Day 1

Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Begin your Arabian adventure in the city of Abu Dhabi and discover the majestic allure of the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Renowned for its unique blend of innovation and tradition, you’ll have the chance to explore the spectacular architecture and serene shorelines of this opulent island. Whether basking in the winter sun on its beautiful beaches or indulging in delectable waterfront dining, immersing yourself in the charms of Abu Dhabi is sure to excite you for the delightful journey ahead.

Day 2

Dubai
Cutting-edge architecture. Luxury hotels. Fast cars. Designer shops. Begin your Arabian adventure in the iconic city of Dubai. Witness how the world’s tallest building kisses the sky, while bustling souks offer a trove of wonders in bustling markets. Or, shop for the world’s most luxurious brands in pristine storefronts with famed hospitality. The city also hosts a treasure trove of culinary delights for the epicurean traveler. Get ready to wander through vibrant city streets and let the allure of this desert oasis excite you for the adventure ahead.

Day 3

Sir Bani Yas Island
Go wild for this island oasis, where nature and luxury intertwine on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. One of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra, it offers a unique escape where you can get up close to thousands of free-roaming animals at the Arabian Wildlife Park, including gazelles, hyenas and cheetahs. Explore the island’s heritage sites or head to one of its pristine beaches: perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, or, in the case of Al Yamm beach, watching flamingos in a nearby lagoon. This truly is a nature lover’s paradise.

Day 4

Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Discover the majestic allure of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Set on an island and connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, this opulent oasis presents a striking tableau of spectacular architecture and serene shorelines. An ideal destination for basking in the warm winter sun, its beautiful beaches give way to luxurious waterfront hospitality and a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks. Experience an irresistible blend of tradition and innovation, with a day of exploration like no other.

Day 5

Doha
Step off into multicultural Doha, where tradition and innovation go hand in hand. Stock up on spices in the souks, or indulge in a spot of retail therapy at one of the city's shopping malls. Marvel at the city skyline with its futuristic skyscrapers as you take a stroll along the Corniche. And feast on cuisines from around the world at one of the many lively waterfront cafes and restaurants. 

Day 6

Ras Al Khaimah
The northernmost Emirate awaits with miles of white sandy beaches, as well as the majestic Hajjar Mountains and magnificent desert. With the world's longest zip line, camel races, the 120-store Manar Mall, and fantastic views from the UAE's highest mountain, there's so much to discover here. You're also only 45 minutes from the spires of Dubai, so if the skyscrapers and super-luxe malls are calling you, it's an easy trip. Take your pick and enjoy.

Day 7

Khasab(Oman)
As the warm breezes of the Gulf of Arabia usher us to Khasab, the ‘Norway of Arabia’ awaits with its rugged fjords and crystal-clear waters. Embark on a day of discovery in this Omani jewel; where ancient forts guard the silent desert and dolphins dance along traditional dhow cruises. Delve into the local culture, savor the serenity, and witness the seamless blend of natural splendor and rich history that Khasab proudly offers.

Day 8

Abu Dhabi(UAE)
Step off your cruise into Abu Dhabi and discover the majestic allure of the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Make the most of your final day to fully explore the spectacular architecture and serene shorelines of this opulent oasis. From basking in the warm winter sun on one of its beautiful beaches to indulging in world-class waterfront dining, immersing yourself in the charms of Abu Dhabi will be the perfect end to your Arabian adventure.

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 | Friday

ATHENS, MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS) - CAPE SOUNION
Athens (2pm - 3pm) - Cape Sounion All aboard! Our exploration begins as we head from Athens to Cape Sounion. As the sun sets on our first day of adventure, enjoy an al fresco, get-to-know-each-other dinner under the ancient Greek Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion. As night falls, we start our sail to Ikaria. Overnight at sea.

Day 2 | Saturday

IKARIA
Wake up in paradise: aka Seychelles Beach, Ikaria. Surrounded by craggy rocks, the beach is best accessed by boat (luckily you’ve chosen to cruise with Variety!) Enjoy your first of many swim stops before we sail onwards to Ikaria’s quaint port. Hike the wildlife, take a dip in thermal spas, join a family cooking class, or visit an ancient village. You’ll soon realise this is an island like no other. Fun fact: locals here live an average of 10 years longer than elsewhere in Greece. Overnight in Ikaria.

Day 3 | Sunday

PATMOS - LIPSI
Today we’ll voyage from Ikaria to Patmos to Lipsi. Patmos is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is often considered divine. As we sail onwards to Lipsi, enjoy lunch al fresco before diving into the glittering sea. We also invite you to join our on board tasting of Lipsi’s famous wine, Aposperiti. This elusive bottle is produced only on the island. You can thank your lucky grapes - and us! - later. Evening at leisure, overnight in Lipsi.

Day 4 | Monday

KALYMNOS
Early morning sail to Kalymnos, but not without a swim stop on our way. Simple, authentic and packed to the shores with hiking routes, Kalymnos is a utopia for modern adventurers. It’s also home to the famous Greek sponge divers. Join us to meet the locals who harvest them, and learn all about the process from reef to market. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure; relax with a coffee, hike one of the famous island trails or - and we recommend this one - visit the stunning Esperidon fjord. Overnight in Kalymnos.

Day 5 | Tuesday

LEVITHA - AMORGOS
From the Dodacanese to the Cyclades. Destination Amorgos, with a stop at Levitha island. The grand total of people living on Levitha is four. Yes, you read that right. The dedicated family raise animals and run a restaurant for visiting yachts - dine on their freshly-grilled fish. Trust us, you won’t regret it. In the afternoon, we sail onwards to Amorgo where Luc Besson’s movie, Big Blue, was shot. The island will transport you to the past with its authentic, laid-back villages. Evening at leisure in the mediaeval capital, overnight in Amorgos.

Day 6 | Wednesday

AMORGOS - KOUFONISSIA - IRAKLIA
Before we set sail today, we’ll stop at Panagia Chozoviotissa - a monastery carved into the dramatic sea-facing cliffs and bursting with significant ancient heirlooms. Then on to Koufonisia, a playground for water-lovers packed with caves and rock pools accessible only by boat. Jump off deck and snorkel, kayak or paddle board to explore them. Our afternoon cruise passes scenic Schinoussa to reach the tiny island of Iraklia, protected by Natura 2000 and offering incredible mountainous footpaths. Take a walk along them for awe-inspiring views. Enjoy laid-back Greek island life at leisure this evening. Overnight in port.

Day 7 | Thursday

SERIFOS
It’s the penultimate day, but it’s one to remember. We’ll sail to Serifos and start with a swim at a remote beach. Refuel with a barbecue on board then on to Chora, the island’s castle-village. Sit back at a cafe, indulge in souvenir shopping at the boutique stores, join us at a winery, or show off your creative side at the island’s pottery studio. We’ll enjoy a special dinner this evening: a chance to remember and reminisce about the hidden gems of Greece. Midnight sail back to Athens.

Day 8 | Friday

ATHENS - MARINA ZEAS (PIRAEUS)
Athens, Greece (8.30-9am) Breakfast, disembarkation, and a chance to swap contact details with your fellow explorers, who we’re sure have become friends. With new islands explored, where to next? Find all our cruise itineraries here, and we hope to sea you on board again 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.