Gardens & Vines of the Atlantic Edge
A voyage from Malaga to Portsmouth aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker Rosemary Legrand
- 27 May 2022
Join the 95 passenger MS Serenissima for this springtime voyage exploring the Iberian Peninsula, France and the Channel Islands visiting some marvellously historic and scenic places along the way. We have chosen the perfect time of year for our voyage and can expect verdant gardens and landscapes awash with blossoms and moderate temperatures with the absence of high season crowds. We have allowed time to explore the horticultural splendours and delightful towns of the region in depth and our itinerary has been planned to ensure the balance is just right between exploring ashore, relaxing on board and with some time at leisure in picturesque ports for individual exploration.
On many days during our voyage there will be a choice of excursions for you to choose between depending on your interest or perhaps based upon where you have visited before. Whilst in Cadiz there will be a choice of a city tour or a visit to Jerez de la Frontera to learn about sherry production and enjoy a tasting; during our time in Figueira da Foz visit Medieval Coimbra and its wonderful Botanical Gardens or the Bairrada wine producing region; and in Guernsey you can choose between a walking tour of St Peter Port and Castle Cornet or a scenic island drive. Each day holds something new and we will also step into the pilgrimage cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, spend a day exploring Brittany and the charming village of Locronan and visit the tranquil island of Sark with its horse-drawn carriages and La Seigneurie gardens.
Our voyage offers an insight into the contrasting cultures of the regions visited and we will be able to learn more of the history as well as the beautiful architecture and gardens. Along the way we will encounter some of the fine wines of Portugal and France and sample the splendid ports in the enchanting city of Oporto. Our journey includes fabulous coastal scenery and timeless beauty which combined with the rich maritime history of the region makes for an endlessly fascinating cultural experience.
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Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Malaga, Spain.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Serenissima and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Cadiz.
Located on a peninsula jutting out into a bay, Cadiz is almost entirely surrounded by water. It is the oldest surviving city in Spain, founded by the Phoenicians in 1100 BC and later occupied by the Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths and Moors. This morning you can join a guided tour during which we will discover the most beautiful monuments and landmarks of the city including the Santo Domingo Church, the Santa Catalina Fortress and the Cathedral of Cadiz in the old city. Alternatively, join a visit to Jerez de la Frontera, the home of Spain’s sherry and brandy industry which grew in the 18th and 19th centuries. After a visit to the old centre of Jerez, including the 11th century Alcazar, we will continue to one of the bodegas to learn about sherry production and enjoy a tasting. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
Day 3 Lisbon, Portugal.
Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping areas with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city’s terraced hillsides. Arriving over lunch we will have a choice of tours this afternoon. On a city tour you will see the famous landmarks and places of interest such as the Monument to the Discoveries, Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. Alternatively, visit the Queluz Palace to explore these very formal, yet intimate gardens. Often referred to as the Versailles of Portugal, this former royal palace is surrounded by extensive grounds. See the Malta Garden famous for its musical concerts, the Hanging Garden, its statues, ponds, grotto and the azulejo-tiled canal where the royal family would go boating.
Day 4 Figueira da Foz.
Located at the mouth of the Modego River, Figueira da Foz is one of central Portugal’s prime beach resorts. However, our reasons for visiting are actually inland and we have a choice of excursions today. Choose to visit the nearby city of Coimbra, the Medieval capital of Portugal for over 100 years, and the site of the country’s greatest university for the past five centuries. On a walking tour we will view the stunning buildings from the 16th to 18th centuries, including the Paco das Escolas (Royal Palace) and the Monastery of Santa Cruz before we head to the university which was recently appointed UNESCO status. After a local lunch choose to return to Figueira da Foz or to stay longer in Coimbra to explore independently. Alternatively visit the Botanical Gardens, created in the 18th century and designed to complement the Natural History and Medicinal Studies taking place at the university. Another option is to join a drive through the Bairrada wine-producing region and visit the Alianca Underground Museum which is part winery, part art museum. Here we can explore a network of underground tunnels housing an extraordinary collection of African and Portuguese art alongside cellars crammed with huge oak barrels of maturing wines and brandies. Continue to the Bussaco Palace which was built in the late 19th century by King Charles I and is surrounded by the forests of the Bussaco National Park. After lunch in the Palace we will have a chance to explore the paths of the forest and its spectacular landscape of rare trees and exotic plants.
