Reiseverlauf

Reiseverlauf abhängig von Wetterkonditionen. Beschriebene Naturerlebnisse / Tiersichtungen sind mögliche Ereignisse auf den Expeditionen und nicht garantiert.

• Day 1 Arrive Barcelona, Spain

  Welcome to Spain. On arrival at Barcelona Airport make your way to the Arrivals Hall, to meet our representative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Barcelona. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship. Join us this evening for drinks and canapes as we celebrate the start of our journey. Accommodation: Barcelona Hotel. Meals: Welcome Reception (drinks and canapés). *Note: to not miss our Welcome Reception, please ensure your flight to arrive in Barcelona no later than 2:00pm.

• Day 2 Embark Barcelona (Port: Barcelona)

  Socially, culturally and industrially, Barcelona shines as a beacon of difference in Spain. Proudly Catalonian first and Spanish second, its people are free-spirited, liberal thinkers with a passion for their freedom. In the last 30 years, Barcelonans have sculpted their city into one of Europe’s most venerated travel destinations. Its boulevard-style main street, Las Ramblas, is the name on every traveller’s lips, and Barcelona’s vibrant is as sought after as it was during the Spanish Empire’s monarchal peak. A palatial stronghold of the 15th century power couple, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, Barcelona greeted a jubilant Christopher Columbus upon his return to Spain and the rest as they say, is history. The city has never looked back. Our locally guided panorama tour celebrates the artists and authors who have long revered Barcelona as a living masterpiece. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, the city wears its creativity proudly, with works scattered across plazas and woven into its very architecture. Miró, Picasso, Vidal, and Montaner all called Barcelona home, but it’s the visionary Antoni Gaudí who continues to draw art lovers from around the world. Among the highlights is a viewing of La Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s breathtaking fusion of imagination and faith, where we’ll hear tales of the cathedral’s rich history, intricate symbolism, and the story behind its ongoing construction. We will also take in sweeping views and cultural landmarks at Barcelona’s hilltop lookout of Montjuïc and pass through iconic areas such as Plaza de España and the elegant Gran Via. Before arriving at the port, there’s time to stroll Barcelona’s charming streets, whether you choose to browse local boutiques, linger at a café, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this captivating city. Late afternoon, we board the Douglas Mawson. This evening, we enjoy a Welcome Dinner onboard where we meet our Aurora Expeditions Team and crew. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner onboard.

• Day 3 Mallorca, Balearic Islands (Port: Palma de Mallorca)

  An autonomous region of Spain, the Balearic Islands have seen in recent years an influx of tourists, and Europeans seeking an ‘expat’ lifestyle on a budget. But there is more to these islands than a suntan and a smile. Their history paints a portrait of brave islanders defending their lands from the threat of sizeable empires. The Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, British and Spanish have all left their mark, gifting this eclectic archipelago a story waiting to be told. Palma’s unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and Spanish island charm creates the perfect backdrop for a relaxed stroll. Sample locally produced wine at a cosy wine bar, browse the bustling port filled with fishing boats and yachts, take a refreshing swim at a nearby beach, or hunt for souvenirs. We spend the morning on a ‘Your Choice’ experience, with a complimentary town to ship-shuttle for those wishing to linger in Palma longer, before sailing west to the Spanish coast mid-afternoon. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Panoramic Palma. Discover the highlights of Palma de Mallorca on this locally guided tour. Begin your journey by ascending to Castell de Bellver, a unique 14th-century circular fortress perched high on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay. From there, continue along the scenic coastal road to Cala Major, where you’ll pause for a photo stop near Marivent Palace, the summer residence of the Spanish royal family. Next, head into the heart of Palma for a short, guided stroll through the city’s charming historic centre. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace before returning to the ship for lunch, or choose to linger longer and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital. Option 2 – Morning experience: The Moors of Mallorca. Explore Palma’s majestic Moorish royal precinct on foot with a locally guided tour. Begin at the Palacio Real de la Almudaina, a stunning blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Originally a Moorish fortress, it became the residence of Catholic Monarchs like Ferdinand and Isabella. Today, it serves as a royal residence when the Spanish royal family visits. Next, head next door to the magnificent Cathedral of La Seu, an iconic Gothic masterpiece overlooking the sea. Enhanced by Antoni Gaudí, it stands as a symbol of Mallorcan pride. After the guided introduction, enjoy free time to explore the cathedral and the surrounding area. Return to the ship for lunch or linger longer in Palma’s vibrant capital. Option 3 - Morning experience: Liquid Gold. Olive oil, a cornerstone of Spanish cuisine, is produced with exceptional quality on the island of Mallorca. Revered as "liquid gold" by early traders, Mallorca's organic olive oil has recently become a hallmark of the island. This morning, we delve into the rich history and modern importance of this essential ingredient, exploring its impact on Mallorcan traditions, lifestyle, and economy. At a local olive oil farm, our host will guide us through the production process, sharing the fascinating story of this prized fruit. We’ll gain insights into every aspect of olive oil before savouring its exquisite flavours firsthand.

