A new cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT
On an 8-day voyage from Casablanca, to Spain’s southern coast, to Portugal, delve into the historic medina of Tangier and discover a palpable undercurrent of Moorish culture in the vivacious cities of Andalusia.
Cruising from Morocco to Spain's Andalusian Coast
Casablanca to Lisbon on the 184-guest Le Bellot
8 days from $6,890
A new cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT
On an 8-day voyage from Casablanca, to Spain’s southern coast, to Portugal, delve into the historic medina of Tangier and discover a palpable undercurrent of Moorish culture in the vivacious cities of Andalusia.
Overview
Central Morocco: Marrakech & the Atlas Mountains— 4 Days, 3 Nights
Pre-Cruise Program
With origins as a crossroads on the ancient caravan routes to and from Timbuktu, Marrakech has long been at the center of Moroccan commerce and culture. Part Berber, part Arab, part African, Marrakech is where the disparate elements of Morocco's past mingle with one another in a fascinating space where the exquisitely refined palaces of wealthy princes sit alongside the huts of snake charmers and musicians who ply their trades in the open air of the city's streets.
Day 1 – Marrakech, Morocco
Arrive at Marrakech Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa, your home for the next three nights. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have. The afternoon is yours to settle in and rest before you join fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception this evening. Dinner is independent and at your leisure.
The Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa
Day 2 – Marrakech | Atlas Mountains
Today's excursion takes you through the countryside and into the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, North Africa's greatest mountain range. Here you will encounter two very different worlds: the ancient villages of the Berbers and the post-modernist fantasia of André Heller's Anima Garden.
Set out from the hotel in 4X4 vehicles for the trip south, pausing briefly in the village of Asni for stunning views of snow-capped mountains before continuing the climb toward the village of Imlil at the base of Djebel Toubkal, the highest mountain in the Atlas range. Upon arrival in Imlil, you begin a moderate hike around this village and the neighboring village of Aroumd, where you are surrounded by the natural beauty of the valley and have the chance to discover Berber culture. Berbers, now Amazigh, are the original inhabitants of North Africa, comprising several tribes scattered throughout the region. Proud and hard-working, they have their own dialect, customs, and traditions. You will be welcomed into the home of one of the local families, who will share some of their customs and show you how they manage to live in largely traditional ways.
Enjoy lunch at Roche Armed, one of the small hotels in the village, overlooking the valley and village of Imlil, with the Atlas Mountains in the background.
After lunch, drive to Anima Garden, created by multimedia artist André Heller. Opened in 2016, his garden is a unique mixture of art and nature that combines paintings, sculptures, and other objets d'art that draw on motifs from around the world with carefully chosen and landscaped flora in ways that are meant both to provide inspiration for contemplation and to stimulate the senses. The experience of a visit here is notoriously difficult to describe, but a New York Times critic comes as close as anyone, calling it "a Wonderland of exotic gardens, gazebos, ponds and mystical artworks."
Return to the hotel in Marrakech and enjoy an evening at leisure to explore and enjoy dinner on your own.
The Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa
Day 3 – Marrakech
After breakfast at the hotel, join a walking tour of Marrakech's Medina, the Old Town, where the city's traditions continue to thrive. Your first stop is the emblematic Koutoubia Mosque, which dominates the skyline. Built in the 12th century, Koutoubia’s minaret is considered one of the highlights of Islamic architecture in North Africa and the inspiration for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.
A short walk from the mosque brings you to Bahia Palace. Built in the mid 19th century as the residence of the Grand Vizier, it was converted by the French in the early 20th century for use by the Resident General of the Protectorate. The sprawling palace covers two acres in the middle of the Medina and contains 150 rooms opening onto a large courtyard filled with fountains and gardens. The nearby Dar Si Said Museum exhibits a range of architectural styles and traditional crafts. Of particular interest are the collections of Berber jewelry, textiles, carpets, and musical instruments that provide a taste of everyday life in Morocco before the arrival of Islam.
Your tour of the Medina continues with a visit to the souks of Jemaa El Fna, the city's main square and home to a multitude of street-artists and food stalls. Over the years the square has become the beating heart of Marrakech, where fire-eaters, acrobats, snake-charmers, and street musicians perform at every turn. In the Souk Semmarine you will find a maze of colorful alleys and small squares housing a bewildering array of stalls and ateliers devoted to a seemingly endless variety of arts and crafts.
A short drive will bring you to a restaurant for a leisurely lunch before you return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for your transfer to a local restaurant for a sumptuous Moroccan dinner with music and a show in the heart of the Old Medina.
The Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa
Day 4 – Marrakech | Casablanca | Embarkation
After breakfast at the hotel and check out, enjoy a morning at leisure. Enjoy lunch on your own, then return to the hotel to board your motorcoach for the drive to Casablanca, where you will embark your ship in late afternoon.
Your hotel:
Located just a short walk from the Jemaa El Fna Square, near the heart of Marrakech, The Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa is a magnificent Moorish property set among manicured gardens and fountains. The bright rooms and suites feature balconies and terraces, which offer beautiful views over the mountains, pool, or gardens. The interior design combines French elegance with a dash of Moroccan art de vivre. The hotel has two restaurants, four pools, a fitness center, and a spa.
