Transatlantic – Montevideo to Lisbon

Discover the charm of Uruguay’s capital 

Before boarding the ship, spend time getting to know Montevideo. Follow the Rambla, the city's famous waterfront promenade that hugs nearly 14 miles of coastline, then wander inland to Ciudad Vieja, where colonial architecture lines cobbled streets and the scent of grilling meat drifts from Mercado del Puerto. This is a UNESCO City of Literature too, so duck into one of its dozens of independent bookshops between palm-lined plazas and quiet churches with views out over the water. 

In the afternoon, board the MS Fridtjof Nansen and settle into your cabin. As evening falls meet your fellow passengers and the Expedition Team, your experts for the adventure ahead. 

Science and stargazing at sea 

Enjoy these days at sea as you wish. Enjoy the ship's wellness and fitness facilities, unwind with a book in the lounge, and check the daily programme. This might include lectures, hands-on science sessions, photography workshops, and stargazing on deck. 

Experience the city’s pulsing energy

Brazil's first colonial capital is one of Latin America's most compelling cities. African, indigenous, and Portuguese influences collide here, creating an atmosphere you won't find anywhere else. Explore Salvador at your leisure, from its cobbled streets and rainbow-coloured houses, to the beautiful beaches. 

Conversations, ocean life, and constellations

As we make our way to Cape Verde, you'll have several days to learn about the culture and landscapes of the countries ahead. The Expedition Team may lead lectures and workshops on Cape Verde, the Canary Islands, and the constellations overhead at night. Use the ship's facilities at your leisure or find a reading spot with a sea view. We’ll also cross the equator on this passage.

Cape Verde's cultural heartbeat

Welcome to Mindelo, the city at the beating heart of Cape Verdean culture. Famed for its lively music, beautiful beaches and mountain backdrop, this is a city that looks and feels quite unlike anywhere else. 

Take some time to explore the multi-coloured homes that dot the streets or peruse the stalls at Mercardo Municipal, the capital’s food market that dates back to the 18th century. The colonial-era centre is a must, but leave time for a cold drink and people-watching at one of the seafront bars. 

Downtime on the Atlantic 

As we sail towards Grand Canaria, you’ll have another opportunity to relax. Share stories with fellow travellers over dinner or drinks on deck, and remember to check the daily programme for lectures and other happenings. 

Explore the city’s historic old town 

Today we dock in the lush Canary Island of Gran Canaria. Las Palmas is located at the crossroads of three continents: Europe, Africa, and America. Stroll the streets of the old town, at your leisure, taking in cosmopolitan cafés, 16th-century architecture, and the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral. This is a place to learn about the island's volcanic origins and feel the relaxed rhythm that defines life in the Canaries. 

Final days aboard  

Enjoy your last days on the ship however you like. One more soak in the hot tub, a drink at the bar with fellow passengers, and a chance to learn about the history of Lisbon, one of Europe's most exciting cities. 

Disembark in Portugal’s colourful capital

Lisbon marks the end of your expedition. As you bid farewell to MS Fridtjof Nansen, the Expedition Team, and your fellow travellers, we hope you leave with lasting memories of your voyage.  

Be sure to leave time to explore Lisbon itself – the buzzy Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture. Take a stroll along its hilly cobbled streets, hop on a canary-yellow tram to take in a panoramic viewpoint and tuck into flaky pastel de nata (custard tarts) freshly made at the city’s decades-old bakeries. 

Embrace the opportunity to explore the districts of Baixa, Bairro Alto, and Chiado, where fado music floats out of the open doors of bars and cafés, and pause for a drink at one of the city’s many lively squares. Just outside of the city you can visit the impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. 

You also have the option to stay on board MS Fridtjof Nansen, by joining our expedition cruise along the rich coastline of Europe, on the way to Hamburg.