Canary Islands & Cococay Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Tarragona , Spain | Lanzarote , Canary Islands | Gran Canaria , Canary Islands | Perfect Day at CocoCay , Bahamas | Tampa , Florida
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Tarragona, Spain
COME ALIVE IN TARRAGONA
It's only 15 minutes by taxi from Reus Airport to the Port of Tarragona, so make a beeline for Tarragona's Part Antic ("Old Town"), which extends just north of where your cruise will depart. Get excited to set sail with a wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tarraco or peruse the Rambla Nova shopping street for colorful crafts to decorate your onboard stateroom.
It's only 15 minutes by taxi from Reus Airport to the Port of Tarragona, so make a beeline for Tarragona's Part Antic ("Old Town"), which extends just north of where your cruise will depart. Get excited to set sail with a wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tarraco or peruse the Rambla Nova shopping street for colorful crafts to decorate your onboard stateroom.
in Tarragona
Brush Up on Catalan History
Tarragona's Part Antic old town is like a living history textbook. After surveying Roman ruins (and timeless ocean views) atop the walls of UNESCO World Heritage site Taracco, visit the many individual chapels that make up Tarragona Cathedral, where Spain's Moorish conquerors also prayed.
Nothing Comes Close to the Golden Coast
Is looking out at the ocean not enough for you? Dip your toes into the golden sands of Costa Dorada. El Miracle beach is the liveliest and closest to the city center, while the beautifully isolated Cala Fonda, just several miles north, evokes the Balearic islands that sit far off Tarragona's shores.
Art for the Afternoon
Whether you want a quick break from Tarragona's famous heat or are craving some culture, Tarragona's world-class art museums will hit the spot. Museu d'Art Modern de Tarragona spotlights Catalan artists like Antoni Gaudi and Joan Miro inside a series of 18th-century houses.
Local Cuisine
Fresh seafood is Tarragona's claim to fame. Dine near the port for classic Catalan paella (mussels and other shellfish stir-fried with fragrant saffron rice) or stop along Plaça de la Font for a carafe of sangria to wash down local takes on tapas such as grilled shrimp glazed with rich, nutty Romesco sauce.
Shopping
Whether you're looking for postcards and fridge magnets or locally made crafts, the Rambla Nova shopping street is the place to be. Galeria Tarraco sells artisanal crafts and textiles, including Catalan pottery and lace cushions made using techniques from the mid-19th century.
INSIDER TIP
Tarragona locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists but can't always speak great English. A bit of Spanish (or Catalan), some patience and a smile will go a long way.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
Things to Do
ON PAR FOR ADVENTURE
Hit the links on the high seas! Refine your mini-golf game on a green that overlooks a sea of blue. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
Things to Do
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
VOLCANIC VISTAS
A beach lover's paradise, the small island of Lanzarote is also a land shaped by volcanoes, where vegetables and grapes grow in rich volcanic soil. Visit the National Park, where more than 350 volcanic cones rise from the ground, and tour a local artist's home built into boulders in a lava field. Head to Famara Beach for a sun-soaked surf and views of the pink cliffs that surround the shoreline.
A beach lover's paradise, the small island of Lanzarote is also a land shaped by volcanoes, where vegetables and grapes grow in rich volcanic soil. Visit the National Park, where more than 350 volcanic cones rise from the ground, and tour a local artist's home built into boulders in a lava field. Head to Famara Beach for a sun-soaked surf and views of the pink cliffs that surround the shoreline.
in Lanzarote
Nature's Fury
In the Timanfaya National Park, the Montanas del Fuego (Fire Mountains) were created when more than 100 volcanoes erupted in the 18th century. Visit the park on a camel safari and feel like a boss. At its El Diablo restaurant, dine on fish and meat cooked on a volcanically heated grill.
Quiet Charm
The small, 15th-century town of Teguise was the original capital of Lanzarote, and colonial mansions still line its cobblestone streets. Costa Teguise is a quiet tourist resort with strict policies about sustainable development, so it's maintained its old charm while also offering visitor amenities.
Celebrate the Artist
You'll see the work of local artist Cesar Manrique around Lanzarote, and you can visit his striking home, built into boulders in a lava field. This extravagant cave now serves as a foundation dedicated to his life and art. Works by his contemporaries, such as Tapies, Millares and Picasso, are also exhibited there.
