Canary Islands & Moroccan Coastline

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a beautiful and scenic island which enjoys year-round sunshine and is dominated by Mount Teide. The mountain range runs through the centre of the island, with fertile valleys on the northern side. In the central part of the range is the gigantic natural crater of the Cañadas del Teide, about 14 miles in diameter. Santa Cruz, the island’s pretty capital, was originally a small fishing village but has now grown into a modern city, and also contains 16th-century civic buildings and ornate private mansions. Near the pier is the Santa Cruz Palmetum, a Botanical Garden covering an area of 29 acres, specialising in palms.

Welcome to the Canary Islands. Sophisticated and cosmopolitan, Tenerife is the largest of these Spanish islands that dot the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. The aroma of salty sea air is your constant companion as you bask in balmy breezes and take in the vibrant way of life that is imbued across culture and cuisine. 

As you step on board your Discovery Yacht this afternoon, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew. From the Sky Deck, raise a toast as you bid farewell to the shores of Santa Cruz de Tenerife as you embark on an unforgettable journey.

Please book your flight to arrive into Tenerife prior to 02:00 PM.

Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is typified by lush forests of pine, laurel and fern which contrast with the rugged splendour of the gigantic Taburiente crater. The island is dotted with attractive villages, which are a delight to discover, and the capital Santa Cruz also makes for an interesting day of exploration. Perched on the edge of the volcanic crater of La Caldereta, Santa Cruz comfortably blends modern architecture with old colonial buildings. Perhaps visit the fascinating Natural History Museum, stroll around the historic quarters and the Plaza de Espana or travel a few miles outside the city to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. If you enjoy shopping, you can find reasonably priced silver jewellery, leather goods and beautifully embroidered clothes, tablecloths and napkins, a speciality of the Canary Islands.

It’s just a short hop across to Santa Cruz de la Palma, a charming port city nestled on the eastern coast of La Palma Island in the Canary archipelago. Founded in 1493, it grew to be the third largest port in Europe in the 16th century. Today, its cobbled streets are quiet, lined with colourful houses, grand churches and well-preserved colonial architecture complete with wooden balconies and tumbling flower boxes. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of this historic city as you explore local markets and indulge in delicious cuisine.

Freechoice:
Caldera del Taburiente National Park: This scenic tour takes you through stunning viewpoints on the island, including La Concepción, Caldera de Taburiente National Park, La Cumbrecita, Las Chozas, and Tajuya, before returning to the port.

Walking tour of Santa Cruz & visit to Puros Julio Factory: Explore Santa Cruz's cultural and historical treasures, including the historic center, Church of Las Nieves, Puros Artesanos Julio wine tasting, and scenic return to the port.

Formed by a volcanic eruption, Madeira lies in the Gulf Stream, about 500 miles due west of Casablanca. Discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, this beautiful island became part of Portugal’s vast empire and was named for the dense forest which cloaked it - 'Madeira' means 'wood' in Portuguese. Sugar plantations first brought wealth here, and when King Charles II of England granted an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies, many British emigrants were drawn to the capital, Funchal. Today’s travellers come to Madeira for the varied and luxuriant scenery, from mountain slopes covered with vines to picturesque villages and a profusion of wild flowers. The natural beauty of the island has earned it many pseudonyms such as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, 'The Island of Eternal Springtime' and ‘God’s Botanical Gardens’ and our selection of excursions aim to show you why.

You’ll arrive in the port of Funchal after lunch. Though it’s closer to Africa than Europe, the island of Madeira is a little piece of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The island is the top of a vast underwater volcano that rises more than six kilometres from the ocean floor, making for dramatic landscapes. The capital, Funchal, is nestled in a vast natural amphitheatre on the coast with a backdrop of lush mountains.

Freechoice:
4 x 4 Mountain Tea House: Experience a jeep ride through Funchal, Madeira's forest region, showcasing stunning mountain views, secluded areas, and protected natural habitats. Enjoy a relaxing break at a tea house.

Madeira Quinta Gardens & Tea: Experience an 18th-century Madeiran Quinta with botanical gardens, tea service, Funchal views, and 500 plant species at Quinta Jardins do Lago.

Formed by a volcanic eruption, Madeira lies in the Gulf Stream, about 500 miles due west of Casablanca. Discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, this beautiful island became part of Portugal’s vast empire and was named for the dense forest which cloaked it - 'Madeira' means 'wood' in Portuguese. Sugar plantations first brought wealth here, and when King Charles II of England granted an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies, many British emigrants were drawn to the capital, Funchal. Today’s travellers come to Madeira for the varied and luxuriant scenery, from mountain slopes covered with vines to picturesque villages and a profusion of wild flowers. The natural beauty of the island has earned it many pseudonyms such as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, 'The Island of Eternal Springtime' and ‘God’s Botanical Gardens’ and our selection of excursions aim to show you why.

