Buzzing Buenos Aires 

Get a taste for Argentina’s capital   

With its fusion of faded European splendour and Latin American panache, Buenos Aires is the ideal way to start your journey.  

Take in the beautiful architecture, such as the opera house of Teatro Colón, the pretty-in-pink Casa Rosada, and the National Museum of Fine Arts, which displays works by Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso. Explore the colourful street museum in La Boca with its buzzy markets and restaurants.  If you can, why not arrive here early to fully explore the city or join our optional Pre-Programme. 

Once you’ve soaked up the sights and sounds, it’s time to board MS Fridtjof Nansen. Before we embark, take time to settle into your cabin and meet your Expedition Team. Over the coming days, you’ll be completely immersed in the sights, sounds and science of the sea.

Oceans, nature and you 

Unwind and open your mind to the wonders of the sea 

Over the next few days, you’ll spend your time appreciating and learning about the wonders of the sea. It’s time to relax and unwind on your oceanic retreat.  

Oceanography and science at sea  

As we head across the ocean, you’ll study the changes in the sea and the effect of ocean currents, like the Gulf Stream, in lectures and workshops. Learn about the differences between marine life along the continental shelf and the deep ocean with the Expedition Team. This might involve observing seabirds or analysing water samples in the Science Center.   

Navigation old and new  

You’ll explore celestial navigation, astronomy, and how this compares with modern-day electronic instruments. Discover how explorers of old navigated the seas using tools like a sextant, and how the Vikings used optical calcite and the stars.  

Conservation and Citizen Science  

You’ll look at issues blighting our oceans like plastic pollution, and what we can do to reduce this. We’ll explain our commitment to the environment and the steps we’re taking towards becoming a leader in sustainable travel.  You can join Citizen Science projects that may include: whale spotting for Happywhale, a global tracker; noting cloud and sky conditions for the GLOBE observer in conjunction with NASA; or taking seabird counts.   

Connecting with nature 

Take some time to observe and appreciate the wonders of the nature around you. Silently contemplate the majesty of the sea or the shifting of the clouds above. Scan for wildlife out on deck and observe the harmony of their movements and notice the calming effect this has. You can also attend bird and sea life observations out on deck with our onboard naturalists. Studies show that regularly interacting with nature makes us healthier and happier. Research also shows that people who feel connected to nature are more likely to behave in ways which promote environmental health and conservation. Explore what actions you can take to maintain this virtuous circle.  

Oceanic arts and crafts 

Disconnect from the stress of modern life and reconnect with yourself through our arts and crafts workshops. Craft-based activities have been proven to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, improve cognitive abilities, as well as enhance overall happiness. You can put that to the test for yourself during your cruise with us. You can also combine science and art by joining a unique workshop where you can inspect samples under a microscope and then paint them, just like scientists did before the invention of micro-photography. 

Rest and relaxation 

Enjoy the facilities onboard your comfortable expedition ship. Indulge in an optional spa treatment, relax in the hot tub, infinity pool and sauna, or work out in the gym. Put your feet up in the lounge with a book and get to know your fellow guests. In the evenings, you can look forward to some fun activities as the Expedition Team host quiz nights, Q&A sessions, put on movie nights, and hold impromptu talks about the area you’re sailing in.

Sunset over Santiago 

See Santiago’s eclectic mix of cultural influences 

Today you’ll reach Cape Verde, an archipelago of tropical and volcanic islands off the coast of Africa. Some of our guests will find this the perfect spot to end their voyage and gently adjust back to life on land. 

As we arrive in Praia on the island of Santiago, look out for Farol de Dona Maria Pia lighthouse, built in 1881. On a clear day, you should also be able to see Platô, the site of the UNESCO-listed historic capital Cidade Velha. 

We’ll say goodbye to some of our fellow travellers as the sun sets over the island, and prepare for our onward journey on the tranquillity of the seas.

Towards Lisbon

Enjoy your last few days of serenity at sea 

As you cruise towards Lisbon, enjoy these days at sea to embrace all you have experienced onboard and take the time to relax with your fellow travellers. Make the most of the lectures available, spend time reading and relaxing, or just gazing out onto the horizon. 

Soak up the tranquillity of the natural wonders all around. Connecting with nature is not only good for our health, but also the health of the planet. As you bond with its beauty, you’ll discover changes you can make to protect its fragile wellbeing.

Legendary Lisbon 

One of southern Europe's most enchanting cities   

Your revitalising transoceanic cruise draws to a close as we arrive at the Portuguese capital of Lisbon.  

We recommend a tour of Lisbon's classical districts where almost everything of historic interest can be found. Start your exploration at the Praça do Comercio in Baixa and walk towards the narrow streets of Bairro Alto. From there, you'll arrive at Alfama and the old Islamic quarter, where there are the remains of a Roman theatre and Moorish fortress.  

You can also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery and sample the delicious pastéis de Belém.  

If you’re not ready to head home yet, you can extend your stay and join our optional Post-Programme.