Your program includes:
- 3 nights at the Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa (or similar)
- Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
- Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day
- Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1
- Breakfast and lunch on Days 2, 3, and 4
- Dinner on Day 3
- Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
- Local English-speaking guide
- Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
- Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day
- Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
- It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
- Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel advisor for further details.
- This is not a suitable program for guests with limited mobility.
- For excursions, guests are advised to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
- The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
- This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
- Program is offered on a space available basis.
- Program is subject to change without notice.
To see itinerary, please click on an option below.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Casablanca, Morocco
Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco’s main port city. Settle into your cabin and meet your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner tonight. (D)
Day 2 — Tangier
Sail north to Tangier, an ancient city whose strategic location on the Strait of Gibraltar has led to a tumultuous history under many different rulers—and for several decades, none at all. Today Tangier is an exciting hub of culture, home to great museums and revitalized neighborhoods. Take in views of the legendary strait from a hilltop fortress before heading into the city. Visit the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures to learn of the many civilizations that have left their mark on the region. Then tour the Tangier American Legation Museum, a tribute to the long relationship between the U.S. and Morocco, the first country to recognize American independence in 1786. Alternatively, delve in Morocco’s tradition of religious tolerance on a walking tour to three historic houses of worship: the Kasbah Mosque, the Moshe Nahon Synagogue, and Saint Andrew’s Church. Admire their remarkable architecture and discover how the three faiths are interwoven in Tangier. (B,L,D)
Day 3 — Tangier
Head inland to Tetouan, set at the foot of the dramatic Rif mountains. Visit Dar Sanaa, a former palace where traditional Moroccan crafts are now taught, and explore Tetouan’s World Heritage-listed medina. Transit the Strait of Gibraltar this evening. (B,L,D)
Day 4 — Málaga, Spain
Dock in Málaga, birthplace of Picasso, and spend the day in Granada, scenically located atop three hills and framed by the snow-clad Sierra Nevada mountains. From here, the monarchs of the Nasrid Dynasty ruled for 250 years over the last Moorish kingdom in Spain, leaving a priceless architectural legacy—the magnificent Alhambra, a World Heritage site. Our visit begins with a walk through city center to the Cathedral's Royal Chapel, final resting place of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic monarchs who brought an end to Islamic rule in Iberia. Enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting before heading to the Alhambra for an afternoon tour. Admire the exquisite architectural details of its palaces and courtyards, and continue with a visit to the beautifully landscaped Generalife Palace and Gardens, built as a summer residence for the Sultan. (B,L,D)
Day 5 — Marbella or Ronda
Sail west to Marbella, and venture into its whitewashed old town on a walking tour. Discover the leafy squares and charming, boutique-lined lanes that made the town an elegant retreat in the 1950s and 1960s. Stroll the Patio de los Naranjos and see a collection of sculptures by Salvador Dalí on Avenida del Mar. Then drive into the hills to the charming village of Mijas to take in sweeping views of the Costa del Sol and enjoy a delicious Andalusian lunch featuring traditional flamenco music and dance. Or travel overland to Ronda, an ancient town built above deep gorges. Examine layers of history as you tour the twisting streets of its Moorish-influenced center and learn about its Roman occupation. Visit the Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring and one of its most architecturally beautiful, and tour the onsite museum. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties at a breeding farm for Andalusian horses and bulls. (B,L,D)
Day 6 — Cadiz and Seville
Anchor in Cadiz, founded by the Phoenicians in 1100 BC and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Travel through olive and orange groves to Seville, the captivating capital of Andalusia. Shaped by a succession of often-clashing civilizations—Roman, Moorish, Jewish, Christian—Seville is a vibrant melting pot of cultures with a fascinating history. Stroll through the Murillo Gardens on your way to the World Heritage site of Real Alcazar, the former residence of Seville’s Moorish and Spanish rulers. Continue to the World Heritage-listed Cathedral of Seville, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the site of Christopher Columbus's tomb. La Giralda, built as a minaret for the city's chief mosque in the 12th century, now serves as the bell tower and a symbol of Seville. After a lunch of Andalusian tapas, enjoy a walking tour and time at leisure in the Barrio de Santa Cruz, the city’s former Jewish quarter. Alternatively, set out on a walking tour through the Barrio del Pópulo, the heartbeat of Cadiz and one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe. Enjoy some free time for shopping before meeting up with your group to visit the Flamenco La Cava for a thrilling performance of flamenco and a tapas lunch. (B,L,D)
Day 7 — Portimão, Portugal
Explore the inland city of Silves. Visit Castillo de Silves, with its imposing red stone walls that loom over the city and the surrounding countryside. Meander streets of white houses that reflect the sun and sky. Continue to the picturesque mountain village of Monchique, known for its quaint cobbled streets, proximity to nature, and thermal waters with fabled healing powers. Take in the seascape from the Alvor boardwalk and enjoy time at leisure in the coastal city of Portimão. (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive in Lisbon and disembark after breakfast this morning. Extend your stay in this flourishing city upon seven hills, or transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)