Cruise Guides

Southeast of mainland Greece, scattered carelessly across the Aegean Sea, you’ll find the internationally renowned group of islands known as the Cyclades. Containing some of the best-loved individual holiday destinations including Santorini, Delos, Ios and Mykonos, a holiday that incorporates many of them is sure to be a vibrant and wonderful experience of many different flavours.

So what are the highlights? The must-see attractions? The various facets that you will be lucky enough to witness while you’re touring the Cyclades? Every single on is different. You need to be ready to experience ancient history and beautiful beaches, mixed with Mediterranean atmosphere and surrounded by crystalline, cool waters as we delve into one of the most distinguished groups of islands in the entire world. But there’s also plenty in the way of chic, stylish and fashionable towns where you can get your groove on and truly indulge in the Greek lifestyle.

Santorini

Perhaps the most famous island in the Mediterranean, Santorini is renowned for its beautiful towns, which consist of white-walled blue-roofed buildings spread elegantly across sheer cliff faces. The island’s charismatic coastline and distinctive shape is explained by the fact that the entire landmass is a large remnant of a volcanic caldera.

During your time here, you will undoubtedly want to explore the town of Fira, perhaps the best known of the island’s towns thanks to its seemingly monopoly over the Greek island postcard industry. The stunning buildings sitting precariously over the azure blue waves are instantaneously recognisable and its distinctive streets full of winding passageways and twisting steep stairways are a joy to explore.

But we here are Seafarer know the best places aren’t only found in the capital, and our Jewels of the Cyclades cruise offers the opportunity for visitors to take a journey around the rim of the caldera, experiencing the many little villages – each with its own individual and distinct character. Particularly worthy of mention is Ola, known for its incredible views, where we like to stop in order to witness the most magnificent sunsets imaginable.

If we had to sum up Santorini in two words, it would be these: Absolutely awe-inspiring.

Mykonos

A stunning coastline with gorgeous beaches dotted with atmospheric and pleasant towns. Such as the hallmarks of Mykonos, playground of the rich and long considered one of the most friendly places in the world for members of the LGBTI community. This is a fantastic place to relax – it’s certainly spoilt in terms of spectacular beaches and intimate little coves. But if there’s one aspect in particular that this gorgeous sun-bathed island is known for, it’s the fantastic nightlife and just-don’t-care atmosphere, which is perfectly conducive to the holiday spirit.

Before you think there’s nothing to do during the day, though, we have plenty to explore. Your crew members will have an in-depth knowledge of the shoreline that will allow you to experience things inaccessible to any other tour operator – particularly those with the larger scale vessels that are only able to visit the main port. There are the beautiful villages, each resembling a miniature Venice, full of intimate waterways and stunning harbours. The hills, beautiful arcs on the horizon, are topped with white windmills. And culture vultures will love the opportunity to wander into exceptional places of worship including Tourlos’s Monastery of Virgin Mary and the Agios Panteleimonas.

Delos

Delos can aptly be described as a historian’s dream. Anyone with an enthusiasm for ancient events and Greek mythology will no doubt love delving into the stories here. Once the seat of the bishopric of the Cyclades – which ruled over the islands of Mykonos, Syros, Seriphos, Kythnos and Keos – it is home to some of the richest and most significant historical sites in the entire world. Tourists flock here to walk among the ruined streets, statues and monuments, paying tribute to the Olympian deity Apollo who was supposedly born here.

With Seafarer, you can be sure of getting the inside scoop as to where the best ruins are. From the ruins of the ancient amphitheatre and the fabulous terrace of lions to the broken phallus at the Stoivadeion and the now-dry Sacred Lake, you can count on plenty of exclusive photo opportunities.

Ios

You can count on Seafarer to show you the best of Ios. Widely known as a party island, it would undoubtedly be the little brother of the Cyclades if they were people. Boisterous, energetic and lively, it has a never-ceasing buzzy atmosphere characterised by the best bars, beaches and nightclubs imaginable.

