About the cruise
From Southampton, Oceana glides you effortlessly to the Canaries for some autumn sunshine. Named the ‘Crystal City’ because of the glass-enclosed balconies, which adorn the tall apartment buildings facing the harbour, Corunna is a mixture of old and new. Here you will find the oldest working lighthouse in the world, known as Hercules’ Tower and on the seafront, San Antón Castle, which houses the archaeology and historical museum. Madeira rises from the sea like a shimmering, floating garden. Thanks to its equitable climate and fine Madeira wines, the island has long been a favourite of the British, Churchill was particularly partial to it. Funchal, the main town, rises in endless terraces up a vivid green mountainside, from the top of which there are spectacular panoramic views.
La Palma is perhaps the least known and loveliest of the Canaries. Santa Cruz, the main town, is small but delightful. And with mountains rising to over 8,000 feet, La Palma is – in relation to its coastline – the most mountainous place of all. Which means you will see scenery of absolutely breathtaking beauty everywhere. Gran Canaria is known as the ‘miniature continent’ due to its varying climates and landscapes. Its heart is the cosmopolitan, historic and prosperous port city of Las Palmas, and here you can see where Columbus stayed on his way to and from discovering the New World. Tenerife enjoys a warm and sunny climate all year round and is the largest of the Canary Islands. Highlights include the bizarre lava desert of the Caldera de las Cañadas and the great expanses of pine forest, fertile valleys and long golden beaches.
Lisbon nestles against seven hills on the north side of the Tagus River. This vibrant capital has retained many of its classical squares, stately buildings and picturesque quarters. Enjoy a relaxing tram ride through the metropolis, passing the Parliament, Cathedral, Alfama District and Santa Luzia Belvedere. Vigo climbs the slopes of Monte del Castro, rising in tiers from an avenue of trees to a citadel crowning the height. With its narrow streets and granite houses, the old fishing quarter known as Ribera del Berbes, recounts the bustle of the Middle Ages. Santiago de Compostela is the area’s most historic attraction and its magnificent 13th century cathedral draws thousands of visitors every day. It’s only a short journey back to Southampton where you will arrive on Saturday 4 October.