes, colonial towns and villages and breathtaking beaches.

Trip Name
Passage to Cape Verde
Days
12
Overview
Vessel Type:  Luxury Small Ship Length:  90 metres Passenger Capacity:  116  Built / refurbished:  1992 / 2010 / 2017 Sister ship to Hebridean Sky. Island Sky and Hebridean Sky are truly sisters. Built in the same Italian Shipyard, both boast spacious, well-appointed suites, stylish common areas, and redundant core technology that allows them to operate smoothly, even under the most challenging of conditions. Both ships are all-suite, all-inclusive small expedition vessels with touches of elegance throughout. The Island Sky is scheduled for additional upgrades in 2017, including the addition of tinted sliding glass doors to all cabins on the Promenade Deck. Services: World-Class Cuisine Complimentary Wine or Beer with Dinner Live Entertainment Complimentary Coffee/Tea station Voyage Photographer On-board MD and Facilities Dedicated Passenger Service Manager Pre-voyage hotel night Complimentary Expedition Jacket Facilities: Elevator serving all passenger decks Upgraded WIFI Internet Library with computers Panoramic Top Deck Observation Platform Bar/Lounge with Live Entertainment Lounge with Audiovisual Facilities DVD Movie Library Tinted sliding glass doors in all cabins on the Promenade Deck World-Class Cuisine: Great expeditions require great food! Our team of world-class chefs offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that change daily. They have boat-loads of creativity, so you are sure to experience a variety of remarkable cuisine throughout your voyage. Accommodations: All Suites Feature: Exterior views Your choice of queen-sized or two twin-sized beds Sitting area with sofa and side chair Flat Screen TV with DVD/CD player Telephone Independent temperature controls Mini-Bar Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries Hair dryer 220 square feet or more Sofa can be converted to bed for third person Owner's, Penthouse & Veranda Suites: INCLUDE ALL STANDARD FEATURES PLUS: En suite Champagne & Chocolates on Arrival Complimentary mini-bar (beer, wine & soft drinks) En suite Nespresso machine Promenade & Deluxe Suites: INCLUDE ALL STANDARD FEATURES PLUS: Tinted sliding glass doors, bringing Antarctica into your suite and giving easy access to the outer deck En suite Champagne & Chocolates on Arrival Complimentary mini-bar (beer, wine & soft drinks) En suite Nespresso machine available on request