But before you think that means there isn’t much else here other than the party spirit, you’ll also experience extraordinary beaches of such exquisite beauty that you won’t want to leave. Seafarer will help you explore the intimate areas of this spectacular place, revealing things that no other tour operator knows of! Culture vultures will particularly relish the opportunity to visit the reputed site of Homer’s tomb.

Folegandros

Mykonos, Ios and Santorini are known for hustle, bustle and atmosphere. Conversely, Folegandros is known for the opposite reason – as a sanctuary of calm where it’s easy to relax. Seafarer vessels are small enough to navigate the intimate and craggy coves that characterise the coastline, where you’ll be able to take an enjoyable swim in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean. In the evening, head to one of the villages, where authentic Greek taverns are waiting to serve up ouzo and freshly caught fish. It’s an experience that your taste buds will never forget.

Ermoupolis

Last – but certainly not least – we have Ermoupolis, which is renowned for being home to one of the absolute highlights of many trips. Step forward, Syros, the capital city of the Cyclades. It has plenty to boast about, including plenty of evidence about its spectacular past, which includes neoclassical houses and religious monuments. Make a point of seeking out the churches of Transfiguration of Jesus Christ (Metamórphossi tou Sotíros), St Nicolas the Rich (Áyios Nikólaos Ploússios), Dormition of the Mother of God (Koímissis tis Theotókou), as they are particularly beautiful.

The Caribbean. A sultry seductive destination with as many stunningly beautiful beaches as there are stars in the sky. This archipelago is well known for being an extraordinary holiday destination with a variety of fantastic places that are well worth sampling.

But wait – if you're midway through booking a single-destination holiday to this vibrant location, we've got a list of reasons that may well change your mind. And as Captain Jack Sparrow knows, there's only one way to see the Caribbean, and that's by boat.

Reason 1 – We're talking about an archipelago here…

The first reason that sailing the Caribbean makes sense is a simple one – it's an archipelago. The only way you're going to get more than a snapshot of it is by visiting more than one place. Sure, you can easily spend a week admiring the beaches and rainforests of Dominica, or you could spend ten days in Havana exploring the history and culture of Cuba.

But these holidays represent many missed opportunities. The Caribbean is unbelievably multifaceted and exciting, and staying in one place severely limits what you can see. So, you know, you could opt for that two-week trip to a beach in the Bahamas. But you're unlikely to get as much as an unforgettable experience as if you were sailing from one paradise-portion to the next, taking plenty of time to experience the local culture and relax in glittering coves and coral reefs.

Reason 2 – It's more convenient than packing and repacking your belongings all the time

All right, we've made a case for seeing more of this glittering jewel than just the one side. But why consider sailing? Well, you could in theory drive around getting ferries to various islands, but with an island nation, that's going to be a lot of hassle. Come on, this is supposed to be a holiday! Travelling from one hotel to the next becomes incredibly repetitive and exhausting, and you're meant to be enjoying yourself.

Comparatively, imagine resting up on deck, swigging a cocktail while the captain and the crew take care of the sailing? This has got to be the better option, surely? Additionally, bringing your accommodation everywhere you go has its own advantages. You only need to pack and unpack your clothes once, and you've got time to make it your own.

Reason 3 – There's an air of exclusivity with Seafarer

While sailing with Seafarer, you'll be able to make the most of our experienced crew's intricate knowledge of this incredible archipelago. There are plenty of special places that few other eyes have seen, which we can lead you to. Lots of locations that present some unique but rarely seen attributes of the Caribbean feature on our extensive tours.

Take, for example, the stunning shores of Nevis, which look as though they've been plucked straight from a Michael Palin travel documentary. Completely unspoilt, simultaneously charismatic with cragginess and beset with beaches. Or you might learn about the best places to visit in Falmouth Harbour on Antigua, with its myriad of dockyards, marinas and old inns resembling the famed town of Tortuga in Pirates of the Caribbean. Stroll between sun-tanned yacht crews and sea hardy fishermen in search of trinkets and see if you can discover some treasure for yourself.

