Ventura Arcadia Canary Islands

Set your sights on... Morocco and Cape Verde

Did you know we have brand-new cruises to Cape Verde and Morocco included in our Winter 2026/27 collection? 

6 min 14 Oct 2024

Editorial Team

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As well as an 18-night Cape Verde and Morocco cruise on Arcadia in December, we also have a Morocco cruise on Aurora in November and on Ventura in February. So, let’s take a look at some of the exciting destinations you could be calling at… 

1. Praia, Cape Verde Islands

Situated on the southern coast of sun-soaked Santiago Island, Praia, the vibrant capital of Cape Verde, is a treasure trove of sights and experiences waiting to be uncovered. With stunning landscapes, delightful architecture and a mix of cultures, you’ll soon see what makes this place such a special destination.

 

Wander through the charming, cobbled streets of the historic Plateau district - Praia's oldest settlement. Here you’ll find the striking Nossa Senhora da Graça and neo-classical Presidential Palace, among many other colourful colonial buildings that tell stories of times gone by. And at the lively Sucupira Market you can lose yourself in a labyrinth of stalls selling local produce and gifts.

 

The breathtaking beaches are truly some of the city’s finest attractions. Praia actually means ‘beach’ in Portuguese, named after the stunning coastlines that surround it. And no visit to Praia would be complete without taking in the stunning shorelines of Quebra Canela Beach, where you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect sandy spot to soak up some rays.

 

View cruises to Praia here.

Praia de Santiago, Cape Verde Islands
Praia de Santiago, Cape Verde Islands
Praia de Santiago, Cape Verde Islands
Praia de Santiago, Cape Verde Islands

2. St Vincent, Cape Verde Islands

The captivating island of St Vincent sits in the heart of the Cape Verde archipelago and  offers an abundance of cultural experiences and natural beauty that’ll leave you inspired. From the iconic Baía das Gatas beach, with its soft golden sands and lapping turquoise waters, to the lively capital city of Mindelo, filled with colourful murals, the sounds of traditional music and restaurants, St Vincent truly is a feast for the senses.

 

As you wander the streets of the capital, you’ll be treated to an array of candy-coloured  colonial architecture and experience an intoxicating blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences. Porto Grande Bay, Mindelo’s natural harbour, not only offers idyllic views out to sea but is also where you’ll find the majority of the island’s restaurants serving local cuisines. Make sure you try the national dish, cashupa - a slow-cooked stew made with beans and meat or fish.

 

Beyond the city, you’ll find stunning natural wonders that make this island a true paradise. Take a trip up Monte Verde, the island’s highest point at a 744m elevation, and be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic vistas. St Vincent is not just a vibrant island of natural beauty and cultural richness, but a true gem of the Cape Verde Islands.

 

View cruises to St Vincent here.

Caboverde, St Vincent island, Mindelo
Caboverde, St Vincent island, Mindelo
Caboverde, St Vincent island, Mindelo
Caboverde, St Vincent island, Mindelo

Get to know Arcadia...

The Glass House wine flights

3. Casablanca, Morocco

Morocco’s largest city truly is an architecture lover’s paradise. Wander winding streets dotted with French-colonial houses and whitewashed Moorish wonders. Or explore the mix of Art Deco delights and modern creativity on show in its centre.

 

Take a trip to the iconic Hassan II Mosque (the second largest in the world), and discover a marvel of modern architecture perched right on the Atlantic coastline. Its breathtaking minaret soaring into the sky is a testimony to Morocco’s cultural heritage. And don’t miss your chance to visit the incredible Royal Palace and see the ruins of the Cellah Fortress, which was part of the old town that was abandoned in the 12th century. Enjoy a wander around the Habous Quarter you’ll find tree-lined squares and winding alleyways filled with Maghrebi buildings.

 

For those seeking peace and tranquillity, Casablanca boasts an array of beautiful beaches such as Ain Diab. Here, you can soak up the sun while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean—the perfect place to unwind after exploring the city's bustling streets. And if you’re looking to indulge in the local gastronomy, be sure to sample Moroccan dishes like tagine or pastilla at one of city’s quaint cafes or bustling markets.

 

Whether you’re marvelling at architectural wonders, relishing local cuisines, or relaxing on sandy shores, there’s a whole host of unforgettable experiences waiting for you in Casablanca. 

 

View cruises to Casablanca here.

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco

Or maybe Ventura is the ship for you?

Silent Disco on board Azura

4. Agadir, Morocco

Nestled between the Atlantic coast and the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Agadir truly is one of the pearls of Morocco. With an average 300 days of sunshine per year, this enchanting city, rich in history and culture, has golden sands that stretch for miles. 

 

Soak up the colours, smells and sights of the famous El Had souk, where you’ll find everything from fragrant spices to handmade rugs and hand-crafted souvenirs. With around 6,000 stalls, it’s one of the largest markets in the whole of Morocco. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Agadir's fascinating history, explore the remnants of the Agadir Oufella, an ancient kasbah offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.

 

As Morocco’s favourite coastal destination, you won’t want to miss soaking up the sun on Agadir’s gorgeous, sheltered beaches. Relax on pristine sands or take the opportunity to surf, jet ski, or paddle along the coast. And on the vibrant beach promenade, you’ll find restaurants and bars overlooking the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can indulge your taste buds with traditional local dishes like tagine or couscous at eateries that showcase Agadir's culinary heritage.

 

With endless beaches, its ingredient souk and preserved heritage, the enchanting city of Agadir invites you to create unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever. 

 

View cruises to Agadir here.

Agadir, Morocco
Agadir, Morocco
Agadir, Morocco
Agadir, Morocco

Enjoy a sneak peak of Aurora...