Las Palmas to Lisbon

Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, offers a blend of historic charm and vibrant urban life. The historic quarter, Vegueta, is a must-visit with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Ana. The Casa de Colón museum provides fascinating insights into Christopher Columbus's voyages and the island's history.

For beach lovers, Las Canteras Beach is a stunning urban beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, overlooking the Atlantic, hosts various cultural events. Stroll along the picturesque promenade, enjoy local cuisine at seaside restaurants, and experience the lively atmosphere of this dynamic Canary Islands city.

Madeira, an enchanting archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, is renowned for its lush landscapes and year-round spring-like climate. Start your exploration with a visit to the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal, where you can savor local fruits and admire the island's famous flowers. Don't miss the awe-inspiring views from Cabo Girão, one of the world's highest sea cliffs.

For a unique experience, take a leisurely stroll through the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with endemic plants and wildlife. Wine enthusiasts should visit the Madeira Wine Museum to sample the island's renowned fortified wines.

Ships docking in Funchal, Madeira, use the Port of Funchal, located about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the city center. This short distance can be covered in around 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus. The port is conveniently situated, allowing easy access to Funchal's charming streets, vibrant markets, and stunning botanical gardens. To explore Funchal, taxis and local buses are readily available. A popular spot is the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, reachable by cable car offering panoramic views. Don't miss the traditional wicker toboggan ride down to Livramento.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a city steeped in history. The island’s spectrum of vistas goes from sea to sky, from golden beaches to lush mountains, including the stunning UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Anaga Mountain. As the vibrant capital of the island, Santa Cruz offers a plethora of activities; enjoy the historic downtown (where you can admire the colonial architecture and visit the Church of the Immaculate Conception) or relax on the golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas. Culinary enthusiasts won’t be left wanting either - savor local Canarian dishes, including the indomitable Papas Arrugadas con Mojo (small, boiled potatoes with a red or green sauce). The destination’s origins date back to the 15th century when it served as a crucial stopover for explorers en route to the New World when Alonso Fernández de Lugo arrived on the island of Tenerife and conquered the indigenous Guanche kingdoms. In the region where Santa Cruz now stands, the Guanches had a settlement known as Añazo, which was later destroyed by the Spanish.

Nestled on the east coast of Lanzarote is the island's capital, Arrecife, named after the rocky reefs and outcrops that dominate its coastline. This pretty working city has a friendly, authentic feel, and has managed to remain true to its roots as a historic fishing village. Ships will dock at either Muelle de los Mármoles or the Arrecife Cruise Terminal. The terminal is about 3 km (1.8 miles) from the city center, a short 10-minute drive. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available, providing easy access to the city and its attractions.

Explore the Charco de San Ginés, a picturesque lagoon surrounded by charming whitewashed houses and local eateries. Visit the Castillo de San José, a historic fortress now housing the International Museum of Contemporary Art. For those interested in shopping, the bustling Marina Lanzarote is nearby, offering a variety of shops and dining options.

Sun, sand and sea is what Agadir is famous for, yet there's much more to discover in this beach city at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. A devastating earthquake in 1960 reset the townscape but remnants of Morocco’s past can be found amid the ruins of the original Kasbah, the bustling maze of streets that is the souk, and the port where fishermen still bring in their catch each day, which you can try fresh from the grill. Take this all in from the Kasbah built in 1990 by Italian architect Coco Polizzi, which doubles as the place for fabulous views of the city and its coast.

Morocco's largest city is a vision in contrasts, modern neighbourhoods host whitewashed houses along broad, tree-lined avenues, while the walled Old Medina presents narrow alleys and traditional architecture. Casablanca is your gateway to Morocco's interior and the exotic 'Imperial Cities' of Rabat and Marrakech. Ships will dock at the port of Casablanca.

Top Things to Do in Casablanca:

• admire the King Hassan II Mosque
• wander the markets of Marrakech
• stroll the streets of the Habous Quarter
• visit the fortified Portuguese city, Mazagan

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

From Moorish walls and Manueline carvings to elaborate azulejo tiles and Gothic arches – the traces of Lisbon’s rich history can be seen and felt simply by wandering its storied (and rather hilly) streets. But Europe’s second-oldest city is also one of its most cosmopolitan, and amid historic landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery and São Jorge Castle, you’ll find chic rooftop bars with views across red terracotta rooftops and the sparkling Tagus river, design-led concept stores selling artisanal souvenirs, and stylish restaurants serving up inventive takes on local ingredients.