Las Palmas to Lisbon: The Sands of Time
13 nights
Sylvia Earle
15 May '27Cruise overview
Welcome to AE Expeditions’ The Sands of Time This thought-provoking voyage explores the intertwined histories of the Canary Islands, Morocco, Spain and Portugal. From the Moorish conquest of Iberia to the Reconquista, and the ‘Age of Exploration’ to the tragic legacy of the slave trade, these regions have forged alliances and rivalries that influenced the world. This journey invites reflection on the human stories behind historical events, as we hear tales of the battles, trade routes and monarchical intrigue, which shaped the region’s collective heritage. From the islands of the Canaries to the medinas of Morocco, the whitewashed villages of Andalusia to the famed rock of Gibraltar and the lively laneways of Seville to the sun-kissed coast of the Algarve, we discover the enduring legacies born from centuries of resilience and the abundant cultural richness of these remarkable nations.
Itinerary
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Welcome to The Canary Islands. On arrival at Tenerife Airport make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet our representative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Tenerife. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship. Join us this evening for a Welcome event with a Canary Island twist! Accommodation: Santa Cruz de Tenerife Hotel Meals: Welcome Event canapés
The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a beautiful and scenic island which enjoys year-round sunshine and is dominated by Mount Teide. The mountain range runs through the centre of the island, with fertile valleys on the northern side. In the central part of the range is the gigantic natural crater of the Cañadas del Teide, about 14 miles in diameter. Santa Cruz, the island’s pretty capital, was originally a small fishing village but has now grown into a modern city, and also contains 16th-century civic buildings and ornate private mansions. Near the pier is the Santa Cruz Palmetum, a Botanical Garden covering an area of 29 acres, specialising in palms.
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Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Arrecife, Lanzarote
At sea
Agadir
Marrakech
Tangier
Gibraltar
Seville
Cádiz
Portimão
Lisbon
Lisbon
Aurora Stateroom Superior
Located on Deck 7, these comfortable Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Amenities
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Sofa Bed
Ship features
Sylvia Earle combines expedition capability with modern comfort, offering a luxurious base for adventure at the ends of the Earth.
- Ulstein X-Bow design for stability and efficiency
- 15 Zodiacs for immersive exploration and landings
- Four embarkation points for swift boarding
- Glass atrium observation lounge at the bow
- Expert-led lectures and workshops onboard
- 70 staterooms with modern design and ensuite facilities
- All-inclusive dining with complimentary drinks during dinner
- Wellness centre with sauna, jacuzzi, and gym
- Library and Citizen Science Centre for learning and engagement
- Sustainable design with advanced environmental systems
