Description
Macaronesia is the name for the Atlantic islands off the North African coast. It is also – according to mythology – the winterless resting place for the fortunate heroes of the Greek pantheon. On board Albatros’ brand-new expedition vessel Ocean Albatros we now have the fortune to visit five small sanctuaries in this long chain of volcanic islands. From two islands in Cape Verde Archipelago via La Gomera and Tenerife in the Canaries to Portuguese Madeira. After a unique 11-days’ voyage we reach Lisbon in Portugal and bid farewell to the crew and vessel.
Each of the islands we visit has its origin from a so-called hotspot of molten magma resting deep under the ocean floor. At intervals, the lava breaks through to form yet another island, while the older volcanoes slowly erode and disappear as submerged seamounts. On all our visits we will see evidence of this hot volcanic past from huge craters to steaming fumaroles and tell-tale lava formations showing signs from their molten creation. As we travel north across the Tropic of Cancer and into the trade winds, we go from desert-dry landscapes to cooler and more humid climates enabling local farmers to exploit the immense fertile value of volcanic soils. During the cruise we will experience the diverse cultures from the easy-going Caribbean ambiance in Cape Verde to hardworking mountain farmers on Madeira.
Ocean Albatros offers all the comfort needed for this long voyage. She is specifically designed to provide a better expedition experience than any other ship. The patented X-bow and zero speed stabilizers provide a calmer ride and reduces discomfort for passengers with a tendency to seasickness.