A Journey to Remember
Once just a dream on a bucket list, crossing the Atlantic by cruise became one of the most unforgettable adventures: days spent gliding over open seas, discovering multiple countries, and savoring life between horizons. The journey not only met every expectation – it went far beyond them.
Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Lines
As one of the most popular and seasoned cruise lines, Carnival offers vibrant and enriching voyages across the seas. With a wide array of amenities and curated entertainment programs, guests are invited to relax while also being inspired to explore.
A delightful surprise on this journey was the series of onboard workshops and hands-on activities thoughtfully designed to engage the mind throughout the voyage. From cooking classes and photography sessions to fascinating talks on niche topics like “Ham Radios: the Original Social Media”, there was always something new to learn and enjoy.
Port of Call: Ponta Delgada, Azores
Set in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, São Miguel Island welcomes visitors with lush green landscapes, volcanic terrain, and charming cobblestone streets. The harmonious blend of classical architecture and raw natural beauty lends the island a serene, almost storybook atmosphere.
A particularly memorable stop was the visit to the Arruda Pineapple Plantation – where pineapples are uniquely cultivated in greenhouses rather than open fields. These small yet intensely sweet fruits are grown with meticulous care. Guests can sample handcrafted pineapple liqueur, browse beautifully crafted yet affordable jewelry, and pick up meaningful keepsakes to take home.
The journey continued to Sete Cidades, where two crater lakes – one deep blue, the other vibrant green – rest side by side within an ancient volcanic caldera. Surrounded by forested slopes and gently rolling hills, the scene is nothing short of breathtaking. Vista do Rei offers the most panoramic view and is best visited in the early morning before the clouds descend.
Passing through the Strait of Gibraltar
As the ship glided through the Strait of Gibraltar at 1 a.m, the experience was nothing short of unforgettable. Darkness enveloped everything, broken only by the gentle sound of waves and the distant lights shimmering from the shores of Spain and Morocco. Standing on the deck, it felt as though we were crossing a threshold between two worlds – a place where history and geography quietly converged in a rare moment of stillness.
Stopover: Alicante, Spain
The morning began with a stroll through the heart of the city – palm-lined boulevards, vibrant cafés, and buildings awash in color. Later, a scenic drive took us into the mountains to discover Guadalest, a hidden gem of a village with sweeping views and cobbled paths leading to an ancient fortress. The blend of coastal charm and mountain village made our day in Alicante feel perfectly complete.
Stopover: Málaga – Granada
From Málaga, we arrived at the Alhambra – Granada’s famed palace and fortress complex. A masterpiece of Moorish architecture, it captivates with its intricate carvings, serene courtyards, and graceful fountains. The Alhambra evokes the rich cultural interplay between Islamic and Spanish traditions, leaving a lasting impression of a glorious chapter in history.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Transatlantic Itinerary
When planning a transatlantic voyage, it’s worth considering the timing of the sea days within your itinerary:
– Starting with consecutive sea days: Ideal if you prefer to unwind and settle in before exploring the ports of call.
– Ending with consecutive sea days: Perfect for those who enjoy immersing themselves in destinations first, then relaxing at sea toward the end of the journey.
Choose an itinerary that aligns with your travel style to make the most of your journey.
A transatlantic voyage is more than just a trip – it’s a moment of transition between continents, a fusion of culture, nature, and emotion. If you’re seeking a journey that reflects your personal essence, let Demen Travel accompany you. Discover more curated voyages on Instagram: @dementravel.official.
