Sunday
Arrive Tangier 3pm
Perched on the North Western tip of the vast continent of Africa, Tangier was founded by the legendary Antheous, son of Neptune, who named it Tingis after his wife. When Europeans came to Tangier they called the local oranges “tangerines” after the city itself. Built on seven hills like Rome, Tangier boasts of an enviable location just outside the Strait of Gibraltar.
Tangier, the very name sets the spine tingling and the imagination stirring with thoughts of intrigue, dark shadows, clandestine meetings - smugglers - thieves - spies. What is this strange city we visit?
As our great ship anchors in the bay and the launch ferrying us ashore noses its way into the harbour we see the unforgettable sight of Tangier boldly outlined in white against the hillside. To the right the white walls of the Kasbah and to the left the modern blocks of the new town and the golden beach stretching endlessly around the curving bay.
As our launch ties up and we set foot on Moroccan soil, the babble of the Arab World greets us. Native stalls are set up at the waters edge to tempt our purses with fascinating buys of Moroccan craft. Merchants wheedle, guides hustle - taxi drivers bargain - harassed cruise staff endeavour to see fair play - This is our welcome to Tangier.
Fable has it that Hercules made Tangier a pillar having torn asunder the Continent of Africa from Europe to make the Straits of Gibraltar. This is the place of the Garden of Hesperides where Hercules found the Golden Apples.
In 1956 Tangier was integrated into the Moroccan Kingdom after 50 years as an enterprising and cosmopolitan free town. The days of intrigue; of spies and smugglers, we feel have gone forever.
Tangier is no longer a “wide open” town, it lives on its reputation but its tourist popularity increases daily because this city is so diversified that it offers something for everyone, no matter how difficult one's taste.
The magnificent beach stretches around the bay with the sun beating down from a cloudless blue sky and the gentle breakers lapping the soft golden sand. The city looks down on the quiet tranquility - outlined on the hillside like a pillar of white - holding perhaps in her bosom many dark secrets but watching over the change with inscrutable eyes.
Sit in a Café in the bustle of mid-morning, sipping the refreshing “mint tea” and watch Tangier pass by. See the native water sellers with their brass cups and colourful clothes, the often barefoot Arabs leading mules or goats, or donkeys.
The ragged children offering their services as guides, the countless shoe shine boys - the Arab dress, the straw hats, the fez, the veils. Though Tangier today may no longer be the gathering place for intrigue - enough remains to intrigue us and make our visit most memorable.
Membership limited - Fare $8
Drive through the European section of Tangier and out along the coast to see the “Cave of Hercules” and Cape Spartel with its fine views of the Atlantic coast.
Return to the old walled section of Tangier visiting the Palace of the Sultan, from which there is a marvellous view across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Tour Members may leave the automobiles at the Palace and stroll with guides through the Casbah to visit some of the shops and bazaars. Those who do not wish to walk through the Casbah may continue directly to the dock.
Membership limited. Fare $12
At about 9.30pm, after dinner on board the Caronia, transfer to the Tagada Cabaret. This interesting night club features colourful Moroccan decor and the dance music of one of Tangier's leading orchestras. A floor show will also be presented, highlighting the traditional music and dance of the area.
The Tour Fare includes entertainment, dancing, three drinks per person, and transportation to and from the club. Transfers back to the Caronia will be available from midnight to 1am.
Membership limited. Fare $12
Tour 7 is similar to Tour 6 except that the Koutoubia Palace, an equally famous Moroccan style night club, will be visited instead of the Tagada Cabaret. The Tour will leave at 10pm and transfers back to the Caronia will be available from 12.30am. to 1am.
The Tour Fare includes entertainment, dancing, three drinks per person, and transportation to and from the club.
Depart Tangier 2am
At Sea
Steaming East Tangier to Valletta, Malta 984 miles
Clocks advanced 1 hour at Midnight
At Sea
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Page last updated on Sun, 25 May 2025
