Deckplan
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
A voyage from Gibraltar to Tenerife including Morocco & Madeira aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with Guest Speaker Major General Stephen Carr-Smith
Whilst winter is approaching the UK, Morocco and the sub-tropical Atlantic islands still have many months of sunshine ahead and this delightful voyage aboard the MS Hebridean Sky offers the opportunity to escape to warmer climes, and fully appreciate the fascinating history, dramatic beauty and cultural vibrancy of the region.
Embarking in Gibraltar, we head for Morocco and the port of Tangier which has been a strategic gateway between Africa and Europe since Phoenician times. We continue to Casablanca and discover the wonders of the city before we sail to Safi for our exploration of charming Essaouira. Leaving Morocco we head out into the Atlantic bound for the ‘floating garden in the Atlantic’ of Madeira and the enchanting island of Porto Santo before we make our way to the Canary Islands.
Located some 700 miles off Saharan Africa, far from being a sun and fun package destination, there is much to see in this delightful Atlantic Archipelago. In fact, you do not have to stray far from the resorts to discover some marvellously varied landscapes and an absorbing, multifaceted culture. Exploring the hinterlands, back roads and villages brings you in touch with a unique side of Spanish culture, much removed from the mainland. The melting pot of Andalucian, Berber, Portuguese, Italian, French and British migration, together with los Guanches, the original inhabitants who were displaced by the Spanish conquest in the 15th century, have all left their mark, making this a unique destination. We will explore two of the lesser known islands, only accessible by a small ship such as the MS Hebridean Sky: La Palma and El Hierro where we can enjoy nature at its very best. These volcanic islands impress with their unique flora and fauna and boast rugged rocky landscapes, evergreen cloud forests, metre high ferns and bizarre looking dragon trees.
In the company of just 100 or so like-minded travel companions we will be able to make the most of the region and in our small groups we can explore places that are otherwise inaccessible to the larger ships. Our itinerary has been designed to offer a choice of excursions on most days and we are confident that you will find this cruise the perfect antidote to the cold and grey skies at home.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive and transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky. Sail this evening.
Having passed the Strait of Gibraltar we arrive in North Africa and the port of Tangier. A short drive will bring us to the Donabo Gardens located on the coast with wonderful sea views. Divided into ten sections we can explore the Moroccan garden that celebrates the tradition of tea, the mint maze where multiple varieties blend their fragrances along the alleys, a rose garden thriving in the cool shade and a pollinators garden purposely designed to attract bees. Later we can explore the city where on a walking tour we will visit the Medina, enjoy the views from the Kasbah situated at the highest point of Tangier, and wander through the Grand Souk. Alternatively drive across the beautiful Rif Mountains to Tetouan. Visit the unique School of Art Dar Sanaa which is located in a former palace and teaches the most traditional of Moroccan crafts to its students before we continue to the Medina which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient medina is full of narrow alleys and streets with vendors selling local handicrafts, foods and spices. Our tour will end at the old Royal Palace, a 17th century building which is itself a reflection of the Hispano-Moresque architecture, and the nearby Hassan II square. Stop to savour the Moroccan tea and fresh pastries at a local Riad in the heart of the Medina before returning to the ship.
Arriving in Casablanca at lunchtime we will visit the city’s most important sights including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Olive Market. The highlight of our tour will be our visit to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest religious monuments in the world after Mecca. It took 3,300 traditional Moroccan artisans to create the beautiful mosaics, marble floors and splendid wood ceilings.
This morning we will depart the port of Safi and head along the coast to Essaouira. Founded in the 18th century, Essaouira was built to be a rival city to Agadir. Formerly known as Mogador, meaning small fortress, it was designed as a fortified town surrounded by Vauban-style ramparts and played a major role as an international trading seaport, linking Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa with Europe and the rest of the world. On our full day tour we will see the amazing mixture of Portuguese and Berber architecture, the 16th century sea bastions built to protect the city, the 18th century Medina, and in the Mellah we will find the souks dedicated to gold, spices and fish. Enjoy a seafood lunch near the beach before returning to the MS Hebridean Sky.
Spend the day at sea as we sail towards Madeira. Our lecture programme will continue in the lounge or maybe find a spot on deck to relax.
Spend the day on Madeira where there will be a choice of excursions. Choose from a full day tour which includes a beautiful panoramic exploration of the Western part of the island taking in Ribera Brava and Porto Moniz. Alternatively, join a half day tour to the Botanical Garden which covers an area of over 35,000 square metres and has more than 2,000 exotic plants from all continents, some of which are endangered species. This fantastic garden has several ornamental trees and shrubs, an orchid area, lawns, and lovely viewpoints. Meanwhile, those feeling active may wish to join a Levada walk. Levada are irrigation channels that were created by the Portuguese settlers in the 19th century, who painstakingly carved them out of the rock by hand. Designed to carry freshwater from the north to the drier southern regions of the island, they helped to create many of the lush landscapes that can be seen today. The walk will follow the course of ‘levadas’ for over three miles, seeing the verdant plants, mountain views and green farmland that cover Madeira.