Local Cuisine
Everywhere in Lanzarote, you'll find fresh fish such as dorado (sea bream), vieja (parrot fish) and cherne (sea bass), often simply grilled and served with small potatoes and local greens. The condiment of choice is red or green mojo sauce, made with chilis grown in the rich volcanic soil — drizzle it over your fish and potatoes, or slather it on bread. Wash it down with glass of local malvasia, a white wine with tropical fruit notes that can be either dry or semi-sweet.
Shopping
Much of Lanzarote's shopping is centered in the capital city of Arrecife, where you'll find plenty of small, outdoor markets where you should expect to haggle. Look for locally made lacework, pottery, woven baskets, decorative fans and jewelry crafted from the green, volcanic gemstone called olivine.
INSIDER TIP
The best way to explore the island is by renting a car, and bike rentals are also popular and easy.
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
GRAN CANARIA.
When you arrive in Gran Canaria, set off on an island adventure by car, bike or foot. Take in the bold colors and tropical vibes of this beautiful Spanish port. Famous for its white-sand beaches and foggy mountaintops, Gran Canaria gives you a one-stop, multisensorial experience. You'll find an array of terrains, from rocky coasts to lush forests, as well as plenty of urban verve in capital Las Palmas.
When you arrive in Gran Canaria, set off on an island adventure by car, bike or foot. Take in the bold colors and tropical vibes of this beautiful Spanish port. Famous for its white-sand beaches and foggy mountaintops, Gran Canaria gives you a one-stop, multisensorial experience. You'll find an array of terrains, from rocky coasts to lush forests, as well as plenty of urban verve in capital Las Palmas.
in Gran Canaria
Upbeat Urban Center
Discover Gran Canarias' capital, and feel the eclectic beat of a city that blends African, Indian and Chinese influences. You can sense the Mediterranean vibes as you walk by this international city's port, shopping districts and restaurants. Its most emblematic building? Las Palmas cathedral, which took over 400 years to complete.
Saharan Oasis
Head to the southern part of Gran Canaria to experience a desert-like atmosphere. In Maspalomas, you'll encounter dunes believed to have formed after a tsunami hit this part of the island. While you're there, take a break from the arid landscape and escape to the nearby botanical garden or beach.
Coastal Utopia
You have to see Gran Canaria's coastline to believe it. It shifts from rugged and monumental to pristine and sandy. Cruise to Gran Canaria and hop on a car, a bike or a safari-style tour and get to know this tropical destination that's unlike any other.
Local Cuisine
A combination of African, Spanish and Latin-American dishes appear in Gran Canarias' gastronomy, with original creations like Polvitos Uruguayos (a light cheesecake with dulce de leche), chipirones con mojo verde (grilled squid in a herby sauce) and the popular bienmesabe (a dense pastry made of almonds). And don't miss the ultra-fresh tropical fruits during your Canary Island cruise.
Shopping
Las Palmas is the shopping capital of the Canary Islands. The main shopping street is Calle Mayor de Triana, a pedestrians-only boulevard that features a variety of stores offering local souvenirs like Canarian straw hats, pottery based on ancient designs, local rum and cigars. Another great shopping destination is Maspalomas, where El Faro Boulevard and El Tablero offer fashion and souvenirs made by locals.
INSIDER TIP
Be sure to pack sun block — the UV rays aren't messing around in Gran Canaria.
CRUISING
SUN-DRENCHED DAYS
Things to Do
SWIM IT TO WIN IT
Soak up the sun or savour the shade on expanded pool decks, with complimentary loungers, live music and the opportunity to enjoy a frosty cocktail.
SUN AND SERENITY
Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
CRUISING
SHOW-STOPPERS
Things to Do
SING US A SONG TONIGHT
Take a trip down memory lane as pianists tickle the ivories to the great contemporary piano ballads of our time.
A GRAND OLE TIME
Take a hand clappin' crash-course in Pure Country! covering everything from classics to new country hits.
CRUISING
LIGHTS OUT NIGHTS OUT
Things to Do
SHAKING UP THE CLASSICS
Vintage glamour comes alive at R Bar – serving classic cocktails, such as gin martinis and the old fashioned, in a distinctly sophisticated setting.
SUN, SERENITY & SIPS
Does sitting in the whirlpool make you thirsty? Grab a drink at the nearby Solarium Bar.
