Day 1 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY) - ST. ANNE
Welcome to the Seychelles, the Variety way. This natural paradise will be your home for the next few days: expect cultural immersion, uninhabited islands, and unique biospheres. But first, enjoy a welcome drink before we set sail for our first stop, Sainte Anne. We know you’ve been waiting to dive into the inviting Indian Ocean: this is your first chance of many. Dinner on board and overnight at anchor.

Day 2 | Sunday

ST. ANNE - CURIEUSE
An early departure means we’ll be at the uninhabited island of Curieuse ready for a day of excursions: guided walking tours, mangrove forest exploration, giant tortoise spotting, and more. Welcome in the afternoon with a beach barbecue and snorkelling opportunities or, with beaches this beautiful, you may prefer to simply lie back and soak it all in. We wouldn’t blame you. Overnight at anchor.

Day 3 | Monday

CURIEUSE - COUSIN ISLAND - ANSE LAZIO
From Curieuse to Anse Lazio. But first a visit to Cousin Island: the entire island has been a nature reserve since 1968. We’ll visit the bird sanctuary before sailing onwards to Anse Lazio in Praslin - globally recognised as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, the time is yours; enjoy swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing or napping, before heading back to the ship. Overnight at anchor.

Day 4 | Tuesday

ANSE LAZIO - ARIDE - ST. PIERRE - BAIE ST. ANNE/PRASLIN
Experience a wake up call like no other: experienced island rangers will take you on an early-morning guided tour to the top of the island for a one-in-a-million vantage point. Be sure to bring your camera. Aride is famous for numerous indiginous species; your guide will point these out as you traverse the unique landscape. At noon we sail to St. Pierre Island for 3 hours of snorkelling and swimming. Dry off, and enjoy a sunset sail to Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin, in time for a cultural Creole Night. Overnight at dock. *Aride island often closed by local authorities during Southeast Trade winds (from May to September as a guideline). It may also close at short notice during strong winds. During this time, weather permitting, Variety Cruises Captain will be calling at equally beautiful locales, visiting Cote D’Or or Anse Georgette.

Day 5 | Wednesday

BAIE ST. ANNE, PRASLIN - FELICITE - LA DIGUE
Today is all about going where the wind takes us - figuratively and literally! After an optional tour to Vallee de Mai, the green heart of Praslin often described as a Garden of Eden, we’ll set off for Felicite or Grand Soeur. Wherever we end up, we guarantee you fun in the beautiful Seychelles sun. Evening sail to La Digue where we’ll anchor for the night.

Day 6 | Thursday

LA DIGUE - MOYENNE ISLAND
Join us for an optional morning excursion where our knowledgeable guides will take you to L’Union Estate Farm for a tour of a coconut oil mill. Spend the early afternoon souvenir shopping at La Passe, or idle the time away at Anse Source D’Argent beach. This is another beach well-known for being one of the world’s most beautiful. What can we say, the Seychelles will spoil you. Late afternoon sail to Moyenne Island, overnight at anchor.

Day 7 | Friday

MOYENNE ISLAND - MAHE - INTER ISLAND QUAY
Your last day with us in the Seychelles is equal parts food and swimming. Dive into those sparkling waters for one last time at Moyenne before enjoying a barbecue on deck. Late afternoon we’ll head back to where it all began - Mahe - for our signature Captain’s Farewell dinner with live music. Dancing isn’t required, but very much smiled upon. Overnight in Mahe.

Day 8 | Saturday

MAHE/VICTORIA (INTER ISLAND QUAY)
Mahe, Victoria (9AM)
Get ready to disembark, but first enjoy a breakfast on board. We never like saying goodbye, so instead let us say we hope to sea you soon!

Day 1 | Friday

PAPEETE PORT, TAHITI
Papeete,Tahiti (3PM).
Your adventure begins at the picturesque Papeete port, Society Islands, where you'll board the sleek two-masted beauty M/S Panorama II. Boarding Time: 3pm As you step on board, immerse yourself in a world of ambience and hospitality with a gracious welcome, a refreshing drink, and a delectable Welcome Dinner that sets the perfect tone for your journey ahead. As twilight descends, we'll bid farewell to Papeete and set sail for the enchanting island of Moorea. Overnight.