• Day 4 Valencia (Port: Valencia)

  Sailing west, we reach the sun-drenched city of Valencia. Renowned for its abundant sunshine, delicious oranges, and Spain's iconic dish, paella, Valencia offers a broad range of adventures. Our ‘Your Choice’ morning experiences return us to the Douglas Mawson, where we'll enjoy lunch on board the ship. Join our complimentary port-to-town shuttle this afternoon to explore this fascinating city further, before we sail early evening. Valencia’s Islamic legacy extends beyond its architectural wonders. It remains entrenched in the soul of the city and its inhabitants. It is reflected in how Valencians live; in the jargon they use and in place names scattered throughout the region. The city’s story is one of conquest upon conquest. The home of the mythical El Cid, Valencia was a Moorish town having capitulated without bloodshed, but with the arrival of the Christian armies, its story changed, and it was heavily involved in La Reconquista. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Panoramic Valencia and Spain's favourite collectables. Experience the heart of Spanish artistry and heritage on this fascinating journey through Valencia and the nearby town of Tavernes Blanques, birthplace of the world-renowned Lladró porcelain. A short, scenic drive takes you to the Lladró workshop, where the legacy of three visionary brothers lives on. In Spain, Lladró isn't just a brand—it’s a cultural treasure, adored for its elegance, craftsmanship, and emotional depth. Discover how each delicate piece is brought to life, from concept to kiln, and enjoy time to admire or shop their intricate creations. Returning to Valencia we enjoy a panoramic drive through Valencia’s historic centre, passing landmarks such as the grand Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Mercado Central, and the impressive Torres de Serranos, once part of the city's ancient walls. The tour ends with a photo stop at the spectacular City of Arts and Sciences, Santiago Calatrava’s futuristic architectural complex that showcases Valencia’s bold modern side. Option 2 – Morning experience: The Story of Valencia. Join our walking tour of central Valencia to explore the city’s heart. This tour highlights the city’s eclectic history, with an emphasis on the 500 years of Islamic rule, and La Reconquista – which ended it all. We visit one of the city’s central piazzas where we gain insight into the political and social life of Valencia, before passing through Portal de Valldigna, an entrance to the former Moorish quarter, where we step back in time. It was here that Islamic textiles forged the foundation of a prosperous trade, which became the cornerstone of the Christian city in the 15th century. We visit La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia (The Silk Exchange), which boasts UNESCO World Heritage status. Built between 1482 and 1533, this group of buildings was originally used for trading in silk. They are a masterpiece of late-Gothic architecture, illustrating the power and wealth of Valencia’s Christian merchants whose wealth funded the city’s most famous landmark – the Valencia Cathedral. Filled with treasures, the cathedral houses a chalice believed to be the Holy Grail. Option 3 – Half-day experience: Valencia's scientific wonder. Dominating Valencia’s skyline for over 25 years, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (The City of Arts and Sciences) is a spectacular two-kilometre-long complex celebrating science, nature, and creativity. Divided into distinct experience zones, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is a must-visit for any scientifically curious traveller. To enhance your visit and enable you to explore at your own pace, you’ll receive a ticket for a screening of Postcards from Other Worlds at the Hemisfèric. This stunning 30-minute concave screen planetarium show takes you on a journey through the Solar System, showcasing real images captured by space probes. From the lava fields of Io to the icy plains of Europa, you’ll explore breathtaking alien landscapes with immersive visuals and narration available in multiple languages. A must for anyone curious about space and science. You’ll also receive entry to the City of Arts and Sciences’ renowned Science Museum, a vibrant, hands-on space where science comes to life. Dive into interactive exhibits on physics, space, biology, and technology. Whether you're curious about the cosmos or how the human body works, this museum brings science alive with people travelling from throughout Europe to experience its wondrous world. *Note: general entrance included.

