Luxury Cruise from Senegal to Ghana

Luxury Cruise from Senegal to Ghana | Swan Hellenic

Expedition highlights

Along West Africa’s Atlantic edge, discovery comes through lived-in coastal culture, striking landscapes, and expert-led time outdoors in places that still feel rare.

Colonial Past

Walk districts where old trading routes left visible marks, from forts and warehouses to civic buildings and waterfront promenades.

Guided Walks

Coastal walks through dunes, cliffs, and historic quarters, paced for observation and led by experts who add context without overloading the day.

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

Explore the natural beauty of Africa, from island ecosystems to reserves and coastal habitats

African Traditions

Africa works best when it feels lived-in. Expect markets, craft, music, and small moments that explain how people actually live along these coasts.

Itinerario giorno per giorno

Throughout the cruise, discover remarkable destinations, such as Senegal's vibrant capital, Dakar, with its rich culture and lively Medina quarter. Experience the pristine Bijagós Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to a diverse array of wildlife and untouched landscapes. Visit Elmina Castle in Ghana, a poignant UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a pivotal role in the transatlantic slave trade narrative. Each location offers a unique dive into its history and culture. Onboard and beyond, engaging activities await. Meet locals in Banjul for storytelling sessions, or explore traditional crafts at the local markets. Participate in enriching tours such as a city walk in Elmina, or indulge in culinary adventures by learning to cook authentic Ghanaian dishes. A day at sea offers expert lectures and photography classes to perfect your skills. Each moment is crafted to enrich your luxury cruise experience

NOTE: Questo itinerario fornisce informazioni generali su ciascuna destinazione. Si prega di notare che alcuni luoghi e alcune attrazioni menzionati potrebbero non essere aperti o accessibili nel giorno della nostra visita. Per ottenere il programma escursioni più accurato, consigliamo di contattare il vostro agente Swan Hellenic o la vostra agenzia di viaggi in prossimità della data di partenza.

Panoramica

Giorni 1-2

Dakar

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. Traditional crafts like woodcarvings and paintings sell at Soumbédioune market, making it the perfect souvenir stop

Attività:

Opzionale

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

8 hours

This tour includes a ferry ride to the historic UNESCO-listed Gorée Island with visits to the House of Slaves and the Fort of Estrée, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. After returning to Dakar, you’ll enjoy a city tour covering key landmarks such as the Cathedral of African Memory, Independence Square, and the African Renaissance Monument. The tour is mostly on foot and varies in length depending on ferry schedules and traffic.

Incluso

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

5 hours

Escape the buzz of Dakar and immerse yourself in the tranquil village of Gorée Island, a UNESCO site once central to the transatlantic slave trade. Take the ferry to this historic island, home to 1,300 residents and colorful ochre houses. Explore the museum at Fort Estrée, visit the House of Slaves, and walk the cliffside trails, including the Gorée Almadies monument. Wander the colonial-era alleys for a moving journey through history.

Giorno 3

Banjul

At the meeting point of the Gambia River and the Atlantic, Gambia’s relaxed capital city, Banjul, sits on a small island filled with colonial buildings and vibrant markets. The 19th-century Albert Market sells souvenirs and the colorful traditional clothing of The Gambia’s diverse ethnic groups, offering a lively glimpse into everyday local life

Attività:

Opzionale

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

5.5 hours

Walk on the wild side in Makasutu Cultural Forest, exploring diverse ecosystems—forest, savannah, and mangroves—home to wildlife like monkeys, lizards, and baboons. Start with traditional dance and drumming under a baobab tree, then enjoy a dugout canoe ride along scenic waterways, watching oyster collectors at work. A guided bush walk reveals vibrant flora and fauna before meeting the Marabout Man, who makes wine from palm sap.

Opzionale

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

5.5 hours

Sit back and unwind on a serene pirogue journey through the Gambian waterways. Glide along the River Gambia’s estuary and tributaries, watching for bird species and wildlife like kingfishers, herons, and monkeys in the mangroves. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board, with opportunities to swim, fish, or bask in the sun. Don’t forget your binoculars for bird watching and a towel for swimming.

