A&K x Crystal Cruises: The Canary Islands, Madeira and Morocco

From secluded beachy coves and fragrant pine forests to towering desert-like dunes and rugged volcanic cliffs, the Canary Islands offer something for everyone. The third largest of the Canaries, the island of Gran Canaria best embodies this archipelago’s incredible natural diversity. The capital, Las Palmas, welcomes you to this continent in miniature with its broad, buzzing beachfront and Spanish colonial Old Town.

Delve deeper into the island’s treasures with an exploration of early Indigenous sites, the secluded town of Firgas, or the volcanic crater of Bandama Caldera — all paired with outstanding local food and wine experiences. Tonight, reconvene for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel.

Explore two quintessential Canarian towns, beginning in the charming old quarter of Arucas with its Gothic Revival masterpiece, the church of San Juan Bautista. Continue to the spiritual hub of Teror to see why pilgrims flock to its Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pino. Then, head to the port, where your vessel awaits. Gather aboard for a welcome dinner this evening.

As the second smallest of the Canary Islands, La Gomera remains blissfully secluded off the tourist track. The island’s black-sand beaches and dramatic mountains cast a powerful spell — one strong enough to waylay Christopher Columbus from his 1492 quest across the Atlantic for a full month. Come ashore in the small town of San Sebastián to explore the cloud forests of Garajonay National Park, visit an award-winning winery or kayak along the island’s breathtaking coast.

Blending the natural diversity of Gran Canaria with the authentic local flavor of La Gomera, Lanzarote adds a kick of Andalusian flair for a truly intoxicating cocktail of island beauty and culture. Come ashore in the vibrant capital of Arrecife to see how renowned artist César Manrique celebrates Lanzarote’s natural wonders with the stunning overlook of Mirador del Río, the cave spaces of Jameos del Agua and the horticulture of Jardín de Cactus. Or, explore the volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park and the salt flats of the Salinas de Janubio.

With its gushing waterfalls, verdant jungle and endless sun, the subtropical archipelago of Madeira is ripe for exploration. In the charming capital of Funchal, cable cars ferry people up and down, life revolves around the local market, and everything is tiered into the hills. Once ashore, hit the market for a hands-on culinary experience, taste the archipelago’s namesake wine in the São Vicente Valley or embark on a wild 4x4 adventure.

Today, walk along the island’s levadas, centuries-old irrigation channels that meander through lush forests. Or, hike amid the laurels of the Laurissilva, an incredibly rare cloud forest dating back to the time of the dinosaurs. A catamaran cruise along Madeira’s stunning south coast is also on offer.

Spend the day relaxing onboard. En route, the team sets the stage for tomorrow’s shore excursions with a series of enriching presentations.

Part fishing town, part beach resort, Agadir was largely rebuilt after an earthquake devastated this coastal Moroccan enclave in 1960. Today, Agadir shines anew with its seafront promenade, bustling souk, distinctive brutalist architecture and eclectic vibe. Explore the city’s historic hilltop kasbah and the vibrant markets of Souk El Had, pausing to gain insights into the region’s enduring Berber legacy. Pair your city tour with a visit to the atmospheric Coco Polizzi Medina or a fragrant argan oil boutique. Alternatively, head inland to see the iconic sites of Marrakech, including Kutubiyya Mosque, Bahia Palace, Madrasa Ben Youssef and Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s renowned medina. Afterward, retire for a night ashore at the Hôtel La Mamounia.

Casablanca pulses with a modern energy, yet whispers of a romantic past immortalized by Bogart and Bergman on the silver screen. Explore the city’s magnificent Hassan II Grand Mosque, among the largest in the world, and stroll the Quartier Habbous, a French-built medina dating to the 1930s. Or, round up the usual suspects at Rick’s Café, a saloon inspired by the Hollywood classic, Casablanca. Alternatively, head inland to sample the syrollo of Morocco’s oldest winery.

Cruise northward to the naval bastion of Cádiz, a port that once served as a main artery of the Phoenician and Spanish empires. From here, discover Andalusia’s iconic white villages of Ubrique, El Bosque and Arcos de la Frontera; delve into the region’s vibrant capital of Seville; or explore the sherry-making heritage of Jerez de la Frontera.

The southernmost region of continental Portugal, the Algarve is known for its sunny beaches, coastal cliffs and mysterious sea caves. Come ashore in Portimão’s bustling marina, where you board a small boat for a cruise of Ponta da Piedade’s cut cliffs and sea caves. Alternatively, drive inland to take in the rugged beauty of Mount Fóia and the cliffs of Carvoeiro, or the Moorish enclaves of Loulé and Silves.

Disembark in Lisbon and transfer to the airport for your homebound flight, or continue on your post-tour extension.