Set Sail for Spain and North Africa


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Set Sail for Spain and North Africa

14 Days Starting and ending in Southampton, United Kingdom

Visiting: Cadiz, Gibraltar, Cartagena, Malaga, Ceuta, Tangier

Tour operator:

Ramble Worldwide

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Trip Styles:

Cruise, Luxury

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

Tour Overview

Sail through the Alboran Sea in the western Mediterranean to southern Spain and north Africa. 

Start your journey through the Western Mediterranean in Spain! Visit Cadiz, where a fascinating tour with a local guide unveils the city's hidden gems. 

Continue your adventure in Gibraltar, where the awe-inspiring landscape awaits. Walk through its enchanting nature reserve, passing iconic landmarks such as the Rock of Gibraltar, St Michael's Cave, the historic WWII Tunnels, and the impressive Moorish castle. 

Sail to Cartagena in Spain, where a short drive takes you to Tentegorra for a walk along the Collado del Roldan, with wonderful views along the coast to El Portus. 

Your voyage continues to Malaga in Spain. Stretch your legs with a pleasant walk amongst the pine trees and lavender in the Montes de Malaga high above the city. Enjoy the panoramic views across Malaga and the Mediterranean. 

Afterwards, set sail to Ceuta, located on the African peninsula, and immerse ourselves in its rich culture with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

Finish your discovery in Morocco. Tangier is located on the northern tip of Morocco. Its blue and white streets are picturesque and Tangier’s vibrant lifestyle is a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary!

One of the unique things about cruising holidays is that it allows us to discover extraordinary remote places that you would not usually be able to visit. In some ports of call you follow captivating walking trails and in some you will spend time with local guides, furthering your knowledge of history and culture during your exploration ashore. There will be free time in each port for you to explore at leisure, and your leader is always able to offer interesting suggestions.

Highlights

  • Gibraltar's nature reserve and the Rock of Gibraltar with panoramic views and Barbary Apes.

  • Explore the historical city of Cartagena, Spain, with its significant Roman sites.

  • Discover the vibrant culture and history of Malaga, including the Alcazaba fortress.

  • Visit Ceuta, a Spanish city on the African continent, with its diverse architecture and underwater flora.

  • Experience the unique blend of cultures in Ceuta, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea.

  • Explore Tangier's colorful markets, historic Medina, and the famous Caves of Hercules.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Southampton - Welcome Aboard!

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Dinner

Board your ship at the port and set sail in the early evening. Check in for your cruise begins one hour prior to embarkation, and embarkation at the cruise terminal usually begins three hours before departure and closes one hour prior to sailing. At the port you will be greeted by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ staff, including porters who will arrange for your luggage to be delivered to your cabin.  There will be a letter from your leader in your cabin informing you of the place and time for you to meet the rest of the group that evening.

Day 2 - 4 : At Sea

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Time at sea to relax and make the most of your ships on board entertainment. Perhaps enjoy a coffee in the lounge or find a quiet spot on the sun deck to relax and read a book. Why not indulge in the luxury on board food…you are on holiday!

Day 5 : Cadiz, Spain

Location: Cadiz

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Cadiz is well known by Fred Olsen and their ships as in the past the port was chosen as the destination where all four of their ships would meet, 'Four Captains in Cadiz'. To best tell you what makes this town so special you will be met by a local guide. Its 18th Century city walls, cobbled streets and picturesque squares give you a feeling of being in North Africa. As you delve into the areas history, your local guide takes you to the main sights and a must is to stop and try some chocolatey churros. Once your tour has finished there will be time to walk around the headland or self exploration.

Day 6 : Gibraltar

Location: Gibraltar

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Walks

Distance: 5.5 miles


Time: 3-4 hours


Ascent: 400


Descent: 400


Gibraltar is a three-mile-long headland on the Iberian Peninsula on the south coast of Spain. Its British-like high streets are surrounded by long sandy beaches and picturesque Mediterranean charm, plus has a year-round subtropical climate! Spend your time here exploring its history and diverse landscapes on foot. The cable car whisks you up to the nature reserve and the Rock of Gibraltar, standing at 426m above sea level, providing impressive panoramic views. You may see Barbary Apes hanging out here!Your walk takes you through Gibraltar Nature Reserve, past sites of interest including St Michael’s Cave, the WWII Tunnels (spanning over 34 miles in total) and the Moorish Castle. The route takes you down the spine of Gibraltar, back into the main town for independent exploration.The Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket is included so you can explore a variety of sites during your time here. miles