• Day 5 At Sea

  We follow the Spanish coastline south today towards Andalusia and the former Moorish stronghold of Granada. Enjoy a presentation from our master storyteller, relax over a good book in our extensive library, or mingle with your fellow travellers in one of our many social areas.

• Day 6 Granada and Alpujarra (Port: Motril)

  The port of Motril affords us access to the ultimate Moorish city and the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada; the Alpujarra’s. We immerse ourselves in the past, with a choice to spend time with the descendants of those who have lived here for generations or to walk among the greatest architectural achievements of the Moorish Empire and Christian monarchal periods. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Full-day experience: Moorish Granada. More than any former Moorish stronghold, Granada affords visitors an insight into the sophisticated society assembled by the Moors, and the determination of the Christian monarchy to establish their dominance by forcing them out of the Iberian Peninsula. Scattered throughout the city are monuments to the days when each empire ruled the peninsula, the wealth and power they wielded and the expansion of their influence worldwide. Crested by the famed Alhambra, the city revels in the wake of its past. Unable to recreate Allah’s physical features due to their religious beliefs, the scholars and craftsmen of the Moorish Empire worked verses and poems of praise from the Qur’an into their art, architecture and gardens, the best examples of which are the wonders that are the Alhambra and the geometric gardens of the Generalife. Without the filigree masonry work of Alhambra, Spain would not be Spain. Exquisite handcrafted wooden calligraphy fills the arches, ceilings and corners of this former palace while intricately patterned ceramic tiles hint at religious fervour. Capped off by clever engineering disguised in the form of water features and fountains, Alhambra is a story unto itself. Even its 15th-century addition represents the conquest and reconquest of La Reconquista, with Charles V, who was considered at the time to be the most powerful man in the world, building his palace directly on top of the original ramparts. Option 2 – Full-day experience: The Alpujarra. Strewn with almond trees and whitewashed towns, the Alpujarra is the food basket of Andalusia. Cuisine is high on the list here with speciality pastries and cakes made from recipes dating back to the time of the Moors, and techniques used to cure meat coming straight from early Christian cookbooks. During the early days of the Arab invasion, the Alpujarra was a nucleus of Christian resistance, but it was the Muslim domination of Al-Andalus that allowed the Alpujarra to thrive. When the region fell to the Catholic monarchs, all Muslims were forced to be baptised or emigrate; those who chose the first option were known as Moriscos. Languages were suppressed and customs lost. In recent times, the people of the Alpujarra have supported a resurgence of former traditions. Villages, such as Pampaneira and Trevélez, are returning to their roots. We visit an Andalusian village to learn about the past and present before enjoying lunch at a typical Alquería de Morayma – a small farm and farmhouse – to meet some of the Moriscos’ descendants and hear their story.

• Day 7 Málaga, Spain (Ports: Málaga)

  Though very much a modern-day city, the apartment blocks and ‘expat’ clubs of Málaga and the Costa del Sol hide an undercurrent of ancient traditions. Long before beach bars and resorts, this coastline was part of Al-Andalus, ruled by the Moors for nearly eight centuries. Their legacy runs deep, visible in the arches of the Alcazaba, the layout of the old town, and the way the city still seems to hold something older beneath its surface, steady and enduring. Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences today range from an introduction to Málaga, a visit to the Moorish enclave of Ronda and of course, Málaga’s favourite dance – flamenco. For those who prefer to explore independently or return to town after lunch on the ship, Málaga’s port offers a convenient starting point with its entrance just a short walk from the heart of the city.Option 1 – Morning experience: Magical Málaga. Discover the layered history and charm of Málaga on this scenic driving tour, complete with photo stops and minimal walking. Founded nearly 3,000 years ago by the Phoenicians, the city reflects a rich tapestry of Roman roads, Moorish fortresses, and Christian cathedrals. Drive along elegant, tree-lined boulevards and admire the grand neo-Baroque Town Hall, one of many architectural highlights. Pause to take in views of the Castillo de Gibralfaro, a 10th-century Moorish fortress that played a pivotal role in the 1487 Reconquista and remains a powerful symbol of the city. Continue past the majestic Catedral de Málaga, affectionately nicknamed La Manquita, “the one-armed lady”—for its famously unfinished second bell tower. Choose to hop off the coach in town and explore independently or return to the ship for lunch with a free afternoon to enjoy Málaga.Option 2 – Half-day experience: The Moorish enclave of Ronda. We head an hour inland to Andalusia’s favourite ‘whitewashed town’ – Ronda. This famed city excites visitors with a fascinating story of early guerilla warfare and its part in the eventual demise of the Moorish Empire. Straddling the El Tajo gorge, Ronda was once an Islamic stronghold. Because Ronda was an Islamic city, all those who entered were obliged to wash and pray beforehand. In 1485, Ronda was besieged by Christian armies, which cut off the city’s water supply. Within 10 days, Ronda fell, and in less than a decade, the Spanish decreed that all Muslims must leave the peninsula or convert to Christianity. Our locally guided walking tour introduces you to Ronda’s highlights, with time to enjoy its colourful ceramic shops, cafes and scenic lookouts independently before returning to Málaga.Option 3 – Afternoon / early evening experience: The art of Flamenco. Explore Malaga independently day, before joining us for a truly Spanish treat. No performance dance is more captivating than the dance that Spain holds at its heart – flamenco. Home to the Flamenco Museum, Málaga hosts a bi-annual flamenco festival with dancers, musicians and fans flooding its streets and stages. Year round one can still find authentic shows. The artform of flamenco combines song, guitar and dance as it weaves its story, rousing an emotional reaction from its audience. Originally performed by the native Roma peoples of Andalusia, Flamenco creates a state of mind that is difficult to ignore. Its musical style, where the lyrics often express loneliness and heartbreak, can be compared to the American blues scene with the intensity of the performance stirring deep sentiment. Departing in the late afternoon and returning early evening, this excursion immerses us in tales of passion told by Málaga’s master storytellers in the form of music and dance as we embrace the fervor of flamenco, accompanied by some local fare.

• Day 8 Gibraltar, United Kingdom (Port: Gibraltar)

  In the wake of centuries of maritime vessels, we sail into the Port of Gibraltar in the morning. More than just an array of Royal Mail red pillar post boxes, fish and chip shops and corner pubs, Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory and naval stronghold, strategically located at the base of the Iberian Peninsula. Caught up in the legacy of the War of the Spanish Succession, it became embroiled in European politics when the King of Spain died without an heir. Thirteen years later, Sir George Rooke, an English naval commander, captured it for England’s King George I, and Gibraltar has remained a British territory ever since. Three hundred years of swashbuckling pirates, fierce naval battles, yellow fever outbreaks and world wars tell a tale of this tiny slice of Britain, simply known by those who live here as ‘The Rock’. We deep dive into the story of Gibraltar this morning, exploring the highlights of this British enclave before we sail for Spain in the early afternoon. Our quintessential British tour of Gibraltar showcases the Rock’s rich history, iconic mascots and breathtaking views across the Straits of Gibraltar. Enjoy a scenic drive along Winston Churchill Avenue, a tribute to the 1967 referendum when Gibraltar’s residents overwhelmingly voted to remain British rather than join Spain. This historic choice remains a cornerstone of Gibraltar’s identity. Stop for a photo opportunity at the island's most popular lookout where on a clear day you can glimpse the coast of the African continent across the famous Strait where Atlantic and Mediterranean waters meet. Continue to the top of The Rock where you will meet Gibraltar’s famous macaques, also known as Barbary apes, the tail-less monkeys that proudly serve as The Rock’s mascots.

• Day 9 Seville, Spain (Port: Seville)

  Formed as a brotherhood of Islam, the conglomerate of Arabs, Berbers and North Africans known as the Moors arrived in the Iberian Peninsula in the 8th century. Like a child leaving home, they matured and stayed away from their homelands for a further 700 years. Tolerant of other faiths, they lived in relative peace with the Christian and Jewish members of their communities, ruling the land as small Kingdoms dominated by castle-topped villages and fortified cities. Their legacy of mathematical expertise, astronomy, and Moorish architecture changed the European world. We wake this morning on the banks of the Guadalquivir River in the Andalusian city of Seville. The southern lands of Andalusia became the Moors crowning glory. Its jewel – Seville. Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences showcase Seville’s Moorish architecture and Andalusian atmosphere today before our pilot joins us late afternoon to guide us down the Guadalquivir River to the coast. Relax and watch the world go by as we sail Spain’s only navigable river. The Guadalquivir has been a central part of Seville’s history and a launchpad for significant voyages. From its banks, explorers like Ferdinand Magellan embarked on their landmark journeys, including Magellan’s famous 1519 expedition to circumnavigate the globe. The river was also crucial for trade, linking Seville with distant lands and shaping global commerce. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 - Morning experience: Introducing Seville. Take in the sights that shape Seville’s unique character on this introductory coach tour. Pass by Spain’s most impressive medieval traffic control tower, the 13th-century Gold Tower, which once managed river traffic and protected the city’s busy port. Drive through the lively neighborhood of Triana, famous for flamenco, colorful houses, historic churches, and traditional pottery workshops, and see parts of the city built for the Universal Expositions of 1929 and 1992, including the striking Alamillo Bridge by Santiago Calatrava and the beautiful Plaza de España, where a short stroll lets you admire its grand pavilions and lush surroundings. Choose to remain in Seville’s historic heart, where you can visit its Alcazar, Cathedral and other ‘walkable’ sites at your own pace or return to the ship for lunch, and a free afternoon. Option 2 - Morning experience: Walking the Heart of Seville. Our local guide tells a tale of Seville on this extensive walking tour, supported by a host of history’s famed conquerors, stories of the ‘New World,’ and a clash of cultures as compelling as the buildings we visit. This walking tour of Seville’s UNESCO World Heritage sites begins with the Alcázar. Built in the 14th century in Mudejar style, the Alcázar is the oldest royal residence in Europe still in use. Islam and Christianity vied for power here, with Christianity asserting dominance by constructing Europe’s third-largest cathedral directly over a 12th-century mosque. The largest Gothic structure in the world, the cathedral houses many notable figures. In 1899, 400 years after his death, the renowned explorer Christopher Columbus was finally laid to rest in Seville Cathedral, where our guide introduces to this magnificent structure with time to pull up a pew. We’ll also explore areas of Seville developed for the Universal Expositions of 1929 and 1992, including the magnificent Plaza de España, a semi-circular square framed by ornate pavilions built for the earlier Expo, before returning to the ship. Option 3 - Morning experience: The Medieval Town of Carmona. Situated on the plains of the river Corbones, Carmona tells a tale of the various cultures that have populated the peninsula throughout its extensive history. Churches, palaces, and city walls form part of the city’s heritage in its historic quarter, dominated by the imposing Alcázar. Its impenetrable Gate of Seville is a warning to marauding armies. A testament to sound engineering, this ancient gatehouse dates to the ninth century and thanks its solid design to the Romans, and its horseshoe archways to the Moors. Indeed, the culture of all the inhabitants of the peninsula, whether they be the western Mediterranean peoples, the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Moors and, finally, the Christians, can be said to have been engraved on the ashlar stone of Carmona’s Gate of Seville. We return to the ship for lunch, after which you have the afternoon to explore Seville independently.

• Day 10 Cádiz (Port: Cádiz)

  The proud city of Cádiz sits at the mouth of the Guadalquivir River. As the gateway to the Mediterranean, Cádiz is touted as the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in Europe, with its dominant families claiming ancestry dating back to Roman times, when the city was called Ceret, and the wine, Vinum Cderetensis. Moorish rule over the port, which was renamed Jazīrat Qādis, lasted for 500 years, with the capture of Cádiz by Alfonso X of Castile. Its renewed prosperity dated from the discovery of America in 1492, when it became the headquarters of the Spanish treasure fleets, and the port to nearby Jerez, which produced liquid gold. Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences showcase Andalusia today, with a variety of excursions available. There’s time this afternoon to explore Cádiz independently with the ship moored ‘in town’, prior to our early evening sailing to the shores of northern Africa. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 – Morning experience: Jerez – More Than a Simple Sherry. Head west to the coastal town of Jerez to discover a rich mix of Islamic and Christian monuments surrounding the Alcázar, as we journey through the region’s history and learn how each ruling empire left a lasting impression on the city’s culture. It is the fortified wine, known worldwide as sherry, which has dictated the fate of Jerez. Introduced by the Phoenicians in 1,100 BCE, this popular wine has brought both wealth and strife. Jerez’s bodegas and local rural wineries remain the world’s largest producers of sherry, which although considered by some as a wine that has seen better days, is as popular in Spain today as it was in centuries past. After a short walk of the historic centre of Jerez, we spend time with a wine expert who will teach us how to distinguish wine quality, with the opportunity to sample some fine drops for ourselves. Option 2 – Midday experience: Historic Cadiz on the Tapas trail. Join us on a tapas tour through the historic heart of Cádiz, where every bite tells a story shaped by sea, trade, and tradition. We weave through the whitewashed lanes of the Casco Antiguo, past sun-dappled plazas, baroque churches, and grand 18th-century merchant houses—reminders of Cádiz’s Golden Age, when riches from the Americas poured into its bustling port. Today, the city trades in flavours rather than silver, especially those of the sea. As we hop from tavern to tavern with our local guide, we enjoy delicacies that have fed Cádiz for millennia. Option 3 – Morning experience: The Andalusian Enclave of Vejer de la Frontera. No visit to Andalusia is complete without time spent in one of its whitewashed hilltop towns. We spend our morning in Vejer de la Frontera, a historic stronghold that once marked the borderlands between Muslim territories and encroaching Catholic lands. Renowned as one of the most authentic of the Pueblos Blancos, Vejer’s whitewashed buildings are designed to reflect the sun and ward off the intense summer heat. As we stroll through its narrow, winding streets, we will be inspired by the ancient Moorish Castle, the majestic Church of the Divine Saviour, and the vibrant Plaza España, all while uncovering tales of Moorish conquerors, Castilian kings, and feudal uprisings. With views to the coast, Vejer offers a glimpse into the rich history that defines the hilltop towns of Andalusia and their connection to the surrounding lowlands, linking inland Spain to the coastline.

• Day 11 Tangier (Port: Tangier)

  Unique amongst Moroccan cities, Tangier has a chequered past, affording us one of Europe’s most captivating stories. Designated an ‘International Zone’ in the early 20th century, Tangier harboured no taxes, no banking restrictions, no censorship, morality or drug laws. Attracting a worldly mix of expat residents, it played house to everyone from eccentric British nobility to American authors, Franco’s civil war army to Nazi spies, while it awaited its inclusion in the post-war nation of Morocco. Stories of elicit affairs, underworld deals, and espionage abound in this city which remains as colourful as its history suggests. This morning, choose between two popular ‘Your Choice’ experiences, each offering a chance to immerse yourself in the highlights of Tangier before we set sail mid-afternoon for Casablanca. The city’s historic medina and key landmarks are set across steep hills, with hand-carved steps and uneven pathways that add to its charm—but may require a bit of effort to explore. For a more relaxed option, take advantage of our complimentary shuttle service running throughout the day between the ship and a central square, where you can wander at your own pace, browse local stalls, and enjoy a mint tea and French pastry at one of the many cafés, before we sail south to Casablanca mid-afternoon. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 - Morning experience: Tangier Kasbah district and American Legation Museum. We begin our journey at Tangier’s fabled Kasbah. Largely unchanged since Roman times, the Kasbah was the traditional residence of the Sultan and his harem and is now one of the most fashionable residential areas of Tangier. Our next stop is at the American Legation. The first American public property outside the United States, the American Legation is now a museum that traces the history of the two countries relationship. As one of the first countries to recognize America's independence, Morocco permitted the new United States government to establish a legation in Tangier in 1821. It is the only historical monument to have remained in American possession since the birth of the American nation. Amongst several displays here is a letter from George Washington to the Sultan - Moulay Abdellah.Option 2 – Morning experience: A Taste of Tangier. This ‘foodie’ tour of Tangier allows you to dive into the city’s culinary heritage. Tangier’s cuisine reflects a fascinating blend of Moorish and Spanish influences, with each bite telling a story of its past. From the Moorish tradition of intricate spice blends to Spanish touches like rich, savoury stews, and delicious colonial French desserts, the food here is a testament to the city’s eclectic past. Stroll through the historic M'sallah and the old town district, where narrow alleyways and traditional architecture set the stage. Taste local delights like caliente, stuffed dates, and bissara, each crafted with time-honoured techniques. As you visit bustling markets and interact with artisans, your guide will reveal how these diverse cultural influences have shaped Tangier’s unique identity, while we snack like a true local.

• Day 12 Disembark Casablanca - Marrakech (Port: Casablanca)

  Wake up in the city of Casablanca. Morocco’s largest coastal city, Casablanca’s fame hit new heights when Hollywood set the ultimate romantic motion picture amongst the city's wartime streets. Our discovery of Casablanca begins as we visit the monumental Hassan II Mosque. The largest mosque in Africa, with a 60-storey high minaret, it is the tallest religious structure in the world. This architectural masterpiece is the most ambitious structure ever built in Morocco, taking 35,000 workers seven years to complete. We savour the atmosphere of this venerated place, and learn about the mosque's key architectural features, which beautifully blend modernism with traditional Islamic, Moorish and Moroccan elements. As we farewell Casablanca, settle into your seat for the three-hour drive to Marrakech. Located at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is an eclectic mix of centuries-old architectural styles. The fabled ochre city was founded over 1,000 years ago during the Almoravid dynasty and still beats an age-old rhythm. Famed for its outstanding artisanship, the city has boomed as one of Africa’s key hubs for contemporary art, architecture and design. We arrive in time to enjoy lunch at a popular local restaurant, before joining a tour of Bahia Palace. This stunning example of 19th-century Moroccan design showcases Morocco's classic architecture. Its name means “brilliance,” and you’ll see why as you wander through colourful tiled courtyards, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and peaceful gardens. Once home to a powerful vizier, the palace now welcomes visitors to explore its rich history and classic story. After check-in at our hotel, your evening is at your leisure. Accommodation: Marrakech Hotel. Meals: Breakfast.

• Day 13 Marrakech

  After breakfast, set out with your local guide to enjoy your choice of the city’s key attractions, each offering a unique perspective on its culture and history. Whether you opt for a guided walk, a visit to the Majorelle Gardens, or prefer to explore at your own pace, the morning promises memorable discoveries filled with colour, flavour, and charm. Relax around the hotels pool, try some retail therapy or explore Marrakech further this afternoon, before we gather tonight for a farewell gathering, Moroccan style. Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Option 1 - Morning experience: Introducing Marrakech. This morning, your local guide will lead you on a brief walking tour of Marrakech’s famous medina. Amongst its maze of alleyways, you will find artisan shops brimming with pottery and hand-crafted leather goods, quirky trinkets, and traditional Moroccan souvenirs. The medina is a feast for the senses: fragrant spices fill the air, vibrant stalls spill over with colour, and the rhythm of daily life unfolds in every corner. Even a simple stroll becomes a memorable experience. Designed for those wanting a taste of Marrakech’s medina, this limited walking tour offers an insight into its eclectic character with time to browse its craft and artisan shops, before we unwind to enjoy a traditional mint tea and morning pastry. Option 2 - Morning experience: Meet you in the Medina. This extensive walking tour explores Marrakech’s medina further while we visit its sites. Sounds and senses including the Almohad wonders of the Koutoubia Mosque, the geometric zellij (mosaics) and intricate cedarwood of the former Koranic school Ben Youssef Medersa. We delve deep into the medina, walking through its maze of laneways and covered markets bursting with energy. Stop by the Spice Square where everything from herbs, spices, snakeskins and chameleons have been sold for centuries and check out the fabled Djemâa el Fna Square. This bustling space is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, traditional storytellers, musicians, hawker food stalls and vibrant market activity. Option 3 - Morning experience: Yves Saint Laurent and the Majorelle Gardens. At the Berber Museum, the story of North Africa’s oldest civilisation – the Berber, offers an insight into the roots of the Moorish Empire. The private collection of Yves Saint Laurent and his companion, Pierre Berge, this museum is the centrepiece of the Majorelle Gardens. Yves Saint Laurent, on whom Morocco had a profound influence, bought a house nine days after arriving in Marrakech and held residences here until his passing. According to the man himself, it was in Morocco that he discovered the colourful palettes that he would use in his creative work. View the memorial in the rose garden, marking the spot where the ashes of Yves Saint Laurent were scattered, before visiting the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum which is dedicated to the work of the master couturier and houses displays of thousands of pieces of haute couture garments, accessories and sketches. Accommodation: Marrakech Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Reception (drinks and canapés).

• Day 14 Depart Marrakech

  After breakfast, say farewell to your fellow travellers and check-out, before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Meals: Breakfast.