Amazon & Antarctic Adventure

The winter sun in the Canaries makes this the perfect time to explore Tenerife and its beautiful beaches, including the man-made golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas in the north and the volcanic black sands of Playa de las Americas in the south. Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, dominates the skyline over Santa Cruz, whose summit can be reached by cable car for spectacular views across the island and beyond. Meanwhile, as the waters surrounding the island are home to a diverse range of wildlife, there will be opportunities to spot pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The renowned “guachinches”, small, family-run restaurants, offer hearty Canarian food and are well worth discovering.

The landscapes of La Palma were formed around 2 million years ago, resulting in the Caldera de Taburiente National Park being formed by erosion from the volcano’s original crater, and now classed as a Biosphere Reserve. At sea level, the island’s capital, Santa Cruz, is a small city with colonial style architecture and edged with volcanic black sandy beaches. The historic quarter of the city is steeped in history with buildings erected during the reign of Phillip II, and is widely regarded as one of Spain’s Historic-Artistic sites.

Known for having a beach for every day of the year, Antigua and Barbuda are often referred to as the crown jewels of the Caribbean. You can explore the natural wonder of Devil's Bridge, where the Atlantic has sculpted a natural arch over centuries, surrounded by geysers and blowholes, while in St. John’s, admire the vibrant red and yellow colonial buildings that contrast beautifully with the azure sea and green hills. There will be opportunities to discover the island's history at Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ties to the Royal Navy; experience panoramic views over the island at Shirley Heights; or visit Betty’s Hope, one of the island’s earliest and most influential sugar plantations, established in 1674.

Samaná, on the north-east coast of the Dominican Republic, shows a quieter, more natural side of the Caribbean. Framed by forested hills and edged with sweeping bays, it feels refreshingly unspoilt, a place where small fishing villages, palm-lined beaches and everyday local life sit at its heart. Wander along paths through tropical greenery to scenic waterfalls, or relax on soft white sands and in calm, clear waters. Samaná is best enjoyed slowly, with time to take in the scenery, sample fresh local dishes and see the island from a more authentic perspective.

Located on Jamaica’s north coast, Ocho Rios is a lively port known for its waterfalls and tropical gardens. Dunn’s River Falls is spectacular, whether that’s climbing the falls or exploring nearby rainforest and plantations. The coastline here is fringed with small beaches and clear waters, while inland you’ll find rolling hills and lush greenery. Elsewhere, there’s a relaxed town centre with local crafts and cafés, where you can experience a true taste of Jamaican life.

Puerto Limón is one of the oldest cities in Latin America, where lush rainforest meets laid-back coastal life. Set between jungle-covered landscapes and the sea, it has a warm, easy-going atmosphere shaped by its Afro-Caribbean heritage. Renowned as a gateway for the export of bananas, pineapples and coffee, the surrounding rainforest is rich in wildlife, with species of frogs, insects and reptiles playing a vital role in the ecosystem, alongside sloths, monkeys and colourful birds. Set along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, it offers a relaxed setting where nature and everyday life exist side by side.

Cartagena de Indias is a gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, known for its history, charm and energy. Its UNESCO-listed walled city is beautifully preserved, where cobbled streets lead to brightly coloured colonial buildings, lively plazas and centuries-old churches. The impressive San Felipe de Barajas fort stands as a testament to Spanish military engineering, while narrow streets are lined with merchant houses and balconies adorned with bright flowers. Colombian emeralds are also closely associated with the region, prized for their exceptional colour and clarity. Set along the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena has a relaxed coastal atmosphere, with picturesque sea views.

Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is a colourful and welcoming port known for its distinctive waterfront and easy charm. The city is made up of two historic districts, Punda and Otrobanda, connected by the floating Queen Emma Bridge. Along the harbour, rows of brightly coloured Dutch-style buildings give the city its unmistakable character and UNESCO World Heritage status. Willemstad offers a relaxed mix of cafés, local markets and museums that reflect the island’s heritage, and among its highlights is the 'Wedding Cake' building, an eye-catching example of Dutch colonial architecture.

