On the tip of the African continent, the buzzing capital of Senegal stretches along the narrow peninsula of Cape Verde. You may be overwhelmed by its sheer size, but Dakar wins you over with its richly diverse districts, appealing cultural scene, and rich natural surroundings. In the historic center, enjoy the pell-mell of colors and tasty delights in Kermel market. A visit to the island of Gorée is deeply moving; for several hundred years this island was the largest slave-trading center on the African coast. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you are looking for pristine, unspoiled nature, the wildlife in the heart of Madeleine Islands' national park never disappoints.

This day without a port of call is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the amenities of the luxurious L'Austral as well as the conferences or shows proposed on board. You may also check on the boutique for some shopping. 

The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbor, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old center, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. It's the historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.

Optional excursions such as a visit to the countryside and tour to Praia and Cidade Velha are available for additional fees.
 

Set on the shores of the Porto Grande Bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you can see the pastel-colored houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.

Optional excursions such as Cape Verdean cooking lesson, a visit to volcanic island and Mindelo, tour to Mindelo by FWD vehicle and safari photo in Mindelo are available for additional fees.

During your days at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. These days are perfect to treat yourself with some relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, spend some time swimming at the pool or sunbathe on the decks as your vessel voyages to its next destination. 

A stopover in sunny climes, Las Palmas is located on the north-east coast of Gran Canaria. A few streets away from Puerto de la Luz port, discover the vast Las Canteras beach, bordered with the town’s characteristic palms. Find these palms are all over Las Palmas, in the streets and squares, especially on the Plaza de Santa Ana in the heart of the historical district. It feels like you’ve traveled back in time here, as you stand to look at the tall houses beside the Santa Ana Cathedral. Very close by, you can visit the  Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to the famous explorer. The museum is housed in the palace belonging to the island’s former governor. Chances are, you can be drawn to the covered Vegueta market to partake in some daily life along with the locals and taste some unfamiliar dishes.

Optional excursions such as Las Palmas city tour, discovering the essence of Gran Canaria and back in time are available for additional fees.

Established on a coast sprinkled with cliffs, Arrecife has a pleasant beach and a lagoon full of charm, Charca of San Ginés, where the fishermen anchor their boats. The city also proposes places fed by history and culture, such as the castle San Gabriel, former fort of defense of the city.

Optional excursions such as a visit to Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Rio, and discovering the Traditions & Lanzarote Hidden Treasures are available for additional fees.

This attractive capital of Madeira is located on the southern coast of the island. The walkways of the old town are lined with azulejos or multi-colored mosaics. If you follow these patterns, they lead you to the appetizing Mercado dos Lavradores market stands, the Frederico de Freitas Museum, and the golden paneling of the Cathedral de la Sé. Along the waterfront, the palm tree-shaded promenade leads you to the teleféricos de Monte, Madeira's cable cars. Its panoramic cabins transport you over the city to top of Monte, where you can see the picturesque botanical garden.

Optional excursions such as whale and dolphin watching, a visit to The Blandy Wine Lodge and Vineyards, cooking experience, Levada walk, and a tour at Funchal and Sacred Art Museum are available for additional fees.

Spend your day onboard the luxurious L'Austral and head to the upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. Enjoy the rest of your luxurious accommodation with the services and amenities available. Before you head home in the next day, check for some souvenir items at the boutique of the ship.

Portugal’s capital city located on the banks of the Tagus, only a few kilometers from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbor, impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower. Sample the local delicacies such as the pasteis de nata—delicious creamy bakery flans. On the Alfama hillside, as you explore the Moorish streets, you may well hear sounds of fado drifting from the bars. Along Chiado’s elegant streets, big fashion labels will entice you for a bit of luxury shopping.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.