Reason 4 – Sailing the Caribbean gives you the chance to try something different

Naturally, if you're travelling to the Caribbean, you want plenty of opportunities to relax. And you will have them on a Seafarer holiday, with chances to chill out and enjoy the lush surroundings of various beaches and spectacular coves. But for some travellers, the pull of adventure and adrenaline is simply too strong to keep them lying down for long. 

If this is you, don't imagine for one minute that you have to be cooped up on deck when you could be testing your limits at something new. A holiday with us might see you windsurfing across a beautiful azure bay. Or explore the intimate crags of coral that characterise much of the coastline with a diving experience. Failing that, check out the vast numbers of tropical fish that call the Caribbean their home. Watch them flick through your fingers, as entranced by you as you are by them.

Reason 5 – You're getting away from it all

We're all familiar with recent reports that we're using our smartphones on holiday more often than ever before. However, surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean, you'll want to leave the device turned off and in your cabin. Sailing increases the feeling of isolation and otherworldliness, helping you to imagine that you've truly left the drudgery of the nine-to-five behind you for good. 

Of course, you haven't. But it's nice to pretend for a while, isn't it?

Reason 6 – Sailing the Caribbean is pure unadulterated fun

What other reason do you really need to explore this extraordinary island nation by boat? Whether you choose to board the spectacular Star Clipper with its full collection of modern comforts and for the full sailing experience with a fully rigged traditional tall ship, or hop aboard a catamaran for an altogether more intimate experience, we can guarantee you will adore every second of your time in this wondrous place. 

There’s nothing like getting your swimming trunks on and taking that first plunge into the sea on holiday. That feeling of being surrounded by unending turquoise water for miles around, coupled with the knowledge that your worries are truly over for the duration of your holiday is like a heavy burden being lifted from your shoulders. Here at Seafarer, we can really help you make the most of the watery paradise situated in your chosen location. We know the best spots for all the snorkelling and diving, and we are sure to enjoy regular stops in picturesque coves on attractive stretches of coastline, allowing you to explore for yourself. Take a look below at our favourite destinations for water exploration.

The Maldives

Swimming in the Maldives is truly a heavenly sensation. Crystal clear waters stretch as far as the eye can see, while gorgeous tropical fish follow your every move. Patterned in all the colours of the rainbow, they truly are a splendid sight, and our crew can take you to the best spots for seeing marine life. On top of the fish, keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins which also call this island paradise ‘home’ at certain times of the year. For those who want to take to the sea in an alternate mode of transport, the Eleuthera catamaran offers a pair of sea kayaks, while the Marquise 56′ Catamaran offers one sea kayak. These seat two people and are great for frolicking around on the water.

The Seychelles

Some of the most incredible marine life in the world exists in the Seychelles. Temperatures are warm all year round here, making it an island paradise for all manner of creatures that can be found basking in the waves. We really can’t go any further without mentioning the unforgettable snorkeling, with thousands of fish to be found in the picturesque harbour of La Digue. Once again, there are plenty of coral reefs to be discovered, with both snorkelers and divers alike finding what they’re looking for. And once again, there is the option to try out the sea kayak aboard the Marquise 56′ Catamaran. Consider also the Garden of Eden cruise, where you can take advantage of sports and snorkelling equipment and a swimming platform.

The Bahamas

Another idyllic destination of palm trees, white sands and attractive wooden huts. But the Bahamas looks just as good underneath the water as it does on top, with snorkeling and diving proving some of the more popular activities here. Perfect white sand flows between your toes as you head out in search of incredible fish specimens, majestic turtles and more. Divers will see the most, of course, with the opportunity to spy Caribbean lobster, gardens of sea fans and even Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. This represents an experience that you’ll never forget.

Croatia

The Dalmatian Sea is as beautiful and appealing as you could ever hope for, with its deep blue hue and the charismatic cities of Croatia dotted along it. Between exploring the stunning constructs of Dubrovnik and Split, there is ample opportunity to take to the waves with some of the sporting equipment on one of our cruise vessels. Whether you choose to take to the waves in a kayak or on a windsurfer, you can be sure of having a great time. Wind speeds are very favourable here for the sailors and there is no limit to the fun you can have paddling around. Then, once you’re suitably exhausted, we’ll enjoy some fine Croatian cuisine to bring your strength back up. Bliss.

