Deckplan
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
A springtime voyage from Sal to Tenerife aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Join us aboard the MS Hebridean Sky for this wonderful island hopping itinerary visiting the diverse islands of the Atlantic with their mountainous and lunar like landscapes, intriguing topography, verdant pine forests and stunning national parks. Every new day brings a different vista and our itinerary has been carefully designed so that we can fully explore these amazingly varied groups of islands, each one having a distinct culture and landscape.
We will begin our exploration in the remote and intriguing Cape Verde archipelago whose islands have been used by mariners as a staging post through the ages. There is no better way to explore their dramatic beauty and cultural vibrancy than by small ship. Each island is a little world of its own; some are arid and flat with extraordinary beaches and sand dunes whilst others by contrast are more mountainous and lush. After a relaxing two days at sea we arrive in our next island group, the Canary Islands; an archipelago consisting of seven main islands that are formed from the tips of a vast volcanic mountain range that lies beneath the Atlantic Ocean. We have four days here during which time we will visit three of the lesser known islands: La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro where we can enjoy nature at its very best. We will also visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife where there will be the opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens of the city and spectacular Mount Teide. These volcanic islands impress with their unique flora and fauna and boast rugged, rocky landscapes, evergreen cloud forests, metre-high ferns and bizarre-looking dragon trees.
In the company of just 100 like-minded travel companions we will be able to make the most of the region and in our small groups we can explore the places otherwise inaccessible to the larger ships. Whether your interests lie in botany, geology, history or walking, Cape Verde and the Canary Islands offer something for everyone.
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Fly by exclusive charter flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky in Sal where we moor overnight.
The island of Sal was relatively undeveloped until the mid-nineteenth century when the salt export business was established, and we will visit one of the original sites at Pedra de Lume. We will see the saltpans, learn of the salt extraction process and even have the chance to float in the waters. After lunch on board the afternoon is at leisure and shuttle buses will run to the town of Santa Maria where you can swim from the beaches or explore the local shops for Cape Verdean crafts.
We have a full day on the most beautiful of the islands, Santo Antao. Driving up the old trading route we pass the volcanic crater ‘Cova’ with its agricultural plantations and enjoy panoramic views of the island before arriving in the tiny, picturesque mountain village of Fontainhas, on the northern side of the island. After lunch in the seaside village of Ponta do Sol, we will take the coastal road towards the greenest valley in the archipelago, the valley of Paul. Here we will enjoy a coffee break whilst learning about the production of sugarcane on the island. We will also discover ‘Grogue’, the national drink of the islands and have a taste of it at the oldest traditional Grogue distillery on the island. Drive back along the coast to the southern side of the island and our waiting ship. This evening we will make the short hop over to Mindelo and after dinner we will be entertained by local music and capoeira on board.
Enjoy a full day in Mindelo, one of the most attractive of all the Cape Verde towns with its colonial buildings, cobbled streets, cafes and lively restaurants. Depart on a morning discovery tour of the lively markets and the secret corners of the harbour town. After a coffee break in a typical Cape Verdean bar, learn about the life of the local artists and their works by visiting the National Museum of Handicraft. The afternoon is free to further explore the vibrant town independently.
Spend two days relaxing at sea as we sail north to the Canary Islands. Enjoy the onboard lectures, relax with a book in the library or find a spot on deck.
Spend the morning at sea before we arrive on La Palma, which is known by locals as the ‘Beautiful Island’, and it is easy to see why. It is a stunning, peaceful and most importantly an un-spoilt destination that has deservedly been declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This afternoon there will be a choice of excursions. You may wish to join the tour to Caldera de Taburiente, a massive eight kilometre wide depression which scientists agree was a majestically tall volcanic mountain that collapsed in on itself. Explore on foot and whilst all may seem stoic and still, the forces of erosion are hard at work and some geologists estimate that it will finally disappear in just 5000 years. Alternatively, take a drive to visit Los Tilos Forest, nestled between colossal mountains, it is one of the few surviving Laurisilva forests on the planet. Continue to the charming town of San Andres where we will visit the El Tendal Museum and learn more about the island and its history. Before returning to the ship enjoy a tasting at the Rum Factory. Finally for those who would prefer a more energetic excursion there will be a guided trek on offer through the El Pilar area; see remains of volcanic eruptions, the magnificent views of the Valley of Aridane and the crater wall that surrounds the Taburiente National Park.
La Gomera is a paradise of natural beauty with lush valleys and awe-inspiring cliffs dotted with charming, whitewashed villages and gives the impression of being lost in a time warp. On a full day tour we will explore the island including the Garajonay National Park, home to the world’s only surviving laurel forest and visit the villages of Hermiqua, Agulo and Las Rosas before making our way to a local restaurant for lunch. Before returning to the ship experience a demonstration of Silbo Gomero, the island’s unique whistling language, and visit the magnificent rock formations of Agando. Alternatively, you may wish to join a guided morning trek through the Garajonay National Park commencing in the village of El Cedro which offers some interesting examples of Canarias architecture. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon will be at leisure for individual exploration.
Probably the least known of the Canary Islands, and once considered to be the end of the world, El Hierro is unique and utterly captivating. On our morning island tour it will be impossible not to be entranced by the island’s slow pace and simple style; by its craggy coast, where waves hurl themselves against lava sculpted rock faces; by the pretty farmland and flower meadows of the interior; by the eerily beautiful juniper groves; and by the desolate volcanic Badlands that stretch out like moonscapes in the south. We will also have the opportunity to sample some of El Hierro’s excellent wine and visit the lizard house where the island’s unique giant lizards are bred; near extinction, they are protected by international law. Alternatively, opt for the La Llania hiking excursion which will take us through primaeval forests, along ancient cisterns and mythical witches dance floors to El Hierro’s top viewing point affording spectacular views of the western parts of the island. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon will be free to explore at leisure or relax on board.
This morning will be dedicated to gardens. We will start with a visit to the Jardin Botanico that was founded in 1788 by Charles III of Spain. The purpose of the gardens was to create an area where the plants, shrubs and flowers brought back from the New World could acclimatise to Spanish soil. Many of the plants are the original specimens brought back for the opening of the gardens including the centrepiece, an enormous South American fig tree. In contrast to the Botanical Gardens, we will then explore the Sitio Litre Garden which boasts a luscious orchid collection. After lunch on board we will drive inland, along the base of the mountain range through beautiful pine forests to the Parque Nacional del Teide. The area was declared a National Park in 1954 and includes 14 species of plants found nowhere else in the world. Geologically the park is fascinating; of the many different types of volcanic formations examples of more than 80 percent can be found here. Alternatively, there will be a full day tour to Mount Teide on offer for those feeling active who may wish to enjoy a challenging hike, accompanied by a local guide, through this spectacular landscape.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
9 to 19 April 2023 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £5295 | £4995 |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £5595 | £5295 |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £5795 | £5495 |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £5995 | £5695 |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £6295 | £5995 |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £6595 | £6295 |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £6995 | £6695 |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £5295 | £4995 |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £5595 | £5295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS09042023
PRICE INCLUDES: Exclusive charter flight to Cape Verde & scheduled air travel from Tenerife to London • 10 nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes • Cape Verde taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
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Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000