Kingstown, the capital of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is a welcoming Caribbean port known for its historic Botanic Gardens, established in 1765 and home to tropical plants and endangered parrots. Beyond the city, you’ll find lush rainforest, waterfalls and vibrant reefs, along with the fertile Mesopotamia Valley and views of nearby islands such as Bequia and Mustique, known for their pristine beaches and coral reefs. Fort Charlotte also offers an insight into the island’s past, with its inland-facing cannons.

Located on the south-west side of Grenada, St. George’s is a picturesque city, with red-tiled homes dotted amongst the volcanic hillside of an old crater. The city is steeped in British and French history, and the buildings here reflect the colonial architecture of this time. Close by is Grand Etang National Park, surrounded by rainforest and a large lake, teeming with indigenous flora, fauna, exotic birds and lizard species.

Set against a backdrop of lush rainforest and volcanic peaks, Roseau is best known for the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, where dramatic volcanic landscapes blend with tropical rainforest, hot springs and waterfalls. The city itself features a mix of modern and French colonial architecture, with colourful buildings, historic churches and botanical gardens adding to its character. Roseau is compact and easy to explore on foot, with a friendly, unhurried atmosphere shaped by its Creole heritage.

The quintessentially Caribbean island of Barbados is renowned for its crystal-clear seas, home to some of the Caribbean's healthiest coral reefs, teeming with diverse fish species. The UNESCO-listed Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison reflect the island’s past, while the capital features an abundance of colonial architecture, including Victorian, Georgian and Jacobean styles, adapted to the Caribbean climate with spacious verandas and gable roofs. In the heart of the city, a mix of shops, markets and cafés sits alongside a busy harbour and waterfront, while beyond Bridgetown, soft sandy beaches and gently swaying palms offer an easy-going atmosphere and time to relax by the sea.

Cruising past Barra Norte, at the mouth of the Amazon, is a memorable part of the journey as it’s where the river meets the Atlantic, and the sheer scale of the landscape really begins to take shape. As you sail along, the water shifts in colour and texture, with vast channels, sandbanks and distant green shoreline coming into view. The river feels wide and open, yet quietly remote, offering a first glimpse of the Amazon’s natural rhythm, and as you continue inland, the water becomes more silty and brown - a sign of the river’s powerful flow. Take in scenery from the decks of your ship, watch seabirds overhead and spot signs of life along the riverbanks.

Santarém is known as the gateway to Amazonian ecotourism, set within a striking natural landscape. Here, the dark waters of the Amazon River meet the turquoise Tapajós River without mixing, a phenomenon known as the ‘Meeting of the Waters’, and one of Brazil’s most distinctive sights. Along the riverfront, Centro Cultural João Fona displays artefacts from the indigenous Tapajós culture, while a breezy promenade and leafy parks make exploring feel unhurried and relaxed. From here, shore tours offer the opportunity to venture deeper into the Amazon rainforest.

Cruising along the Amazon River, one of the world’s longest and most incredible waterways, reveals dense rainforest and peaceful riverside villages, where life unfolds along the water’s edge and where wooden houses rest on stilts above the river. Scenery shifts from wide, open stretches to shaded channels, with chances to spot birdlife and the occasional pink river dolphin. As you near Manaus, you’ll experience the Meeting of the Waters, where two differently coloured rivers flow side by side without mixing.

Surrounded by nature, Manaus sits on the banks of the Rio Negro in north-western Brazil, as the capital of the vast state of Amazonas, where rainforest meets city life in a way that feels both remote and full of character. Markets and a bustling waterfront give way to the ornate Amazon Theatre, built during the city’s most prosperous years of the rubber boom, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past. As a gateway to the wider Amazon, Manaus also offers opportunities to witness the Meeting of the Waters and go in search of exotic wildlife.

Set on an island in the Amazon River, Parintins offers a glimpse into local life, where tradition and river culture shape the rhythm of each day. It’s best known for its annual Parintins Folklore Festival, a celebration of music, dance and storytelling rooted in local tradition and is Brazil’s largest celebration after the Rio Carnival. Wooden homes line the riverbanks, with the water playing a central role in daily life, while the surrounding rainforest provides a rich natural backdrop, home to diverse wildlife and birdlife. In the port area, a lively flea market features colourful boats clustered together, selling fruit, vegetables, fish and local crafts.