Incluso

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

1 hour

Let the sounds of local instruments transport you to the heart of The Gambia's cultural heritage, where nine ethnic groups come to life with their unique languages, attire, and music. Experience the rhythms of the Mandinka's Kora, the Fulani's Riti, the Jola's Balafon and the Djembe drums. Masterfully played by Griots, oral historians within each group, these instruments bring the rich traditions of The Gambia to life.

Incluso

Le eccellenze di Banjul

4.5 hours

Vivi il vibrante spirito del Gambia con un coinvolgente tour cittadino attraverso Banjul, durante il quale esplorerai luoghi iconici come la sacra vasca dei coccodrilli di Katchikally a Bakau — che ospita oltre 100 coccodrilli da più di un secolo — prima di dirigerti nella vivace Serrekunda per assistere alle tradizionali tecniche di tintura tie-dye in un laboratorio locale di batik. Mentre passerete davanti all'imponente Arco 22, eretto per commemorare la Rivoluzione del 22 luglio, proseguirete verso il Museo Nazionale per una comprensione più profonda della cultura, delle tradizioni e della storia del Gambia. Il tour si conclude nel vivace Mercato di Sant'Alberto, dove potrete osservare la vita quotidiana, ammirare l'artigianato locale e persino mettere alla prova le vostre abilità di contrattazione per portarvi a casa souvenir unici.

Giorni 4-5

Bijagos Archipelago

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.

Attività:

Incluso

Expedition days in Bijagos Islands

The Bijagós Islands are an archipelago of approximately 88 islands located off the continental coast of Guinea-Bissau. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2025, the islands exemplify a harmonious interaction between the traditional, sustainable practices of the Bijagós people and the preservation of the region’s wild natural environment. We will spend two days in the Bijagós, landing on several islands to visit communities, explore the forests, and discover the mosaic of ecosystems that make up the archipelago. The exact landing sites will depend on local weather conditions at the time of arrival. Note: All landings and shore activities in the Bijagós are included — you do not need to book in advance.

Giorno 6

Day at sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

Giorno 7

Freetown

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

Attività:

Incluso

Freetown Historical City Tour

4.5 hours

Feel the weight of time as you explore Freetown’s landmarks, including the historic Cotton Tree, symbolizing the site where freed slaves settled in 1792. Visit the Peace & Cultural Monument, honoring Sierra Leone's independence and post-civil war transformation. Explore the Railway Museum, Fourah Bay College, and St. George's Cathedral. Dive into the National Museum, and pass by King's Yard, Fort Thornton, and the Presidential State House.

Opzionale

Bunce Island

4 hrs 15 min

Reflect on the profound heritage of the transatlantic slave trade at Bunce Island, Sierra Leone's largest British slave castle, dating back to 1670. After a short drive and ferry ride, explore its haunting ruins, including the factory house, slave prison, watchtowers, and storerooms. Closed in 1808, it was once a major site for exporting African captives. Now in decay, the island's authenticity is enhanced by the greenery that has overtaken it.

Opzionale

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

4.5 hours

Catch a glimpse of 100 rescued chimpanzees at Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, founded in 1995 by conservationists Bala and Sharmila Amarasekaran. Watch these playful creatures swinging from trees, nuzzling each other, and gently combing their fur. Discover the sanctuary's amazing work in providing a safe haven for mistreated chimpanzees, focusing on their rehabilitation and reintegration into the wild.

