News

Saga Cruises has released its new programme of 2018 sailings which include putting West Africa back on the cruise map.

The 20 night Saga Pearl II ‘Traditions of the Canaries and Africa’ Cruise gives guests time to go ashore in Banjul, in The Gambia, and Dakar, in Senegal.

The themed cruise will focus on West Africa’s culture and traditions and includes talks by an anthropologist about local culture, customs and current issues. Authentic African dishes are prepped by a local chef and there is a traditional performance by Gambian dancers plus an art, dance and music performance in Dakar.

Banjul is the tiny capital of The Gambia and the political centre of the oldest democracy in Africa. The country is actually little more than the banks of the mighty River Gambia, set on St Mary’s Island, where the river joins the Atlantic.

Dakar is on West Africa’s westernmost point and the capital of French-speaking Senegal. Here there is a frenetic buzz of activity and visitors can try their hand at bartering in the craft markets for traditional embroidery, woodcarvings, metalwork and costume jewellery or just relax in the sunshine and taste the local mint tea.

Although Dakar is West Africa’s oldest European city, it is the most westernized and bears the legacy of Africa’s French colonial past, especially in the downtown Plateau area, where the architecture has echoes of southern France.

James Langley, Saga’s Head of Marine Operations, said:

“We're delighted to offer our cruise passengers ports of call in Banjul and Senegal. Enrichment and immersion is a key part of our cruise itineraries and these ports will provide passengers with unforgettable sights, amazing experiences and wonderful memories."

This 20-night all-inclusive* cruise on January 8, 2018 sails from Southampton and also makes calls to São Vicente, in the Cape Verde Islands, 300 miles off the coast of West Africa; Santa Cruz, La Palma and Arrecife, Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands; Funchal, Madeira and Portimão and Lisbon, Portugal.

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For details visit saga.co.uk/ocean-cruises or call 0800 50 50 30

The Traditions of the Canaries and Africa 20-night cruise starts from £2,799 departing from Southampton on January 8, 2018 and returns to Portsmouth on January 28, 2018. Price includes UK travel package to and from Southampton, all meals and entertainment, *all-inclusive drinks which include selected wines at lunch and dinner, Saga house-branded spirits, draught beer and lager, non-alcoholic cocktails and all and soft drinks, afternoon tea, 24-hour room service, welcome cocktail party, unlimited tea and coffee in selected venues, free Wi-Fi internet, all on-board gratuities, porterage, free shuttle bus to nearest town centre (whenever possible and when the ship is berthed more than 500 yards away), optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a discount if passenger has own insurance.

'Price based on two people sharing the lowest available Inside cabin and includes any relevant booking discount. Fare was correct at the time of sending and is subject to availability and change. Further terms and conditions apply. Please call for details.'

Editors: Saga Holidays is the winner of 16 Gold British Travel Awards 2015 including Best Small Ships Cruise Line, Best Specialist Cruise Line (Ocean) and Best Cruise Line for Customer Service.

Contact PR Manager Naomi Thornton email naomi.thornton@saga.co.uk or call 01303 772499

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers aged over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award winning Saga Magazine.