Atlantic Expedition

In Rio De Janeiro endless buildings flow around densely-forested mountains that roll down to an evocative waterfront. Incredible natural attractions, spontaneity that transforms everything into a party and world-famous monuments all make this city an unforgettable destination. Ships will dock at Pier Maua.

Top Things to Do in Rio De Janeiro:

• Ascend Mt. Corcovado to get up close to the Christ the Redeemer statue
• Relax on Ipanema or Copacabana beach
• take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain
• explore Tijuca National Park

The oldest and most historic city in Brazil is renowned for its deeply rooted Afro-Brazilian culture. Its colourful centre is full of colonial architecture and an amazing number of magnificent baroque churches, giving Salvador the nickname 'Black Rome.' Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Salvador De Bahia:

• enjoy the views at the Farol da Barra lighthouse
• shop at the Mercado Modelo
• visit the Bonfim Church
• drive along the Coconut Coast

Maceió, the capital of Alagoas in Brazil, dazzles with its stunning coastline, featuring powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The city is a treasure trove of natural beauty, from the serene Pajuçara Beach, where jangadas (traditional sailboats) ferry visitors to natural pools, to the vibrant Mercado do Artesanato, a marketplace brimming with local crafts and flavors.

Visitors to Maceió can immerse themselves in the city's lively culture and cuisine, sampling traditional dishes like tapioca and freshly caught seafood. For those looking to explore beyond the beach, the nearby lagoons and coconut plantations offer a glimpse into the region's lush landscapes and agricultural heritage. Maceió's warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere make it an inviting destination for cruise travelers.

Stretching across three islands, Recife's cityscape is accented with scenic inlets, canals and bridges, in addition to its famous beaches. What began as a scattering of fishing shacks in the 16th century is now a vibrant city that boasts delicious cuisine, colourful markets and a lively nightlife. Ships will dock at this port. 

Top Things to Do in Recife:

• tour the colonial city of Olinda
• visit the Casa da Cultura (Artisanal Mall)
  
• cruise through central Recife by catamaran
• visit the Institute Ricardo Brennand
• tour the Museum of the Man of the Northeast

A large, sprawling city in Brazil’s northeast, Fortaleza tempts with a variety of urban beaches and rich culture. This is a city shaped by its port with equal parts industry and culture, here you’ll find a flourishing arts scene and coastal-inspired gastronomy. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Fortaleza:

• visit the Cachaça Museum
• relax on Cumbuco Beach
• admire the Fortaleza Cathedral
• spend the day at Porto das Dunas Beach Park

Enjoy charming São Vicente and the amazing landscape here and on nearby Santo Antão. Stroll through town past vibrant markets and the replica of Lisbon’s Belem Tower. Visit the stark but lovely lunar-like beach at Catfish Bay. On Santo Antão see lush and rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.

Mindelo, nestled on São Vicente Island in Cape Verde, stands as a cultural jewel, renowned for its lively music scene and colonial charm. This city is a hub of creativity, home to the famous Carnival that rivals Brazil's with its vibrant costumes and infectious rhythms, showcasing the rich Creole culture of the island.

The waterfront area, with its colorful buildings and bustling markets, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. The Mercado de Peixe (fish market) provides a glimpse into local life, offering fresh seafood and the chance to mingle with friendly locals. For art enthusiasts, the Centro Cultural offers insights into the island's artistic traditions. Mindelo's natural harbor, Porto Grande, is a testament to its historical significance as a coaling station for transatlantic shipping, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its lively cultural tapestry.

The capital of Senegal, Dakar, is an enigmatic and endlessly explorable city. Jutting out on the Cape Vert Peninsula with glorious surf-fringed beaches, the former colonial trading post is the westernmost point of the African continent. Ships will dock at the Mole 1 Terminal in Port de Dakar.

Top Things to Do in Dakar:

• visit the Museum of Black Civilizations
• learn about the African slave trade on Goree Island
• admire the pink Lake Retba
• shop at the Kermel Market

Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, stands on an island at the mouth of the Gambia River, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. Key sites include the bustling Albert Market, where travelers can immerse themselves in the local atmosphere, finding everything from fresh produce to vibrant textiles. The African Heritage Museum is another must-visit, showcasing the rich history and art of the region.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Kiang West National Park and the Abuko Nature Reserve, where West Africa's diverse flora and fauna, including rare birds and monkeys, can be observed in their natural habitats. These natural reserves are a short drive from the city, making them perfect for visitors looking for an easy day trip to experience The Gambia's remarkable wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Abidjan, the vibrant heart of Ivory Coast, offers a captivating mix of African culture with a modern twist. The city's skyline, marked by the St. Paul's Cathedral's stunning architecture, reflects its dynamic spirit. The Treichville Market, bustling with life, offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle, showcasing colorful fabrics, exotic spices, and handcrafted goods.