It's a Sunday evening. You have just come back from your trip around the Caribbean, the Greek Islands or some other idyllic corner of the world. And you're already nursing a heavy feeling in your stomach – the cruise is over and now you have nothing to look forward to until the next one.

But don't be upset. There are a number of ways that you can help those post-cruise blues, so why not consider some of the following activities to lift your mood?

Sorting out the photos

If you've been on a trip somewhere you've never visited before, chances are you'll have taken a lot of photographs. Once upon a time, this would have warranted a trip to the pharmacy and a week-long wait. Not anymore. With the ubiquitous nature of digital cameras, you can sort your photos out more easily than ever before. Plug them into your computer and share them around – on Facebook, Flickr, Instagram or Twitter. This is absolutely certain to get the conversation flowing among your friends, who will be anxious to hear how you got on. Print them out and put them into frames or onto canvas to hang neatly on your walls or sit on your mantlepiece. This little routine can help you get back into the swing of things.

Chatting about your holiday

Getting all those feelings out in the open is absolutely the best way to deal with your post-cruise blues. Let your friends know what you most enjoyed – was it perhaps unique cuisine from a coastal trip around Thailand? Or the awe-inspiring sights of Greek's plethora of islands? Perhaps the natural beauty of Mauritius keeps returning to your mind's eye. Perhaps such a chat will even inspire a group trip next year? That'll have the double benefit of giving you all something to look forward to! But either way, talking through your emotions is a recognised part of therapy and it's bound to get you through your post-holiday misery and the return to daily life.

Reliving the nostalgia

Think about what you particularly enjoyed about your latest holiday. Is there any way you can recreate those aspects here? If you loved the cruising element aboard a Seafarer holiday, why not get down to the coast more often and see if you can partake in any sailing? If you couldn't get enough of the lush green forests of the Seychelles, why not explore some of the natural beauty around your home? Consider yourself a bit of a wizz in the kitchen? Then get hold of one or two special recipes from your destination and see if you can recreate the cuisine in the kitchen. Just because you're at home, it doesn't mean your love affair with the destination has to end entirely.

Plan the next one!

If you really can't get your cruise holiday out of your mind, then set aside some time to get around planning the next one. This is pretty much the ultimate cure as it will really give you something to look forward to in the future. And with Seafarer's incredible range of destination choices, you really won't be disappointed. Book yourself a truly unique holiday experience in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or somewhere even more exotic for your next holiday and start counting down the days! And don't forget – you can always make your next cruise all the closer by choosing an option that allows you to explore the waters much closer to home. 

If you're tempted to indulge in a cruise but are nervous about embarking on such a holiday for the first time, then it might be wisest to test the water with a short cruise of only three or four days.

At least, this is the conclusion drawn by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which asked customers a series of questions and discovered a number of aspects about short journeys that were particularly pleasing to first-time cruisers.

Those looking for a quick romantic getaway or to spend the vast majority of their trip exploring destinations rather than staying on the cruise vessel also advocate booking only two or three nights.

Although these were the main groups identified by the survey, time-strapped holidaymakers as well as those seeking the best possible value claimed they look for short-term cruises as well.

Interestingly, people tended to fly to exotic destinations for such cruises rather than staying local, with the most popular destinations for short holidays proving to be Mexico, the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

If you fall into one of the above categories, it might be worth considering one of Seafarer's shorter cruising experiences below. A plethora of destinations and experiences are available in countries ranging from European historical hotspots (Greece, Italy) to exotic beach destinations (the Seychelles). Check out the range of exciting options below.

Greece

Few holiday destinations can boast as much attraction as Greece. Quite apart from possessing some of the most beautiful beaches and attractive little coves, it also has plenty of important historical locations, such as the town of Ephesus with its ancient harbour and fascinating ruins, constructed around the 10th century BC. Once upon a time, a population of 56,000 resided among these stone columns and crumbling walls. With Seafarer, Greece is one of your best options for a short cruise, with the Idyllic Aegean itinerary lasting either three days or four days. You can enjoy the atmosphere of Syros, Cesme, and Athens – plus more – before returning home after a fantastic holiday. Experience renowned beauty spots including Santorini, chic cosmopolitan atmosphere on Myokonos, and destinations from the lap of history such as Patmos and Heraklion.

