Atlantic Passage – Lisbon to Cape Verde

Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marques de Pombal who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praça do Comércio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city's terraced hillsides. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.

Begin your adventure in Portugal’s colourful capital 

The Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture. Take a stroll along its hilly cobbled streets, hop on a canary-yellow tram for a panoramic viewpoint, and tuck into freshly baked pastel de nata at one of the city's decades-old bakeries. Explore the districts of Baixa, Bairro Alto and Chiado, where fado music drifts from open doorways, and pause for a drink at a lively neighbourhood square. Just outside the city, visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.  

After a day of discovery, board MS Fridtjof Nansen, settle into your cabin, and begin your adventure at sea. 

Perhaps the prettiest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is an almost circular isle with the peak of Pozo de Las Nieves, its highest point, at the centre. With a wealth of natural beauty and all the exciting attractions of city life in the capital, the island offers the best of both worlds. You will no doubt wish to see the sights of the capital’s old quarter, which dates back to the 15th century and encompassses the Vegueta and Triana districts, and wherever you go you can enjoy the glorious subtropical climate, perfect for growing exotic palms and fruits.

Volcanic wonders and white beaches

Today we dock at the island of Gran Canaria. Explore the historic city of Las Palmas, located at the crossroads of three continents: Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Stroll through the laid-back streets of the Old Town, taking in cosmopolitan cafés, 16th-century architecture, and the Gothic pillars of Santa Ana Cathedral. At the end of the day, MS Fridtjof Nansen will be waiting to sail you onwards to your next destination. 

Bid farewell in Cape Verde

Your voyage comes to an end on the island of Sal, where African and Portuguese influences blend with salt-flat landscapes and endless Atlantic horizons. Known for golden beaches, colourful culture, and over 350 days of sunshine a year, Sal is a warm and fitting finale to your crossing. Bid farewell to the Expedition Team and fellow travellers, and leave the ship with lasting memories of your journey from Europe to Africa.