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Home , Algarve

PORTUGAL AND : FROM THE ALGARVE TO CATALONIA

Trace the southern coast of the through the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean. See the tangerine skies of a Rio Tejo sunset and the sparkling daybreak over Barcelona. Thrill to the juxtaposition of the exquisitely ornate interiors of Moorish fortresses (including a life-list visit to the Alhambra), with the gothic peaks of early Christian cathedrals. From the tranquil Algarve village of Silves to the splendors of ; experience flamenco, medronho, tapas and Picasso, and the Strait of Gibraltar.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: , /Embark Arrive in Lisbon and embark the National Geographic Orion. This afternoon we have a performance of authentic fado music aboard the ship. Take in splendid views of Portugals as we set sail. (L,D)

DAY 2: Portimao/Algarve Portimao is our gateway to Portugals southernmost province, the Algarve, known for its whitewashed villages, lush farmlands, and remnants of Moorish culture. Travel north to Silves, home to a fortified sandstone castle built by the , or to to learn about the tradition of harvesting cork oak. Alternatively, explore the caves of the Algarvian coast by small boat while savoring a glass of Medronho, a local fruit brandy. (B,L,D)

Your transport into the Portuguese countryside today will be by off- jeep, returning by way of small river boats along the . Keep an eye out for the large stork nests nestled

01432 507 280 (within UK) [email protected] | small-cruise-ships.com atop cottage chimneys! paradise surrounding Malaga, with a pre-mapped route in hand.

DAY 3: Cadiz, Spain/Seville DAY 5: Motril/Granada Arrive on the shores of Spain. From Cadiz, travel to the graceful A variety of excursions await today. For a deeply cultural Andalusian capital of Seville, where contemporary culture is experience, travel into Andalusian countryside past interwoven with layers of history. In the old city, see one of the groves and olive trees for a specially prepared lunch in the worlds largest Gothic cathedrals and the Alcazar palace, where homes of local women. Many of you will want to take the full the king and queen of Spain greeted Columbus on his return day to see enchanting Granada, set high in the Sierra Nevada, from the New World. Delve into the art of flamenco during a exploring magnificent including the private performance at the intimate Museo del Baile Flamenco, 13th-century Alhambra Palace and Genera life gardens. (B,L,D) and perhaps try some classic zapateado (footwork) yourself. (B,L,D) Or, set out for an early morning trek following Mr. Hendersons Railway to the neighboring city of Ronda, famous for its Opt to visit one stop on the famed sherry triangle. Visit a dramatic escarpments and views, and for the deep El Tajo traditional sherry bodega, interesting not only for its extra-aged gorge. sherries (20 or more years old), but because it houses the Coleccion Joaquin Rivera, a private Spanish art collection that DAY 6: Mazarron Escarpment/Cartagena includes important works by Goya, Velazquez and Zurbaran. With our naturalists, look for whales and dolphins along the submerged volcanic mountains of the Mazarron Escarpment. DAY 4: Gibraltar, U.K/Malaga, Spain Later, arrive in the deep natural harbor of Cartagenaa historic Stand on deck as we pass the tiny British of Gibraltar, naval base where Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors all left their which presides over the strait between Spain and . mark. Set out on foot to explore the citys medieval fortresses Enter the on our way to Malaga, the and modernist houses, or glide along the streets on an electric birthplace of Picasso and a gem of a coastal city surrounded by Segway scooterfor a modern way to see this ancient city! charming Andalusian towns. Explore the citys artistic treasures (B,L,D) on guided visits to the Picasso Museum and Carmen Thyssen Museum; ride along the newly finished bike path hugging For a striking visual of the times, walk to the lookout at Parque beaches and beautiful coastline; or explore the city at your Torres and look down on the ruins of the Roman amphitheater, leisure with suggestions from the Onboard Concierge. We gather now placed back-to-back with a modern-day one. for dinner at a special wine bar, featuring local Andalusian products. (B,L,D) DAY 7: Valencia In sunny Valencia, old-world cafes mingle with Gothic Feeling energetic? Grab a bike and cycle through the natural cathedrals and futurist architecture. Stop by the City of Arts and

01432 507 280 (within UK) [email protected] | small-cruise-ships.com Sciences for a photo opportunity, an otherworldly cultural complex designed by native architect Calatrava. Explore the rich birdlife of Albufera Natural Park, one of the most important wetland areas on the Iberian Peninsula. Enjoy a lunch of traditional paellaValencias signature dish. (B,L,D)

Hop aboard private fishermens boats along the marshy canals of the Albufera Lake ecosystem, where they cultivate rice and harvest shellfish for paella.

DAY 8: Barcelona/Disembark Wake up in Barcelona, and have breakfast on board. Disembark our ship and transfer to the airport for your return flight, or remain in Barcelona for an added stay. (B)

Please Note: All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.

01432 507 280 (within UK) [email protected] | small-cruise-ships.com YOUR SHIP: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION

YOUR SHIP: National Geographic Orion

VESSEL TYPE: Luxury Expedition

LENGTH: 103 metres

PASSENGER CAPACITY: 102 (in 53 cabins)

BUILT/REFURBISHED: 2003 / Refurbished 2014

Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, _Orion_ is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick enrichment. disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge, exploration. as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very _National Geographic Orion_ meets strict specifications for top of the ship, with plentiful observation decks. The spacious environmental protection and the on board waste management lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater of advanced design features and technology ensures provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films sustainable marine environmental practices. and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet _National Geographic Orion_ accommodates 102 guests in 53 easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic also available on the outside deck. views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, _Orion_ While _Orion_ interiors are elegant, life aboard is always fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find share in exceptional experiences and shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and public-area wifi make packing and traveling more convenient.

01432 507 280 (within UK) [email protected] | small-cruise-ships.com INSIDE YOUR SHIP

01432 507 280 (within UK) [email protected] | small-cruise-ships.com PRICING

01432 507 280 (within UK) [email protected] | small-cruise-ships.com