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The Canary Islands’ extraordinary scenery is not restricted to the landscape – the dramatic rock formations and ancient forests lie beneath clear night skies where the stars complement the lunar-like terrain of the surrounding earth.

Guests on Saga Sapphire’s all-inclusive Celestial Canaries cruise enjoy late-sailings to demonstrate why the region is a favourite with astronomers, especially the island of La Palma, home to the world’s largest telescope, and there are virtual tours aboard the ship to explore the constellations.

More inspiring experiences include watching the sun set over Tenerife from Teide National Park and hiking through Gran Canaria’s Bandama crater, while experts from conservation charity ORCA will be aboard to help spot whales and other marine wildlife.

Saga Sapphire’s call to Funchal, Madeira, includes the chance to explore its natural beauty, monuments and museums, or simply relax at a cafe with a glass of Madeira wine, then at La Palma, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with its picturesque capital perched on a volcanic crater.

Stargazers can join a trip to the Pilar Viewpoint at 3,300 feet above sea level, while the fascinating Natural History Museum, and shops offering jewellery, leather goods and beautifully embroidered clothes are other tempting diversions.

Saga Sapphire also visits the island of La Gomera, with its laurel rain forests and Lanzarote, another UNESCO reserve with lava beds, eerie caves and a modern seafront, as well as Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, famed for its majestic architecture, wooden trams and Moorish history.

For details visit saga.co.uk/ocean-cruises or call 0800 50 50 30.

 14 nights from £2,768 per person, aboard Saga Sapphire, departing Dover on Thursday, March 14, 2019, returning to Southampton on March 28.

 Prices include UK travel package to Dover and from Southampton‡, all meals and entertainment, all-inclusive drinks include a choice of table wines at lunch and dinner, house-branded spirits and soft drinks), afternoon tea, 24-hour room service, welcome cocktail party, unlimited tea and coffee in selected venues, free wifi, all on-board gratuities, porterage, free shuttle bus to nearest town centre (whenever possible and when the ship is berthed more than 500 yards away), optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a discount if passenger has own insurance.

 All excursions mentioned are optional, at an additional cost, and are subject to availability and change. Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions or by exploring independently.

 Price based on two people sharing the lowest available Inside cabin grade and includes any relevant booking discount. Fare was correct at the time of sending and is subject to availability and change. Further terms and conditions apply. Please call for details.

 Editors:

Saga is a specialist in the provision of products and services for life after 50. The Saga brand is one of the most recognised and trusted brands in the UK and is known for its high level of customer service and its high quality, award winning products and services including cruises and holidays, insurance, personal finance and publishing. Visit saga.co.uk

‡Private chauffeur up to 75 miles each way; shared chauffeur service from 76-250 miles