Seychelles

Don't write off exotic destinations for a short cruise. The Seychelles is available with three and four-night itineraries that show off this archipelago's best points – warm temperatures, gorgeous turquoise seas, stunning beaches and charismatic coastlines. Opportunities for diving, snorkelling and swimming on islands such as Moyenne and Praslin are simply unmissable, with the marine life proving varied and fascinating. An oxcart tour in La Digue, the quaintest community in the Seychelles, is also well worth experiencing. And that's just some of what's on offer in the three-day itinerary, with a visit to St Anne to see giant tortoises proving the highlight of the four-day alternative.

Wildlife, extraordinary landscapes and great weather. The Seychelles quite frankly has it all, and experiencing it on a short trip might just convince you to come back for a longer visit.

Tahiti

Another extraordinary location for a short holiday is Tahiti, which boasts eye-popping beauty along every turn and twist of its elegant coastline. There are three and four-night itineraries available – the Blue Lagoon Dream and the Huahine Dream. The former will see you navigating the famous blue and green lagoons, with snorkelling and kayaking opportunities in the Avatoru Pass and walks on the motu. There is a nursery of sharks to witness and many tropical fish, while your hunger will no doubt be sated with a tasty barbecue. Meanwhile, the Huahine alternative is quite a different experience, taking you to the likes of the Avea Bay and the Bourayne Bay – both grand and expansive stretches of water. Surrounded by tropical fish, lush vanilla plantations and archaeological sites, you can count on an extraordinary week here.

Bear in mind that for the two long-haul destinations, our cruises are attached to land or beach-based holidays.

Sometimes, one holiday destination just isn't enough. Whether as a cultural enthusiast, you yearn for contrasting architecture and history, or simply want to enjoy the best of both city life and beach beauty in one go, a dual-destination cruise holiday is definitely something you should consider.

Take, for example, Seafarer's Greek Islands and Istanbul Itinerary, which offers exploration of one of the most hustling, bustling cities in the world. Declared the point where east meets west, you can expect to encounter a veritable melting pot of cultures, all among an absolute hive of cafés, restaurants and cultural things to do. Discover Istanbul's fascinating history as an essential port and this fascinating city of Turkey. Visit its sites of cultural importance as well as its extravagant markets.

And then embark on an adventure throughout the Greek Islands that allows you to witness the very start of civilisation, where you will be treated to ruins dating back further than you could possibly imagine, to the likes of Hippocrates, Socrates and other famed philosophers and physicians.

If you needed more persuading, here are some more reasons why you should consider holidaying in two distinct countries.

Culture clash

The cultures in Turkey and Greece are vastly different, and nowhere is this more evident than in Istanbul and the Greek Islands. Despite the proximity of the two locations, this is an invigorating part of the world to be in, and with a choice of excursions available, you have the opportunity to explore its many vibrant facets. After venturing onto places like Mykonos, Patmos and Rhodes, taking time to explore their elegant coastlines and picturesque ports, the difference between the two cultures should be very obvious indeed. Experiencing such contrast can be enlightening and educational.

Start by exploring the likes of the Topkapi Palace, the Blie Mosque, Saint Sophia and the Grande Bazaar in Istanbul – places that offer incredible history and spectacular architecture. Then contrast it with the fascinating museums of Rhodes. It's also worth exploring the medieval old town, with its ancient walls and charismatic streets lined with churches and beautiful old buildings dating back to the Templar Knights of St John. Finally, the experience both starts and ends in Athens, which has not only a lively and vibrant nightlife but also one of the most notable historical sites in the entire world – the Acropolis.

