Hidden Gems of the Atlantic & Africa: 13 days Lisbon to Dakar

Welcome to Lisbon, the colourful capital of Portugal and a city with a proud seafaring history. Lose yourself in its cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins, and white-domed cathedrals.

This afternoon, step on board your next-generation ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew. Meet your personal butler and settle into your spacious suite, then join your fellow guests for a glass of Champagne as you toast the beginning of your incredible Signature Yacht Cruise of discovery. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Lisbon prior to 02:00 PM.

Today is a day to relax and enjoy the exceptional comforts of your yacht as you sail to your first destination. Take advantage of the many on board amenities, whether it’s lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment# or sampling delicious cuisine at one of the numerous dining venues. 

Feel free to join in any of the activities or entertainment options available throughout the day or simply unwind with a good book and soak in the expansive views of the open Atlantic Ocean. 

Step ashore in the tranquil beauty of Porto Santo, a hidden gem of the Madeira archipelago. Stroll through the charming town of Vila Baleira, where whitewashed houses and quiet lanes reflect the island’s peaceful pace of life. Discover local landmarks linked to Christopher Columbus (who lived here while preparing for his famous voyages of discovery) and take in views of the island’s nine-kilometre golden beach, one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. 

Later, set sail for Funchal, Madeira where you’ll enjoy an overnight stay. 

The main island of Madeira is a little piece of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic. The capital, Funchal, became a popular holiday destination for European aristocracy in the 19th century and the city still retains this air of busy prosperity. On its edge is the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores market, bursting with local produce. The city is famous for its gardens, so plan a visit to the Madeira Botanical Garden, Monte Tropical Gardens and Santa Catarina Park. 

It’s just a short hop across to Santa Cruz de La Palma, a charming port city nestled on the eastern coast of La Palma Island in the Canary archipelago. Founded in 1493, it grew to be the third largest port in Europe in the 16th century. Today, its cobbled streets are quiet, lined with colourful houses, grand churches, and well-preserved colonial architecture complete with wooden balconies and tumbling flower boxes. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of this historic city as you explore local markets and indulge in delicious cuisine. 

Las Palmas is a vibrant coastal city and the capital of Gran Canaria, offering a delightful mix of culture, history, and laid-back island life. With its year-round mild climate, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Canteras Beach promenade, one of the most famous urban beaches in Spain. Browse local shops, stop for a coffee or tapas at a seafront café, or take in views of the Atlantic. For those interested in culture, the nearby Santa Catalina Park area offers lively squares, gardens, and access to museums and galleries, all within easy walking distance. 

From your suite’s private verandah, watch Tenerife awaken at sunrise. Santa Cruz, the Canary Islands’ vibrant capital, offers diverse beaches, from golden sands to striking volcanic black. Be immersed in lively Canarian culture, savouring local cuisine, colourful traditions and historic landmarks like Plaza de España. 

After days of exploration, enjoy some much-needed relaxation on board your yacht. Savour a delicious meal at one of the inviting on board dining venues or simply relax and enjoy your favourite included beverages at one of the bars or lounges throughout the day. For those curious about life at sea, visit the open bridge to meet the officers and learn more about the next-generation Discovery Yacht's remarkable capabilities. 

This evening, enjoy live entertainment in the elegant theatre, or retreat to your suite for a more private experience. Dine in the comfort of your room and enjoy a nightcap delivered by your butler, with a curated selection of premium wines, spirits, and more. 

As your yacht continues its journey, today offers another perfect opportunity to relax and explore all that your floating luxury retreat has to offer. Whether you choose to start the day with a leisurely breakfast, enjoy some quiet time by the pool, or discover a new onboard activity, the choice is yours. 

Take a moment to unwind, connect with fellow guests, or indulge in a spa treatment# before the excitement of the next port of call. With endless ocean views and first-class service, your day at sea promises comfort and rejuvenation.  

Around 500 kilometres off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde is made up of 15 volcanic islands (nine of which are inhabited) spread across 4,000 square kilometres of ocean. São Vicente is the second most populated of the Cape Verde islands and Mindelo is its busy capital. 

São Vicente island is also home to some of the country’s greatest musicians, writers and thinkers, making Mindelo a vibrant town where you can immerse yourself in rich cultural traditions. 

Step into the lively spirit of Praia, Cape Verde’s bustling capital. Wander through colourful streets and vibrant markets, where the rich mix of African and Portuguese influences come alive. Discover local crafts, taste delicious traditional dishes and soak up the friendly island atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the historic Plateau area or enjoying views by the waterfront, Praia promises a warm and authentic experience. 

As your voyage draws to a close, today offers a final chance to relax and savour the luxurious comforts of your ultra-luxury next-generation Discovery Yacht. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve shared while enjoying your favourite spaces one last time. 

Whether you choose to lounge by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment#, or simply soak in the ocean views with your favourite drink in hand, make the most of this peaceful day before you reach your next destination. 

Your Signature Yacht Cruise concludes this morning in the city of Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal. Known for its rich culture, bustling markets, lively music scene and beautiful coastline, Dakar offers a unique blend of tradition and modern energy. 

Disembark after breakfast as you bid farewell to your fellow guests and crew, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable voyage. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Dakar after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Submersible not operational in Europe.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.