Day 1 Home pick up for the journey to Southampton to board the Borealis which will set sail late afternoon.
Days 2 to 5 Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities that have been planned for you.
Day 6 Early morning arrival to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The winter sun makes it perfect for exploring its beautiful beaches, including the manmade golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas in the north and the volcanic black sands of Playa de las Americas in the south. Depart late night.
Day 7 Arrive early morning into Santa Cruz de la Palma. The sun-kissed island offers many opportunities to discover its magnificent landscapes, including strolling through the beautiful old town with its cobbled streets and colourful wooden-balconied houses or the spectacular views and waterfalls of Caldera de Taburiente National Park. Departure will be late evening.
Day 8 Today visit Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, which combines the vibrancy of a modern city with a rich maritime history. Perfectly clear waters lap against golden beaches. Explore the charismatic Historic Quarter, home to the twin towers of Santa Ana Cathedral, built in a unique combination of Renaissance, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles, before discovering picturesque plazas adorned with festive decorations and authentic tapas bars offering delicious dishes like “papas arrugadas” (wrinkly potatoes) with spicy majo sauce. Depart late afternoon.
Days 9 & 10 Early morning arrival to Funchal, Madeira. The glorious island is known as the ‘Garden Island’ due to its array of subtropical flowers and plants. Sample traditional foods and the renowned fortified Madeiran wine, witness local Bailinho dances, or visit one of Europe’s tallest cliffs, Cabo Girao, standing 580 metres above sea level, with a suspended glass platform viewpoint. You will spend New Year’s Eve here to marvel at the outstanding fireworks display above the island.
Day 11 At sea.
Days 12 & 13 Early afternoon arrival in Lisbon. January allows for opportunities to explore at a slower pace, including marvelling at views across the city from the many miradouros (viewpoints). You will also be ideally placed for wandering along the labyrinth of cobblestoned streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, which offers a captivating journey through the city, from the grandeur of São Jorge Castle to the stirring rhythms of Fado music. Overnight in port.
Day 14 and 15 At sea.
Day 16 Arrive early morning in Southampton. Disembark to commence your journey home.