Swan Hellenic Expedition Cruise on The Mysteries of Carthage and Moors

The Mysteries of North Africa: A Swan Hellenic Expedition Cruise
by Matthew Gray, Senior Expedition Advisor at Cruise Norway

Day 1: Lisbon – Discovering the City
Our journey began in the vibrant city of Lisbon, where we had the whole day to explore on our own before boarding the SH Diana. Eager to soak in the city's energy, we hopped on a hop-on-hop-off bus, the perfect way to navigate the busy streets and get an overview of Lisbon's many attractions. From the iconic Belém Tower to the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, the city was a feast for the eyes. But the real highlight was zipping through the narrow, winding streets in a tuktuk—a fun and exhilarating way to see the city up close! The evening ended with a traditional Portuguese dinner, featuring the famous Pastel de Nata, setting the tone for the adventure that awaited us.

Day 2: Portimão – Sagres Point and Old Town Charm
Our first port of call was Portimão, a picturesque town on Portugal's Algarve coast. The highlight of the day was our visit to Sagres Point, often referred to as the "end of the world" for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views. Standing at this historic point, you could almost feel the spirit of the explorers who set sail from here centuries ago. Afterward, we took a guided tour of the old town, strolling through its charming streets lined with whitewashed buildings and local shops. The day was a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Day 3: Seville – A Royal Experience
After sailing up the Guadalquivir we arrived in Seville, a city bursting with color, history, and architectural splendor. Our day was packed with visits to some of its most iconic sites. First up was the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a stunning palace complex that left us in awe with its intricate Moorish design and lush gardens. Next, we marveled at the grandeur of the Plaza de España, with its impressive semi-circular building and beautiful tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces. The day concluded at the Cathedral de Sevilla, where we climbed the Giralda tower for a breathtaking view of the city. Seville was an absolute highlight, full of vibrant culture and history. After a hot day exploring the ship SH Diana’s pool was a refreshing welcome.

Day 4: Ceuta – A Blend of Cultures
Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, was our next stop. The city offered a fascinating blend of Spanish and Moroccan influences, which we explored on a guided bus tour. We delved into its rich history, learning about its strategic importance and the diverse cultures that have shaped it. The visit to the old fort was particularly intriguing, offering stunning views of the surrounding areas and a glimpse into the city’s military past. Ceuta’s unique blend of cultures made it a truly memorable stop on our journey.

Day 5: Oran – A Glimpse into Algerian Life
Oran, a bustling port city in Algeria, presented a more restricted experience due to local regulations, but it was no less fascinating. Accompanied by a police escort, we visited the Regional Theater of Oran and the Chapelle Santa Cruz, perched high on a mountain with panoramic views over the bay. Despite the restrictions, the locals were incredibly welcoming, often stopping us to express their gratitude for our visit and even asking to take pictures with us. This warmth and curiosity made Oran a unique and enriching experience, offering a genuine glimpse into Algerian life.

Day 6: Algiers – A Taste of Local Hospitality
Our day in Algiers was another escorted adventure, this time through the bustling capital of Algeria. The city tour took us to the impressive Martyrs' Memorial and the UNESCO-listed Casbah, a labyrinth of narrow streets and ancient buildings. A highlight of the day was visiting a local guest house, where we were warmly welcomed and treated to traditional tea, coffee, and delicious candied dates. Walking through the city, we encountered countless cats and heard the evocative Call to Prayer echoing over the rooftops, adding a magical atmosphere to our visit.

Day 7: Bejaia – Mountain Views and Market Treasures
In Bejaia, we were again escorted by police, which turned out to be a blessing given the narrow, crowded mountain roads. Our journey took us to the top of Pic des Singes (Monkey Peak), where we were rewarded with breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. The area is also known for its Berber macaques, adding a touch of wildlife adventure to the day. We also explored the local market, winding through a cave filled with vibrant stalls selling everything from spices to handmade crafts. Bejaia’s natural beauty and bustling market made for an unforgettable experience.

Day 8: Annaba – Ancient Ruins and Local Flavors
Annaba offered a blend of history and culture, starting with our visit to the Hippones Museum and Site, where we explored ancient Roman ruins that once formed part of the city of Hippo Regius. We then visited the beautiful Basilique de Saint Augustin, perched on a hill overlooking the city. After lunch, we had the unique experience of visiting a mosque, where we learned about local customs and traditions, including the need to cover shoulders and knees before entering. The day ended with a stroll through the streets to a local café, where we enjoyed prickly pear smoothies and other regional treats. Annaba was a delightful mix of ancient history and local culture.

Day 9: La Goulette – Exploring Carthage
La Goulette, our final stop in North Africa, welcomed us with open arms. Unlike in Algeria, we no longer required a police escort, allowing us to explore more freely. We spent the day delving into the rich history of Carthage, visiting the Quartier Punique de Byrsa, the ancient Punic Ports, and the Baths of Antonius. The ruins were incredibly well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the life of this once-great civilization. Afterward, we shopped for souvenirs at a local store, picking up handcrafted Berber items to remember our journey by. La Goulette was a perfect blend of history and modern-day Tunisian culture.

Day 10: Palermo – A Fond Farewell
Our expedition cruise ended in Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. After disembarking the SH Diana, we took a leisurely stroll through the city, reflecting on the incredible journey we had just completed. Palermo, with its mix of Arab-Norman architecture, bustling markets, and rich culinary traditions, was the perfect place to wrap up our adventure. We bid farewell to our fellow travelers and the wonderful crew of the SH Diana, grateful for the memories made and the new friendships formed.

A Quick History of North Africa
North Africa’s history is a tapestry woven from the influences of various empires and cultures. The region was first shaped by the Phoenicians and later became a vital part of the Roman Empire, leaving behind impressive ruins like those in Tunisia and Algeria. During the Middle Ages, North Africa was a battleground for control between the Spanish, who established enclaves like Ceuta, and the indigenous Berber kingdoms. The French colonial period in the 19th and 20th centuries left a lasting impact, particularly in Algeria, where the struggle for independence became a symbol of anti-colonial resistance.

Wrapping Up Our 10-Day Adventure
This 10-day expedition cruise aboard the SH Diana was nothing short of spectacular. Each city we visited offered its own unique charm, from the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the ancient ruins of Carthage. The warmth and hospitality of the local people were truly heartwarming, making us feel welcome and appreciated everywhere we went. Traveling on a small expedition ship allowed us to explore these incredible destinations in a way that supported the local economy without overwhelming it with mass tourism. This journey has been a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where each moment is savored, and every experience is richer for it. We leave with memories to last a lifetime and a deep appreciation for the cultures and landscapes of the Mediterranean and North Africa.

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