Opzionale

Extended - Bunce Island and Freetown Historical City Tour

8.5 hours

Begin your day with a journey to Bunce Island, once the largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast of West Africa, founded around 1670 and responsible for sending tens of thousands of captives to North America and the West Indies until its closure in 1808. After a 50‑minute boat ride across the estuary—where keen eyes may spot numerous bird species—explore the archaeological remains of the island, including the slave factory house, fortifications, prison, watchtowers, dormitories, and storerooms, now slowly being reclaimed by nature. Returning to Freetown for lunch, continue in the afternoon with an introductory drive through the vibrant capital of Sierra Leone, beginning at the Railway Museum, an extensive collection of British‑built trains that survived 40 years hidden in a derelict workshop and now stands as a symbol of resilience and pride after civil war and Ebola. Visit the 19th‑century St. George’s Cathedral and enjoy free time at the Big Market, the best place in town for traditional Sierra Leonean handicrafts. At the National Museum, learn about the history of Sierra Leone’s heroes and heroines and delve deeper into the country’s culture. Before returning to the ship, drive past the Cotton Tree, the historic symbol of Freetown and the site where the city was founded in 1792. Note: please be aware that this tour involves walking approx 1h00 on uneven ground and is unsuitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility.

Giorno 8

Day at sea

Giorno 9

Monrovia

Founded in the early 19th century and named after U.S. President James Monroe, Monrovia developed as a settlement for formerly enslaved people returning from the United States and remains the political, economic and cultural center of Liberia. The city stretches along a series of lagoons and peninsulas facing the Atlantic Ocean, with the Freeport of Monrovia serving as the country’s main maritime gateway for trade and imports, while districts such as West Point reflect its dense urban character and vibrant local life, and historic sites like Providence Island highlight its unique Americo-Liberian heritage, making Monrovia a place where coastal scenery, layered history and contemporary West African city life intersect

Attività:

Incluso

Historical city tour of Monrovia

4 hrs 15 min

Explore Monrovia, Liberia’s capital founded in 1822, now a lively city rich in history and culture. Highlights include the Centennial Pavilion, National Museum, and Providence Island—the symbolic birthplace of the nation. The tour concludes at Providence Baptist Church, where Liberia’s independence was declared in 1847, offering a powerful glimpse into Africa’s oldest republic.

Opzionale

Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary

5 hrs 15 min

Your tour begins at Monrovia’s port, heading to Libassa Ecolodge, a family-owned retreat built in harmony with Liberia’s tropical forest, lagoon, and ocean. A guided forest walk reveals rich biodiversity and eco-friendly design. The highlight is the Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary (Liwisa), Liberia’s first rescue center for confiscated and injured animals. Its mission blends rehabilitation, community employment, volunteer work, and education to protect Liberia’s wildlife and forests.

Giorno 10

Day at sea

Giorno 11

Abidjan

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

Attività:

Incluso

Colonial Grand Bassam

5.5 hours

Step back in time and explore the colonial charm of Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the Ivory Coast capital, it blends European and African cultures. Stroll through the French colonial district, past landmarks like the Palais de Justice, Sacré Coeur cathedral, Governor "Binger's" Palace and the Ariane Monument. Visit the National Costume Museum to delve into Ivorian heritage, and end with craft shopping at the Artisanal Centre.

Opzionale

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

5 hrs 50 min

Experience the essence of Abidjan, starting with a visit to Bingerville Botanical Garden, created by French Governor Gabriel Angoulvant. Explore its tropical plants, including food and medicinal species. Then, return to Abidjan for an Attieke tasting, a local dish made from fermented cassava. Visit the grand Cathedral of Saint Paul, designed by Aldo Spirito, and finish at Treichville market, where local cuisine, fresh produce, and spices await.

Giorno 12

Takoradi

Historically developed around its deep-water harbor built during the colonial era, Takoradi remains one of Ghana’s key maritime and commercial hubs, handling exports such as cocoa, timber and minerals while also serving the offshore oil and gas industry in the Gulf of Guinea. The city has a distinctly working-port character rather than a resort atmosphere, with busy fishing communities, open markets, palm-fringed beaches and a humid tropical climate. It also provides access to nearby heritage landmarks like Fort Metal Cross, one of several European forts scattered along the historic Gold Coast, reflecting the region’s layered colonial past and its continued economic importance within West Africa

Attività:

Opzionale

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

4.5 hours

Soar above the treetops and journey inland to Kakum National Park, a sanctuary safeguarding Ghana's vanishing tropical guinea rainforest and rich wildlife. Walk along forest trails and cross Africa's renowned canopy walkway, 40 metres above the forest floor, offering stunning views from seven platforms and rope bridges. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and mammals camouflaged in the branches as you take in this awe inspiring perspective of nature.

