Scenic Ocean Cruises: 12 nights from Lisbon with Scenic Ikon
Oct 22, 2028

Funchal

The famous Portuguese poet, Júlio Dinis described Funchal as: ‘The sea on one side, the mountains on the other and between these two majestic splendours, the city smiles like a sleeping child, safe and warm, between its parents’. Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira is the soul of Portugal. Settlers over 500 years ago were attracted to this sheltered place, which is structured like a natural ‘amphitheatre’. Gentle slopes, abundant greenery and flowers, rise above the pretty harbour for almost 1,200 metres. The port is located 15-minute walk from the city center, in Funchal's magnificent bay with its sparkling blue waters. Due to its strategic mid-Atlantic location, Madeira has been a stopover point for ocean-going ships for many years.

Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira is the soul of Portugal. Colonists over 500 years ago were drawn to this sheltered place, which is structured like a natural 'amphitheater'. Gentle slopes, abundant greenery and flowers, rise above the pretty port for almost 1200 meters. The magnificent bay of Funchal, with its sparkling blue waters, is home to the port, a 15-minute walk from the city center. Thanks to its strategic mid-Atlantic location, Madeira has been a stopping point for ocean-going ships for many years.

Dakar

Explore West Africa from Dakar!

Set sail on an enriching journey from Dakar, Senegal, a vibrant and bustling port city on the West African coast. Known for its colorful markets, historical sites, and lively culture, Dakar offers a truly unique starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of Africa. Prepare for an adventure that combines cultural immersion with serene sea travel, promising profound discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

The city of Dakar is located along the Atlantic coast of Senegal, on an ancient volcano whose eruption gave rise to the Cap-Vert Peninsula. Other islands are located nearby, including that of Gorée, to the south, those of the Madeleine, to the west and Ngor to the north. An ancient fishing village, Dakar or Dahar means "tamarind" in Wolof (one of the six national languages of Senegal). Today the administrative, political, military, economic, social and cultural metropolis is a cosmopolitan, African and European city, with more than two million inhabitants. Several dates that mark the history of the city and the region, are between the 16th and 19th centuries, the highlight of the slave trade. The city was officially founded on May 25, 1857 by Pinet LAPRADE. The first cadastral map of Dakar was developed in June 1858. 4 years later, in June 1862, they formed a new alignment plan of the area. The city of Goree was founded in 1872 and on April 4, 1960, Dakar became the capital of Senegal. This metropolis has many places to offer. Tourists will be mainly attracted by the African Art Museum and the Antenna Gallery. Other important sites, in colonial style, are the Town Hall outside the Presidential Palace, jealously guarded by its guards in traditional clothes. Finally, don't miss the Dakar Mosque and the Hann natural park, with its numerous animals. Many typical products of the Dakar region are available to holidaymakers in various shops. Wide choice of souvenirs including fabrics, wooden sculptures, jewelry, sandals, bags, paintings, bronze objects, ceramics and musical instruments. Music, dance and traditional wrestling are part of the Dakar landscape. You will also notice the presence of a large shopping center (Plaza Mar), inaugurated in 2010, inside you will find a wellness center, a games room and a bowling alley. French is the official language and the only one taught in the public school system.