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Peregrine Travel Centre

Continental Crossroads: Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands

Continental Crossroads: Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands

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Description

Sail a storied route between the Canary Islands, Morocco and Spain, where volcanic landscapes meet vibrant coastal cities and timeless medinas echo with centuries of trade and tradition. Along the way, uncover a mosaic of histories—Roman theatres, Moorish fortresses, Andalusian palaces and bustling souks—each revealing the layers of empire and exchange that have shaped these shores. From windswept Atlantic ramparts to sunlit Mediterranean plazas, step into the living history of two continents while savoring the food, music and customs that bring their cultures vibrantly to life. 

Trip Name
Continental Crossroads: Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands
Days
12
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 103 metres Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins) Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014 With just 53 cabins, National Geographic Orion offers an intimate and refined platform for exploring some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich regions—from the Pacific Islands and Asia to Antarctica and the Mediterranean. Purpose-built for expedition travel, she boasts an ice-class hull for navigating polar waters and exceptional manoeuvrability that enables access to secluded bays, narrow inlets and winding rivers—places far beyond the reach of larger cruise ships. Life aboard Orion is designed to immerse guests in the natural world, with panoramic deck spaces, a whirlpool hot tub, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Her public areas include two relaxed dining venues, a lounge with bar, an observation library, fitness centre and spa, as well as the OM System Photo Gear Locker to support photography at all levels. Open-Bridge access allows guests to connect with the ship’s officers and learn about navigation first-hand. Whether sailing through polar pack ice or anchoring off a tropical atoll, Orion delivers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Barcelona, Spain / Embark Ship
Arrive in Barcelona and transfer to the centrally located hospitality space. This afternoon, explore the city at your own pace, enjoying its architectural masterpieces, the lively street rhythms of Las Ramblas or the beautiful views atop Montjuic. Embark the ship in the late afternoon and enjoy your first evening in the Mediterranean.
Day 2 - Day 2 Columbretes Islands
The ship anchors near the city of Castellón on mainland Spain. From here, enjoy water activities in the Columbretes Islands, an archipelago 30 miles off the coast. The islands are a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities to observe endemic species such as Andouin's gull, Eleonora's falcon and Scopoli's shearwater.
Day 3 - Day 3 Valencia
Begin your exploration of Valencia with a visit to its majestic cathedral, home to the revered Holy Chalice—believed by many to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. Savor an authentic paella, the city’s signature dish, before exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex where science, culture and architecture converge. Later, set out independently to wander the winding streets of the old quarter, browse the bustling Mercado Central or take in world-class art at the Palau de les Arts.
Day 4 - Day 4 Cartagena
In Cartagena experience a tapas tour, weaving through narrow lanes and bustling terraces. Head toward the Cartagena Night Market, held in the summer along the harbor or central squares. Explore the rich tapestry of Cartagena’s history, from its ancient Roman origins to its strategic military importance through the centuries. See the stunning Roman Theatre, the Augustus Temple and city walls.
Day 5 - Day 5 Málaga
Málaga is one of Spain’s oldest cities—a vibrant coastal destination where ancient history and modern culture live side by side. Visit the Alcazaba of Málaga, one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Spain, and the Castillo de Gibralfaro—a 14th-century fortress that once defended the Alcazaba and the city below. 
Day 6 - Day 6 Tangier, Morocco
Tangier sits just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain and has long served as a gateway between Africa and Europe—a true cultural crossroads. Wander through the winding streets of the medina, climb to the kasbah or visit the American Legation Museum, a symbol of centuries-old diplomacy. 
Day 7 - Day 7 Casablanca
Meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and a hub of industry on Africa’s west coast. The architecture of the city is an eclectic blend of influences from Moorish design to the French Art Deco era and more. Explore the bustling old medina, where the twisting cobbled streets are lined with whitewashed buildings and alive with activity. Stroll along the Corniche, the popular boardwalk by the sea. Witness the vast beauty of Hassan II Mosque, built on an outcrop jutting out over the ocean.   
Day 8 - Day 8 Essaouira
Essaouira, a coastal gem on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is known for its whitewashed medina, dramatic sea walls and blend of Berber, Arab, Jewish and European influences. Today, visit the old medina, relax in traditional Moroccan hammams or enjoy a tour of the local architecture. 
Day 9 - Day 9 Agadir
Nestled between the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir is one of Morocco’s most modern cities. Destroyed by a major earthquake in 1960, the city has been rebuilt to its current vitality while still retaining its rich history. A beautiful example of this is La Medina d’Agadir, which was recreated in the 1990s using traditional Berber methods. Overlooking the city, the kasbah is one of the few structures that survived the quake. Hike to the top to take in stunning views and the medieval architecture of this fortress. 
Day 10 - Day 10 At Sea
Spend a relaxing day at sea en route to the Canary Islands. Join the officers on the Bridge to learn about navigating the western coast of Africa, attend an engaging talk with one of the naturalists or take advantage of the ship’s amenities, such as a rejuvenating spa treatment with the wellness specialist.
Day 11 - Day 11 Arrecife, Canary Islands, Spain
Go ashore in Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, and venture into Timanfaya National Park to witness volcanic peaks and craters shaped by eruptions as recently as 300 years ago. Explore the Castillo de San Gabriel, a 16th-century fortress set on a small island in Arrecife’s harbor and built to defend against pirate attacks. Explore the Museo de Historia de Arrecife inside the castle walls to uncover the city’s pre-Hispanic past and the unique natural history of the island.
Day 12 - Day 12 Las Palmas / Disembark Ship
Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and proceeding to the airport for onward flights. 
Day 13 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Venture into bustling Moroccan medinas and impressive kasbahs that showcase a cultural tapestry of Arab, Berber, Jewish and European influences
    • Discover Cartagena’s rich history at the ancient Roman Theatre and Augustus Temple, then immerse yourself in modern life during a city tapas tour
    • Uncover the pirate history of the Canary Islands at Castillo de San Gabriel, and travel through the volcanic landscapes and lunar-like peaks of nearby Timanfaya National Park
    • Explore Málaga’s Alcazaba and Castillo de Gibralfaro, two remarkable Moorish strongholds that safeguarded the city against invaders for centuries
    • Experience the Columbretes Islands, a haven for endemic bird species, such as Audouin’s gull, Eleonora’s falcon and Scopoli’s shearwater

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