West Africa luxury cruise: The Slavery Coast

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Tema is a short drive from Ghana’s fast-paced capital, Accra, a city that's culturally rich, modern and historic all at once. European-built forts and Black Star Independence Square’s public monuments offer a glimpse at the past. The neighbourhood of Jamestown, a 17th-century fishing community with old colonial buildings, is its pulse with an art scene and local bites like waakye – rice and beans with sides – at a low-key ‘chop bar’.

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A solemn reminder of the past, 15th century Elmina Castle in Ghana was a key slave trade hub, originally protecting gold trade before Dutch and British slave trade involvement. This UNESCO site exemplified the era's contradictions, with Europeans in luxurious quarters above filthy, cramped slave dungeons. The infamous Door of No Return opened to ships on the gruelling Middle Passage.

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Optional

05 h 00 m

Upgrade your tour with a batik-making workshop and learn traditional techniques
Meet local artisans, discover wax heating and stamping, and support women’s fair trade initiatives
Explore Elmina’s highlights, including St. George's Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vibrant local fish market

Cape Coast Castle

Included

04 h 00 m

Visit the UNESCO-listed Cape Coast Castle, the largest building holding the legacy of the trans-Atlantic slave trade
Learn about its role in the gold and slave trades, the arrival of Christianity, and the establishment of Castle Schools
Discover the West African Historical Museum before taking part in a traditional Ghanaian drumming and dance performance

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

Optional

04 h 30 m

Discover Kakum National Park, a 138-square mile reserve, created to protect Ghana’s rapidly diminishing rainforest
Walk on the platforms and rope bridges of Africa’s world-famous rainforest canopy walkway while searching for wildlife
Experience the peaceful tropical rainforest atmosphere, surrounded by rare wildlife that call it home

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Optional

05 h 00 m

Upgrade your tour with a batik-making workshop and learn traditional techniques
Meet local artisans, discover wax heating and stamping, and support women’s fair trade initiatives
Explore Elmina’s highlights, including St. George's Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vibrant local fish market

Cooking with the locals

Optional

02 h 30 m

Explore authentic Ghanaian dishes with your local Mama Chef, unveiling new tastes and flavours
Create traditional dishes like fufu, groundnut soup, fried plantain, palava sauce and red red using African cooking techniques
Support Global Mamas, an organisation empowering local women to sustain their families

Cape Coast Castle

Included

04 h 00 m

Visit the UNESCO-listed Cape Coast Castle, the largest building holding the legacy of the trans-Atlantic slave trade
Learn about its role in the gold and slave trades, the arrival of Christianity, and the establishment of Castle Schools
Discover the West African Historical Museum before taking part in a traditional Ghanaian drumming and dance performance

Traditional music and dances on board

Included

01 h 00 m

Feel the rhythm of the djembe drums and witness lively Ghanaian dances
Enjoy a captivating traditional performance and discover the musical soul of Ghana
Experience the Ashanti people’s folklore firsthand

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A city pulsating with energy, Abidjan, the former capital of Côte D’Ivoire, stands as a hub of creativity and innovation. The thriving arts and music scene interweaves with the cultures, cuisines and traditions that define Abidjan. Serving as a window into West Africa, the infectious tropical mood permeates the city. Abidjan's unique atmosphere, galleries and markets, along with the fascinating National Museum, make it a captivating destination.

Colonial Grand Bassam *

Included

05 h 30 m

Explore Grand-Bassam’s UNESCO World Heritage Site—a colonial gem where history and culture intertwine
Wander through distinct quarters, witness social dynamics, and discover Ivory Coast’s struggle for independence
Enjoy some free time for shopping at the Artisanal Centre

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

Optional

05 h 53 m

Visit the lush Botanical gardens of Bingerville
Visit the main sites of Abidjan, including the Cathedral and the Treichville market
Discover how to prepare Attieke, a cassava couscous used as a base in the Ivory Coast cuisine

Grand Bassam Chocolate Factory

Optional

05 h 50 m

Discover how organic chocolate is made, from the cocoa plantation to meeting chocolatiers
Explore Grand Bassam’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colonial architecture and history
Tour the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Paul in Abidjan, one of the largest cathedrals in the world, designed by Aldo Spirito

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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.

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The bustling capital of Liberia, Monrovia, was founded in the 1800s as a settlement for formerly enslaved people from North America. The National Museum is custodian to the region’s history and art. Today’s city is a mix of architectural styles, lively beaches and street markets, such as the jumbled Waterside Market, filled with colourful fabric and crafts. Liberia's Creole cuisine fuses flavours brought from West Africa to America.

