120-NT Cape To Cape World Cruise: Miami To Dover

Everyone should sail through the Panama Canal at least once. It is a remarkable experience and a moving one when you know the mixture of tragedy and triumph, French farce and financial meltdown which went into its building. The French spent 20 fruitless years trying to build a canal - Suez-style - straight through the land. Then the Americans tried a lock-based canal and, between 1903 and 1914, completed the waterway that stands today. Look out for memorial plaques to the thousands who died in its creation, mainly of diseases rife in the forests and swamps through which the canal was forged. It is 50 miles long and, from the Caribbean side, your ship will be lifted 85ft by the Gatun Locks into Gatun Lake. She then negotiates the narrow Gaillard Cut to the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks which lower her back down to the level of the Pacific, which you first see stretching out on the other side of the towering Bridge of the Americas.

Peppered with classic French and Spanish architecture, you can roam as far as your eyes can see in decadent Fuerte Amador.

Peppered with classic French and Spanish architecture, you can roam as far as your eyes can see in decadent Fuerte Amador.

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s vibrant port city, hums with energy along the Guayas River. Spend your day strolling the colourful Malecón 2000, exploring the art-filled Las Peñas district, or spotting wildlife in the city’s tropical parks. From riverfront views to colonial charm, Guayaquil offers a lively taste of coastal Ecuador.

Salaverry offers access to Trujillo, Peru’s historic second city. Discover pastel-hued colonial architecture, wrought-iron balconies, and remarkable ancient sites such as Chan Chan, once the capital of the Chimu civilisation.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.

Pisco dates from 1640, and its Plaza de Armas is a Spanish colonial treasure. Another treasure is the Ballestas Islands, an offshore cluster of rocky outcroppings teeming with seabirds, penguins, sea lions, dolphins and other wildlife.

Remote and mysterious, Easter Island is a Polynesian gem in the southeastern Pacific, famed for its iconic Moai statues. Spend your day uncovering ancient archaeological sites, wandering volcanic landscapes, and soaking in the island’s rich Rapa Nui culture and legends, an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most intriguing places.

Remote and mysterious, Easter Island is a Polynesian gem in the southeastern Pacific, famed for its iconic Moai statues. Spend your day uncovering ancient archaeological sites, wandering volcanic landscapes, and soaking in the island’s rich Rapa Nui culture and legends, an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most intriguing places.

part of Chile’s Juan Fernández Archipelago, is famed as the home of Alexander Selkirk, the real-life inspiration for Robinson Crusoe. The island’s unique ecosystem shelters rare wildlife, including the Juan Fernández fur seal. Visitors can snorkel, hike, or enjoy fresh lobster in San Juan Bautista.

Santa Clara Island, in the heart of San Sebastián’s La Concha Bay, is a lush, tranquil escape just 500 meters from shore. Surrounded by cliffs and clear waters, it offers stunning views of Monte Igueldo, Monte Urgull, and the city skyline, with perfect spots for walking, birdwatching, and photography.

A single tram ride will open up a whole vista of possibilities during your visit to Valparaiso - from the colourful houses set upon the hillsides to the stunning Maipo Valley wine region.

Despite a population of more than 130,000, Puerto Montt retains the feel of a small town. For a simple introduction to the city, walk along the waterfront road to the fishing port of Angelmo, discovering its shore lined with tempting artisan's stalls and a collection of small cafes. Accessible from the seaport town of Puerto Montt, Chile's Lake District is an enchanted realm of emerald waterways and snow-capped volcanoes.

The towns are largely built of abundant local woods, and many houses are elaborately shingled in intricate designs. Even the cathedral is a beautiful, vaulted structure crafted of local hardwoods.

Aysén District, south of Chiloé and Puerto Montt, features dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and vast valleys framed by the Andes. Puerto Chacabuco serves as the main port and gateway to scenic sailings to Laguna San Rafael through Western Patagonia’s channels and island.

