Andalusia: Gastronomy & Flamenco River Cruise

This morning, the CLASSIC/FAMILY package excursion is: the Alcázar and Cathedral of Jerez. Departure by
coach to Jerez. Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, Jerez is famous for its sherry wine, Andalusian horses, and
flamenco. A city tour will introduce you to its main monuments. Then, visit the Alcázar, an ancient fortified
palace dating back to the 9th century that reflects the city’s Muslim heritage. Its beautifully restored buildings
include the Christianized mosque dedicated to Santa María la Real, the Arab Baths, the Olive Oil Mill, and
peaceful gardens. Finally, explore the majestic cathedral, an architectural masterpiece combining Gothic,
Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. Built on the site of a former mosque, it is renowned for its impressive
altarpiece and stunning chapels. Don’t miss climbing the tower stairs for panoramic views of the city and
surroundings. Return to the ship.
In the afternoon,the CLASSIC package excursion is a tour of Cádiz on foot. We’ll set out on foot for the
center of Cádiz. Cádiz is tucked between lavish lagoons, sprawling beaches, and rich salt marshes. Once
inhabited by the Phoenicians and Greeks, the city has preserved its historic charm among its white walls. The
sinuous streets in the medieval quarter contrast the straight and orderly streets found in the baroque-style
area. After our excursion, we’ll return to the ship. Tonight’s entertainment will be a flamenco show. Flamenco is a passionate expression created by the Gypsies and Andalusians. It is based on popular folklore coming
from the diverse cultures that have spread across the region throughout the centuries. Dive into the heart of
one of the greatest Spanish traditions. Our ship will cruise to El Puerto de Santa Maria.

This morning, the CLASSIC package excursion proposed is a visit to the Osborne Bodega and wine tastings.
We’ll leave on foot with our host/hostess for the Osborne Bodega. We’ll enjoy a tasting of three different wines
along with some regional products. As with most European cultures, wine has a distinct place in Andalusian
culture. The exceptional climate conditions help produce the famous Jerez-Xérès-Sherry.
We’ll spend the afternoon cruising to Isla Minima. In the evening, we will visit a typical Andalusian hacienda
in Isla Minima, located on the banks of the river. The hacienda was originally a bull-raising ranch. At the
beginning of the 1940s, the Escobar family settled across the whole area and founded Finca Isla Mínima.
It was the ideal location to raise wild bulls and Carthusian horses because of the quality of its pastures.
Over the years, it has become a model ranch. We’ll return to the ship after the show. Our ship will cruise
to Seville overnight.

This morning, the CLASSIC/FAMILY package excursion is: the Cathedral of Seville and the Palace of the
Countess of Lebrija. Guided tour of the cathedral, which remains one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in
the world. Built on the ruins of an ancient mosque, it became, with the Christian era, the Church of Saint
Mary and the city’s cathedral. However, it has preserved its minaret, which later became the famous Giralda
tower known today, offering magnificent panoramic views over the Andalusian capital. Then visit the Palace
of the Countess of Lebrija. A stunning example of historic Andalusian architecture, built in the early 20th
century, it is renowned for its sumptuous interior that combines Neo-Mudéjar, Gothic, and Baroque styles,
as well as its remarkable art collection, featuring Spanish artworks and Roman antiquities. It is also famous
for its impressive courtyard, decorated with mosaics, colorful ceramics, and lush gardens, creating a serene
and elegant atmosphere. Former residence of the Countess of Lebrija, this fascinating site offers a unique
glimpse into the history and refinement of the Andalusian aristocracy.
Enjoy a free evening to explore Seville on your own.
OR
Optional excursion: All-day tour of Grenada. We will leave by coach for a full-day tour of Grenada (driving
time is approximately 3 hours round trip). We’ll visit the Alhambra, the Palacio de Generalife, and the historic
center of the city. Ringed by the imposing mountainous barrier of the Sierra Nevada, Grenada is built across
three hills. Its most beautiful treasure is the Alhambra. The city’s cuisine, handicrafts, and architecture have
all been marked by its glorious past. We’ll return to our ship by coach.

Enjoy a morning on your own in Seville. Take advantage of this time to discover the city at your own pace.
We suggest a stroll through Maria Luisa Park or the historic center to take in the full ambiance of the city.
In the afternoon, the CLASSIC/FAMILY package excursion proposed is: The Friary of La Rábida and the
Wharf of the Caravels, with replicas of Columbus’ famous Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria ships. Leave from
Seville by coach for a guided visit of the Gothic-Mudéjar style Franciscan monastery that was built between
the 14th and 15th centuries. Christopher Columbus stayed here while preparing his departure for the New
World. A fresco by Daniel Vázquez Díaz, created in 1930, illustrates the sailor’s saga and reminds us of his
historic role. Throughout the centuries, the monastery has grown and expanded. We will then head to the
Wharf of the Caravels, where the great explorer set out on August 3, 1492. Life-size replicas of the famous
Pinta, Nina, and Santa Maria ships await you. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking.

You will be transferred to the airport for you flight back to Ireland.