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - London Gatwick to Tenerife, Canary Islands.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Island Sky and enjoy Welcome Dinner and Drinks as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Day 2 - La Gomera.
La Gomera is a paradise of natural beauty, with lush valleys and awe-inspiring cliffs dotted with charming whitewashed villages, and gives the impression of being lost in a time warp. On a full day tour we will explore the island including Garajonay National Park, home to the world’s only surviving laurel forest, and visit the villages of Hermiqua, Agulo and Las Rosas before making our way to a local restaurant for lunch. We will also experience a demonstration of Silbo Gomero, the island’s unique whistling language, and visit the magnificent rock formations of Agando. Alternatively, you may wish to join a guided morning trek through the Garajonay National Park commencing in the village of El Cedro which offers some interesting examples of Canarias architecture. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon will be at leisure for individual exploration.
Day 3 - Day 3 - La Palma.
La Palma is known by locals as the ‘Beautiful Island’, and it is easy to see why. It is simply a stunning, peaceful and, most importantly, an unspoilt destination that has deservedly been declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This morning drive inland to the beautiful village of El Paso and visit the Silk Museum - the only place in Europe where the 500-year old tradition and processes have been preserved. From here we will continue onto the Caldera de Taburiente, a massive depression eight kilometres wide which scientists agree was a majestically tall volcanic mountain that collapsed on itself. Explore on foot and, whilst all may seem stoic and still, the forces of erosion are hard at work, some geologists estimate that it will finally disappear in just 5000 years. Alternatively, for those who would prefer a more energetic excursion there will be a guided trek on offer through the El Pilar area; see remains of volcanic eruptions, the magnificent views of the Valley of Aridane and the crater wall that surrounds the Taburiente National Park. This afternoon will be at leisure to relax on board the ship or a shuttle service will run to Los Llanos de Aridane for independent exploration, the La Palma Archaeological Museum is well worth a visit.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Las Palmas, Gran Canaria.
Diverse landscapes ranging from verdant to volcanic mountains and onto desert, lead many to call Gran Canaria a miniature continent. Historically a bridge between the old and new worlds, the island’s legacy has been formed by a unique maritime history. We arrive at lunchtime and drive inland to explore the Bandama Crater, nearly 1900 feet above sea level with panoramic views across the island, before visiting Teror, a charming town of whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs and ornately carved balconies. Refreshments will be served in the relaxed setting of an old Hacienda known for its colonial architecture and set amidst banana plantations.
Day 5 - Day 5 - El Marsa for Laayoune, Western Sahara.
From the port of El Marsa 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. It makes for a really interesting morning as we take in the unique Spanish-Saharan architecture in the old town, visit the Roman Catholic church, the Moulay Abdelaziz Mosque and see the food and artisan markets. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Dakhla.
After a morning at sea we arrive after lunch at Dakhla in the far south of Western Sahara. The town occupies a long peninsula which juts out into the Atlantic and is well off the traditional tourist routes. We will drive along the lagoon, a paradise for migratory birds, before visiting a Sahraoui camp in the sand dunes. We will learn about the nomadic Sahraoui culture, partake in a tea ceremony and use the 4x4 vehicles to see the stunning views from the top of the dunes. Return to the ship and sail this evening.
Day 7 - Day 7 - At Sea.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we continue our journey south towards the Cape Verde Islands.
Day 8 - Day 8 - Sal, Cape Verde.
After a morning at sea we arrive later in the afternoon in the Cape Verde Islands, a varied archipelago of islands off the West African coast. The island of Sal was relatively undeveloped until the mid-nineteenth century when salt export business was developed and there is a choice of excursion on offer here. Chose to visit one of the original sites at Pedra de Lume. Here you will see the saltpans, learn of the salt extraction process and even have the chance to float in the waters. Alternatively, join the transfer to the town of Santa Maria for a relaxing afternoon swimming from the beaches or exploring the local shops for Cape Verdean crafts.
Day 9 - Day 9 - Mindelo.
Enjoy a full day in Mindelo, one of the most attractive of all Cape Verde’s towns with its colonial buildings, cobbled streets, cafes and lively restaurants. Depart on a morning discovery tour of the lively markets and the secret corners of the harbour town. After a coffee break in a typical Cape Verdean bar, learn about the life of the local artists and their works by visiting the national museum of handicraft. The afternoon is free to further explore the vibrant town independently. We will be entertained by local music and capoeira on board as we moor overnight.
Day 10 - Day 10 - Sao Antao.
We have a full day on the most beautiful of the islands, Sao Antao. Driving up the old trading route, we pass the volcanic crater ‘Cova’ with its agricultural plantations and enjoy panoramic views of the island before arriving in the tiny picturesque mountain village of Fontainhas, on the northern side 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 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 of the island. Drive back along the coast to the southern side of the island and our waiting ship. Moor overnight.
Day 11 - Day 11 - Praia to London Heathrow.
Disembark this morning and explore the historic capital of Praia. Praia has a wonderful African feel and we visit Cidade Velha, the old Portuguese Fogo capital with a rich history and 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 climb to Rui Vaz where we enjoy 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 transferring to the airport for our scheduled overnight flight to London Heathrow via Lisbon.
Day 12 - Day 12 - London Heathrow.
Arrive this morning.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

    • Discover La Gomera
    • a paradise of natural beauty
    • See La Palma that is known by locals as the ‘Beautiful Island’
    • Explore the territories of Western Sahara
    • Enjoy a full day in Mindelo, one of the most attractive of all Cape Verde’s towns

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