At the head of scenic Eyre Fjord is situated the longest glacier in the southern hemisphere outside of Antarctica. The monumental ice-mass of the Brüggen Glacier fills the fjord to a width of 4.5 kilometers (3 miles) and covers an area of 1,265 square kilometers (488 square miles).

Cruise into Asia Fjord, where turquoise ice, cascading waterfalls, and towering glaciers from the South Patagonian Ice Field create Patagonia’s wildest spectacle.

The Strait of Magellan is a 350-mile/570 km channel separating the mainland of South America from the large Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego and connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The western coast of South America meets the Pacific Ocean, the north and east are bordered by the Atlantic while the Caribbean surrounds the north-west corner of the land. Most of the continent’s 385 million inhabitants live along the east and west coasts, with only a small proportion of the population settled inland.

Stretching half a mile wide at its face and extending more than 10 miles back to where the Garibaldi Fjord surrenders to the Beagle Channel, this glacier is a testament to nature's grandeur. Unlike many glaciers that carry moraine or glacial till, Garibaldi boasts a medial moraine, a characteristic pointing to the fusion of two individual glaciers.

The southernmost town on earth, surrounded by spectacular snow-capped mountains, waterways and the Tierra del Fuego National Park, this small town in Argentina is the gateway to some stunning locations.

Witness the wonder of Antarctica up close, with its eternal grandeur and untouched splendour. Towering snow-covered peaks, bustling penguin colonies, and majestic parades of colossal icebergs await; the graceful flight of an albatross over a deep indigo sea, whales surfacing below, and the surprise of a rainbow arching across the sky during the endless twilight. Depending on weather, ice conditions and reported wildlife distribution during your voyage, your captain and expedition team will curate days of discovery and adventure for you in Antarctica.

Witness the wonder of Antarctica up close, with its eternal grandeur and untouched splendour. Towering snow-covered peaks, bustling penguin colonies, and majestic parades of colossal icebergs await; the graceful flight of an albatross over a deep indigo sea, whales surfacing below, and the surprise of a rainbow arching across the sky during the endless twilight. Depending on weather, ice conditions and reported wildlife distribution during your voyage, your captain and expedition team will curate days of discovery and adventure for you in Antarctica.

Witness the wonder of Antarctica up close, with its eternal grandeur and untouched splendour. Towering snow-covered peaks, bustling penguin colonies, and majestic parades of colossal icebergs await; the graceful flight of an albatross over a deep indigo sea, whales surfacing below, and the surprise of a rainbow arching across the sky during the endless twilight. Depending on weather, ice conditions and reported wildlife distribution during your voyage, your captain and expedition team will curate days of discovery and adventure for you in Antarctica.

Witness the wonder of Antarctica up close, with its eternal grandeur and untouched splendour. Towering snow-covered peaks, bustling penguin colonies, and majestic parades of colossal icebergs await; the graceful flight of an albatross over a deep indigo sea, whales surfacing below, and the surprise of a rainbow arching across the sky during the endless twilight. Depending on weather, ice conditions and reported wildlife distribution during your voyage, your captain and expedition team will curate days of discovery and adventure for you in Antarctica.

Witness the wonder of Antarctica up close, with its eternal grandeur and untouched splendour. Towering snow-covered peaks, bustling penguin colonies, and majestic parades of colossal icebergs await; the graceful flight of an albatross over a deep indigo sea, whales surfacing below, and the surprise of a rainbow arching across the sky during the endless twilight. Depending on weather, ice conditions and reported wildlife distribution during your voyage, your captain and expedition team will curate days of discovery and adventure for you in Antarctica.

The Falkland Islands are a remote, windswept archipelago of stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, and abundant wildlife, including penguins and albatross. Over 200 islands surround West and East Falkland, rich in maritime history and marked by the legacy of the 1982 conflict. Today, the islands are a self-governing British Overseas Territory.

