Day 1 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY) - ST. ANNE
Welcome to the Seychelles, the Variety way. This natural paradise will be your home for the next few days: expect cultural immersion, uninhabited islands, and unique biospheres. But first, enjoy a welcome drink before we set sail for our first stop, Sainte Anne. We know you’ve been waiting to dive into the inviting Indian Ocean: this is your first chance of many. Dinner on board and overnight at anchor.

Day 2 | Sunday

ST. ANNE - CURIEUSE
An early departure means we’ll be at the uninhabited island of Curieuse ready for a day of excursions: guided walking tours, mangrove forest exploration, giant tortoise spotting, and more. Welcome in the afternoon with a beach barbecue and snorkelling opportunities or, with beaches this beautiful, you may prefer to simply lie back and soak it all in. We wouldn’t blame you. Overnight at anchor.

Day 3 | Monday

CURIEUSE - COUSIN ISLAND - ANSE LAZIO
From Curieuse to Anse Lazio. But first a visit to Cousin Island: the entire island has been a nature reserve since 1968. We’ll visit the bird sanctuary before sailing onwards to Anse Lazio in Praslin - globally recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, the time is yours; enjoy swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or napping, before heading back to the ship. Overnight at anchor.

Day 4 | Tuesday

ANSE LAZIO - ARIDE - ST. PIERRE - BAIE ST. ANNE/PRASLIN
Experience a wake up call like no other: experienced island rangers will take you on an early-morning guided tour to the top of the island for a one-in-a-million vantage point. Be sure to bring your camera. Aride is famous for numerous indiginous species; your guide will point these out as you traverse the unique landscape. At noon we sail to St. Pierre Island for 3 hours of snorkelling and swimming. Dry off, and enjoy a sunset sail to Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, in time for a cultural Creole Night. Overnight at dock. *Aride island often closed by local authorities during Southeast Trade winds (from May to September as a guideline). It may also close at short notice during strong winds. During this time, weather permitting, Variety Cruises Captain will be calling at equally beautiful locales, visiting Cote D’Or or Anse Georgette.

Day 5 | Wednesday

BAIE ST. ANNE, PRASLIN - FELICITE - LA DIGUE
Today is all about going where the wind takes us - figuratively and literally! After an optional tour to Vallee de Mai, the green heart of Praslin often described as a Garden of Eden, we’ll set off for Felicite or Grand Soeur. Wherever we end up, we guarantee you fun in the beautiful Seychelles sun. Evening sail to La Digue where we’ll anchor for the night.

Day 1

Athens (Greece), Depart 13:00
Your heavenly Adriatic escape begins in the majestic city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbour’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

Day 2

Kefalonia (Greece), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 17:00
Fir covered lands dotted with charming villages meet a sparkling coastline on Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island. Delve further into this jewel’s beauty. See nature’s best work in the Melissani Cave where sublime colors reflect off lake within. Or watch yachts jostle as you sip a drink and enjoy the sunset on the harbor of one of the fishing villages.

Day 3-4

Dubrovnik (Croatia), Arrive 12:00 | Depart 02:30
As we draw closer to Dubrovnik, all eyes will be on the towering city walls. Take the chance to walk along them to gain a unique perspective of the limestone streets, baroque architecture and the shimmer of turquoise beckoning beyond. Then head further into the city’s myriad streets to soak up the atmosphere in seemingly endless bars, cafes and restaurants.

Day 4

Kotor (Montenegro), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 17:00
Where red rooftops contrast with crystal blue waters and towering peaks. Kotor’s spectacular bay is an awe inspiring backdrop to a medieval maze of stunning architecture, Venetian palaces, ornate churches, museums and squares sprinkled with cafes, bars and restaurants.

Day 5


Bari (Italy), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 17:00
Transport yourself to the captivating port town of Bari, nestled in the stunning region of Puglia, Italy. Immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant charm, as you explore its ancient streets and marvel at its architectural wonders. As you wander through the bustling local markets, let the scent of freshly baked focaccia and the lively chatter of locals embrace you, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the authentic Puglian lifestyle.