Sail overnight to Porto Santo. Although one of the islands constituting the archipelago of Madeira, Porto Santo and Madeira could not be more different. Whilst lush green predominates Madeira, Porto Santo is arid and the southern coast is bordered by a nine kilometre long beach of golden sand. Our morning tour will introduce us to the island and will include some beautiful vistas and a visit to the Christopher Columbus Museum, where he once lived. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
La Palma is known by locals as the ‘Beautiful Island’, and it is easy to see why. It is a simply stunning, peaceful and most importantly an un-spoilt destination that has deservedly been declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Arriving at lunchtime we drive inland taking in the beautiful scenery to Santuario Virgen de Las Nieves, after visiting the small, whitewashed church we travel through mountain roads to La Caldera de Taburiente. Located within the National Park Caldera de Taburiente, a massive depression eight kilometres wide which scientists agree was a majestically tall volcanic mountain that collapsed on itself. We will explore on foot and whilst all may seem stoic and still, the forces of erosion are hard at work and some geologists estimate that it will finally disappear in just 5000 years.
Probably the least known of the Canary Islands, and once considered to be the end of the world, El Hierro is unique and utterly captivating. This morning will be free to explore the town at your own pace. Later, during our afternoon island tour it will be impossible not to be entranced by the island’s slow pace and simple style; by its craggy coast, where waves hurl themselves against lava sculpted rock faces; by the pretty farmland and flower meadows of the interior and by the desolate volcanic badlands that stretch out like moonscapes in the south. We will also have the opportunity to sample some of El Hierro’s excellent wine and visit the lizard house where the island’s unique giant lizards are bred; near extinction, they are protected by international law. Alternatively, opt for the La Llania hiking excursion which will take us through primeval forests, along ancient cisterns to El Hierro’s top viewing point affording spectacular views of the western parts of the island.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight.
24 November to 3 December 2025 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £5995 | £5695 |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £6295 | £5995 |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £6595 | £6295 |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £6895 | £6595 |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £7595 | £7295 |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £7995 | £7695 |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £8495 | £8195 |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £6295 | £5995 |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £6595 | £6295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS241125M
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Nine nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Shore excursions • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Major General Stephen Carr-Smith served throughout much of the Cold War in Europe and then with NATO. On leaving the Army, he worked for a company providing security and mine clearance services in remote and hostile countries. He was also the Senior Military Advisor to an operational analysis company owned by British Aerospace and the Chairman of a company developing opportunities to marry up Russian technology with western finance and production.
He was the Ombudsman for Estate Agents (1999-2006), dealing with redress and financial compensation for buyers and sellers of residential property throughout the UK and is now a non-executive director on the Council that runs the National Land and Property Information Service (NLIS). Stephen Carr-Smith was the Honorary Colonel of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY) from 1996-2006 – an all women, uniformed volunteer body that has supported the British Army for 100 years.
If you would like to spend some time in Gibraltar before embarking the MS Hebridean Sky we are offering the opportunity to enjoy a two night stay at The Rock Hotel which has been the landmark and most historic luxury hotel in Gibraltar since 1932.
Day 1 London to Gibraltar.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to The Rock Hotel for a two-night stay. Meet this evening for dinner. (D)
Day 2 Gibraltar.
Enjoy a day at leisure for independent exploration. Maybe take the cable car up the famous rock, see the Botanical Gardens or visit the Garrison Library. (B)
Day 3 Gibraltar.
This morning during our guided tour we willl discover this strategic British outpost in the Mediterranean. After taking in the views from Europa Point, we continue to the Great Siege Tunnels, a labyrinth of tunnels built to defend Gibraltar from Spanish and French attacks between 1779 and 1783. Also see the Gibraltar Museum. After lunch transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky for embarkation. (B, L)
22 to 24 November 2025 | |
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Category | Price |
Twin | £795 |
Single | £995 |
Price Includes: Two nights accommodation at the Rock Hotel in Gibraltar, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch), half day tour, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
After our cruise we are offering the opportunity to join a two night hotel stay on the island of Tenerife staying at the Hotel Botanico.
Day 1 Tenerife.
Disembark after breakfast this morning and enjoy a morning tour to explore the beautiful gardens of Tenerife. We will start with a visit to the Botanical Gardens which were founded by Charles III of Spain in 1788. From here we will visit the Orchid Gardens which is abundent with colour and tranquility. After lunch in a local restaurant we will transfer to the Hotel Botanico in Puerto de la Cruz for our two night stay. (B, L)
Day 2 Tenerife.
Your day is at leisure to relax in the hotel or maybe explore the local area at your own pace. (B)
Day 3 Tenerife to London.
After breakfast in the hotel we will transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight. (B)
3 to 5 December 2025 | |
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Category | Price |
Twin | £795 |
Single | £995 |
Price Includes: Two nights accommodation at Hotel Botanico, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch), tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000