The Falkland Islands are a remote, windswept archipelago of stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, and abundant wildlife, including penguins and albatross. Over 200 islands surround West and East Falkland, rich in maritime history and marked by the legacy of the 1982 conflict. Today, the islands are a self-governing British Overseas Territory.

The remote and sparsely-populated Falkland Islands are a birders' paradise and a great place to observe marine animals. The Falkland Islands are usually included as part of an Antarctic route incorporating South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsular. Stretched along the sheltered harbour, the colourful buildings of Stanley bid a friendly welcome to all visitors. The tiny capital city is village-sized but has the amenities you would expect of a large town and lots to discover. Shore excursions can be booked on board ship which is recommended for anyone keen to take a tour. Tours range from various trips to penguin colonies and farms, Stanley’s highlights by bus, battlefield and walking tours. Small buses run regularly to the nearby penguin colony at Gypsy Cove and the city is easy to explore on foot but to get the best from your visit, a tour with a local guide is highly recommended.

Uruguay's vibrant capital city Montevideo houses close to half of the nation's population, resulting in a diverse and exciting metropolitan environment. Your Montevideo exploration could start in the large Plaza Independencia which lies between the Old and New City. Full of interesting architecture the historical Old City has maintained buildings dating back to the Colonial times, whilst the Torre Antel, a distinctly modern skyscraper, shows the evolution of the city. Wine connoisseurs should explore further afield of the city and take advantage of the range of wineries and ranches which help make Uruguay one of the leading wine producers in South America.

Argentina's capital possesses a grandeur embodied by the Colon Theatre, one of the world's great opera houses. The vast Recoleta Cemetery is worth a visit too, where you'll find the black marble memorial that is the resting place of Eva Peron. For many, the city's soul lies in districts like La Boca, home to colourful houses and lively tango caf̩es.

Argentina's capital possesses a grandeur embodied by the Colon Theatre, one of the world's great opera houses. The vast Recoleta Cemetery is worth a visit too, where you'll find the black marble memorial that is the resting place of Eva Peron. For many, the city's soul lies in districts like La Boca, home to colourful houses and lively tango caf̩es.

Tristan da Cunha is the world’s most remote inhabited island, a rugged volcanic outpost where a tiny community lives amid towering peaks and abundant seabirds. Nearby Saint Helena, famously Napoleon’s place of exile, charms with dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and a rich history tucked deep in the South Atlantic.

Nightingale Island, part of the Tristan da Cunha group, is a tiny, rugged volcanic island in the South Atlantic. Renowned for its seabird colonies, including the endangered Nightingale and Tristan albatrosses, it’s a remote wildlife haven far from any mainland.

Situated on the deepest natural harbour in the Southern Hemisphere, Richards Bay will thrill both nature and culture seekers. Spend the day walking through the Umlalazi Nature Reserve where you might see one of the rarest birds of pray in South Africa, the Palm-Nut vulture or catch some sun or some waves at Aklantstrand Beach.

With its blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab cultures, this port offers visitors a wealth of sights, sounds and experiences to explore.

Durban offers a stunning blend of beach, culture, and adventure. With its long, golden beachfront and modern skyline, it overlooks the Indian Ocean, while inland, the Valley of a Thousand Hills awaits. Experience Zulu culture, explore wildlife, or relax on the sunny shores. Durban is South Africa’s subtropical gem, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Vast, vibrant Port Elizabeth stretches along Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape. Discover the city's rich architectural heritage in Market Square, enjoy the beautiful local beaches, or look for the 'Big Five' (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) at Shamwari Game Reserve.

Mossel Bay is a picturesque coastal town located along South Africa's famous Garden Route. Known for its stunning beaches, mild climate, and rich history, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. The town is nestled between lush forests and the Indian Ocean, providing a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and whale watching to surfing and exploring the pristine coastline.

