Cruise Description

11 Night Cruise sailing from Tema to Las Palmas aboard Crystal Serenity.

The west coast of Africa is vast and wildly beautiful. Experience the region’s raw charm aboard Crystal Serenity and visit off-the-beaten-track destinations including Takoradi in Ghana and Abidjan in Ivory Coast. You’ll also spend a day in Dakar, the wonderfully diverse capital of Senegal, and discover two islands, Cape Verde.

Highlights of this cruise:

Tema
From its humble origins as a fishing village to its current status as Ghana's largest port, Tema's industrial growth has somewhat obscured the picturesque scenery of the region. However, the neighboring beaches retain their unspoilt beauty, and happily, these serve as a testament to the diverse birdlife found in the area. Gannets, Boobies, and Kingfishers all nest and navigate the forests and waters along the coast. However, most visitors will undoubtedly want to travel the 20-mile distance to Accra, the country’s capital. Here you’ll find markets flush with color and activity as well as 17th-century churches and a surprisingly lush botanical garden.

Dakar
Dakar is a heady mix of 20th-century modernization intertwined with France's colonial influence and African cultural character. The beating heart of the city is the bustling Place de l'Independence, akin to Paris's Champs-Elysées, and is undoubtedly the best place to start exploring the city. Head north for vibrant markets, sun-soaked beaches, and trendy bars infused with mbalax. Because of the port's strategic location, Dakar was a key player in the slave trade from the 16th century until 1857, when the French abolished the practice. Do not miss a trip to the House of Slaves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Goree Island, just a 20-minute boat ride from the port to understand the full scope of Dakar's harrowing slave history.

Las Palmas
Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria, in the Canary Islands. You can hit the beach without leaving the city - its waterfront is blessed with sandy stretches shelving into gentle blue waters. For a fix of Spanish culture, head to the Vegueta, Las Palmas' picturesque Old Town, where the narrow cobbled streets are lined with grand houses in traditional Canarian architectural style, and squares like Plaza de Santa Ana are dotted with palm trees and low-key bars and cafes. Playa El Confital offers tranquil rock pools and secluded coves popular with naturists.