Day 2 | Saturday

MOOREA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
As we lay at anchor in Moorea, you will enjoy swimming, snorkeling and watersports from our swimming platform in her beautiful sapphire waters! A delicious lunch will boost your energy for your afternoon exploration of the island! Join us on an enchanting 3.5-hour island tour (included in the cruise fares), where your knowledgeable guide will regale you with captivating tales of Moorea's rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse ecology. Traverse through the lush Opunohu Valley, ascend the slopes of Mt. Tohi'e'a, and meander past the picturesque Cook's and Opunohu Bays. Along the way, indulge in a stop at the Moorea Fruit Juice Factory, where you can savor refreshing juices and liqueurs, crafted from locally sourced fruits, like star fruit, ginger, papaya, mango, coconut, and pineapple. After this delightful and included tour, relish in some free time to explore Moorea at your leisure before we set sail for our next destination, Raiatea island. Departure after dinner to Raiatea.

Day 3 | Sunday

RAIATEA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Early in the morning we sail across the lagoon to reach nearby Raiatea, which translates to “faraway heaven” and “sky with soft light”. Originally known as Havai’i, Raiatea is considered the homeland of the ancient Polynesians. We will have a variety of optional activities to choose from, such as: Faaroa River and Motu beach break or visit the Anapa family Pearl farm. Overnight in port (docked or on anchor at times).

Day 4 | Monday

TAHA'A, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Noon arrival in Taha'a, which shares a magnificent lagoon with Raiatea Island. As we lay at anchor in Taha’a, you will enjoy swimming, snorkeling and watersports from our swimming platform in her beautiful sapphire waters! The fertile island is covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves. The island also acts as a vast natural greenhouse for the treasured Tahitian vanilla orchid. Optional visit of the island with a vanilla plantation , a rum distillery while enjoying some snorkeling. Or take a 4X4 safari tour around. Late night departure to Bora Bora. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

BORA BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Without a doubt, Bora Bora reigns supreme as the crown jewel of the South Pacific, holding the spotlight as French Polynesia's undisputed star. Today, we've arranged for you to experience the essence of Bora Bora with a unique excursion aboard Le Truck, a vibrant journey lasting approximately 2.5 hours (included in the cruise fares). Climb aboard this colorful chariot as it guides you through Bora Bora's landscapes, passing coconut groves and quaint villages nestled along the shoreline. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tahitian history, traditions, and cultures as your knowledgeable guide narrates the 22-mile road encircling this legendary island. Explore the villages of Farepiti, Faanui, and Anau, each adorned with ancient "Marae" shrouded in mystery. And as your adventure unfolds, be captivated by the breathtaking vistas from Matira Point, a vantage point offering unparalleled panoramas of paradise. Overnight in port.

Day 6 | Wednesday

BORA BORA, SOCIETY ISLANDS
One mere day in Bora Bora simply doesn't suffice! Whether you choose to explore at your own pace or join us on one of our meticulously crafted optional Shore Excursions, seize the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Late night departure to Huahine.

Day 7 | Thursday

HUAHINE, SOCIETY ISLANDS
Huahine, once home to Tahitian royalty, is considered the cradle of Polynesian culture. The two islands maintain the largest concentration of ancient marae (temples) in French Polynesia, some of which are believed to date back to around 700 AD. Huahine is a colossal tropical jungle burgeoning with coconut plantations, vanilla orchids, banana groves, breadfruit trees and watermelon fields. Our optional half-day tour takes us around the island to visit the small villages of Maeva, an archaeological site, and a vanilla plantation, or visit a private motu for a picnic and snorkeling experience. Departure after lunch to Papeete. Overnight at sea.

Day 8 | Friday

PAPEETE PORT, TAHITI
As the morning sun graces Papeete Port, we find ourselves at the end of our voyage. We invite you to join us for the final breakfast on board at 9AM before disembarkation. Our dedicated Concierge stands ready to assist with any final arrangements, ensuring your journey concludes seamlessly.

