Oceania Cruises: Continental Passage
Date: November 21 - December 7, 2016
Cruise Destination: Lisbon to Rio De Janeiro
On March 9, 1500, Pedro Cabral and his fleet departed Lisbon on a journey that ended with the discovery of Brazil. On this thrilling transcontinental voyage, you will trace the route of the great Portuguese explorer, with ample opportunity for both exploration of new ports and enjoyment of peaceful days at sea. When you call on Tangier, you will find everything from aromatic spices to ceramic tagines at the bustling Grand Socco in the heart of the city. Before crossing the Atlantic to explore the sights and sounds of Rio de Janeiro, stop at Santa Cruz de Tenerife and visit nearby Loro Parque, which has one of the world’s largest collections of parrots.
Special Offer
- Featuring FREE Unlimited Internet, plus choose one of the below FREE:
- 5 FREE Shore Excursions
- FREE House Beverage Package
- $500 Shipboard Credit
Itinerary
Day 1: Lisbon, Portugal
Visit the ornate Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery and stroll the narrow, winding streets of the charming Alfama district. Enjoy marvelous old Sintra, a royal country retreat, and Cascais, a beautiful seaside resort. Explore medieval Obidos or make a pilgrimage to Fatima, where the Virgin Mary appeared repeatedly to three shepherd children in 1917.
Day 2: Seville (Cadiz), Spain
Spend a fabulous day in Seville visiting the magnificent cathedral, climbing the famed Giralda Tower and strolling through the gorgeous Alcazar and its gardens. See the ceramic-encrusted Plaza de España and stroll through the alleys of Barrio de Santa Cruz. Or explore the Andalusian wine country and Jerez, the home of sherry. Don't miss the charm of Cádiz with its gracious squares, its flower-filled parks on the city bastions and its bustling markets.
Day 3: Tangier, Morocco
Explore the Mendoubia Gardens, which contain a fascinating banyan tree that is more than 800 years old. Or experience a more traditional Morocco in Tetouan, a mountain city of grace and culture and the location of the beautiful white royal palace. The Caves of Hercules are nine miles west of Tangier in the Cap Spartel area; it is a place of great beauty and archaeological significance.
Day 4: Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
At Sea, International Waters
Day 5: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Volcanic in origin, Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. While in port, you'll notice the Auditorium of Tenerife, an amazing, organic structure that instantly became an icon when completed in 2003. Another modern landmark is the Oscar Domínguez Institute, a contemporary art gallery named after the 20th century surrealist. For a respite from the urban environment, visit the Palmetum, a botanical garden with more than 400 species of palms.
Day 6-7: Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
At Sea, International Waters
Day 8: Mindelo (Sao Vicente), Cape Verde
Enjoy charming São Vicente and the amazing landscape here and on nearby Santo Antão. Stroll through town past vibrant markets and the replica of Lisbon’s Belem Tower. Visit the stark but lovely lunar-like beach at Catfish Bay. On Santo Antão see lush and rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.
Day 9-11: Cruising the Atlantic Ocean
At Sea, International Waters
Day 12: Recife, Brazil
Discover colonial Brazil in Recife and nearby Olinda and step back in time along narrow, winding streets amid meticulously restored homes, churches and lovely plazas. Admire the scenic views from the Malakoff Tower and Olinda's hilltop plaza. Visit the old Dutch fort, the Jewish Historic Archive and a local artist in his workshop and gallery.
Day 13-14: Salvador, Brazil
Enjoy this marvelous colonial city atop a bluff where Portuguese and African heritage blends seamlessly. Visit the beautiful cathedral and bustling market and savor the breathtaking views over the bay and ocean. See the beaches and stroll through the narrow streets of the Pelourinho with its colonial architecture and African culture.
Day 15: Cruising the Amazon River
At Sea, International Waters
Day 16-17: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