Variety in activities

While the Greek islands offer plenty of opportunity to swim in serene bay locations, the city of Istanbul offers markets, activity and excitement. Why choose one over the other? There is plenty of time to do both. The Turkish cultural metropolis represents a chance to see some of the world's most magnificent architectures and indulge in an international atmosphere. Greece's many islands, meanwhile, showcase rest and relaxation at their finest, as well as some fascinating ancient monuments. Indulge in the best of both worlds.

Cruising

Visiting two locations can sound like a lot of unwanted stress if you're on holiday, but cruising is something that takes the pain out of travel. Aboard our Cristal Cruise Vessel or Variety Voyager, you will be able to spend the travel time in plenty of comfort, entertaining yourself in the lounge or enjoying a sea breeze out on the sundeck. There is a children's club, casino and a beauty salon, while the novel factor of bringing your bedroom with you means that you won't have to unpack everything more than once on holiday.

If we've made the case for a double destination cruise break, don't delay – book ontoone of our Greek Islands and Istanbul itineraries right now for an unforgettable experience. Choose between the Aegean Mosaic from Istanbul or the Five Greek Islands and Turkey from Athens.

This summer, the incredible Panama Canal will celebrate 100 years of history, having opened to shipping traffic for the first time on August 15th 1914. The local tourist authorities cannot be said to be milking the milestone, though, having been commemorating it for only the past year with a variety of events. They’re even planning a bit of a bash on the night as well – if you’re lucky enough to be in the country, it’s sure to be a smashing – if low-key – event.

Sarcasm aside, the Panama Canal genuinely has a lot to be proud of. Considered the epicentre for world trade, it still sees a phenomenal amount of traffic. Roberto Roy, president of the Panama Canal Authority’s (ACP) board of directors, is among those celebrating its uniqueness.

“The Panama Canal has been connecting the world since Aug. 15, 1914,” he told Inside Costa Rica. “The fact that 14,000 vessels make use of the waterway every year in order to serve 1,700 ports in 160 countries is sufficient proof of this statement.”

But what exactly is so special about this spectacular waterway? And why should you make it the focus of your cruise holiday?

Trade history

The Panama Canal is an 80-kilometre stretch of water that links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Initially opened for trade purposes, it has since become something of a cruise favourite thanks to the hive of activity that can be seen on an everyday basis. The waterway proved to be a catalyst for world trade, reducing distances, costs and shipping times for the movement of merchandise between production and consumption centers.

Initial construction of the canal proved tricky. Started by the French who later abandoned the project thanks to various difficulties, it was eventually completed by the US after 23 years of work and a ten-year hiatus. But the history doesn’t stop there, and the waterway has seen its fair share of controversy since, including a territorial issue in the 1960s that threatened to close it.

On a cruise

As well as experiencing all this history as close to first hand as it is possible to get, there are a number of other advantages to cruising the Panama Canal. Spectacular places to experience along the way include Panama City and the various locks ships have to traverse in order to pass, at which stringent checks are in place. Then there are the various sights and sounds of Panama to experience – Pacific and Atlantic beaches, volcanoes and jungles are just some of the many landmarks to be visited.

It is important to bear in mind that there are size restrictions in place on the waterway, which means that many Obviously for the mega yacht Variety Voyager, this is certainly not a problem, but more importantly, as a smaller vessel it can access some of the smaller bays and coves beyond the reach of the big ships, allowing guests to experience some of the national parks and tropical natural wonders of the region up close.

What the future holds

Travelling the Panama Canal also represents a great opportunity to find out what the future holds for this iconic waterway. Current projects are on track that will allow the trade route to accept trade vessels twice the size as the ones that currently float along it by next year, so a visit in 2014 could be your last chance to witness the Panama Canal in its current state.

If all this has got you itching to experience a cruise on this incredible stretch of water, consider checking out our Costa Rica and Panama Canal cruise. You will not be disappointed by the sights, history and culture that is on offer here.

Tourism is continuing to do good things for the island country of Cape Verde, which has seen its gross domestic product (GDP) rise by a spectacular three per cent in 2014 – a healthy figure indeed compared to last year's 0.5 per cent.

This is according to a technical team at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which put the good news down to better fortunes for the euro. In turn, Cape Verde saw a greater number of holidaymakers from the EU coming to visit.