Day 5 Oporto.
For our last call in Portugal we arrive into the port of Leixoes, the base for our day of activities around Oporto. We will visit the Quinta de Aveleda, located in the heart of the Vinho Verde Demarcated Region which creates a young fresh wine with a low alcoholic content and a lightly fruity flavour. After exploring the beautiful park and gardens with rare specimens of trees, shrubs and flowers which surround the Manor House we will learn about the wine which has been created here since 1947. This afternoon we explore Oporto including the impressive St Francis Church and the Ribeira, a riverside quarter made up of narrow, twisting streets and shadowy arcades. We will end at one of the many port wine cellars where we hear all about the wines and how they are produced.
Day 6 Vilagarcia de Arousa, Spain.
From our berth in Vilagarcia de Arousa we will head to Santiago de Compostela, the capital of the autonomous community of Galicia. The city’s cathedral is the destination of the important Medieval pilgrimage route, the Way of St James (in Spanish the ‘Camino de Santiago’), which is still walked today. Visit the Conventual de San Francisco, the Faculty of Medicine and the world-famous Plaza del Obradoiro. Inside the cathedral, we will visit the Romanic crypt and see the facade of Platerias; the Quintana Plaza; House of Parra; facade of Azabachería; and the facade of San Martin Pinario. In the afternoon we will visit the Pazo de Rubianes which was originally founded in 1411 and was one of the three official lordships in Spain. Enjoy a guided walk through the stunning gardens, famous for their thousands of camellias but also home to eucalyptus trees, sequoias and camphors. Also visit the Pazo’s extensive vineyards to learn about the local Albarino wine production and enjoy a tasting before exploring the historical palace itself.
Day 7 At Sea.
After a busy few days take the opportunity to relax as we spend a day at sea. Join our lecture programme in the lounge or find a spot on deck to watch the world go by.
Day 8 Douarnenez & Locronan, France.
Arrive today in the Finistere region of France and the port of Douarnenez which prospered as a major centre for the sardine industry in the 19th century. Traces of these days still show in the architecture and old fisherman’s houses that line the harbour, whilst at the Port Musee you may find a number of traditional boats at anchor. A morning tour takes us to nearby Locronan, one of the most picturesque and preserved Medieval Breton villages which grew from the manufacture of sailcloth. Visit the 15th century church, remarkable for its stone vaulting and stained-glass windows, before walking through the craft workshops. You might also be tempted to taste the famous “kouignamann”, a traditional Breton butter cake. Return to the MS Serenissima for lunch and this afternoon will be at leisure to relax on board or to explore this lovely town at your own pace.
Day 9 Guernsey & Sark, Channel Islands.
On Guernsey, the ‘Island of Flowers’ there will be the option of a walking tour of St Peter Port including a visit to Castle Cornet, a 12th century battlement which guards the entrance to St Peter Port harbour. Alternatively, enjoy a panoramic drive during which we will see the beautiful coastline and beaches and visit the Little Chapel, built in 1914 as a miniature version of the famous basilica at Lourdes and covered in fragments of shattered china. Over lunch we sail to Sark where we will use our Zodiacs to land on this peaceful traffic-free island. Horse-drawn carriages take us along the narrow lanes alive with the songs of chaffinches, skylarks and mistle thrush as we see the narrow isthmus which joins Little Sark and Big Sark and the enchanting gardens at La Seigneurie. Those feeling active may wish to hire a bicycle and explore independently.
Day 10 Portsmouth, England.
Disembark this morning. Transfers will be provided to Portsmouth Harbour Railway Station at a fixed time.
