13-Day Atlantic Crossing

The roots of historic Lisbon's fame lie in its strategic position on the edge of the Atlantic and the fact it offers one of the world's greatest natural harbours. No surprise therefore that it became the home of the world's most famous explorers such as Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator. Built on seven hills, we always find Lisbon to be soulful, captivating and picturesque, with architecture which reflects its status as a great port.

Funchal, Madeira’s bustling capital, tumbles down a dramatic hillside towards a beautiful sweeping bay. Highlights include colourful markets, wine lodges and the spectacular cable car ride up to the village of Monte, home of the famous toboggan run.

Antigua is famously home to 365 beaches - one for every day of the year - and there is an undeniable allure to the many white sand coves dotted along the coast. The capital, St John’s, is worth a look, but if you’ve got time to visit the south coast you’ll find historic Nelson’s Dockyard a lot more interesting.

The beach at South Friars Bay is a lovely sweep of golden sand at the southern end of St Kitts, although it can get a little busy when the larger cruise ships are docked on the island. There are several bars and restaurants along this half-mile stretch, with watersports equipment and loungers available to rent.

Trois-Îlets is perhaps best known for the plantation La Pagerie, the birthplace and childhood home of Joséphine Bonaparte. The main beach, Anse Mitan, is a picturesque spot with a few shops and restaurants close by, and you can catch a ferry across the bay to Martinique’s bustling capital, Fort-de-France.

There’s more to Barbados than just beaches; the delightful architecture of the old garrison in Bridgetown, the capital, is fully deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage status, and the island interior is littered with old sugar plantations and natural wonders such as Harrison’s Cave.