Historical city tour of Monrovia

Included

07 h 05 m

Explore the Centennial Pavilion, commemorating Liberia's 100 years of uninterrupted independence
Visit Providence Island, where freed American slaves settled in Liberia in the early 1820s
Enjoy a panoramic view of the Atlantic from Ducor Hill

Liberia in a Nutshell - Monrovia and Careysburg

Optional

07 h 00 m

Visit the major historical sites of Monrovia, including Providence Island, the Centennial Pavilion, and the National Museum
Discover the early colonial history of Liberia at Careysburg, founded in 1856 for freed American slaves
Enjoy a local lunch at Wulki Farms, Liberia's first agro-tourism resort

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Days at sea are the perfect chance to relax, unwind and do whatever takes your fancy. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, trying to spot a whale from the deck, reading a chapter or two, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to the green days spent exploring on land.

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Sierra Leone’s portside capital city occupies a major position in history as the home of formerly enslaved people from North America and Britain. Sites like Cotton Tree and the King’s Yard Gate symbolise the town’s sombre past. Freetown today is a diverse city with a rich heritage – colourful Krio architecture, hearty, rice-based cuisine and lively beaches. Nearby, the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary rescues endangered primates in a rainforest.

Bunce Island

Optional

04 h 15 m

Discover the haunting history of Bunce Island, the largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast
Pass by Tasso Island, keeping a watch for local waterbirds on the Sierra Leone River Estuary
Experience the authentic and raw state of Bunce Island, now left to decay, as its painful history is gradually buried under layers of greenery

Freetown Historical City Tour

Included

04 h 30 m

Discover the history of Sierra Leone's fallen heroes and heroines at the National Museum
Visit the Peace and Cultural Monument, celebrating Sierra Leone's independence
Explore the Railway Museum, showcasing British-built trains as a symbol of resilience after civil war and Ebola

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Optional

04 h 30 m

Discover the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary's crucial work with primates
Witness over 100 rescued chimpanzees engaging in playful activities and learn about their lives
Admire a diverse array of over 100 bird species in the surrounding area

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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.

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The remote Bijagos Archipelago off Guinea-Bissau comprises 88 islands with mangroves, savannahs, and palm forests, protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its ecosystems host endangered species like green sea turtles, saltwater hippos and African manatees, plus 800,000 migratory birds annually. Untouched by tourism, the Bijagos offers pristine beaches and a rich cultural heritage, with rare matrilineal customs and traditional ceremonies.

Lush island of Caravela and Bijagos dances

Included

02 h 00 m

Marvel at the lavish vegetation of Caravela
See one of the most traditional villages surrounded by century old trees where you might spot some monkeys
Visit one of the most authentic Bijagos villages and learn about their ancestral customs that are still alive today

Discover the islands of Carache and Kere

Included

03 h 00 m

Land on a pristine beach and meet the traditional Bijagós people who live in balance with their environment
Visit a Bijagos village and discover how the local community has been able to perpetuate their ancestral way of life by taking only what they need from mother nature for their subsistence
Enjoy a relaxing time at Kere, a true off-the beaten track paradisiac destination

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At the meeting point of the Gambia River and the Atlantic, Gambia’s relaxed capital city, Banjul, sits on a little island filled with colonial buildings and vibrant markets. The 19th-century Albert Market sells souvenirs and the vibrant traditional clothing of The Gambia’s diverse ethnic groups. Locals invite visitors to their typical Gambian home or ‘compound’ and tell stories of their heritage while offering herbal tea and traditional snacks.

Banjul Highlights AM

Included

03 h 40 m

Witness over a century of history at Bakau's Kachikally Crocodile Pool, home to a hundred crocodiles
Explore the smallest capital on the African Continent
Explore Banjul's rich history, culture and traditions at the National Museum and St Albert Market

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

Optional

05 h 30 m

Explore the Makasutu Culture Forest and its many ecosystems on foot and by canoe
Look out for playful monkeys, graceful lizards, elusive mongoose, and perhaps even the charming presence of baboons in their natural habitat
Enjoy a guided bush walk through the palm forest and appreciate the local flora and fauna

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

Optional

05 h 30 m

Sail through the tranquil Gambian waterways aboard a traditional pirogue, guided by an experienced captain
Spot diverse bird species and river wildlife, with binoculars and bird guides available for enthusiasts
Enjoy a local buffet lunch on board, with opportunities to swim, fish, or relax in the sunshine

Gambia River cruise to UNESCO-listed James Island

Optional

07 h 00 m

Discover UNESCO-listed James Island, a crucial site during the slave trade era
Explore five centuries of history as you sail upstream the Gambia River, focusing on the slave trade and the story of Gambian Kunta Kinteh
Visit Albreda's Slave Museum and Juffureh village, Kunta Kinteh's birthplace

Discover the Rich Cultural Tapestry of The Gambia - Show on board

Included

01 h 00 m

Discover the musical traditions of The Gambia's diverse ethnic groups, including the distinct facial markings of the Fulani tribe
Experience the enchanting sounds of the Mandinka's Kora, the universally loved Djembe and drums, the Fulani's Riti, and the Jola's Balafon during special ceremonies
Enjoy mesmerizing performances by Griots, or oral historians, who bring the rich traditions and vibrant culture of The Gambia to life through music and dance

Banjul Highlights PM

Included

01 h 00 m

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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. Mbalax music dominates the vibrant nightlife. Traditional crafts like woodcarvings and paintings sell at Soumbédioune market, making it the perfect souvenir stop.

