Explore the Sunkissed islands of the Canaries

Southampton offers fast and efficient check-in areas, spacious departure lounges with seating areas, café-bars and smart washrooms. If you wish to travel by car and park for the duration of your cruise, you can pay for and reserve parking in advance directly with the relevant company. Alternatively, if being dropped off or collected by taxi or private car, they can drive right up alongside the terminal building.

One of Western Europes most ancient cities, founded 3,000 years ago by Phoenician merchants, Cadiz hugs Andalucias sunlit Atlantic coast. Its a historic and intriguing seaport-from which Spains galleons once sailed in quest of New World treasure – characterised by palm trees, look out towers and weathered old buildings. From here you can visit Jerez de la Frontera, centre of Spains sherry production, and put to the test the creations of its many bodegas!

Arrecife is the gateway to the island of Lanzarote, whose desolate yet dramatic lunar-like landscapes and coal-black sand beaches were shaped by 18th century volcanic eruptions. Ride by camel to the still hissing rocks of the great ‘Fire Mountains in Timanfaya National Park – then cool down with a glass or two of wine and delicious paella in a local seafront restaurant!

The thriving capital of Gran Canaria, third largest island of the Canaries, Las Palmas is within easy reach of the famous Playa del Ingles beach and the magnificent palm-fringed and Sahara-like dunes of Maspalomas. In quieter corners of the island attractive old towns like Teror and Arucas (the latter the islands ‘banana capital) invite exploration, while inland Gran Canarias fretted volcanic landscapes of gorges, craters and mountains rising to 6,500ft offer memorable sightseeing.

The worlds smallest island shared between two nations – its 16 miles square (and more developed) southern part is Dutch and the northern, French – hilly St Maarten in the Windwards is a dual personality setting of absorbing contrasts. Philipsburg, built on a sand bar, is the old capital and still preserves some attractive colonial architecture, though the islands enticing beaches, excellent restaurants, and shops stocked with duty-free bargains will probably detain you longer!

Tortola Island is a famous pirate haunt of old, and Road Town is typically old-world Caribbean and still retains a surreal charm. Capital of the British Virgin Islands, this picturesque town sat between rolling hills and white sandy bays, has a history to match its beguiling beauty. Situated on the horseshoe-shaped Road Harbour, Road Town is home to the Sunday Morning Well, the site where the Emancipation Proclamation was read in 1834. Among the old buildings of Main Street – some still complete with their original red tin roofs, shops stacked with local produce and an abundance of restaurants can be found. The oldest building on the street, HM Prison, was built in 1774. Away from the town along the waterfront, the town’s craftsmen and women sell their own textiles, paintings, rugs and ornaments. The legendary Pussers Bar is the perfect place to try some authentic Caribbean rum, while nearby Cane Garden Bay offers an expanse of gorgeous, sugar-white sands.Show less Exploring further will reveal the popular JR ONeal Botanic Gardens – home to various exotic plant species, and the baths – an unmissable natural rock formation accessible via a short boat trip.​

Discovered by Columbus in 1496, Santo Domingo is the New World’s oldest colonial city. A beautiful place to simply walk around, the cobbled streets of Santo Domingo are lined with 15th & 16th century buildings that remind you of the city’s unique history. Among the historic buildings you will also find modern creature comforts such as shopping malls, restaurants, bars and cafes. Events and festivals often take place and visitors are encouraged to get involved and experience the Dominican’s exciting, vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to explore the Colonial Zone and the Malecon. These are the most pedestrian friendly areas in the city and are home to the finest architecture, the best places to visit and finest cuisine. For those who wish to simply lie back, relax and soak up incredible weather, there are several beautiful beaches within easy reach.

Discovered by Columbus in 1496, Santo Domingo is the New World’s oldest colonial city. A beautiful place to simply walk around, the cobbled streets of Santo Domingo are lined with 15th & 16th century buildings that remind you of the city’s unique history. Among the historic buildings you will also find modern creature comforts such as shopping malls, restaurants, bars and cafes. Events and festivals often take place and visitors are encouraged to get involved and experience the Dominican’s exciting, vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to explore the Colonial Zone and the Malecon. These are the most pedestrian friendly areas in the city and are home to the finest architecture, the best places to visit and finest cuisine. For those who wish to simply lie back, relax and soak up incredible weather, there are several beautiful beaches within easy reach.

An enthralling and staggeringly beautiful city, Cartagena is one of Colombias true gems bursting with Spanish heritage. Dominated by the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the captivating city of Cartagena is also home to the wonderful Santo Domingo Plaza, Palacio de la Inquisicion and its 16th century cathedral. Taking time out to relax at one of Cartagenas many open-air cafés is a popular pastime; perfect for watching the parade of horse-drawn carriages, fashionable locals and romantic street life. From one of its many beaches, many take the opportunity to mingle with the sea life on a Cartegena snorkelling trip, passing San Jose and San Ferna en route.

On the mountain-backed Caribbean shores of Costa Rica (the name, meaning rich coast was bequeathed by Columbus), Puerto Limon is a gateway to Central Americas most welcoming (its been a democracy for over a century) and surprising country. Though smaller than Ireland, it boasts an amazing biodiversity. With more butterfly species than the whole of Africa, more bird species than Europe, its precious tropical rainforests harbour over half a million plant and animal species. Small wonder that about a quarter of Costa Rica is protected nature reserve or national park. From Puerto Limon shore visits offer an opportunity to journey inland to the picturesque capital of San Jose or to see more of its rich widlife and exotic scenery.