Sept 27, 2016: 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. Dakar is on West Africa’s westernmost point and the capital of French-speaking Senegal. 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, “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 cruise 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. Photo: cruisetradenews

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