West Africa Coast & Atlantic Islands cruise

Dakar→Lisbon

11.05.28 - 20.05.28

D1228051109SH DIANA

Ports7

Countries4

Nights9

Sail from Dakar’s vibrant markets and embark on an Atlantic adventure, tracing the coasts and islands of Northwest Africa and beyond. This enriching journey takes you through Mauritanias’s vibrant charm, the volcanic beauty of the Canary Islands, and the lush, subtropical landscapes of Madeira

Cruise Plus

Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

Price on request

Your selected stateroom

All meals onboard

Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise

24-hour room service

Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers

One selected shore excursion per port of call

All expedition landings

Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)

Gym, sauna, pool

24/7 self service laundry

Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep

In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot

Memory Package

Onboard gratuities & port taxes

Charter flights

Group transfers

One night pre-cruise accommodation

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Discover remote islands, hike through ancient forests, uncover local traditions, and experience a vibrant blend of European and African cultures on this immersive Atlantic expedition. Explore bustling local markets in Nouakchott. In the Canary Islands, La Palma boasts dramatic volcanic landscapes and scenic hiking trails through native pine forests, with iconic viewpoints like Mirador de la Cumbrecita and La Concepción, which reveal the island’s rugged beauty. Continue to Madeira, where the island’s lush mountain scenery surrounds the historic capital of Funchal. Enjoy sweeping views from Monte, explore cultural landmarks, and sample the island’s renowned wines in a setting that blends nature, history, and flavor. Between ports, relax at sea with expert talks, cultural tastings, and ever-changing ocean views. Conclude your voyage in Lisbon, a city of timeless charm, where tiled facades, classic trams, and riverside cafés offer the perfect finale to a journey rich in contrast, culture, and coastal beauty

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Days 1-2. Dakar

Fabulous museums, a thriving art scene and elegant seaside dining showcase Dakar's rich culture and forward outlook. The bustling traditional Medina quarter with its mosques, tea shops and street markets contrasts with the Senegalese capital's French-influenced architecture and cuisine. Traditional crafts like woodcarvings and paintings sell at Soumbédioune market, making it the perfect souvenir stop

Day 3. Nouakchott

Nouakchott, Mauritania’s capital and largest city, is a key Saharan hub. It offers Fishermen’s Beach, known for its colourful boats and sunset views. The city hosts the Presidential Palace and the National Museum of Mauritania, which provides insights into regional history. Notable shopping areas include the Grand Market and the Artisan’s Village, where visitors can browse local crafts and traditional products

Activities:

Included

Markets of Nouakchott

4 hours

Experience the vibrant culture and history of Nouakchott on this engaging shore excursion. Begin with a visit to the famous camel market, where herders and traders gather in a colorful and lively setting. Continue to the bustling Marché Capital, the city’s central market, filled with local crafts, textiles, and spices. Explore the National Museum, showcasing Mauritania’s rich history and fascinating archaeological treasures. Admire the Grand Mosque from the outside, an iconic landmark of the city’s skyline. Conclude your tour with a stroll along the lively fishing port and market, observing the daily routines of local fishermen.

Day 4. Nouadhibou

Nouadhibou, Mauritania’s bustling port city, is a cultural hub known for its diverse population, vibrant markets and a strong economy based on iron ore and fishing. The Port Artisanal is busy with Mauritanian and Senegalese pirogue fishing boats. Nearby, Cap Blanc features pristine sands and a colony of monk seals, while the UNESCO-listed Banc d'Arguin National Park, renowned for its nesting birds and migratory waders, is also close by

Activities:

Included

A taste of the Sahara

2.5 hours

Discover the highlights of Nouadhibou on a relaxed shore excursion that begins and ends at the ship. Start with a visit to the lively fishing port, where colorful boats and daily catches reflect the city’s strong maritime traditions. Continue through town to see the Catholic church, a modest yet meaningful landmark of local history. Enjoy a scenic desert drive toward Cap Blanc, part of the Banc d’Arguin National Park. Take in views of the Atlantic coastline and look for the elusive and endangered monk seals that sometimes rest on the beaches below the cape.

Day 5. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 6. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The largest city in the Canary Islands sits on the northeastern tip of Gran Canaria, where the Atlantic trade winds have brought ships into harbour for five centuries. The Vegueta quarter — the oldest surviving Spanish colonial neighbourhood in Africa — centres on the 15th-century Santa Ana Cathedral and the Casa de Colón, the governor's residence where Columbus is said to have stayed before his first crossing to the New World. Beyond the historic centre, Las Palmas is a working port city with a long urban beach, a thriving market and a distinct identity that belongs neither entirely to Europe nor to Africa, though it is shaped by both

Day 7. Santa Cruz de la Palma

The historic streets of breathtakingly beautiful Santa Cruz de la Palma, on La Palma, make it one of the prettiest settlements in the Canary Islands. Steeped in history, this island capital is home to palaces, colonial-style houses and the Shrine of Virgen de las Nieves, the oldest religious statue in the Canary Islands. Santa Cruz is as equally picturesque in the day as at night when the city comes alive

Day 8. Funchal, Madeira Island

Madeira is famous for lush gardens with subtropical plants, but Funchal, the capital of the Garden Island, has more to offer. Rua de Santa Maria's colourful Old Town street is brightened with 200 painted doors. Madeira wine cellars' tasting rooms are scattered throughout the town. Taking a cable car ride to Monte provides a scenic experience, then from the top, carreiros, straw-boatered drivers, guide wicker-basket sleds down the steep streets

Day 9. Day at sea

Today as you sail, you’ll bask in the endless comforts of your ship. From the deck, marvel at the dramatic sea views. Relax with a nurturing facial treatment or massage in the spa or delve into the ship’s learning resources. Or, simply take refuge in your cabin and enjoy the opportunity to rest

Day 10. Lisbon

Spread over seven hills with São Jorge Castle views, bustling Lisbon is one of the world's oldest cities. Elegant Baixa, hilltop Alfama with its yellow tram, and scenic Graça overviewing pastel buildings, are top areas. The Jerónimos Monastery in Belém is a World Heritage Gothic site. The classic Portuguese pastel de nata custard tarts are a local treat. Europe’s longest suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril, crosses the river Tagus

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

SH Diana at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

SH Diana’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes. Bold clean lines blend with wood, metal and natural fabrics to create casual comfort.

Culinary Excellence

Outstanding food is all part of your boutique travel experience. Get ready to explore gastronomic excellence as Swan Hellenic’s world-renowned chefs take you on an international culinary journey

Beauty & Spa

Choose from beauty and wellness treatments, including Balinese inspired massages and body care. It is an easy way to reset between landings.

Fitness & Sauna

Our state-of-the-art gym has everything you’ll need for an invigorating workout, from cardio machines to stretch bands and free weights. Enjoy sessions with personal trainers and relax in sauna with a view.

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Engaging Environment

Whether you’re seeking a moment of quiet reflection, a chance to recharge your batteries, or an opportunity to investigate the wonders of the natural world, the SH Diana has a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating spaces to help make your voyage with us truly unforgettable.

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.