Day 7 : Cartagena, Spain

Location: Cartagena

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Walks

Distance: 5 miles


Time: 3 hours


Ascent: 270


Descent: 340


Dock in Cartagena in Spain, an old historical city filled with very important roman sites. A short drive to the west of Cartagena brings you to Tentegorra. From here a broad track rises to the Collado del Roldan, a pass from where there are wonderful views up and down the coast to El Portus. You'll  return by coach to Cartagena to explore the city after lunch. miles

Day 8 : Malaga, Spain

Location: Malaga

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Walks

Distance: 8 miles


Time: 4 hours


Ascent: 250


Descent: 250


Sail into the Andalusian city of Malaga, known for its wealth of history, vibrant culture, lively atmosphere, tapas bars and beautiful beaches. Today a coach takes you high up into the Montes de Málaga above the city for a pleasant walk amidst the pines, eucalyptus, broom, lavender and cistus with panoramic views down to Málaga and the Mediterranean.After the walk there may be some time to explore the streets and squares of Málaga. Venture past the Alcazaba, an ancient Moorish fortress and one of Malaga's most recognised monuments. miles

Day 9 : Cueta, Spain

Location: Ceuta

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Walks

Sail onto Spain to Ceuta, located on a peninsula off the north of Africa. A local guide will help you to discover Ceuta, and its history. Pass its royal walls, Plaza’s cathedral, the central market and may even have time to explore both Plaza de Africa and Plaza de los Reyes. You may spot the giant Pillars of Hercules statue! You will see its architecture is influenced by Christian, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim culture. It has a diverse underwater flora and fauna that is ever changing as this is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea, making its coastline popular for water activities, including kayaking, wildlife watching, as well as scuba diving. miles

Day 10 : Tangier, Morocco

Location: Tangier

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Tangier is located on the northern tip of Morocco, just a stones throw away from Spain. Its blue and white streets are picturesque and Tangier’s vibrant lifestyle is a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary, and an ideal backdrop for many films including James Bond’s Spectre. Here you will find modern cafes and restaurants as well as museums, souks and picturesque quiet beaches. Your guide will take you through the colourful markets, the historic Medina, spice markets and artisan weaving factories. You'll also be able to see the famous Caves of Hercules.

Day 11 - 13 : At Sea

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Embarking on two full days at sea, prepare for a plethora of exciting activities aboard Fred Olsen cruise ships. Indulge in a diverse range of options that cater to all preferences. From enriching lectures and wellness classes to captivating live performances and immersive workshops, the day is brimming with opportunities to engage and relax.

Day 14 : Disembarkation Day

Accommodation Name: Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Arrive back at your embarkation port around 07.00 for disembarkation after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on most days of the tour.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided on the Balmoral (Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines) for the duration of the tour.

  • Gibraltar Nature Reserve Ticket

    The Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket is included for exploration of various sites.

  • Local Guide in Ceuta

    A local guide is included to help discover Ceuta and its history.

What's Not Included

  • Independent Exploration

    Time for independent exploration is provided, but any associated costs are not included.

  • Water Activities in Ceuta

    Water activities such as kayaking, wildlife watching, and scuba diving in Ceuta are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style aboard the Balmoral cruise ship, providing a seamless and luxurious journey across Spain and North Africa. Enjoy the convenience of onboard amenities and the opportunity to explore various destinations with ease.

Accommodation

Enjoy your stay aboard the Balmoral, a Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines ship, offering comfortable accommodations throughout your 13-night journey. Experience the charm and hospitality of this well-appointed cruise ship as you explore Spain and North Africa.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided on the Balmoral, a Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines ship, for the duration of the 13-night journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on most days of the tour.

  • Is there a guide available during the tour?

    Yes, a local guide is included to help discover Ceuta and its history.

  • What activities are available on the ship during days at sea?

    During days at sea, you can enjoy onboard entertainment, such as lectures, wellness classes, live performances, and workshops.

  • What is included in the Gibraltar visit?