Day 6

Corfu (Greece), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 18:00
Corfu Town is cosmopolitan, charming and friendly. You can easily lose yourself here as you explore the narrow alleyways, soak up the atmosphere and meet the locals at one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants. You may be surprised by the Italian feel, largely thanks to the Venetian architecture, but you won’t be surprised by the Greek warm welcome.

Day 7

Katakolo (Greece), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 15:00
As you dock in the sleepy fishing village of Katakolo, you would never imagine the secret gem it guards. Nearby, the ancient city of Olympia bears a wealth of priceless artefacts and sculptures. Feel the awe that remains in the world-famous home of the Olympic Games. Here you also have the chance to unwind on a 50-mile sandy beach with crystalline blue waters.

Day 8

Athens (Greece), Arrive 07:00 | Depart 17:00
You’re making your way through your Aegean getaway and dropping anchor in Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Soak up this ancient city’s unique blend of cultures and tastes, before you take to the sea once more.

Day 9

Thessaloniki (Greece), Arrive 10:00 | Depart 19:00
Thessaloniki is a gorgeous and cosmopolitan seaside city and the largest in Greece after Athens. Centuries of cultural commingling has also made Thessaloniki a culinary nirvana, with almost too many great restaurants and little eateries to count.

Day 10


Kusadasi (Turkey), Arrive 13:00 | Depart 19:00
The dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi welcomes you with its warm and friendly ambience. From here you will be whisked away for a guided tour round ancient Ephesus, one of the highlights of this iconic Aegean cruise. Before rebounding the ship, take time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar.

Day 11

Heraklion, Crete (Greece), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 19:00
As we pull into Heraklion, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th-Century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront, explore the Cretan countryside or discover the Palace of Knossos. This spellbinding tour invites you to listen to tales of intrigue and learn about Europe’s first civilisation in the Knossos museum. Was the Minotaur half-man or myth? You’re about to find out!

Day 12-13

Santorini (Greece), Arrive 07:00 | Depart 00:30
The romantic island of Santorini is the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th-Century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island’s calm and tranquillity.

Day 13-14

Mykonos (Greece), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 02:00
The sun-drenched island of Mykonos is affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds’. Easily recognised by its iconic 16th-Century windmills perched high on the hill, the vibrant Mykonos Town is an alluring landscape of smooth sandy beaches dotted along a dramatic coastline. Indulge in the islands culinary delights or take a short boat trip to explore the sacred island of Delos.

Day 14

Milos (Greece), Arrive 09:00 | Depart 19:00
The volcanic origins of the beautiful Greek island of Milos are clearly evident in its complex and bewitching landscape. Here you have the opportunity to explore the dramatically surreal and sculptured looming rock formations that rise out of the crystalline waters and create the stunning coastline. Why not join a local expert to explore the many beauty spots and charming fishing villages.

Day 15

Athens (Greece), Arrival 07:00
While your cruise may be drawing to an end, the tantalising city of Athens still lies ahead. Delve deep into the city’s sidestreets, bursting with life and culture. Or, clamber up high to the Acropolis for a stunning view of this thriving, cosmopolitan city. As the sun sets, take in the Athens skyline by night and wonder at the dancing Aegean. There’s no better place to end your cruise than here.

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - POROS
The adventure begins. Join us on board as you get to know your home at sea, and fellow travellers, over a welcome drink. We’ll set sail, heading for Poros and arriving just in time for dinner. Relax and find out more about each other, before our overnight journey to Poliegos.

Day 2 | Saturday

POLIEGOS - FOLEGANDROS
Wake up in uninhabited Poliegos. The hardest decision you’ll make today is whether to jump into the sea, or to enjoy breakfast on deck. We recommend you do both. In the afternoon we’ll sail to Folegandros to explore the town and Venetian castle, before dressing for dinner and tasting traditional Greek food at a local taverna. Overnight in Folegandros.