For those interested in art and history, the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire is a treasure trove of Ivorian heritage, featuring an extensive collection of traditional masks, sculptures, and artifacts. Abidjan's serene Parc National du Banco provides a refreshing escape with its lush rainforest trails, offering a peaceful retreat close to the urban excitement. This juxtaposition of urban energy and natural tranquility makes Abidjan a fascinating destination

The twin city of Sekondi-Takoradi was Ghana's first deepwater seaport and has prospered greatly. Still, the ambiance is rather laid-back, especially in the inviting beach areas. Monkey Hill, a tropical reserve for primates, lies in the heart of the city and offers a unique opportunity to observe monkeys in their natural habitat.

Nearby, Fort Orange, built by the Dutch in the 17th century, now serves as a lighthouse and stands as a historical monument with panoramic views of the coastline. The lively Takoradi Market Circle is another highlight, providing a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of traditional goods.

Lomé, the capital of Togo, is uniquely positioned as a vibrant coastal city along the Gulf of Guinea. Known for its palm-lined boulevards and bustling markets, the city offers a dynamic mix of cultural experiences. The Grand Marché is a focal point, a sprawling market where textiles, spices, and local crafts abound, reflecting the rich tapestry of West African life.

The city's architecture displays an intriguing blend of traditional, colonial, and modern styles, with the Independence Monument marking a significant national landmark. Lomé's coastline features extensive beaches that invite relaxation and leisure activities. Additionally, the Lomé Cathedral and the Togo National Museum, housing historical and cultural artifacts, provide insights into the nation's heritage and artistic expressions.

Cotonou, Benin's vibrant economic hub, is a bustling city on the Gulf of Guinea. Its lively Dantokpa Market, one of West Africa’s largest, offers a sensory overload with its colourful displays of local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. The city is also home to the Foundation Zinsou, a premier museum showcasing contemporary African art.

Take a stroll along the seafront at Fidjrosse Beach, where you can relax or enjoy local cuisine at nearby eateries. The Notre Dame des Apôtres Cathedral, with its striking red and white architecture, is another must-see. Cotonou’s energetic atmosphere, cultural richness, and coastal beauty provide a dynamic and engaging experience

São Tomé, the capital city of São Tomé and Príncipe, is situated on the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea. This enchanting city is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and offers a rich tapestry of colonial Portuguese architecture, evident in landmarks like the São Sebastião Museum housed in a picturesque fortress. The museum displays artefacts that trace the island’s history of sugar, cocoa, and coffee production alongside African art.

The city is a charming blend of colourful buildings, bustling markets, and quaint cafés where visitors can taste the local São Toméan coffee and chocolate, renowned for their quality. The waterfront provides a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful views, making São Tomé a peaceful yet intriguing destination, marked by an intimate connection with nature and history.

Walvis Bay is the principal port of Namibia and is situated on the west coast of southern Africa - a quirky town focused around the busy harbour with many townspeople employed in the huge fishing and shipping industry that operates out of it.

One of the most unique and interesting aspects of Walvis Bay is it's huge natural lagoon. This always has numerous seabirds on and around it. Over 100,000 birds were counted on the lagoon, the most noticeable being flamingos and pelicans. These are joined annually by another 200,000 migratory birds, making this an excellent place for keen birdwatchers.

Lüderitz, nestled between the arid Namib Desert and the rugged Atlantic coast, offers a striking contrast with its German colonial architecture set against stark natural beauty. The town's colorful buildings and the iconic Felsenkirche, perched on a hill, provide a captivating backdrop. Nearby, the ghost town of Kolmanskop tells the eerie tale of a diamond rush long faded.

A much more haunting location, with an incredibly dark past, is Shark Island - which witnessed the deaths of between 1,000 and 3,000 people when it was the location of a German concentration camp, between 1905 and 1907. Inland from Luderitz is Kolmanskop, the site of a famous diamond mine and ghost town.

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries