Praia
Praia 04/19/2025
Arrive in the remote and mountainous volcanic islands of Cabo Verde and the capital city of Praia, on Santiago Island, and transfer to the hotel. Meet us this evening for a welcome reception and briefing before dinner.
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04/19/2025 |
04/19/2025 |
Praia
Praia 04/20/2025
Start the day in this island paradise with a walking tour of the old town center or “Plateau.” Rich in history you will experience the colonial influence on the architecture of the Presidential Palace and Main Square. Explore the open-air market where displays of local fruits and vegetables are works of natural art. Via bus, travel to Cidade Velha, the historic center of Ribeira Grande and the first city built by the Portuguese in Africa. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ruins tell the story of architecture that protected the city against pirates, provided sanctuary within the cathedral and convent and supported everyday life with the thatched roofs of Banana Street. Following lunch, head to the port and embark the National Geographic Orion.
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04/20/2025 |
04/20/2025 |
Cruise Starts (Embarkation)
Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 04/20/2025
Start the day in this island paradise with a walking tour of the old town center or “Plateau.” Rich in history you will experience the colonial influence on the architecture of the Presidential Palace and Main Square. Explore the open-air market where displays of local fruits and vegetables are works of natural art. Via bus, travel to Cidade Velha, the historic center of Ribeira Grande and the first city built by the Portuguese in Africa. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ruins tell the story of architecture that protected the city against pirates, provided sanctuary within the cathedral and convent and supported everyday life with the thatched roofs of Banana Street. Following lunch, head to the port and embark the National Geographic Orion.
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04/20/2025 |
04/20/2025 |
Praia
Praia 04/20/2025
Start the day in this island paradise with a walking tour of the old town center or “Plateau.” Rich in history you will experience the colonial influence on the architecture of the Presidential Palace and Main Square. Explore the open-air market where displays of local fruits and vegetables are works of natural art. Via bus, travel to Cidade Velha, the historic center of Ribeira Grande and the first city built by the Portuguese in Africa. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ruins tell the story of architecture that protected the city against pirates, provided sanctuary within the cathedral and convent and supported everyday life with the thatched roofs of Banana Street. Following lunch, head to the port and embark the National Geographic Orion.
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04/20/2025 |
04/20/2025 |
Fogo
Fogo 04/21/2025
This morning finds us in Sao Filipe on the island of Fogo, where you will have the opportunity to add volcano-gazing to your life list. The striking landscape of Fogo has been shaped and transformed by lava flows, most recently in 2015. We will visit Portela, one of the villages that was swallowed up by lava in that eruption. The locals have since reclaimed the land and have rebuilt restaurants and shops and restored their homes.
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04/21/2025 |
04/21/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 04/22/2025
Visit the ship’s bridge as we sail northward across the Tropic of Cancer. Soak up the views from one of the observation decks and attend engaging presentations on a range of subjects, from 15th-century Portuguese and Spanish navigators to talks from our marine biologists on the amazing navigation skills of the cetaceans who travel these waters.
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04/22/2025 |
04/22/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 04/23/2025
Visit the ship’s bridge as we sail northward across the Tropic of Cancer. Soak up the views from one of the observation decks and attend engaging presentations on a range of subjects, from 15th-century Portuguese and Spanish navigators to talks from our marine biologists on the amazing navigation skills of the cetaceans who travel these waters.
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04/23/2025 |
04/23/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 04/24/2025
Visit the ship’s bridge as we sail northward across the Tropic of Cancer. Soak up the views from one of the observation decks and attend engaging presentations on a range of subjects, from 15th-century Portuguese and Spanish navigators to talks from our marine biologists on the amazing navigation skills of the cetaceans who travel these waters.
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04/24/2025 |
04/24/2025 |
Las Palmas (Gran Canaria)
Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) 04/25/2025
Drop anchor in the azure waters of the Canary Islands, which occupies a central place in the history of Atlantic exploration. The larger island of La Palma is known as La Isla Bonita, or “the pretty island,” for its lushly forested mountain slopes set against azure waters. Enjoy a scenic drive up to Mirador de la Concepción, perched on the edge of a crater. Take in fantastic views of the town and harbor below and visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Snows, with its fusion of baroque and Spanish-Moorish architecture. On the island of La Gomera, visit a house where Christopher Columbus stayed while his ships were provisioned with supplies, then consider a hike in the verdant Garajonay Nacional Park.
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04/25/2025 |
04/25/2025 |
La Gomera
La Gomera 04/26/2025
Drop anchor in the azure waters of the Canary Islands, which occupies a central place in the history of Atlantic exploration. The larger island of La Palma is known as La Isla Bonita, or “the pretty island,” for its lushly forested mountain slopes set against azure waters. Enjoy a scenic drive up to Mirador de la Concepción, perched on the edge of a crater. Take in fantastic views of the town and harbor below and visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Snows, with its fusion of baroque and Spanish-Moorish architecture. On the island of La Gomera, visit a house where Christopher Columbus stayed while his ships were provisioned with supplies, then consider a hike in the verdant Garajonay Nacional Park.
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04/26/2025 |
04/26/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 04/27/2025
After a day at sea, start the day south of Madeira in the Desertas Archipelago. This small group of volcanic islands has been deemed a nature reserve, helping to protect both the sea and land. The area is a refuge to the Mediterranean monk seal and an array of seabirds. Sail on to enchanting Madeira, a subtropical island abloom in flora. First settled by the Portuguese in 1419, the island’s capital city of Funchal evokes a colonial time capsule, with architecture from the 15th through the 19th centuries. Explore its winding streets and culinary delights.
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04/27/2025 |
04/27/2025 |
Desertas Islands
Desertas Islands 04/28/2025
After a day at sea, start the day south of Madeira in the Desertas Archipelago. This small group of volcanic islands has been deemed a nature reserve, helping to protect both the sea and land. The area is a refuge to the Mediterranean monk seal and an array of seabirds. Sail on to enchanting Madeira, a subtropical island abloom in flora. First settled by the Portuguese in 1419, the island’s capital city of Funchal evokes a colonial time capsule, with architecture from the 15th through the 19th centuries. Explore its winding streets and culinary delights.
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04/28/2025 |
04/28/2025 |
Funchal (Madeira), Portugal
Funchal (Madeira), Portugal 04/29/2025
After a day at sea, start the day south of Madeira in the Desertas Archipelago. This small group of volcanic islands has been deemed a nature reserve, helping to protect both the sea and land. The area is a refuge to the Mediterranean monk seal and an array of seabirds. Sail on to enchanting Madeira, a subtropical island abloom in flora. First settled by the Portuguese in 1419, the island’s capital city of Funchal evokes a colonial time capsule, with architecture from the 15th through the 19th centuries. Explore its winding streets and culinary delights.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Funchal History & Tradition (6 - 8 Hours)
Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
During the morning, indulge in a private embroidery workshop at a family own embroidery factory, where you will learn the local secrets and get the chance to bring your own embroidery work.
Lunch (not included) will be served at a local cozy regional restaurant, where you can delight with local recipes.
After lunch, enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.
Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock.
Includes: Full-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (6 - 8 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-day at Disposal, as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Entrance fees at chapel of Sta. Catarina, Sé Cathedral, Botanical Garden (Optional); Private Visit & Embroidery Workshop (Optional).
Not feasible: Weekends and National Holidays.
Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
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Funchal History & Wine (6 - 8 Hours)
Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
During the morning, indulge in a private embroidery workshop at a family own embroidery factory, where you will learn the local secrets and get the chance to bring your own embroidery work.
Lunch (not included) will be served at a local cozy regional restaurant, where you can delight with local recipes.
After lunch, enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.
End your day with a private visit followed by lectured wine tasting at a wine cellar.
Madeira's wine has been famous for over five centuries. It was a favorite of Napoleon, Russian czars, and of the United States' first president, George Washington. It was the wine chosen to toast the signing of America's Declaration of Independence and even Shakespeare wrote of Falstaff's willingness to trade his soul for "a cup of Madeira and a cold capon."
At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to the dock.
Includes: Transportation - Full-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (6 - 8 Hours); Expert Guide - Full-day at Disposal, as per itinerary (6 - 8 Hours); Private Embroidery Workshop; Wine Lodge Private Visit followed by Lectured Wine Tasting; Entrance fees at chapel of Sta. Catarina, Sé Cathedral, Botanical Garden (Optional); Private Visit & Embroidery Workshop (Optional).
Not feasible: Weekends and National Holidays.
Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
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Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (8 Hours)
Madeira has a great natural beauty with tropical gardens and spectacular panoramic views. Its green mountains, cliffs, steep valleys, flowers, sun and its blue sea, happiness and hospitality melt together to create an island of sublime peace.
Meet and greet your expert chauffeur at the dock. Today, venture on a 4-wheel scenic drive with panoramic views, interesting places and sensational encounters with Madeira's natural heritage.
Your tour will continue through deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time.
Câmara de Lobos is an emblematic town, it is
one of the most ancient and historical places in the Island. This was one of first colonized places in Madeira, due to the easy accesses by sea with its charming bay, where nowadays several and varied colorful embarkations are docked.
Pass by Fajã das Galinhas on your way to Boca da Corrida viewpoint. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the Curral das Freiras valley, Eira do Serrado and the central massif. Not far from Funchal hidden in between high mountains and deep valleys lie remote villages and hamlets such as Jardim da Serra with its splendid view over the Nuns valley.
Next stop will be Campanário, a verdant town with a splendid view over the sea. This town owes its name to an islet, similar to the bell tower of a church, which is situated along the coast.
Stop for lunch (not included) in a regional restaurant.
After lunch, your adventure will continue further west towards Cape Girão, an almost vertical promontory that rises 580 meters above the ocean, being the largest promontory in Europe and the second largest in the world.
Take a final stop at the Quinta Grande, to admire the vineyards of Madeira Wine.
Your driver will take you back to the dock.
Includes: Transportation - Full-Day Private Jeep Tour, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (8 Hours).
Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
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Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (4 Hours)
Madeira has a great natural beauty with tropical gardens and spectacular panoramic views. Its green mountains, cliffs, steep valleys, flowers, sun and its blue sea, happiness and hospitality melt together to create an island of sublime peace.
Meet and greet your expert chauffeur at the dock. Today, venture on a 4-wheel scenic drive with panoramic views, interesting places and sensational encounters with Madeira's natural heritage.
Your tour will continue through deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time.
Câmara de Lobos is an emblematic town, it is
one of the most ancient and historical places in the Island. This was one of first colonized places in Madeira, due to the easy accesses by sea with its charming bay, where nowadays several and varied colorful embarkations are docked.
Pass by Fajã das Galinhas on your way to Boca da Corrida viewpoint. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the Curral das Freiras valley, Eira do Serrado and the central massif. Not far from Funchal hidden in between high mountains and deep valleys lie remote villages and hamlets such as Jardim da Serra with its splendid view over the Nuns valley.
Next stop will be Campanário, a verdant town with a splendid view over the sea. This town owes its name to an islet, similar to the bell tower of a church, which is situated along the coast. Your adventure will continue further west in direction of the scenic viewpoint of Cabo Girão, an almost vertical promontory that rises at 580 meters above the ocean.
Your driver will take you back to the dock.
Includes: Transportation - Half-Day Private Jeep Tour, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (4 Hours).
Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
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Funchal Sightseeing HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours)
Meet your private chauffeur and expert guide at the dock.
Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
Enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park. The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.
Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock.
Includes: Transportation - Half-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle with English Speaking Fluent Driver (3 - 4 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-Day at Disposal as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Entrance Fees at Botanical garden; Driver and Guide Gratuities Included.
