A Caribbean Christmas: Adventurous Coastal Odyssey with Saga Cruises

Day 1 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Portsmouth is one of the most densely populated cities in Southern England, notable for its unique location on Portsea Island, connected to the mainland by roads and rail bridges. Although nearby Portchester has evidence of Roman, Saxon, and Norman occupation, Portsmouth itself was not mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book. The city rose to prominence in medieval times, receiving its first charter in 1194 from King Richard I, rapidly developing into a significant naval base. Home to the world's oldest dry dock, Portsmouth is renowned for its historic ships like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose. Today, the Spinnaker Tower, the tallest building in the UK outside London, dominates its waterfront. Key attractions include Charles Dickens’ birthplace and the City Museum, which hosts a Sir Arthur Conan Doyle exhibition.

Day 5 - Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal: A reprieve on the Atlantic crossing, Ponta Delgada is the largest city on the Azores Islands, offering a refreshing stop for travellers. Situated approximately 1,100 miles from mainland Portugal, it boasts awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes alongside lush terrain that bursts with colour during the summer with blooming hydrangeas. Visitors are welcomed by the striking Church of São José and can explore local markets for pineapples, tea leaves, and coffee beans. Don’t miss a trip to the Caldeira das Sete Cidades to witness breathtaking views of volcanic craters filled with water against the endless Atlantic horizon. Lagoa de Fogo presents another dramatic vista with its stunning crater lake.

Day 10 - Saint John's

Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda: Antigua is famed for its exquisite beaches, historical sites, and vibrant coral reefs, embodying the essence of a tropical paradise. With a beach for every day of the year, the island retains its West Indian charm, showcased through its gingerbread houses, calypso music, and lively carnival. St John’s, the capital since 1632 and seat of government since independence in 1981, offers a blend of modern shops at Heritage Quay and the cultural richness of Colonial architecture, including the stunning 1845 cathedral. Local guides provide insightful tours using smaller vehicles for an intimate experience.

Day 13 - Road Town

Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands: As the capital of the British Virgin Islands, Road Town offers a blend of cultural intrigue and natural beauty. This bustling port is the gateway to exploring Tortola’s stunning landscapes, such as sandy beaches and rolling hills. The island's history of sugar plantations and pirate lore adds depth to the seafaring tales that echo through this part of the Caribbean.

Day 14 - Basseterre

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis: Known as the first English settlement in the Leeward Islands, St. Kitts is renowned for its dramatic vistas within a compact 65 square miles. Fertile landscapes of towering sugarcane fields meet the shore, set against striking topography including Mt. Liamuiga and Brimstone Hill. The island, independent since 1983, features a vibrant English-Caribbean culture, where friendly but reserved locals welcome respectful visitors.

Day 15 - Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France, Martinique: Martinique, the largest of the Windward Islands, is a vibrant fusion of French elegance and West Indian spice. Its lush beauty manifests in vivid flora, laden fruit trees, and vast plantations. Ideal for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax, it offers everything from hiking its striking northern mountains to snorkelling in its azure waters. A visit to St-Pierre, buried by Mont Pelée’s eruption in 1902, is a must for history enthusiasts.

Day 16 - Castries

Castries, Saint Lucia: St Lucia epitomises the lush tropical paradise, replete with emerald forests, romantic beaches, and historic Piton peaks. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iconic Les Pitons dominate the landscape, creating a backdrop for exploring vibrant life and exotic flora. The vibrant markets and welcoming locals amplify the island's charm, although visitors are advised to prepare for St Lucia’s mountainous terrain.

Day 17 - Saint George's

Saint George's, Grenada: Known as the Isle of Spice, Grenada is a fragrant tapestry of nutmeg, cocoa, and rich natural beauty. This vibrant Caribbean destination boasts exquisite beaches, verdant rainforests, and historical treasures like the Christ of the Deep statue. The city of St. George’s, with its colourful architecture and bustling markets, offers a glimpse into Grenada’s lively culture, cementing its status as a cherished port of call.

Day 18 - Bridgetown

Bridgetown, Barbados: The capital of Barbados pairs colonial charm with tropical ease, inviting visitors to explore its rich heritage against a backdrop of azure seas and lush landscapes. From historic sites like the 19th-century Garrison to its vibrant beach scenes, Bridgetown delivers both relaxation and adventure in equal measure. The unique combination of old-world architecture and modern comforts makes this a memorable stop.

Day 25 - Funchal

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal: Madeira, shaped by volcanic activity, is a lush holiday havens known for its year-round mild climate. Funchal, its charming capital, features stunning slopes of vineyards, picturesque villages, and a rich display of wild flora. Its history is tied to the English, drawn here by a wine trade established by King Charles II. Known affectionately as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, Madeira is a destination of natural splendour.

Day 26 - Funchal

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal: Continuation from Day 25, explore more of Funchal's dramatic landscapes and delve deeper into its history and lush botanical diversity. This beautiful island remains a rich blend of culture and natural wonder, inviting exploration from its garden-like settings to the vibrant streets of its capital.

Day 28 - Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon, shimmering across seven hills by the River Tagus, is a city of grand architecture and historic charm, reborn from the ravages of past earthquakes. Its unique blend of modernity and antiquity, with vibrant districts and an enticing cultural scene, makes it as much a shopper's paradise as a historical hub. Its wide boulevards and historic trams add to the city's elegant appeal.

Day 31 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Ending the expedition where it began, Portsmouth once again invites exploration of its naval history and cultural richness. From the historic dockyards and famous ships to the Spinnaker Tower offering panoramic views, Portsmouth provides the perfect conclusion to a voyage rich with diverse encounters and vibrant destinations.