Day 3 | Sunday

SANTORINI
Santorini calling. We’ll arrive early with plenty of time to explore the capital, Fira, as well as the smaller village of Oia with its blue-domed views over the caldera. This is the place to get those Instagram shots. Optional tour of the archaeological site, Akrotiri. As evening falls, enjoy the world-famous Santorini sunset with sundowners on deck. Overnight in Santorini.

Day 4 | Monday

ANTIPAROS - PAROS
Today we’ll sail to Paros, with a quick stop in a beautiful bay on neighbouring Antiparos. Yes, you’re welcome to dive in. In Paros, explore both the port city of Parikia, and Naoussa - a quaint, and incredibly photogenic village in the north. Tonight it’s time to show off your dance and plate smashing skills at Greek Night. Overnight in Paros.

Day 5 | Tuesday

DELOS - MYKONOS
Before waving ahoy to Mykonos, we’ll stop for a few hours at sacred Delos. The island is an archaeological site, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join us on a guided tour before we sail to more hedonistic Mykonos. Here, the night is yours. Join the jet-set and vibe at the hottest bars and restaurants. Overnight in Mykonos - in case you don’t want to leave the party early!

Day 6 | Wednesday

SYROS
Wake up and refresh with a morning dip in the sea then all aboard for the trip to Syros, the capital of the Cyclades. Here you can relax, rest, and rejuvenate on the beach, or take a tour of the town to learn about its unique architecture. Overnight in Syros.

Day 7 | Thursday

KYTHNOS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
We begin our journey back to Athens, with a last opportunity to jump into the inviting sea at Kolones Bay, Kythnos. Dry off as we sail towards Cape Sounion to hike up to the Temple of Poseidon. On arrival back at Marina Zea, enjoy a Captain's Farewell Dinner before bedding down for one more night on board.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Breakfast and disembarkation at 8.30-9am. But this is not goodbye. We’re sure your cabin mates have become friends you’ll stay in touch with. As for us - we hope this is only bye for now, and that we’ll see you on one of our cruises again soon.

Day 1

PALMEIRA (SAL ISLAND)
Palmeira, Sal (3-4PM)
Ben Vindo! That’s Portuguese for welcome, and we welcome you to Cape Verde. Meet us on board at the port of Palmeira in Sal and get to know your home for the week, as well as your fellow travellers, over housewarming (or should we say shipwarming) cocktails. We’ll have dinner on board together, before a midnight departure to Boavista. Overnight at sea.

Day 2

SAL REI (BOA VISTA ISLAND)
Boa Vista is the island that has it all: volcanic landscapes, white stretches of sand, sparkling seas. Appreciate the relaxed way of life at one of the many beaches, or join us on an optional tour to discover the authentic aspects of island life: ceramics, colourful architecture and local agriculture. We’ll meet for lunch at a traditional restaurant (don’t miss the specialty *homemade goat’s cheese*) before we embark on our overnight journey to Santiago. Overnight at sea.

Day 3

PRAIA (SANTIAGO ISLAND)
Early morning arrival at Santiago, the largest of the Cape Verde archipelago. We know you’re eager to jump into the tempting waters and this morning is a great opportunity. Enjoy a morning at leisure followed by lunch on board before our optional afternoon trip to Cidade Velha. Founded in 1462, this was the first city to be built on the islands, and the former capital. Come evening, we’ll set off for an overnight at sea. Destination Fogo, the island of fire.

Day 4

SAO FELIPE (FOGO ISLAND)
We arrive at the island to the dominating sight of Fogo Volcano. Fogo means fire in Portuguese: no prizes for guessing how the island got its name! Today’s optional excursion is a full-day expedition: first to the top of the volcano for a walk along the crater’s edge with lunch in Chã das Caldeiras, the crater’s village. This is a trip for the ages, but we’re not finished yet. We’ll visit charming San Felipe in the afternoon, before setting sail for Sao Vicente. Overnight at sea.

