Atlantic Passage – Lisbon to Cape Verde

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.

Lisbon has inspired explorers for centuries with its stunning setting at the Tagus River’s mouth. Its labyrinthine streets carry echoes of 16th-century navigators who sailed on the winds of the Age of Discovery. The city prospered greatly from its trade. And today’s streets are lined with the legacies of wealthy builders, including the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, stunning works that introduced Manueline architecture. Savoring local cuisine and port wine are favorite pastimes here. On any evening, the strains of fadospill from clubs in the historic Alfama District.

Time to relax

Spend the next two days at sea enjoying the facilities on board MS Fridtjof Nansen. Relax in the hot tub and pool area, stroll the open decks, and grab a drink at the Explorer Bar & Lounge while chatting to fellow travellers.

The Expedition Team will be giving lectures and presentations, offering insight into what makes this part of the Atlantic so compelling.

It's also the perfect time to slow down, find a quiet spot to read, or simply watch the ocean from the observation deck.

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.

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.

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

Your journey continues southwest towards Cape Verde, an archipelago over 350 miles off the west coast of Africa. These vibrant Atlantic islands are rich in culture and history. This is a time to enjoy the ship facilities, such as relaxing in the infinity pool and joining fellow travellers for leisurely dinners. The following day, head to the observation deck to watch the everchanging ocean landscape, or find a quiet corner to read, lulled into relaxation by the rhythm of the water.

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.

The port of Palmeira on Sal Island, the jewel of Cape Verde, is a lively fishing town with colourful streets and charming low-rise houses. In the heart of the action, Santa Maria, the island's premier resort, dazzles with endless golden beaches, a hub of bars, beachfront shops and seafood restaurants. In the northwest, Pedra de Lume unfolds the island's history through ancient salt flats, echoing the vibrant past of this captivating destination