It's all good news for those visiting the country as they will be greeted with better amenities and a thriving industry as various companies put the new income to work. But what exactly are your reasons for travelling to Cape Verde? If you've ever wanted to experience a truly unique cruise and a destination that boasts natural beauty in abundance as well as a wondrous culture, you've come to the right place.

Read on for our top reasons as to why you should visit Cape Verde for your next holiday.

Culture and variety

When you visit a single holiday destination, you're often experiencing just one culture. Cape Verde, on the other hand, consists of ten individual islands, nine of which are inhabited. And so you are likely to encounter nine separate cultures, each with their own distinct way of doing things, during your cruise in Cape Verde. Differences extend to cooking, activities, natural beauty and even language. While Portuguese is the official tongue, each island also possesses its own 'Creole'. These are essentially made up of 15th-century Portuguese with varying influences and vocabulary, thanks to Cape Verde's fascinating and potted past.

Natural beauty

Cape Verde is one of those places you wish you could live all the time, just because it would allow you to get back in touch with nature. The landscapes are truly mind blowing, with examples including towering mountains draped with blue streaks of cloud and seemingly endless green valleys. But what is even more impressive is the way nature seems to meld with mankind's settlements here. Houses in the capital Praia have been painted in bright colours to complement the brilliant sky. Palm trees line every road, and you're never far from a splendid skyscape that is completely uninterrupted by buildings. You'll be swept off your feet by Cape Verde's beauty. 

Cuisine

In daily life, corn is the staple food of Cape Verde. For example, the national dish, cachupa, is a stew of hominy, beans and whatever meat or vegetables may be available depending on the season. This is all the better since you're guaranteed something fresh this way. For religious and celebratory occasions, ingredients are carefully chopped and prepared, with the women usually spending a few days prior to the feast carefully pounding corn for cachupa and cleaning the vegetables. Such activities are worth watching, simply because it makes you realise how people place an importance on food here that we have simply forgotten in our own society.

Places to go

Aboard our cruise, you'll be able to witness the many facets of this incredible country. Step aboard the mega yacht Harmony V that you'll share with no more than just 49 other passengers and get ready for the journey of a lifetime. From the bustling streets of Praia – the capital city – to the rolling splendour of San Antao – considered the greenest island – you won't want to close your eyes for a second.

Your holiday is a time for you to completely relax and unwind, losing yourself in the wonders of nature or the hustle and bustle of a city. But as everyone knows, getting yourself to your choice choice destination can be more than a little stressful if you've left things too late or you're not sure what you're doing.

Never fear – Seafarer is here with a handful of choice tips that may prove useful when it comes to getting yourself to your cruise vessel on time. Much of it is common sense, but in the heat of the moment, it's easy to forget what's important. So take a look at the below and see if getting to your next cruise holiday is a little less stressful.

Booking flights

If you've purchased a cruise package with us that includes flights or a ferry transit to your destination, there's no need for you to worry about this section. However, if not, you need to sort out your arrival in the country. Plan to arrive by noon at the latest on embarkation day, since you will need to factor in any possible delays to your journey. The day before is better. You can apply the same advice – although in reverse – for when you go home. Book your flights for no earlier than noon on the final day of your holiday since your cruise vessel may be delayed at customs for an unforeseen reason.

Have you got everything?

Tickets, money, passport – this old saying still applies even today, even if your ticket may take the form of a paper print-out and cards may have taken the place of paper money. These are the things required to make sure your journey goes entirely smoothly. It might even be worth saving any important e-documents to a smartphone or tablet, just in case you lose them. As always, it's your responsibility to ascertain whether a passport or visa is required for travel. Watch out in particular for where the rules might have changed recently, such as Turkey where the new e-visas have just been introduced. It's very important to check in advance, since both can take time to get hold of. Try to check between four to six months before your departure if at all possible. Hint: It's always safest to bring your passport, even if you're absolutely sure you don't need it. When it comes to checking visa rules, the UK government website offers excellent up-to-date advice on
whether anything is required.