Day 5

MINDELO (SAO VINCENTE ISLAND)
Mindelo, Sao Vicente, is a cultural hub known for its traditional music, art and architecture. Join our optional walking tour, meandre through the colonial streets and soak up the colourful sights, sounds and flavours. Visit the National Museum of Handicrafts for a deeper understanding into the rich island heritage. Mindelo is also famous for its lively nightlife; revel in it this evening as we overnight in the port.

Day 6

MINDELO (SAO VINCENTE ISLAND) - PORTO NOVO (SANTO ANTAO)
With just 10 KM between the two islands, it’s a short sail from Sao Vicente to Santo Antao this morning. Santo Antao is the greenest of all the Cape Verde Islands; let us show you its verdant heart - Valley Paul - on our optional tour. A place where passion fruit, mangos, and sugarcane grow in abundance, and where local alcoholic drink, Grogue, is distilled from the latter. Go ahead, try some - but not too much as we’ve still got time to visit the Valley of Ribeira before dinner on board. Overnight in port.

Day 7

PORTO NOVO (SANTO ANTAO)
This morning we’ll discover the south west of the island, with its volcanic, arid landscapes. Join our optional half day excursion as we journey through volcanic landscapes, crop plantations, and isolated villages. Lagedos is one such village, where ecological tourism…. Overnight at sea on route to Sal.

Day 8

PALMEIRA (SAL ISLAND)
As we come full circle (literally!) back to Sal, it’s time for breakfast and goodbyes. For now. We hope to sea you on board one of our other cruises soon.

Day 1 | Friday

PAPEETE PORT, TAHITI
Papeete,Tahiti (3PM).
Your adventure begins at the picturesque Papeete port, Society Islands, where you'll board the sleek two-masted beauty M/S Panorama II. Boarding Time: 3pm As you step on board, immerse yourself in a world of ambience and hospitality with a gracious welcome, a refreshing drink, and a delectable Welcome Dinner that sets the perfect tone for your journey ahead. As twilight descends, we'll bid farewell to Papeete and set sail for the enchanting island of Moorea. Overnight.

Day 2 | Saturday

MOOREA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
As we lay at anchor in Moorea, you will enjoy swimming, snorkeling and watersports from our swimming platform in her beautiful sapphire waters! A delicious lunch will boost your energy for your afternoon exploration of the island! Join us on an enchanting 3.5-hour island tour (included in the cruise fares), where your knowledgeable guide will regale you with captivating tales of Moorea's rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse ecology. Traverse through the lush Opunohu Valley, ascend the slopes of Mt. Tohi'e'a, and meander past the picturesque Cook's and Opunohu Bays. Along the way, indulge in a stop at the Moorea Fruit Juice Factory, where you can savor refreshing juices and liqueurs, crafted from locally sourced fruits, like star fruit, ginger, papaya, mango, coconut, and pineapple. After this delightful and included tour, relish in some free time to explore Moorea at your leisure before we set sail for our next destination, Raiatea island. Departure after dinner to Raiatea.

Day 3 | Sunday

RAIATEA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Early in the morning we sail across the lagoon to reach nearby Raiatea, which translates to “faraway heaven” and “sky with soft light”. Originally known as Havai’i, Raiatea is considered the homeland of the ancient Polynesians. We will have a variety of optional activities to choose from, such as: Faaroa River and Motu beach break or visit the Anapa family Pearl farm. Overnight in port (docked or on anchor at times).

Day 4 | Monday

TAHA'A, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Noon arrival in Taha'a, which shares a magnificent lagoon with Raiatea Island. As we lay at anchor in Taha’a, you will enjoy swimming, snorkeling and watersports from our swimming platform in her beautiful sapphire waters! The fertile island is covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves. The island also acts as a vast natural greenhouse for the treasured Tahitian vanilla orchid. Optional visit of the island with a vanilla plantation , a rum distillery while enjoying some snorkeling. Or take a 4X4 safari tour around. Late night departure to Bora Bora. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