Funchal became a popular holiday destination for the European aristocracy in the 19th century and the city still retains this air of busy prosperity. The grand boulevards and charming squares of West Funchal are home to boutique shops, excellent restaurants and interesting museums. Gritty East Funchal has been transformed into a hip neighbourhood packed with buzzing bars and trendy galleries. On its edge is the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores market, bursting with local produce. The city is famous for its gardens, so plan a visit to the Madeira Botanical Garden, Monte Tropical Gardens and Santa Catarina Park.

Freechoice:
Madeira Quinta Gardens & Tea: Experience an 18th-century Madeiran Quinta with botanical gardens, tea service, Funchal views, and 500 plant species at Quinta Jardins do Lago.

Madeiran Flavours: Discover the delightful fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, experience Madeira's traditional drink, and delve into the agricultural landscape at a private home, showcasing the traditional lifestyle of local farmers.

Explore the serene beauty of Porto Santo Island, a hidden gem in the Atlantic, by arriving in style aboard your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Porto Santo offers a tranquil escape from the everyday. Porto Santo is the perfect destination to relax with its nine-kilometre beach, discover the rich history and explore the island’s natural landscapes.

Freechoice:
Porto Santo Island: Experience an unforgettable adventure in Calheta, renowned for its stunning Atlantic Ocean views. Enjoy traditional poncha, Porto Santo Golf Club, Moinho Viewpoint, Pico do Castelo, Portela viewpoint, and charming Vila Baleira streets.

Porto Santo 4 x 4 Island Expedition & wine tasting: Explore São Tomé and Príncipe's island, including Pico das Flores on a 4x4 adventure, visiting a golf course, and a quarry. Explore Campo de Cima, a windmill and wine production village. Discover Barbara Gomes hill, Camacha village, Casa da Serra de Fora wine cellar, and Portela's famous viewpoint.

Tangier can trace its origins back to the Phoenicians and ancient Greeks. It was named after Tinge, the mother of Hercules’ son, and its beginnings are embedded in mythology. It was subsequently a Roman province, and after Vandal and Byzantine influences, was occupied by the Arabs with Spain, Portugal, France and England also playing a part in the city’s history. With such a diverse past it is perhaps not surprising that Tangier is such an individual city. Overlooking the Straits of Gibraltar, the city lies on a bay between two promontories. With its old Kasbah, panoramic views, elegant buildings, squares and places of interest, there is much to discover in both the new and old parts of the city.

At the northwestern tip of the African continent lies Tangier, guarding the Strait of Gibraltar where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s known as the White City, for the whitewashed houses strewn along winding streets. Many cultures and civilisations have left their mark here over centuries. A strong Spanish influence makes it an excellent showcase for Spanish-Moorish architecture. Today, Tangier is a modern port and the busiest in the Med.

Freechoice:
Cap Spartel, Hercules Caves and Kasbah: Stand on the northwestern-most point of Europe at Cap Spartel, explore Hercules Caves, and stroll the buzzy Kasbah and Medina.

Tetouan World Heritage-listed Tour: Visit Tetouan, the ‘White Dove’ of Morocco, to admire its Arabic and Spanish architecture, explore the old medina and souks, and enjoy mint tea.

As you sail into Malaga you will notice what an idyllic setting the city enjoys on the famous Costa del Sol. To the east of this provincial capital, the coast along the region of La Axarqua is scattered with villages, farmland and sleepy fishing hamlets - the epitome of traditional rural Spain. To the west stretches a continuous city where the razzmatazz and bustle creates a colourful contrast that is easily recognisable as the Costa del Sol. Surrounding the region, the Penibéetica Mountains provide an attractive backdrop overlooking the lower terraced slopes which yield olives and almonds. This spectacular mountain chain shelters the province from cold northerly winds, giving it a reputation as a therapeutic and exotic place in which to escape from cold northern climes. Malaga is also the gateway to many of Andalusia's enchanting historic villages, towns and cities.

Your voyage ends in the city of Málaga on Spain’s spectacular Costa del Sol. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world. After breakfast it is time to disembark your ultra-luxury home-at-sea, taking a lifetime of memories.

Please book your flight to depart out of Malaga after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.   

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.