CRUISING
CAN'T-MISS FAVOURITES
Things to Do
ON PAR FOR ADVENTURE
Hit the links on the high seas! Refine your mini-golf game on a green that overlooks a sea of blue. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
Things to Do
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
A CUT ABOVE THE REST
For more than a decade, the chefs of Chops Grille have proudly presented quality, hand-cut prime steaks at this hallmark Royal Caribbean restaurant.
CRUISING
SUN-DRENCHED DAYS
Things to Do
SWIM IT TO WIN IT
Soak up the sun or savour the shade on expanded pool decks, with complimentary loungers, live music and the opportunity to enjoy a frosty cocktail.
SUN AND SERENITY
Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
CRUISING
SHOW-STOPPERS
Things to Do
SING US A SONG TONIGHT
Take a trip down memory lane as pianists tickle the ivories to the great contemporary piano ballads of our time.
A GRAND OLE TIME
Take a hand clappin' crash-course in Pure Country! covering everything from classics to new country hits.
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
NOW OPEN FOR ADVENTURE
Thrill Waterpark
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Oasis Lagoon
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Splashaway Bay
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Beach Day Vibes
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Up, Up and Away
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Island Dining
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Coco Beach Club
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CRUISING
LIGHTS OUT NIGHTS OUT
Things to Do
SHAKING UP THE CLASSICS
Vintage glamour comes alive at R Bar – serving classic cocktails, such as gin martinis and the old fashioned, in a distinctly sophisticated setting.
SUN, SERENITY & SIPS
Does sitting in the whirlpool make you thirsty? Grab a drink at the nearby Solarium Bar.
Tampa, Florida
TREASURE BY THE BAY
Tampa offers plenty of adventure for every age. Bring the family to Glazer Children’s Museum. Hit up Busch Gardens for thrilling amusements. Venture just outside the city for powdery beaches. Or check out world-renowned art museums in neighbouring St Petersburg. Native Florida wildlife, Cuban-Spanish cuisine, a fun-filled pirate legacy – experience it all before heading home.
Tampa offers plenty of adventure for every age. Bring the family to Glazer Children’s Museum. Hit up Busch Gardens for thrilling amusements. Venture just outside the city for powdery beaches. Or check out world-renowned art museums in neighbouring St Petersburg. Native Florida wildlife, Cuban-Spanish cuisine, a fun-filled pirate legacy – experience it all before heading home.
in Tampa
CULTURE FIX
Stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk and see where it leads you. You might explore interactive exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Centre, or try stand-up paddleboarding from the Sail Pavilion. Tampa Museum of Art’s collections range from ancient to modern – and the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is home to splash fountains, a playground and skyline views.
HIT THE SAND
A short 30-minute drive west of the city centre lands you along the Gulf of Mexico coast, which is fringed by a string of sugary beaches. Clearwater Beach and St Pete Beach both offer an upbeat seaside atmosphere, while Caladesi Island State Park and Fort DeSoto Park provide serene shoreline settings.
SEA WATCH
Enter the Florida Aquarium to encounter over 20,000 species of aquatic plants and animals. Cruise to Tampa and see river otters on the Florida Wetlands Trail and ring-tailed lemurs on the Journey to Madagascar. Then say hello to goliath grouper, stingrays, reef fishes, sea turtles and sharks in the Bays & Beaches habitat.
LOCAL CUISINE
Tampa’s food scene stems from a fusion of Cuban, Spanish, Italian and Floribbean influences. Local raw bars serve up fresh shrimp, oysters, scallops and grouper from the Gulf of Mexico. The Cuban sandwich— piled with Genoa salami— is a city signature. For a taste of authentic Florida Cracker cuisine, try sofkee porridge, pilau (rice cakes) or fried alligator tail during your next Tampa cruise.
SHOPPING
Pick up tropical clothing and Florida-inspired souvenirs at the outdoor Channelside Bay Plaza, right at the port. Head to Hyde Park Village for upmarket boutique shops, and pop into local sportswear outfitter Salt Pines. Nothing beats Ybor City when it comes to quirky vintage shops and hand-rolled cigars.
INSIDER TIP
CityPASS gives you entrance to top city attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo and more, all for one package price of USD 106 for adults and USD 96 for kids – and it’s valid for nine consecutive days.
© 2019 Royal Caribbean International
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INSIDER TIP