Not only is Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it is also surrounded by magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day savour an awe inspiring cable car ride up Table Mountain. Perhaps make the poignant tour of Robben Island or take a cultural trip to Stellenbosch and its surrounding wine lands.

Not only is Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it is also surrounded by magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day savour an awe inspiring cable car ride up Table Mountain. Perhaps make the poignant tour of Robben Island or take a cultural trip to Stellenbosch and its surrounding wine lands.

In 1883, a German businessman, Adolf Luderitz, purchased a parcel of land enclosing a small bay for purposes of speculation. The so-called Skeleton Coast had limited potential in many ways, being largely made up of the shifting sands of the Namib Desert.

The 'Diamond of Africa' is a country of stark beauty and contrasting landscapes. It is home to the world’s oldest desert, the world’s highest sand dunes, and a diversity of people that have created an intriguing blend of cultures and traditions. Found between the sand dunes of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, the large natural lagoon of Walvis Bays is home to prolific birdlife.

The 'Diamond of Africa' is a country of stark beauty and contrasting landscapes. It is home to the world’s oldest desert, the world’s highest sand dunes, and a diversity of people that have created an intriguing blend of cultures and traditions. Found between the sand dunes of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, the large natural lagoon of Walvis Bays is home to prolific birdlife.

Luanda looks to be booming. Development and construction is fueled by extractive industries such as petroleum and diamonds. However over half the city’s residents live in poverty. It has for several years dominated the chart of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates, outstripping such notorious places as Hong Kong and London.

Africa's second smallest nation, São Tomé and Príncipe is home to stunning natural beauty. Príncipe is an almost entirely untouched island close to the equator with a population of less than 10,000. Hikers will love trekking through untouched jungle on the way to pristine beaches.

Cotonou is a busy port that serves both Benin and neighboring Togo. Although Porto-Novo is officially Benin’s capital, Cotonou is the economic heart of the nation, which stretches northward inland from the Bight of Benin. T

Located on the Gulf of Guinea in Ghana, Tema is a bustling port city known for an industrial center that offers visitors a fascinating blend of traditional culture and modern commerce.

Takoradi is a very important and busy West African seaport on Ghana’s Cape Coast, a main transport depot for container ships and oil tankers. Two of the main tourist sites near Takoradi are the village of Nzulemo and the old Portuguese slave depots called “castles.”

One of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan African cities, the Senegalese capital bears many visual reminders of its past as a French colonial outpost. Despite the Parisian-style boulevards and buildings, however, there is a distinctly African feel to the city. The common language is French, although many citizens may also speak as many as five or six ethnic languages, since the whole coast of West Africa has been steeped in a heritage of mutual trade for centuries. Among the many sights and sounds greeting visitors, none is more evocative and sobering than a visit to Goree Island and its House of Slaves. This fortress, just offshore of the city waterfront, displays many reminders of the brutal trade in human beings, including an unimposing doorway, set just above the waterline in the seaside wall, identified simply as the “Door of No Return.”

Secluded and tranquil, the Cape Verde Islands are among the most off-the-beaten-path destinations. The island of St. Vincent boasts fascinating markets and great bars, while the local community reflects the islands' history as a former slave trade hub. Mindelo is a picturesque port-city consisting of a mixture of cobbled streets and brightly coloured colonial buildings, with the majestic Mount Verde overseeing all. Home to nearly all of the island's population, the city is hailed as the cultural hub of Cape Verde.

Las Palmas is a large Spanish city, which just happens to be on the island of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands. That fact adds the exotic, slightly African and international flavour to the place. It played an important part in the early exploration and exploitation of Africa and the New World, some of which is recounted in the Casa de Colon Museum. Columbus may have slept there, but it was never his house. It was actually the mansion of early governors. Other museums of note are the Museo Canaria with a number of Cro Magnon skulls, and the fascinating Elder Museum of Science and Technology.