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

Giorni 12-13

Elmina

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

Attività:

Incluso

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

3 hours

Stand where African slaves once stood at UNESCO-listed Cape Coast Castle, a powerful symbol of resilience. It held more enslaved Africans than any other West African site. Delve into its history, from slave port to a moving museum. Witness the "Door of No Return" and tour the dungeons, walking in the footsteps of countless slaves. Finally, discover Ghanaian culture with traditional drumming and dance, telling stories through rhythm and movement.

Incluso

Traditional music and dances on board

1 hour

Feel the beat of Ghana’s traditions as the rhythm of djembe drums fills the air. Witness lively dances and discover the Ashanti people’s folklore. Local artists will board the ship to enchant you with vibrant rhythms and movements, embodying the heartbeat of Ghana. Their colorful attire, expressive choreography and storytelling bring the country’s rich cultural heritage to life in unforgettable ways.

Opzionale

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

5 hours

Journey through centuries of heritage and craftsmanship on this guided tour. Explore the oldest colonial building in sub-Saharan Africa, Elmina’s Castle of St. George dating back to 1482, a key site in the transatlantic slave trade. Visit the local fish market and see traditional wooden boats. Drive to Global Mamas, where women are empowered through fair trade. Learn the art of batik-making, create your own design and take it home.

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making PM

4.5 hours

Opzionale

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

4.5 hours

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

Giorno 14

Tema (Accra)

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’

Attività:

Opzionale

Accra City Tour HD (for disembarking guests ending at the airport)

4 hrs 15 min

Get to the heart of Accra’s rich cultural heritage, starting with the National Museum, home to Ghana’s treasures like chief’s regalia and traditional instruments. Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, a symbol of peace, featuring artefacts from Ghana’s independence. Explore the National Cultural Center crafts market, the largest in West Africa. End at the Black Star Gate and Independence Square, ceremonial grounds representing African liberation.

Accra City Tour FD (for guests staying onboard for the next cruise)

Opzionale

Hike at Shai Hills Reserve (for guests staying onboard for the next cruise)

8.5 hours

Hike through Ghana's Shai Hills Forest Reserve featuring savannah grassland, woodlands and unique rock formations. Inhabited by the Shai people until 1892, the landscape is dominated by granite inselbergs and traditional shrines. Accompanied by a guide, set off on a 3-hour hike to the Obonu Tem caves while keeping an eye out for olive baboons, antelopes, and spot-nosed monkeys. Conclude with a welldeserved lunch on your return to Tema port.

Infinite possibilità per trascorrere la giornata

Non esiste una giornata tipo con Swan Hellenic. Vi offriamo infinite possibilità per personalizzare ogni istante in base ai vostri interessi e al vostro umore, così da garantirvi sempre la giornata dei vostri sogni a bordo.

SH Diana a colpo d'occhio

Crociera boutique

Gli interni su misura di SH Diana sono spaziosi e di buon gusto, con arredi raffinati e finestre dal pavimento al soffitto che offrono viste senza ostacoli su alcuni dei paesaggi più incredibili del pianeta. Linee nette e decise si fondono con legno, metallo e tessuti naturali per creare un comfort informale.

Eccellenza culinaria

L'eccellenza gastronomica è parte integrante della tua esperienza di viaggio boutique. Preparati a esplorare l'eccellenza culinaria mentre gli chef di fama mondiale di Swan Hellenic ti conducono in un viaggio gastronomico internazionale.

Bellezza e Spa

Scegli tra trattamenti di bellezza e benessere, inclusi massaggi ispirati alla tradizione balinese e trattamenti per il corpo. È un modo semplice per ritrovare l'equilibrio tra uno sbarco e l'altro.

