Best of the Canaries

Cruise Itinerary

• Day 1: Portsmouth, UK

  Embark on your 14-night cruise on board Spirit of Discovery

• Day 2-4: At sea

  Days at sea

• Day 5-6: Funchal, Madeira

  It is very easy to see why Madeira has gained the name of 'The Garden Island'. Lush greenery with an array of tropical fruits, this island is a favourite on many cruise itineraries. Take gondola ride to the mountain village of Monte to experience some of the most breathtaking views of the island, then take the thrilling way down on a local toboggan, winding and bending over the cobbles; this is something you won’t want to miss. For wine lovers, venture out into the vineyards and experience some of the famous wine of the region.

• Day 7: Santa Cruz, La Palma

  Spend time in La Palma's capital of Santa Cruz. Take a walk along Calle Real with its palaces, colonial-style buildings, shops, and squares. Explore Plaza de Espana or savour a traditional barraquito coffee in Placeta del Borrero. Admire the views from Santuario de la Virgen de las Nieves, step inside Iglesia del Salvador, or uncover ancient exhibits at Museo Insular. Travel south to marvel at the stunning scenery and colourful flora at San Antonio Volcano.

• Day 8: Santa Cruz, Tenerife

  Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the island's best-kept secrets. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, known locally as Santa Cruz, is a bustling centre of culture and activity. Visit the Museum of Man and Nature and discover the evolution of the Canary Islands. Alternatively, head to the award-winning Loro Parque wildlife park and come face-to-face with amazing animals and exotic birds. Head down to the Downtown Santa Cruz shopping district and enjoy a superb range of shops and tapas bars. Soak up the sun on the golden sands of La Teresitas beach or hike around the surrounding mountains and savour the picturesque views.

• Day 9: Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

  Arrive in Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria. Explore the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral, Plaza de Santa Ana, Palacio Regental, and the Bishop's Palace in Vegueta - the oldest part of the city. Spend the day sunbathing on Playa de Las Canteras, regarded as one of the world's best beaches, or relish live Canarian folk music and dancing at Pueblo Canario. Relax in the idyllic surroundings of Parque Doramas or enjoy a leisurely coffee on Plaza Cairasco. Discover national treasures dating back to Roman times at El Museo Canario. Admire the indigenous flora and fauna at the Jardin Botanico Viera y Clavijo, travel to the famous Maspalomas dunes, or join a trek to the Bandama Caldera.

• Day 10: Arrecife, Lanzarote

  Today the ship drops anchor at Arrecife, the capital of the Canarian island of Lanzarote. Two splendid castles form the backdrop to the harbour - the 15th-century Castillo San Gabriel and 17th-century Castillo San Jose. Meander through the Old Quarter and admire the 17th-century San Ginés Church with its bell tower and Mudéjar-style ceiling. Indulge in retail therapy at Centro Comercial Marina Lanzarote before relaxing with a lunch of paella or fresh fish overlooking Charco San Ginés. The beautiful golden sands of Playa de Reducto are the perfect place to spend a few hours sunbathing. Venture inland to explore the lunar landscapes of Timanfaya National Park's fire mountains and Cesar Manrique's unique Jardin de Cactus on the outskirts of Guatiza and Jameos Del Agua cave.

• Day 11: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 12: Lisbon, Portugal

  Spread across seven hills on the shores of River Tagus is Portugal's capital city, Lisbon. Pavement cafes, bustling squares and serene gardens sit alongside palaces, bridges and castles in this waterside city. Immerse yourself in culture at Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and National Museum of Contemporary Art, or enjoy the colourful marine life at Oceanarium. Take a vintage tram ride through the city's cobbled streets, admiring Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower on the way. Haggle for bargains at the lively Thieves Market, or explore designer shops on Rua do Carmo, Rua Garrett and Avenida da Liberdade. Venture further afield and discover the fairytale places and ornate villas in Sintra or go dolphin-watching in Setúbal.

• Day 13-14: At sea

  Days at sea

• Day 15: Portsmouth, UK

  It’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.