Lanzarote is a treat for all the senses. From artistic wonders to natural beauties, the Lanzarote brims with culture, adventure and glorious sunshine. Enjoy a number of the most beautiful destinations…Fancy tucking into some mezze at a waterfront café? Or sunbathing on Lanzarote’s best beaches? The sky’s the limit on a Lanzarote cruise holiday.

Casablanca is a bustling city where vibrant markets, grand architecture, and the Atlantic coastline come together. Visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, stroll the art deco streets, or explore the lively medina for local crafts and spices. With a mix of history, culture, and modern flair, Casablanca offers a dynamic Moroccan experience.

Step into the crossroads of Europe and Africa, where Moorish palaces, bustling markets, and Mediterranean views await. Wander the colorful medina, visit the Kasbah, or sip mint tea at a café overlooking the sea. With its rich history, exotic atmosphere, and mix of influences, Tangier offers an unforgettable taste of Morocco.

Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Europe, offering a fascinating blend of ancient history and vibrant coastal life. Stroll through its charming old town, visit the impressive Cádiz Cathedral, or relax on golden beaches with views of the Atlantic. With its laid-back atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Cádiz is a perfect place to soak in the essence of southern Spain.

Perched on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon is a city of golden light, grand plazas, and nostalgic charm. Ride a vintage tram through its winding streets, admire the intricate azulejos, and take in sweeping views from Sao Jorge Castle. From the soulful sounds of fado to the delicious pasteis de nata, Lisbon captivates at every turn.

Leixões, the vibrant port serving Porto, offers a gateway to Portugal’s northern treasures. From here, travelers can explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, stroll along the Douro River, or sample world-famous port wine at nearby cellars, all within easy reach of the bustling harbor.

A coastal gem in Galicia, La Coruña blends rich history with seaside charm. Visit the ancient Tower of Hercules, wander the Old Town’s narrow lanes, and sample fresh tapas by the sea. It’s a lively, scenic stop full of local flavor.

St Malo is a historic walled port city on France’s Brittany coast, known for its cobbled streets, ramparts, and maritime charm. Nearby, Le Mont Saint-Michel rises dramatically from the tidal flats, crowned by its iconic abbey, offering a magical blend of history, architecture, and sweeping coastal views.

Cherbourg is a town steeped in seafaring history. Located in Normandy, there's a rich past for you to explore, as well as some fantastic restaurants and cafes to relax in while you sample the views of the beautiful and dramatic coastline.

Rouen, located on the banks of the River Seine, is Normandy’s vibrant, historic and cultural capital. Monet’s famous depictions of Rouen Cathedral have made it many visitors’ favourite building in the city, but there are also many fine museums to explore. In the Joan of Arc Museum, you can find an insight into her life and her tragic death in Rouen. Also worth seeing are the botanical gardens, the cathedral "Notre Dame" and the monastery "Saint-Georges de Boscherville". With excellent local produce, Normandy’s food is known for being outstanding, and well worth exploring.

Rouen, located on the banks of the River Seine, is Normandy’s vibrant, historic and cultural capital. Monet’s famous depictions of Rouen Cathedral have made it many visitors’ favourite building in the city, but there are also many fine museums to explore. In the Joan of Arc Museum, you can find an insight into her life and her tragic death in Rouen. Also worth seeing are the botanical gardens, the cathedral "Notre Dame" and the monastery "Saint-Georges de Boscherville". With excellent local produce, Normandy’s food is known for being outstanding, and well worth exploring.

Dover is a coastal town in England’s southeastern county of Kent. Situated on the English Channel at the mouth of a valley in the chalk uplands that form the famous white cliffs, Dover is the closest English port to the European mainland. No trip here is complete without walking alongside or atop the iconic white cliffs that have become a symbol for England. Built to repel invasions from across the English Channel, medieval Dover Castle overlooks the town and houses the extensive Secret Wartime Tunnels, and is tipped to be the largest castle in England. There is a rare Roman lighthouse here, one of only three in the world and reputedly the UK’s oldest building.