Transoceanic from Barcelona

Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain with three million inhabitants, a dominating port in northern Mediterranean with one of the most renowned and important universities in the world. The city is a very rich commercial centre, where industrial operations crucial to the Spanish economy take place. In fact, Catalans have always considered their region unique compared with the other Spanish regions and we can find its roots in the power exercised by Barcelona for four hundred years at least on Spanish monarchy and on European commercial events.

All the flavour of Spain in our stop at the port of Malaga, a city perched on the heights of the Costa del Sol that dominates the Mediterranean with pride. The port of Malaga is one of the access ports to the Spanish province. The city, perched on the Costa del Sol, is synonymous with art, culture and sunshine, while its hills invite you to explore the surrounding area. Here you will find the Cenachero, Platero and Biznaguero, three emblematic statues that surround the spirit of the place. For cars lovers, the automobile museum traces the history of the innovations seen in the industry. The Montes Natural Park offers several options for excursions of varying difficulty, from beginners to those trails for experienced hikers. Finally, we suggest that you do not miss a show of the Malagueña dancers.

Gibraltar is one of the most famous places in the world, linked to numerous legends. Here, the Mediterranean ended and with it the world, but fortunately today we know that’s not the case. Its strategic position meant that it was disputed over for many centuries by the seafaring nations who had political and commercial interests between Europe and Africa. The Spain cruise to Gibraltar reveals the charm of this colony with its Rock overlooking the sea where Neanderthal remains have been found, and where a rare breed of macaques roam free. The Rock is the main natural attraction for the number of plant species that flourish on its slopes (as many as 600!) and its colonies of migratory birds. The movements of storks and birds of prey are sight not to be missed and are thrilling to watch as they fly in flocks. More good reasons to climb to the top are the view from the Rock, a panorama that spans two continents set against the beautiful colours of the sea, and a visit to the monument to the Pillars of Hercules. In addition to the natural attractions, dont miss a walk to Europa Point, the lighthouse that still guides ships safely, and a shore excursion to the caves of St. Michael, caves that form the stage to numerous concerts and performances due to their perfect acoustics.

Travel through the streets of the port, where Christopher Columbus left for America, and visit this beautiful town and its surroundings. Make a stop in Cadiz, an Andalusian town that gives its name to the region it is capital of and the gulf on whose heights it stands proud. Its buildings are characterised by influences, in chronological order, of the Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and the Christians. The port of Cadiz was the departure point of the expedition that led to the discovery of America. Here you can admire the charming seafront promenade and the 3 km bridge that crosses the bay. Dont miss the chance to taste “tapas de chorizo” or see a flamenco show.

Overlooking Moroccos Atlantic coast, the port of Casablanca is the docking point of your Atlantic Ocean cruise to a modern, cosmopolitan and fairly liberal city. From the harbour, in addition to the promenade where you can enjoy a stroll, you can quickly reach the medina on the northern side of the old city. Surrounded by walls dating back to the 16th century, the Casablanca medina is not very large, but the Souk el-Kebir has all the charm of a Moroccan market. Definitely very different but worthy of a look while on your cruise to Casablanca is the Habous district where the new medina was developed in the 1930s to solve the city’s housing shortage. The most important mosque is the modern Hassan II Mosque, completed in 1993. It stands on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic and the very high minaret serves as a beacon for the harbour. While in Casablanca, a shore excursion to the cathedral of the Sacred Heart is well worth the time. Once a Catholic church, it is now transformed into a cultural centre connected from the Park of the Arab League to the lively Maârif district, modern, full of bars and dominated by the towers of the Twin Center.

The port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the city’s access to the sea and characterized by a mix of cultures that have managed to coexist in harmony with each other. Santa Cruz is a cosmopolitan city of different influences and varied trends, as you can see from the mix of historic buildings and modern architecture. After leaving the port, start your tour with a visit of the Auditorio de Tenerife and the “Circulo de Amistad.” Then take a visit to the Nuestra Señora de África market, where you will find crafts and artisanal products made from natural ingredients, as well as the famous wine of the region. Finally, check out the local cuisine made with potatoes, chilies and exotic spices.

São Vicente is an island of Cape Verde, an archipelago off West Africa. The northern port of Mindelo is a cultural hub, known for traditional music and colonial architecture like the 1900s Palácio do Povo. Inland, Parque Natural Monte Verde has trails up the volcanic peak. Beaches include Mindelo’s Laginha Beach, the shallow lagoon of Baía das Gatas and São Pedro, with strong wind and surf.

Magnificent lagoons and one of the most incredible coral reefs for a breathtaking dive, await us in Maceio in Brazil. Enjoy a stop at the port of Maceio to discover the tourist attraction and the rich history of this Brazilian coastal city, capital of the State of Alagoas. During the stop you can walk through the wonderful town of Jaraguá, pay a visit to the beach of Praia do Francês, with one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, and visit the magnificent lagoons of Santa Rita Island.

The smiles of the children of Salvador is one of the emotions that remain in your heart for the duration of our Costa Cruise in Brazil. In Salvador enjoy the fascinating beauty of the natural scenery of this coastal town. During the stop, you can visit the magnificent monuments of the historic center and explore the Praia do Forte Village, Bahia, where you can see the success of the Tamar sea turtle project, which was launched 37 years ago to protect sea turtles.

Rio de Janeiro is a huge seaside city in Brazil, famed for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, 38m Christ the Redeemer statue atop Mount Corcovado and for Sugarloaf Mountain, a granite peak with cable cars to its summit. The city is also known for its sprawling favelas (shanty towns). Its raucous Carnaval festival, featuring parade floats, flamboyant costumes and samba dancers, is considered the world’s largest.