Day 1 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - KEA
Join us - and your fellow explorers - at Marina Zea in Athens for a welcome drink. Today we start our adventure. First stop: Cape Sounion to visit the Temple of Poseidon. Next up, the short sail across to Kea for dinner and exploration before we set sail again, this time to Delos. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

DELOS - MYKONOS
A day of contrasts: wake up in sacred Delos, the mythological birthplace of revered ancient Greek God, Apollo. The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one that we are proud to have pioneered the road to tourism to. Then onto cosmopolitan Mykonos - stopping en route for your first chance to dive from boat to sea. In Mykonos, the afternoon, evening and night are yours. Overnight in Mykonos: join us back on board after a night of partying with the jetset.

Day 3 | Sunday

SANTORINI
Relax with coffee and breakfast on deck this morning as we sail from Mykonos to Santorini. We know you’ll fall in love with this picturesque, volcanic island. Yes, the famous blue-domes overlooking the caldera are here, but so are archaeological sites, traditional villages, and more. Let us show you Santorini’s secrets on an optional tour.. Overnight sail to Crete.

Day 4 | Monday

RETHYMNON, CRETE
The day is yours in Crete. We’ll arrive early and leave late - how you spend the time in between is up to you. Perhaps you’ll take a wine tour, an archaeological excursion, learn about Cretean mythology? Tell us what you want to see and do and we’ll make it happen. Overnight at sea.

Day 5 | Tuesday

KYTHIRA
Ready. Steady. Jump! This morning is another chance to dive into those famous Aegean waters as we drop anchor on our way to Kythira. This lesser-known island is quickly gaining popularity; now is your chance for laid-back exploration. Ask our crew for restaurant recommendations in the main town of Chora. Overnight in Kythira.

Day 6 | Wednesday

MONEMVASIA - NAFPLION
We’ll depart early for the medieval, fortified town of Monemvasia. The stories here are endless, and come to life via the uniquely preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture. In the early afternoon we’ll depart for Nafplion, with a swim stop on the way. Here, explore the narrow streets of the old quarter at leisure. Overnight in Nafplion.

Day 7 | Thursday

NAFPLION - HYDRA - MARINA ZEA- ATHENS
A short drive inland from Nafplion is Mycenae: a cradle of Greek civilization and home to the mythological kingdom of Agamemnon. Join us for an optional tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come afternoon, we set sail for small yet historical Hydra; an island that enchanted the likes of Chagall and Picasso. End the day with our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail back to Marina Zea.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Breakfast on board before disembarkation. Though this adventure has come to an end, we hope to sea you on another soon!

Day 1 | Monday

BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA
Meet us on board at 4PM. Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700 mile Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but first join our optional half day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 2 | Tuesday

TENDABA, THE GAMBIA
Today, we offer two optional excursions. Both begin in Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue - small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park - home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primate-d out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, and passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.

Day 3 | Wednesday

GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town, Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going ships. Yes, even our small ship. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park. Listen and learn as a local park ranger teaches us all about the park's flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. Overnight docked in Kuntaur.

Day 4 | Thursday

KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA
We hope you’ve slept well as we have a varied and active optional tour today. First to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, formerly known as Georgetown. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village, Kaur. Explore and see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.

Day 5 | Friday

KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gamibia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.

Day 6 | Saturday

DAKAR, SENEGAL
Early morning arrival in Dakar. After breakfast, we will take you in an optional excursion to Goree Island and Dakar city tour, an exploratory adventure of Dakar surroundings, inviting you to discover the traces of slave trading, and its transformation into today’s African modernity. The history makes room for the present development. Lunch outside the ship. Returning to the ship in late afternoon and preparing for dinner. After dinner, we set sail southward towards the Saloum River Delta. Overnight at sea, cruising south wards along the coast.

Day 7 | Sunday

DJIFFER/SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees. Keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. From here, join our optional excursion to JOAL FADIOUTH, an island built on and of clam shells. Come afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.

Day 8 | Monday

BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
Early morning arrival in Banjul. Join your fellow adventures - who we’re sure are now friends - for one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end.