Fitness e Sauna

La nostra palestra all'avanguardia dispone di tutto il necessario per un allenamento energizzante, dalle macchine cardio a bande elastiche e pesi liberi. Partecipa a sessioni con personal trainer e rilassati nella sauna con vista.

Scoperte a bordo

Immergiti nella natura, nella storia e nella cultura di ogni luogo che visiti durante la crociera con briefing speciali, conferenze e presentazioni. Le nostre guide di spedizione esperte renderanno il tuo tempo a bordo affascinante e informativo.

Ambiente coinvolgente

Che tu cerchi un momento di riflessione tranquilla, l'occasione per ricaricare le energie o un'opportunità per esplorare le meraviglie del mondo naturale, la SH Diana offre una varietà di spazi rilassanti e rigeneranti per rendere il tuo viaggio con noi davvero indimenticabile.

Servizio personalizzato

Swan Hellenic si distingue per il servizio personale e l'ospitalità genuina. Il nostro equipaggio cordiale e accogliente si impegna a soddisfarti e a offrirti la migliore esperienza possibile.

La tua casa lontano da casa

Rilassati nell'eleganza discreta della tua cabina o suite. Una sofisticata combinazione di toni tenui, trame naturali e tecnologie intuitive: il design ispirato allo stile scandinavo fonde armoniosamente il mondo naturale con comfort eccezionali.

SH Diana a colpo d'occhio

Crociera boutique

Eccellenza culinaria

Bellezza e Spa

Scegli tra trattamenti di bellezza e benessere, inclusi massaggi ispirati alla tradizione balinese e trattamenti per il corpo. È un modo semplice per ritrovare l'equilibrio tra uno sbarco e l'altro.

Fitness e Sauna

Scoperte a bordo

Ambiente coinvolgente

Servizio personalizzato

Swan Hellenic si distingue per il servizio personale e l'ospitalità genuina. Il nostro equipaggio cordiale e accogliente si impegna a soddisfarti e a offrirti la migliore esperienza possibile.

Atlantic Crossroads: cruise from Senegal to Ghana

Expedition highlights

Colonial Past

Guided Walks

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

African Traditions

Itinerario giorno per giorno

Panoramica

Dakar

Attività:

UNESCO Goree Island and vibrant Dakar

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Banjul

Attività:

Makasutu Cultural Forest Adventure

Estuary exploration in a local pirogue

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

Le eccellenze di Banjul

Bijagos Archipelago

Attività:

Expedition days in Bijagos Islands

Day at sea

Freetown

Attività:

Freetown Historical City Tour

Bunce Island

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Extended - Bunce Island and Freetown Historical City Tour

Day at sea

Monrovia

Attività:

Historical city tour of Monrovia

Libassa Wildlife Sanctuary

Day at sea

Abidjan

Attività:

Colonial Grand Bassam

Abidjan highlights, Bingerville garden and local gastronomy

Takoradi

Attività:

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

Elmina

Attività:

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

Traditional music and dances on board

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making

Elmina Castle, City walk & Batik Making PM

Kakum National Park's Canopy Walkway

Cape Coast Castle and drum dance

Tema (Accra)

Attività:

Accra City Tour HD (for disembarking guests ending at the airport)

Accra City Tour FD (for guests staying onboard for the next cruise)

Hike at Shai Hills Reserve (for guests staying onboard for the next cruise)

Infinite possibilità per trascorrere la giornata

SH Diana a colpo d'occhio

Crociera boutique

Eccellenza culinaria

Bellezza e Spa

Fitness e Sauna

Scoperte a bordo

Ambiente coinvolgente

Servizio personalizzato

La tua casa lontano da casa

Cabine

Vista Oceano

Balcone

Suite Junior

Suite

Suite Premium

Altri viaggi da scoprire

West Africa cruise from Ghana to Angola

Cruising in Namibia: the Skeleton Coast

Cultures & Traditions of Central Africa: A Journey from Luanda to Accra

Cruise West Africa: Cultures and Wild Coasts

West Africa Coast & Atlantic Islands Cruise

Cruise from Morocco to Senegal

Expedition highlights

Colonial Past