BORA BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Without a doubt, Bora Bora reigns supreme as the crown jewel of the South Pacific, holding the spotlight as French Polynesia's undisputed star. Today, we've arranged for you to experience the essence of Bora Bora with a unique excursion aboard Le Truck, a vibrant journey lasting approximately 2.5 hours (included in the cruise fares). Climb aboard this colorful chariot as it guides you through Bora Bora's landscapes, passing coconut groves and quaint villages nestled along the shoreline. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tahitian history, traditions, and cultures as your knowledgeable guide narrates the 22-mile road encircling this legendary island. Explore the villages of Farepiti, Faanui, and Anau, each adorned with ancient "Marae" shrouded in mystery. And as your adventure unfolds, be captivated by the breathtaking vistas from Matira Point, a vantage point offering unparalleled panoramas of paradise. Overnight in port.

Day 6 | Wednesday

BORA BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
One mere day in Bora Bora simply doesn't suffice! Whether you choose to explore at your own pace or join us on one of our meticulously crafted optional Shore Excursions, seize the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Late night departure to Huahine.

Day 7 | Thursday

HUAHINE, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Huahine, once home to Tahitian royalty, is considered the cradle of Polynesian culture. The two islands maintain the largest concentration of ancient marae (temples) in French Polynesia, some of which are believed to date back to around 700 AD. Huahine is a colossal tropical jungle burgeoning with coconut plantations, vanilla orchids, banana groves, breadfruit trees and watermelon fields. Our optional half-day tour takes us around the island to visit the small villages of Maeva, an archaeological site, and a vanilla plantation, or visit a private motu for a picnic and snorkeling experience. Departure after lunch to Papeete. Overnight at sea.

Day 8 | Friday

PAPEETE PORT, TAHITI
As the morning sun graces Papeete Port, we find ourselves at the end of our voyage. We invite you to join us for the final breakfast on board at 9AM before disembarkation. Our dedicated Concierge stands ready to assist with any final arrangements, ensuring your journey concludes seamlessly.

Day 1 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY) - ST. ANNE
Welcome to the Seychelles, the Variety way. This natural paradise will be your home for the next few days: expect cultural immersion, uninhabited islands, and unique biospheres. But first, enjoy a welcome drink before we set sail for our first stop, Sainte Anne. We know you’ve been waiting to dive into the inviting Indian Ocean: this is your first chance of many. Dinner on board and overnight at anchor.

Day 2 | Sunday

ST. ANNE - CURIEUSE
An early departure means we’ll be at the uninhabited island of Curieuse ready for a day of excursions: guided walking tours, mangrove forest exploration, giant tortoise spotting, and more. Welcome in the afternoon with a beach barbecue and snorkelling opportunities or, with beaches this beautiful, you may prefer to simply lie back and soak it all in. We wouldn’t blame you. Overnight at anchor.

Day 3 | Monday

CURIEUSE - COUSIN ISLAND - ANSE LAZIO
From Curieuse to Anse Lazio. But first a visit to Cousin Island: the entire island has been a nature reserve since 1968. We’ll visit the bird sanctuary before sailing onwards to Anse Lazio in Praslin - globally recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, the time is yours; enjoy swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or napping, before heading back to the ship. Overnight at anchor.

Day 4 | Tuesday

ANSE LAZIO - ARIDE - ST. PIERRE - BAIE ST. ANNE/PRASLIN
Experience a wake up call like no other: experienced island rangers will take you on an early-morning guided tour to the top of the island for a one-in-a-million vantage point. Be sure to bring your camera. Aride is famous for numerous indiginous species; your guide will point these out as you traverse the unique landscape. At noon we sail to St. Pierre Island for 3 hours of snorkelling and swimming. Dry off, and enjoy a sunset sail to Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, in time for a cultural Creole Night. Overnight at dock. *Aride island often closed by local authorities during Southeast Trade winds (from May to September as a guideline). It may also close at short notice during strong winds. During this time, weather permitting, Variety Cruises Captain will be calling at equally beautiful locales, visiting Cote D’Or or Anse Georgette.