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve and Somone Lagoon (with lunch)

Included

08 h 15 m

Experience an unforgettable safari in Senegal's Bandia Reserve encountering Western Africa's big mammals
Discover diverse flora, including baobabs and lianas, while spotting giraffes, rhinos and ostriches, among others
Enjoy a boat ride across Somone Lagoon, observing unique wildlife in the mangrove forest

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve ending at airport (for disembarking guests with late flights)

Optional

04 h 30 m

Experience an unforgettable safari in Senegal's Bandia Reserve encountering Western Africa's big mammals
Discover diverse flora, including baobabs and lianas, while spotting giraffes, rhinos and ostriches, among others
Enjoy a boat ride across Somone Lagoon, observing unique wildlife in the mangrove forest

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (AM)

Included

03 h 00 m

Board a ferry to Gorée Island, a haunting reminder of the slave trade and explore restored buildings that bear witness to this dark period
Gain insights into this historical era by visiting Fort of Estree, its historic museum, and the House of the Slaves
Wander through the island's charming alleys, adorned with colonial-era houses, offering a glimpse into the past

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (AM)

Optional

03 h 00 m

Board a ferry to Gorée Island, a haunting reminder of the slave trade and explore restored buildings that bear witness to this dark period
Gain insights into this historical era by visiting Fort of Estree, its historic museum, and the House of the Slaves
Wander through the island's charming alleys, adorned with colonial-era houses, offering a glimpse into the past

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

Optional

08 h 35 m

Board a ferry to Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and gain insights into the slave trade era by visiting Fort of Estree, its historic museum, and the House of the Slaves.
Wander through the island's charming alleys, adorned with colonial-era houses, offering a glimpse into the past
Discover Dakar, the large and vibrant African metropolis that was the cultural and intellectual capital of French West Africa

African Art and Culture

Optional

05 h 00 m

Discover Senegal's premier art collections
Visit the Museum of Black Civilizations, explore the IFAN-Museum of Dakar, and admire the sculptures at Maison Ousmane Sow
Marvel at the Monument de la Renaissance Africaine, Africa's tallest monument

Luxury Pool Treat AM

Optional

05 h 00 m

Experience pure relaxation at a 5-star resort with a magnificent swimming pool and private beach
Whether you're looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind, enjoy the perfect oasis escape in Dakar
Experience seamless comfort with well-appointed changing rooms and other high-quality facilities

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritsge Site (PM)

Included

05 h 00 m

Luxury Pool Treat PM

Optional

05 h 00 m

Cruise West Africa: The Slavery Coast

Cruise West Africa: The Slavery Coast

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Cape Coast Castle

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Cooking with the locals

Cape Coast Castle

Traditional music and dances on board

Colonial Grand Bassam *

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

Grand Bassam Chocolate Factory

Historical city tour of Monrovia

Liberia in a Nutshell - Monrovia and Careysburg

Bunce Island

Freetown Historical City Tour

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Lush island of Caravela and Bijagos dances

Discover the islands of Carache and Kere

Banjul Highlights AM

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

Gambia River cruise to UNESCO-listed James Island

Discover the Rich Cultural Tapestry of The Gambia - Show on board

Banjul Highlights PM

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve and Somone Lagoon (with lunch)

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve ending at airport (for disembarking guests with late flights)

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (AM)

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (AM)

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

African Art and Culture

Luxury Pool Treat AM

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritsge Site (PM)

Luxury Pool Treat PM

Cruise West Africa: The Slavery Coast

Cruise West Africa: The Slavery Coast

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Cape Coast Castle

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Cooking with the locals

Cape Coast Castle

Traditional music and dances on board

Colonial Grand Bassam *

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

Grand Bassam Chocolate Factory

Historical city tour of Monrovia

Liberia in a Nutshell - Monrovia and Careysburg

Bunce Island

Freetown Historical City Tour

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Lush island of Caravela and Bijagos dances

Discover the islands of Carache and Kere

Banjul Highlights AM

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

Gambia River cruise to UNESCO-listed James Island

Discover the Rich Cultural Tapestry of The Gambia - Show on board

Banjul Highlights PM

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve and Somone Lagoon (with lunch)

Safari at Bandia Natural Reserve ending at airport (for disembarking guests with late flights)

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (AM)

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (AM)

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

African Art and Culture

Luxury Pool Treat AM

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritsge Site (PM)

Luxury Pool Treat PM

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