Often referred to as one of the Amazon’s best-kept secrets, the small riverside village of Alter do Chão is known for its white-sand beaches and clear waters along the Tapajós River. During the early part of the year, rising water levels transform the landscape into a lush, flooded forest. Seen as a gateway to the Amazon, it’s an ideal starting point for exploring nearby rainforest and spotting wildlife. It’s a peaceful, welcoming place with a small-town feel, where you’ll find simple cafés, local markets and a strong sense of community.

Cruising past Barra Norte, at the mouth of the Amazon, is a memorable part of the journey as it’s where the river meets the Atlantic, and the sheer scale of the landscape really begins to take shape. As you sail along, the water shifts in colour and texture, with vast channels, sandbanks and distant green shoreline coming into view. The river feels wide and open, yet quietly remote, offering a first glimpse of the Amazon’s natural rhythm, and as you continue inland, the water becomes more silty and brown - a sign of the river’s powerful flow. Take in scenery from the decks of your ship, watch seabirds overhead and spot signs of life along the riverbanks.

Fortaleza is a lively coastal city in north‑east Brazil, known for its long stretches of golden sand and warm, year-round sunshine. Its seafront promenade, Beira-Mar, sits at the heart of the city, lined with markets, cafés and places to watch local life unfold. Close by are some of Brazil’s most striking beaches, punctuated by red cliffs, rolling dunes, lagoons and tiny fishing villages. In the city, Fortaleza’s cultural traditions can be experienced through local dance performances, crafts and regional cuisine, offering an insight into everyday life here.

Once a simple fishing village, Búzios is now a relaxed seaside resort, located on Brazil’s Costa do Sol. Brimming with sandy beaches and coves, its clear waters and gentle tropical breezes make it an ideal spot to spend the day. At the centre of Búzios is Rua das Pedras, a charming pedestrianised street lined with small boutiques, cafés and restaurants, where you can enjoy local flavours and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.

Rio de Janeiro is a city of instantly recognisable landmarks and easy contrasts, with golden beaches, forested peaks and bright, urban energy. From the sweeping curve of Copacabana to the heights of Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, these iconic settings leave a lasting impression. Beyond the skyline, there’s a rich mix of sport, culture and everyday life to discover. Shore tours offer a closer look at the city’s character – from the scale and spirit of the Maracanã Stadium to the relaxed pace of Ipanema’s shoreline.

Set on the shores of Golfo Nuevo in eastern Argentina, Puerto Madryn is a welcoming port city known for its wildlife watching opportunities. It offers easy access to the UNESCO-listed Península Valdés, a protected area recognised for its marine mammal conservation. The town itself has an easy-going feel, with a simple waterfront promenade, wide beaches and sea views, while shops, cafés and small museums offer a relaxed way to explore and experience a taste of Patagonian life.

Located on the Straits of Magellan, named after Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan when he discovered them in 1519; Punta Arenas is a cosmopolitan city, where fishermen mix with Chilean air force pilots and travellers who are heading to Tierra del Fuego. The Naval and Maritime Museum has several historical naval exhibits, and nearby Magdalena Island is home to the largest colony of Magellanic penguin in Chile, as some 60,000 pairs nest here.

Crossing the Drake Passage is one of the most memorable parts of an Antarctic voyage, linking South America with the Antarctic Peninsula. Known for its vast, open waters, it offers a true sense of travelling to one of the world’s most remote regions. Named after Sir Francis Drake, the passage came to wider attention after one of his ships was blown further south when navigating the Strait of Magellan. During the crossing, you may spot seabirds such as albatrosses gliding overhead, with the chance to see whales along the way.

Cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula offers a rare chance to experience one of the world’s most remote and untouched regions. Towering glaciers, snow-covered mountains and scattered icebergs create an ever-changing landscape against the stillness of its surroundings. You may spot penguins gathered along the shoreline, seals resting on the ice and seabirds gliding overhead. Conditions here can change quickly, adding to the sense of discovery at every turn. Cruising here is a journey shaped by nature and unlike anywhere else on earth.