Day 5 | Wednesday

BAIE ST. ANNE, PRASLIN - FELICITE - LA DIGUE
Today is all about going where the wind takes us - figuratively and literally! After an optional tour to Vallee de Mai, the green heart of Praslin often described as a Garden of Eden, we’ll set off for Felicite or Grand Soeur. Wherever we end up, we guarantee you fun in the beautiful Seychelles sun. Evening sail to La Digue where we’ll anchor for the night.

Day 6 | Thursday

LA DIGUE - MOYENNE ISLAND
Join us for an optional morning excursion where our knowledgeable guides will take you to L’Union Estate Farm for a tour of a coconut oil mill. Spend the early afternoon souvenir shopping at La Passe, or idle the time away at Anse Source D’Argent beach. This is another beach well-known for being one of the world’s most beautiful. What can we say, the Seychelles will spoil you. Late afternoon sail to Moyenne Island, overnight at anchor.

Day 7 | Friday

MOYENNE ISLAND - MAHE - INTER ISLAND QUAY
Your last day with us in the Seychelles is equal parts food and swimming. Dive into those sparkling waters for one last time at Moyenne before enjoying a barbecue on deck. Late afternoon we’ll head back to where it all began - Mahe - for our signature Captain’s Farewell dinner with live music. Dancing isn’t required, but very much smiled upon. Overnight in Mahe.

Day 8 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY)
Mahe, Victoria (9AM)
Get ready to disembark, but first enjoy a breakfast on board. We never like saying goodbye, so instead let us say we hope to sea you soon!

Day 1 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Meet us on board between 3PM and 4PM. Spend some time getting to know your home at sea and fellow voyagers, then join us for a welcome dinner before we set sail southwards, towards the Saloum River Delta. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Sunday

DJIFFER, SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. From here, join our optional excursion to JOAL FADIOUTH, an island built on and of clam shells. Come afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.

Day 3 | Monday

BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA
Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700 mile Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but first join our optional half day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 4 | Tuesday

TENDABA, THE GAMBIA
Today, we offer two optional excursions. Both begin in Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue - small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park - home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primate-d out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, and passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 5 | Wednesday

GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town, Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going ships. Yes, even our small ship. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park. Listen and learn as a local park ranger teaches us all about the park's flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. Overnight docked in Kuntaur.

Day 6 | Thursday

KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA
We hope you’ve slept well as we have a varied and active optional tour today. First to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, formerly known as Georgetown. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village, Kaur. Explore and see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.

Day 7 | Friday

KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gambia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.

Day 8 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Early morning arrival in Dakar. Join your fellow adventures - who we’re sure are now friends - for one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end.

Day 1 | Monday

BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA
Meet us on board at 4PM. Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700 mile Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but first join our optional half day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 2 | Tuesday

TENDABA, THE GAMBIA
Today, we offer two optional excursions. Both begin in Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue - small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park - home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primate-d out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, and passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 3 | Wednesday

GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town, Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going ships. Yes, even our small ship. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park. Listen and learn as a local park ranger teaches us all about the park's flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. Overnight docked in Kuntaur.

Day 4 | Thursday

KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA
We hope you’ve slept well as we have a varied and active optional tour today. First to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, formerly known as Georgetown. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village, Kaur. Explore and see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.

Day 5 | Friday

KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gamibia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.

Day 6 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Early morning arrival in Dakar. After breakfast, we will take you in an optional excursion to Goree Island and Dakar city tour, an exploratory adventure of Dakar surroundings, inviting you to discover the traces of slave trading, and its transformation into today’s African modernity. The history makes room for the present development. Lunch outside the ship. Returning to the ship in late afternoon and preparing for dinner. After dinner, we set sail southward towards the Saloum River Delta. Overnight at sea, cruising south wards along the coast.

Day 7 | Sunday

DJIFFER/SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. From here, join our optional excursion to JOAL FADIOUTH, an island built on and of clam shells. Come afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.

Day 8 | Monday

BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Early morning arrival in Banjul. Join your fellow adventures - who we’re sure are now friends - for one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end.