Arrive in Tenerife today before 5.00 pm and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner this evening and get to know your fellow travellers.

Tenerife has its own microclimate, which sustains a diversity of plants. Wander through groves where junipers, olives, palms and old dragon trees grow side by side. This morning, enjoy a visit to Palmetum, a 12-hectare botanical garden harbouring Europe’s largest collection of palms. The former rubbish dump has been beautified as a result of this transformation; the spectacular garden also boasting stunning ocean views. On the island’s opposing coast, we then discover a wonderful orchid collection at Sitio Litre Garden.  Further inland, the wildflowers of Mount Teide are on display. Later this afternoon, embark the small ship, MS Hebridean Sky. Enjoy a recital of Spanish songs and opera pieces by soprano Judith Dodsworth and pianist Philip Walsh aboard the ship this evening. The program will include Rodrigo’s ‘Four Amatory Madrigals’, de Falla’s ‘Seven Popular Spanish Songs’, and excerpts from Bizet’s Carmen.

Today, we explore La Gomera, one of the smallest of the Canary Islands.

You may choose to join a guided tour to Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient laurel forests, which are some of the best-preserved in the world. Marvel at the striking monolith, Roque de Agando, which rises dramatically from the island’s volcanic landscape.

Or, for the more active, begin your day with a visit to the Vallehermoso Botanical Garden. Explore its remarkable collection of endemic and rare plant species that are unique to the Canary Islands. The garden offers an introduction to La Gomera’s extraordinary biodiversity and provides insight into the ecological evolution of the island. Afterwards, trek through the misty laurel forests of Garajonay National Park. Follow winding mountain trails beneath ancient, moss-covered trees, and pause at breathtaking viewpoints where dramatic cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.

Further west, we arrive at El Hierro, the smallest of the seven main islands within the archipelago. Plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke referred to it as 'the botanical Galápagos of Europe' owing to its many rare, endemic plant species. Our guide brings us to the Guinea Ecomuseum, where traditional houses are composed of lava rock. The more active among us may instead choose to hike to La Llania, which leads to the La Hoya de Fireba crater.

This afternoon, complimentary shuttle buses will run into Valverde, the hilltop capital of El Hierro. Explore at your leisure, strolling whitewashed streets and sampling regional specialties. Perhaps visit the Church of Santa María de la Concepción, which overlooks the sea.

This afternoon, Kenneth Park will present an engaging lecture on Plant Hunters of the Canary Islands. Hear fascinating stories of early botanists and explorers who documented the archipelago’s endemic flora.

Back aboard the ship, Judith and Kym take to the stage again, performing a selection of Latin music with lively rhythm and flair.

Due north of El Hierro, we discover the natural beauty of La Palma, declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2002. Its coastline, mountains and volcanoes make for a diversity of terrain to explore. Choose from the following three optional tours today.

In the town of El Paso, pay a visit to the local silk museum and explore the geological wonder of Caldera de Taburiente.

Perhaps opt for a more active exploration of the nearby El Pilar region and admire its towering pines.

Otherwise, enjoy a guided walk through the laurel forest of Los Tilos. Walk trails lined with mossy trees, ferns and streams, and discover an array of endemic wildflowers in bloom within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve’s fragrant forest.

This afternoon, enjoy free time in Los Llanos de Aridane. Stroll through its bustling streets, browse shops and markets, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere and charming Canarian architecture.

This evening, join Judith and Kym for an entertaining musical performance as we cruise toward Madeira.

This morning, take the opportunity to relax and enjoy a presentation by Tracy Foster on Madeira as we sail. Drawing on her extensive knowledge and personal experience, Tracy will provide an engaging overview of the island’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Kenneth Park will then deliver a talk on art and architecture, revealing the island’s distinctive styles, historic landmarks, and cultural influences. After sailing north across the Atlantic, we arrive in Funchal, Madeira’s capital. Set off on a garden discovery during a visit to Quinta da Boa Vista, which features an impressive collection of prized, rare orchids. We then travel to Palheiro Gardens, a stunning hillside estate known for its rich botanical variety and landscaped grounds. Spanning 14 hectares, the gardens feature centuries-old trees and vibrant camellias that bloom from late autumn to spring. Wander tranquil paths with fountains and grottos, and enjoy panoramic views over Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy another performance by Judith and Kym this evening.

Board a cable car to Monte this morning. Here you’ll encounter the district’s elegant palace, set within a garden paradise. Known as the Monte Palace Madeira, it houses a vast collection of plants from around the world. Close by, we visit the exquisite Madeira Botanical Garden. Boasting spectacular views over Funchal, the vibrant, colourful garden is home to more than 2,000 distinct plant species. Should you prefer, head to the coast and arrive at the world-famous Belmond Reid’s Palace. Take in stunning North Atlantic views while enjoying afternoon tea along the hotel’s perfectly positioned clifftop terrace. Back aboard the Hebridean Sky, cruise to Porto Santo. Simon Rickard will present an engaging lecture on Spain and Portugal, offering insights into the history, culture, and distinctive landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula.

Disembark at Porto Santo, the smallest inhabited island of Madeira’s archipelago. A relaxed day of exploring here includes a tasting of the island’s wines. At the viewpoint of Pico de Castelo, admire the contours of Porto Santo’s coastline. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure back aboard the ship. A Q&A session with our Botanical Guides gives us the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the plants, gardens, and ecosystems we’ve explored. Later in the afternoon, inspired by the region’s distinctive flavors, we indulge in a matched-wine and musical experience with performances by Judith and Kym, combining local culinary delights with lively music for a memorable sensory experience.

As we cruise toward mainland Portugal, Tracy Foster will present an informative talk on everything you need to know about Chelsea Flower Show, from its history to its iconic displays, and the latest trends in horticulture. Tracy is an experienced show garden judge and Chelsea gold-medal-winning garden designer and offers an insider’s perspective on this world-famous event. Perhaps attend a lecture given[PS1] by your Botanical Guide, who will brief you on some of the sights we will encounter tomorrow. We will also hear from Judith Dodsworth on the music of Portugal. Learn about Fado, the country’s celebrated musical style. Take the opportunity to participate during this exploration of the language, rhythms and melodies of this popular folk music.

Arriving in Lisbon, we begin our day with an appreciation of the spectacular views available from Serra de Sintra. Visit the Park and National Palace of Pena, and admire the elaborate facades and gardens of Sintra. After lunch, head to Fronteira Palace. The gardens here are known for their formal box parterre, surrounded by walls decorated with azulejo tiles.

Farther north along Portugal’s coast, we arrive in the port city of Figueira da Foz. Considered the gateway to Portugal’s medieval centre, the seaside resort serves as a picturesque stopping point on our way to Coimbra. After an orientation tour here, we visit the gardens of Quinta das Lágrimas. It was here that Inês de Castro and Pedro I of Portugal lived out their forbidden romance. After exploring the gardens, we are transferred back to our ship; you also have the option of spending additional time back in Figueria da Foz. This evening, learn more about Inês de Castro and Pedro I, whose story of love has been celebrated in literature, art and music. Judith Dodsworth further illustrates their tragic tale by way of a lecture, as well as an operatic excerpt.

From the port of Leixões, you have the option today to set out for Porto. Along the banks of the Douro River, uncover the city’s fascinating history. Then toast Porto’s wine-making traditions at a local wine cellar. Alternatively, visit Quinta do Alão, a garden dating back to the 17th century, filled with Japanese trees, flowerbeds and sculptures. During our final night aboard the Hebridean Sky, Judith and Kym celebrate our voyage with a night of Latin jazz.

Disembark this morning after breakfast and be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.