Lastly, if travelling anywhere exotic, it's worth asking your GP if you require any innoculations. You can also get a general health update for the destination you will holiday in.

Flight delays

If, during the flight, you encounter a dreaded delay, call Seafarer as soon as possible and let us know what's going on. You will be provided with a telephone number for use in this eventuality – make sure you have it to hand. Depending upon whether other passengers have also been delayed, the ship's departure might also be held off. Otherwise, you may need to arrange transportation to the next port in order to rejoin the cruise. This is why travel insurance is also a must as you'll be covered for any unexpected occurrences.

Preparation

Doing all of this as early as possible gives you an edge over the anxiety and allows you to start enjoying your holiday that little bit earlier. After all, getting on a plane and then jetting off for a cruise in the destination of your choice is a joyous and exciting occurrence. If you sort everything out in advance – and double-check against the travel documentation sent out by Seafarer ten days in advance – the fun can start the moment you leave the house and set off to the airport.

Over the years, we at Seafarer have grown accustomed to welcoming everyone onto our ships to experience our winning formula, but we’re always particularly pleased to see the occasional old face coming back for a trip around the Greek Islands or the Seychelles.

Colin is just one such friend. Having sampled our Seychelles Mega Yacht, Antiquity to Byzantium, Classical Greece, Dream Mauritius and Rivers of West Africa holidays, as well as several itineraries that no longer exist, he is something of a globetrotter. He laughs when I suggest this, however. “I’m just trying to see some of the world!” he says, easily.

A personal mission

But there’s a little more to Colin’s personal mission than meets the eye. He came on his first Seafarer and Variety cruises with his wife of 48 years Gwen, who sadly passed away due to cancer in 2012 after battling the disease for three-and-a-half years. “We managed to go on a couple of holidays during that time,” he reminisces. “She was very sick, although she didn’t show it. She particularly loved the Greek islands. We went there for her last holiday and we had a fantastic time.”

To be married for almost half a century and then suddenly find himself alone was extremely difficult, he admits. But he hasn’t let becoming a widower deter him from exploring the world. In fact, it’s helped him carry on. “This is how I’m coping with my life as a single person.”

Smaller vessels

But what is it that has kept Colin coming back to Seafarer? “It’s the ship size!” he enthuses. “My worst nightmare is being stuck on a 3,000 passenger boat. But with fewer people, you get a more intimate experience.”

It’s something that has helped him make friends on his journeys very quickly – something he values as a single traveller – who he loves keeping in touch with. “The Seychelles was a standout, there were a couple of Swiss people who were very, very nice,” he says. “And when I got home, I had an invite to Switzerland on my doormat, so I got to go to Switzerland and meet them there!”

But it’s not just his fellow holidaymakers that help him enjoy the journey. He has travelled on so many of our cruises that he recognises the crew members on sight as well, having bumped into some of them multiple times. “We’ve become quite good friends,” he chuckles.

An intimate experience

While the smaller vessels lend themselves to a more intimate experience, Colin says that the personal tailoring starts well before he’s on deck sunning himself or swimming in the crystal clear waters of a local bay. When he’s ready to book his next adventure, he gets on the phone to Seafarer and Variety’s office. “I get fantastic advice from Iwona,” he says. “She knows what I like – her and Suzie. We form a holiday to suit me and they know everything already.”

Colin has even received destination advice from the dynamic duo when he’s stuck for inspiration, but he doesn’t need help when it comes to choosing excursions. “I go for everything!” he laughs. “They know that now!” While he admits to getting a little tired from all the exploring this brings, he’s also fascinated by everything that he has seen. “Turkey, Greece,” he ticks off. “All these places have got unbelievable history and it’s just wonderful.”

What the future holds

And Colin doesn’t intend to put a stop on his world adventure just yet, as he is already planning his next cruise with Iwona. This time, he hopes to travel aboard one of our luxurious tall ships in Europe at some point this summer. He’s well aware of how to protect himself from the sun, though.

“I will be in the shade with a book, possibly with a beer,” he chuckles. “In fact, I know I will have a beer!”