    The Gibraltar Nature Reserve ticket is included, allowing you to explore various sites such as St Michael’s Cave, the WWII Tunnels, and the Moorish Castle.

  • What can I expect to see in Tangier, Morocco?

    In Tangier, you will explore the colourful markets, historic Medina, spice markets, artisan weaving factories, and the famous Caves of Hercules.

  • Are there any water activities included in Ceuta?

    No, water activities such as kayaking, wildlife watching, and scuba diving in Ceuta are not included in the tour package.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once you have paid your deposit, and all of the elements of your holiday are confirmed, we will provide a Confirmation of Booking and Invoice Pack. The confirmation of booking confirms your holiday arrangements, any special requests, and the balance due date. Please take the time to check this document carefully and please let us know immediately if there are any inaccuracies. As part of this pack, you’ll also receive a Holiday Information Sheet with more detail about your holiday. We will send reminder(s) for any missing details, which are important for your booking, so please update us as soon as you can. A MONTH BEFORE DEPARTURE Now’s the time to really start looking forward to your holiday, and 3-4 weeks before departure we’ll send out any updated information relating to your trip, including any local information. If you have any questions regarding your holiday arrangements, please get in touch with us. THREE WEEKS BEFORE DEPARTURE We aim to send out your Travel Documents and joining instructions 3 weeks before departure, please take the time to read through these documents and note your up-to-date flight schedules (if/where relevant), check-in times, and luggage allowance.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You may be able to change your dates. Please refer to Section 5 of our Booking Conditions for more details or message us for assistance. Note that charges and limitations may apply.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover. The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked. Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number. In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term. If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by Ramble Worldwide staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Reviews of this operator

Avram Taylor (Google Reviewer)  

I went on the Dobbiaco...

25-Jul-2024

I went on the Dobbiaco and the Tre Cime holiday in July 2024. This was an excellent holiday overall. The walks are very well designed and the scenery is beautiful. There are frequent rest points during the walks and, where possible, people can choose to stop and wait or leave the walks. There is a good variety of walks (lakes, forests and mountains) and the walk leader was excellent. I would recommend this holiday for those who want to see some of the most stunning scenery in the Dolomites and also want to do some enjoyable walking without the demands of the higher grade walks in the region.

Helen Thomas (Google Reviewer)  

My first Winter Adventure, snowshoeing...

07-Feb-2023

My first Winter Adventure, snowshoeing in Bach , Austria and will not be my last! The holiday exceeded my expectations from day 1! Everything was well organised, walks and scenery fabulous, hotel comfortable with a homely feel. I honestly cannot fault anything. Our walk leader Tania was excellent and went above and beyond what was expected. I am already looking towards booking another snowshoe holiday maybe in another location so I have a comparison. Overall an excellent experience and good value. 👌

Diane W (Google Reviewer)  

Excellent hotel, food, walks, leader...

24-Sep-2023

Excellent hotel, food, walks, leader and fellow walkers. Could not find any fault at all and would thoroughly recommend this holiday in Catalonia.

Martin Plaut (Google Reviewer)  

The Oman walking holiday is...

05-Feb-2024

The Oman walking holiday is excellent! Wonderful scenery, great drivers and lovely people. We had a real welcome from everyone we met.

Judith Hible (Google Reviewer)  

Once you're safely in your...

27-Aug-2024

Once you're safely in your seat on the 'plane - you can relax. Ramble Worldwide will take care of everything else.

Elizabeth Smith (Google Reviewer)  

Lake Como trip (level 2)...

22-Jun-2024

Lake Como trip (level 2) was outstanding. Our leader Elaine was excellent and planned our days with lovely surprises along the way. The scenery was outstanding, stunning walks with variation in the views, lovely restaurants, delicious food, comfortable accommodation. The boat rides across the lake were amazing. The villas and their gardens stunning. The group was small, and we enjoyed each other's company. One fantastic trip.

Phil Chadwick (Google Reviewer)  

I had a fantastic week...

07-Jan-2024

I had a fantastic week on the High in the Alpujarras holiday over New Year. It was a really well-planned week with fantastic routes and a great leader. It far exceeded my expectations, which were already high. Probably helped by a nice group of people and great weather The New Year celebrations in the hotel were fantastic. Should have packed a dinner jacket :)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Ramble Worldwide requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of ramble worldwide charges.

    Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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