West Africa River Cruise – Senegal & Gambia Small Ship Expedition

SATURDAY: DAKAR, SENEGAL

Embark on your journey between 3PM and 4PM. Take some time to familiarize yourself with your floating abode and fellow adventurers, then partake in a delightful welcome dinner before we navigate southward towards the enchanting Saloum River Delta. Overnight we will be at sea.

SUNDAY: DJIFFER, SENEGAL – BANJUL, THE GAMBIA

Keep your eyes sharp for playful dolphins, stealthy crocodiles, graceful turtles and elusive manatees as we explore the vibrant Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. This UNESCO biosphere reserve is a treasure trove for birdwatchers, sheltering nearly 200 bird species such as elegant flamingos, majestic pelicans, and soaring raptors. Following this experience, consider joining our optional trip to JOAL FADIOUTH, a unique island constructed entirely from clam shells. In the afternoon, we set sail towards Banjul, The Gambia. Rest for the night in Banjul.

MONDAY: BANJUL - BAKAU, THE GAMBIA

The vibrant capital city of Banjul serves as the entry point to the 700 mile Gambia River. This afternoon we will embark on a scenic journey along the river, but first partake in our optional half day exploration of Banjul and the charming town of Bakau; famous for its kachikally crocodile pool and lush botanic garden. In the mid-afternoon, we will set sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. We will overnight docked in Tendaba.

TUESDAY: TENDABA, THE GAMBIA

Today features two exciting optional excursions. Both activities commence in Tendaba, a quaint Muslim fishing village boasting around 600 residents. Accessible via motor pirogue, these petite canoe-like vessels transport us from our ship. In the morning, we’ll trek from Tendaba to Batelling to explore the alluring Kiang West National Park, a sanctuary for numerous rare bird species and home to Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. After immersing ourselves in the primate experience, we’ll hop into a safari truck that will take us back to the ship, with a picturesque route that meanders through local villages. In the afternoon, our excursion takes us to the Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve - known for its impressive six major bolongs (creeks) and exceptional birdwatching and boating experiences. We will spend the night docked in Tendaba.

WEDNESDAY: GAMBIA RIVER – KUNTAUR - RIVER GAMBIA NATIONAL PARK, THE GAMBIA

As dawn breaks, we embark on our scenic journey along the Gambia River, steering towards the lively town of Kuntaur. This vibrant hub serves as the final inland port for ocean-going vessels, including our own. This afternoon's optional adventure offers an exhilarating motor pirogue ride deeper into the serene landscape of Baboon Island, situated within the expansive The Gambia National Park. Here, a knowledgeable local park ranger will enlighten us about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique ecosystem. As we glide gently back towards Kuntaur, remain vigilant for glimpses of the resident chimpanzees in their rehabilitation sanctuary. Additionally, you may encounter the majestic hippos, elusive crocodiles, and lively Red Colobus monkeys along the way. Upon our return to Kuntaur, we are treated to a mesmerizing dance known as Kankurang, which is believed to deliver justice and protect against malevolent spirits. We will spend the night docked in Kuntaur.

THURSDAY: KUNTAUR – JANJANBUREH - KAUR, THE GAMBIA

We trust you have enjoyed a good night’s rest as we embark on an exciting and diverse optional tour today. Our first stop is Janjanbureh, accessible by bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh is renowned as one of the oldest towns in The Gambia, previously called Georgetown. Stroll through the streets and soak in the relaxed atmosphere before we hop back onto the bus for our next destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you will witness a new school taking shape, made possible by the generous contributions from our clients. Following this, we will make our way to the enigmatic stones of Wassu, an ancient sacred burial site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After enjoying lunch, we will sail downstream to the quaint fishing village of Kaur. Take the opportunity to explore and understand the lifestyle of local Gambians today. Finally, we invite you to join us for our special Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we cruise back downstream towards Banjul.

FRIDAY: KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND - BANJUL, THE GAMBIA

Another enriching day awaits in The Gambia, filled with opportunities to learn and explore. This morning we drop anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Nestled within the Gambia River, the island bears a tragic history linked to the slave trade, a narrative famously depicted in author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A knowledgeable local guide will share insights into the island's history, following which you’ll have the chance to stroll around before our return to Banjul. As night falls, we will celebrate Gambian Night on board, showcasing a concert featuring the kora, a traditional West African string instrument. We will spend the night at sea, making our way towards Dakar.

SATURDAY: DAKAR, SENEGAL

Arriving early morning in Dakar. Gather with your fellow adventurers - undoubtedly friends by now - for a final breakfast together as our BLUE VOYAGE journey reaches its conclusion.