Note:
- Not feasible on Holidays;
- According to restrictions related with Covid-19 implemented at the time of the booking, vehicle allocation may need revision.
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Funchal at Your Leisure HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours)
Suggested Tour:
Meet your private chauffeur and expert guide at the dock.
We suggest you to get to know the Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, we suggest a guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.
Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock.
Includes: Transportation - Half-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle with English Speaking Fluent Driver (3 - 4 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-Day at Disposal as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Driver and Guide Gratuities Included.
Note:
- Not feasible on Holidays;
- According to restrictions related with Covid-19 implemented at the time of the booking, vehicle allocation may need revision.
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04/29/2025 |
04/29/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 04/30/2025
Enjoy all that the National Geographic Orion has to offer on this final day at sea as we make our way to the Azores. Spend time on deck with the expedition team as they keep watch over the horizon, searching for the marine creatures and seabirds who feed in this fertile stretch of ocean.
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04/30/2025 |
04/30/2025 |
Santa Maria
Santa Maria 05/01/2025
Historically significant as the first landfall of Christopher Columbus on his return from the Americas in 1493, we make our first landing in the Azores at Santa Maria. For those interested in getting some exercise, there are hiking trails that will allow us to experience the scenery and atmosphere of the island.
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05/01/2025 |
05/01/2025 |
Faial
Faial 05/02/2025
As we sail into Faial, be out on deck to enjoy the beautiful island views and keep your eyes on the horizon in hope of spotting the whales known to move through these waters. Once ashore on the island of Faial, head to Capelinhos to see how dramatically the landscape changed when the volcano at the western end of the island erupted in 1957. Farms and villages were covered in ash, adding an extra two square kilometers of land to the island. Later, stroll along the marina, visit the excellent scrimshaw museum, and raise a glass at Peter Café Sport, a legendary pub where sea adventurers historically dropped their mail.
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05/02/2025 |
05/02/2025 |
Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Ponta Delgada (Azores) 05/03/2025
Disembark in Ponta Delgada, the charming capital of the Azores. Spend the morning touring the Old Town—stopping at the impressive Museum of Carlos Machado to discover the varied history of the archipelago. Enjoy lunch before transferring to the airport and homeward flights.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Azores: Jeep Private Tour in Sete Cidades - 3.5 hours
Highlights
Cruise along the forested floor of a massive volcanic crater as you explore Sete Cidades with an experienced local guide. In a rugged 4x4 vehicle, ride between sparkling lakes and bounce down dirt roads that lead to sweeping viewpoints of this stunning and dramatic landscape.
Get picked up from Ponta Delgada city, where you can buckle into the seat of an off-road vehicle perfectly suited to tackle the area's rural roads and country lanes.
At the end of the tour: Drop Off at Ship.
What's Included?
- 3.5 hours tour with a professional guide and driver
- Transportation
What Isn't Included?
- Food and drinks
- Souvenirs
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05/03/2025 |
05/03/2025 |
Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Ponta Delgada (Azores) 05/04/2025
Disembark in Ponta Delgada, the charming capital of the Azores. Spend the morning touring the Old Town—stopping at the impressive Museum of Carlos Machado to discover the varied history of the archipelago. Enjoy lunch before transferring to the airport and homeward flights.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Azores: Jeep Private Tour in Sete Cidades - 3.5 hours
Highlights
Cruise along the forested floor of a massive volcanic crater as you explore Sete Cidades with an experienced local guide. In a rugged 4x4 vehicle, ride between sparkling lakes and bounce down dirt roads that lead to sweeping viewpoints of this stunning and dramatic landscape.
Get picked up from Ponta Delgada city, where you can buckle into the seat of an off-road vehicle perfectly suited to tackle the area's rural roads and country lanes.
At the end of the tour: Drop Off at Ship.
What's Included?
- 3.5 hours tour with a professional guide and driver
- Transportation
What Isn't Included?
- Food and drinks
- Souvenirs
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05/04/2025 |
05/04/2025 |
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
