Continental Crossroads: Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands

Arrive in Barcelona and transfer to the centrally located hospitality space. This afternoon, explore the city at your own pace, enjoying its architectural masterpieces, the lively street rhythms of Las Ramblas or the beautiful views atop Montjuic. Embark the ship in the late afternoon and enjoy your first evening in the Mediterranean.

The ship anchors near the city of Castellón on mainland Spain. From here, enjoy water activities in the Columbretes Islands, an archipelago 30 miles off the coast. The islands are a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities to observe endemic species such as Andouin's gull, Eleonora's falcon and Scopoli's shearwater.

Begin your exploration of Valencia with a visit to its majestic cathedral, home to the revered Holy Chalice—believed by many to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. Savor an authentic paella, the city’s signature dish, before exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex where science, culture and architecture converge. Later, set out independently to wander the winding streets of the old quarter, browse the bustling Mercado Central or take in world-class art at the Palau de les Arts.

In Cartagena experience a tapas tour, weaving through narrow lanes and bustling terraces. Head toward the Cartagena Night Market, held in the summer along the harbor or central squares. Explore the rich tapestry of Cartagena’s history, from its ancient Roman origins to its strategic military importance through the centuries. See the stunning Roman Theatre, the Augustus Temple and city walls.

Málaga is one of Spain’s oldest cities—a vibrant coastal destination where ancient history and modern culture live side by side. Visit the Alcazaba of Málaga, one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Spain, and the Castillo de Gibralfaro—a 14th-century fortress that once defended the Alcazaba and the city below.

Tangier sits just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain and has long served as a gateway between Africa and Europe—a true cultural crossroads. Wander through the winding streets of the medina, climb to the kasbah or visit the American Legation Museum, a symbol of centuries-old diplomacy.

Meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and a hub of industry on Africa’s west coast. The architecture of the city is an eclectic blend of influences from Moorish design to the French Art Deco era and more. Explore the bustling old medina, where the twisting cobbled streets are lined with whitewashed buildings and alive with activity. Stroll along the Corniche, the popular boardwalk by the sea. Witness the vast beauty of Hassan II Mosque, built on an outcrop jutting out over the ocean.

Essaouira, a coastal gem on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is known for its whitewashed medina, dramatic sea walls and blend of Berber, Arab, Jewish and European influences. Today, visit the old medina, relax in traditional Moroccan hammams or enjoy a tour of the local architecture.

Nestled between the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir is one of Morocco’s most modern cities. Destroyed by a major earthquake in 1960, the city has been rebuilt to its current vitality while still retaining its rich history. A beautiful example of this is La Medina d’Agadir, which was recreated in the 1990s using traditional Berber methods. Overlooking the city, the kasbah is one of the few structures that survived the quake. Hike to the top to take in stunning views and the medieval architecture of this fortress.

The sea stretched endlessly in all directions, meeting the sky at a distant horizon. Gentle waves rolled beneath the vessel, creating a soothing rhythm as it moved across the water. The cool breeze carried the scent of salt, and the sunlight sparkled on the surface like countless diamonds. Seabirds occasionally glided overhead, adding life to the vast blue expanse. Surrounded by open water, the scene felt both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

Go ashore in Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, and venture into Timanfaya National Park to witness volcanic peaks and craters shaped by eruptions as recently as 300 years ago. Explore the Castillo de San Gabriel, a 16th-century fortress set on a small island in Arrecife’s harbor and built to defend against pirate attacks. Explore the Museo de Historia de Arrecife inside the castle walls to uncover the city’s pre-Hispanic past and the unique natural history of the island.

Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and proceeding to the airport for onward flights.