Crossing the Drake Passage is one of the most memorable parts of an Antarctic voyage, linking South America with the Antarctic Peninsula. Known for its vast, open waters, it offers a true sense of travelling to one of the world’s most remote regions. Named after Sir Francis Drake, the passage came to wider attention after one of his ships was blown further south when navigating the Strait of Magellan. During the crossing, you may spot seabirds such as albatrosses gliding overhead, with the chance to see whales along the way.

Set against a backdrop of open skies and rugged coastline, Port Stanley offers a characterful insight into life in the Falkland Islands. Colourful houses line the harbour, while Christ Church Cathedral, with its distinctive whalebone arch, reflects the town’s maritime heritage. The town also features displays relating to the 1982 conflict, alongside local museums, independent shops and waterfront views. Beyond the town, the surrounding landscapes are home to abundant wildlife, including penguins, seals and a variety of birdlife.

Uruguay’s capital is an easy-going city that blends seaside views with historic charm, where the focus is on enjoying the moment rather than ticking off sights. La Rambla, Montevideo’s long waterfront promenade, stretches for miles, offering space to stroll, pause and take in the views. Meanwhile, the historic Ciudad Vieja reveals quiet streets lined with characterful buildings, with the impressive Plaza Independencia at its heart.

Buenos Aires is a city steeped in history, shaped by elegant architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and a strong cultural identity. In Plaza de Mayo, European influences are evident, while landmarks such as the National Congress and stories of Eva Perón reflect the city’s past. Buenos Aires is known for its lively jazz and tango clubs, and in San Telmo – its birthplace – you can learn the basics of tango with local dancers. A visit to La Boca reveals another side of the city, with its brightly painted houses and distinctive character.

The colourful colonial architecture and coastal views in Salvador combine to reveal a distinctive side of Brazil. The UNESCO-listed historic centre is divided into upper and lower sections, lined with colourful houses topped with red-tiled rooftops, with the Pelourinho district at its heart, where cobbled streets and baroque churches reflect the city’s rich heritage. Music plays an important part in the city’s culture, blending African and Brazilian influences to create the rhythms of bossa nova and samba, while its golden beaches offer opportunities for relaxation.

Mindelo is a welcoming city, set in a sheltered bay and surrounded by rugged mountains. First inhabited by the Portuguese in the 15th century, the Cape Verde Islands became an important stop-off point for passing traders, a legacy still reflected in Mindelo’s character and strong Portuguese influences. With a seafront promenade and lively squares lined with colourful buildings, Mindelo is widely regarded as the cultural heart of Cape Verde, where music forms a natural part of everyday life – particularly morna, the country’s soulful style, made famous by local singer Cesária Évora.

Las Palmas combines the vibrancy of a modern city with a rich maritime history, as well as perfectly clear waters lapping against golden beaches. With year-round sunshine, you can explore the charismatic Historic Quarter, home to the twin towers of Santa Ana Cathedral, built in a unique combination of Renaissance, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles, before discovering picturesque plazas and authentic tapas bars offering delicious dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) with spicy majo sauce. Meanwhile, you could visit nearby Maspalomas, home to the renowned sand dunes that create a desert-like landscape, or wander along the promenade in Las Palmas and enjoy a dip in the azure blue seas.

The vibrant 9th-century port town of La Coruña offers a delicate combination of old and new architecture, with shimmering glass modern buildings contrasting with the deeply historical medieval district. You can immerse yourself in local life by sampling traditional Galician dishes like ‘pulpo a la gallega’, octopus with paprika and olive oil or ‘empanada gallega’, a savoury pastry filled with meat or seafood. After ascending the hillsides of Monte de San Pedro Park for remarkable vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, discover rocky Costa da Morte, a rugged stretch along the coast of Galicia which tempted ships to run aground, creating a storied and legendary past. Alternatively, you may wish to explore the spiritual heart of Spain at Santiago de Compostela with its beautiful mix of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic buildings.