Madeira Island Portugal Cruise from Funchal to Dakar — 14 Days

Funchal, Portugal

Funchal sits in a broad, sunlit amphitheatre above Madeira’s deep Atlantic harbour. Its compact centre rewards exploration, from the Old Town’s painted doors to the cathedral’s carved cedar ceiling. Ride the cable car uphill to Monte for sweeping views, then descend through gardens or by traditional wicker toboggan. Madeira’s wines and market produce offer a taste of the island before your ship sails.

At Sea (At Sea)

Safi, Morocco

Safi meets the Atlantic with a working harbour, a lively medina and a craft tradition visible in its distinctive ceramics. Visit Potters’ Hill to see workshops shaping the city’s celebrated pottery, then explore the Portuguese-built Kechla fortress above town. Inside, the National Museum of Ceramics traces Safi’s craft heritage; along the waterfront, boats land the day’s catch. Come ashore for a grounded encounter with Morocco’s Atlantic coast, far removed from Marrakesh’s inland bustle.

Agadir, Morocco

Agadir faces the Atlantic beneath the foothills of the Anti-Atlas, with a broad crescent beach and year-round sunshine. The 1960 earthquake destroyed much of the old city; today’s Agadir is modern, spacious and easy to explore. At Souk El Had, browse stalls of spices, leather and ceramics. Then visit the Kasbah ruins for wide views across the harbor and coast. For a quieter glimpse of local life, explore the fishing port or settle at a beachfront café.

Arrecife, Spain

Arrecife is Lanzarote’s compact capital, where Atlantic light catches whitewashed buildings and fishing boats in the harbour. Step ashore near Charco de San Ginés, a sheltered lagoon edged with cafés, seafood restaurants and low houses. César Manrique’s vision shapes Lanzarote, from its striking architecture to gardens and cultural spaces. Beyond town, volcanic landscapes and vineyards reveal why the island feels unlike any other Canary Island.

San Sebastian de la Gomera, Spain

San Sebastián de la Gomera is a small port with a large place in Atlantic history. Columbus called here in 1492 before sailing west, and the town rewards a leisurely walk. See the 15th-century Torre del Conde, then visit the Church of the Assumption, linked to his stay. Beyond the waterfront, La Gomera’s steep green interior leads to Garajonay National Park, where ancient laurel forest fills deep ravines.

Santa Cruz de la Palma, Spain

Santa Cruz de la Palma is a small island capital with an outsized sense of history. Founded in 1493, it grew into an important Atlantic port, and its old quarter still bears that maritime confidence. Walk Calle Real for handsome colonial façades, then look for carved wooden balconies along Avenida Marítima. Beyond town, La Palma’s steep green interior leads to the dramatic Caldera de Taburiente National Park.

At Sea (At Sea)

Mindelo

Mindelo brings Cape Verde’s Atlantic character into sharp focus: a working harbour, Portuguese-era façades and a distinctive Creole culture. The waterfront faces sheltered Porto Grande, while cafés and music venues give the town a sociable rhythm. Explore Praça Nova and the Centro Nacional de Artesanato e Design, where local craft traditions are on display. For a wider view, drive up Monte Verde, São Vicente’s highest point, on a clear day.

Fogo Island

Fogo Island sits off Newfoundland’s northeast coast, where the North Atlantic shapes both the landscape and daily life. From the ferry landing, roads lead through small communities of painted houses, working wharves and weathered fishing stages. Visit Fogo village for its heritage sites, or follow coastal trails to coves, barrens and broad ocean views. The celebrated Fogo Island Inn brings contemporary design to this remote setting. Local studios and cafés offer a closer look at island life.

Boa Vista Island

Boa Vista is Cape Verde’s easternmost island, where Atlantic beaches meet a landscape of sand dunes and volcanic hills. Sal Rei, the relaxed island capital, makes an easy starting point. Nearby, Praia de Chaves offers long white sands, while the Viana dunes bring a striking desert-like scene. Look for the Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck on the northern coast, a reminder of the island’s maritime past.

At Sea (At Sea)

Dakar, Senegal

Dakar rewards travellers who look beyond the harbour. Senegal’s capital stands at Africa’s westernmost point, where Atlantic surf meets a city shaped by trade, faith and music. Visit the IFAN Museum of African Arts and browse the markets. Take a ferry to Gorée Island, a UNESCO-listed site whose history demands time and reflection. Allow space for thieboudienne, Senegal’s celebrated fish-and-rice dish, and a drive along the Corniche for ocean views.