Christmas in the Canaries

Day 1 Southampton Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home for your journey to Southampton, where our staff will greet you and assist with embarking Balmoral (3T+) in readiness for a late evening sailing. Days 2-3 At sea Our voyage begins with time on board to relax, settle in and familiarise yourself with the extensive facilities. Day 4 Christmas Eve - Lisbon, Portugal Spend Christmas Eve in Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon uniquely situated atop seven scenic hills, with enthralling history, picturesque palaces, art nouveau cafés, enchanting gardens, and ancient castles. Its remarkable historic centre takes on an even lovelier appearance during the festive period; with sparkling decorations, pretty fairy lights and the smell of roasted chestnuts filling the cobblestone streets. Perhaps take advantage of Lisbon’s festive spirit with a visit to one of the many churches and theatres hosting concerts with choirs and orchestras - a Portuguese Christmas tradition. Day 5 Christmas Day - At sea Merry Christmas! Today we celebrate with our fellow passengers enjoying festive activities and a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. Day 6 Boxing Day - At sea Festive celebrations continue on board Balmoral; indulge in tasty seasonal treats and enjoy delightful entertainment and activities as we sail towards the sunny Canary Islands. Day 7 Gran Tarajal, Fuerteventura Arrive in Gran Tarajal, Fuerteventura’s largest town boasting an enviable tranquillity in which to enjoy the sun-soaked climate - quite the ideal contrast from winter at home. Gran Tarajal hosts a picturesque harbour, with local fishermen busy at work. At the heart of the town centre is its gem, an intricately-crafted fountain of six grand seahorses spouting water. Day 8 Las Palmas, Gran Canaria A top destination for sun-seekers, Las Palmas is a city of many faces from its elegant sandy beaches, to extensive historic architecture - there is something for everyone. When stepping ashore you’ll notice hints of the festive season everywhere, with many houses showcasing traditional Christmas cribs and nativity scenes in their front windows along with shops in the town squares, and colourful Christmas decorations dotted throughout the centre. Embrace the glorious weather and head to one of the three beautiful beaches - Las Canteras is considered one of the best in the world. Or visit the city’s grand monuments and historic structures including the spectacular Santa Ana Cathedral - the first church of the Canaries, constructed over four centuries thus creating a blend of Renaissance, Gothic and Neoclassical styles; and the bronze statues of dogs in the elegant Plaza Santa Ana, illustrating tales of Romans naming the islands after canines. Day 9 Santa Cruz, Tenerife Tenerife is the most populated island of the Canaries, and easily attracts many visitors each year with its glorious weather, carefree ambience, elegant sandy beaches and interesting attractions. Our ship docks in the port of Santa Cruz, Tenerife’s capital and a gateway to this beautiful island. Day 10 San Sebastián, La Gomera This morning we dock in San Sebastián, the small capital of one of the lesser-known Canary Islands - La Gomera. Linked to the great explorer Christopher Columbus, who stopped here during his journey to America; explore the monuments and buildings that reflect his time here, including the Casa de la Aguada, home to an exhibition on Columbus’ journeys; and Casa de Colón, the house in which the explorer is thought to have stayed while on the island. The city’s beaches make a wonderful place to unwind, with glistening waters, soft sands and the unbeatable Canarian climate. Day 11 New Year’s Eve - Funchal, Madeira Madeira is an unforgettable sight at New Year; already filled with subtropical flowers that bloom all year round filling the air with desirable scents, the appearance is heightened by dazzling festive decorations and excitement for this evening’s celebrations. Arriving in the morning allows for plenty of time to explore the island’s attractions including an array of beautiful parks and gardens and an enchanting laurel forest - an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. This evening we watch from the decks of our ship as the skies of Funchal are set ablaze with colourful fireworks - considered one of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve firework displays, they are the perfect way to celebrate new beginnings in style. Day 12 New Year’s Day - At sea Unwind from the lively celebrations of New Year with a day spent relaxing on board. Day 13 At sea Day 14 La Coruña Arrive in the scenic seaport of La Coruña, with a blend of sights from medieval buildings and historic monuments to trendy, modern houses. Explore the old quarter, Ciudad Vieja home to an abundance of ancient buildings; the remains of the historic Roman wall and medieval monuments; or perhaps discover the galleries and museums such as the intriguing sail-shaped Domus Museum. Visit Maria Pita Square, found at the heart of city, a cultural hub that hosts festivals and events; relax in one of the many bars and restaurants, the ideal way to unwind and witness the interesting culture and the daily lives of residents. Day 15 At sea Day 16 Southampton We disembark after breakfast and you will be met and guided to your Titan vehicle, for the journey home.