Dates and Prices
27 May to 5 June 2022 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £4195 | £3995 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £4395 | £4195 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £4695 | £4495 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £5095 | £4895 |
6 Junior Suite | £5595 | £5395 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £5995 | £5795 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £6295 | £6095 |
10 Standard Single | £4895 | £4695 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE270522
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel to Malaga • Nine nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Travelling with You
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Rosemary Legrand
Rosemary is a former nursery owner and daughter of the late George Hyde, who was a hybridist of azaleas and rhododendrons. Many of his awardwinning hybrid plants can be seen at the Royal Horticultural Society’s gardens at Wisley, Surrey, the de Rothschild rhododendron gardens at Exbury, Hampshire, and the National Trust Gardens at Kingston Lacy in Dorset. Rosemary had the honour of presenting HM The Queen with a collection of her late father’s azaleas named after the Queen’s former Head Gardener, Fred Nutbeam, at Chelsea Flower Show in 1996. She has travelled extensively to gardens in many parts of the world and is an experienced public speaker. She is on RHS Speakers Register and also speaks for NAFAS; she wrote a number of contributions for the book, ‘1001 Gardens you must see before you die’ and an article for the Royal Horticultural Society ‘Rhododendron, Camellia and Magnolia 2014 Year Book’.
Rosemary Legrand will be on the following tour dates: 27 May to 5 June 2022 -
Henry Blofeld
Henry Blofeld is an English sports journalist whose rich, plummy tones are known and loved worldwide thanks to his extensive cricket commentary career on both television and radio. Since 1962, he has been a newspaper journalist and written for publications including The Guardian, The Observer, The Daily Mirror, The Daily Telegraph, The Independent, and The Express. He tours theatres around the country with fellow cricket commentator Peter Baxter, and is regularly invited to events across the country as an after dinner and motivational speaker.
Henry Blofeld will be on the following tour dates: 27 May to 5 June 2022 -
Rear Admiral Roy Clare CBE DL
We are delighted to be joined on board by Rear Admiral Roy Clare who has almost three decades’ experience as a professional museum director and as a non-executive in social businesses. His roles have included Director National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House & Royal Observatory, Greenwich, Chief Executive Museums, Libraries & Archives Council and Director Auckland War Memorial Museum, New Zealand. Previously in the Royal Navy, Roy served worldwide from Junior Seaman to Rear Admiral. His commands included destroyers, the aircraft carrier Invincible and Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth. He retired voluntarily to develop opportunities in museums. An active yachtsman, Roy has raced in the Fastnet and Sydney-Hobart races. Nowadays he sails purely for pleasure, mainly in British waters. In 2007 Roy was made CBE ‘for services to museums’.
Rear Admiral Roy Clare CBE DL will be on the following tour dates: 27 May to 5 June 2022
Tour Extensions
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Before embarking the MS Serenissima we are offering the opportunity to join a three night extension in Seville including a full day tour to the ancient city of Cordoba as well as time to explore at leisure.
Gardens in Reales Alcazares
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Seville, Spain.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer to our hotel where we have free time before we meet for dinner tonight. (D)
Day 2 Seville.
On a morning walking tour we will explore the city’s greatest monuments. Visit the Alcazar Palace with its ornate Moorish interiors and exotic terraced garden and the imposing La Giralda, Seville’s cathedral which is reputed to be the largest Gothic style church in the world with its distinctive Moorish tower. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Meet this evening as we take in a flamenco show with dinner.
(B, D)Day 3 Cordoba.
Our full day excursion will take us to Cordoba, the city that was both the Roman and the Moorish capital of Spain. We visit the Old Town and the Mezquita-Cathedral which was built between the 8th and 10th centuries and is one of the earliest and most breathtakingly beautiful examples of Spanish Islamic architecture. After our visit we will take a walk through the fascinating Jewish Quarter. Lunch will be taken at a local restaurant before we return to Seville for an evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 Seville to Malaga.
Check out after breakfast and drive to Malaga where our first call will be at the Botanical Gardens which features more than 25,000 species of plants. After lunch we will see the 14th century Castillo de Gibralfaro, the Alcazabar and the nearby Roman amphitheatre. Embark the MS Serenissima in the late afternoon.
(B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
24 to 27 May 2022 Category Price Twin £1095 Single £1345 Price Includes: Three nights hotel accommodation in Seville, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000