As the days slowly get duller at home, why not just prolong your summer? Warm your explorer's heart with the most beautiful Atlantic islands - each in a world of their own. The experts on board will set the scene for the varied volcanology and stories of settlers with fascinating talks, so you will be ready to see the flower-filled island of Madeira through new eyes. The HANSEATIC nature will stay overnight in Funchal, which nestles between mountains like an amphitheatre, to allow plenty of time for you to soak up the atmosphere. Stroll leisurely through the streets or take an evening tukxi ride through Funchal*. The next day, enjoy an impressive panorama with a visit to the small village of Monte and Pico de Arieiro*, which is over 1,800 m (5,906 ft) tall. Alternatively, explore the lush landscape with a levada hike* along the island's famous irrigation system.

Glittering escarpments and kilometres of beach have earned Porto Santo its nickname of the "golden island". Discover its riches on an island tour in an all-terrain vehicle* with unique views and fascinating geological insights.

The strictly protected island of Selvagem Grande lies off the beaten track. If the authorities grant permission, you'll walk across the "wild island" with conservationists and learn interesting information about geckos, Scopoli's shearwaters and endemic plants.

The pleasant climate and idyllic natural surroundings make the Canary Islands a popular destination, particularly in autumn. With volcanoes, forests and beaches, La Palma is the pearl of the archipelago. The capital, Santa Cruz, has great cultural and historic value and boasts many 16th- and 17th-century buildings. Take the opportunity to explore the old town at your own pace and stroll along the Avenida Maritima with its typical wooden balconies. Nature lovers can take a ride to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park* along breathtaking escarpments to one of the world's largest calderas. A volcano hike* shows how lava tracks from past eruptions not only shaped the landscape, but also provide fertile ground for winegrowing.

A subtropical climate and millions of years of erosion have given La Gomera its character. An island tour* will take you up close to the timeless natural beauty. Imagine you're in a Himalayan mountain village in the valley of Hermigua and be awed by the Garajonay National Park, which is said to have an ancient witches' meeting place at its centre. For a mystical alternative, enjoy a hike through the El Cedro rainforest*. The laurel trees are often wreathed in mist, and a magical aura fills the air. A stroll through the small city of San Sebastian de la Gomera will prove equally atmospheric. Can it really be autumn? In these exotic climes, you'll feel like it is summer in the - hopefully - many hours of sunshine.

Cape Verde is a little-known beauty with gentle bays, fine beaches, sparse desert landscapes, magnificent mountains and lush forests. Santo Antao is filled with subtropical and tropical vegetation. Go for a hike across the pristine island* and take in the scenic coast and fertile Paul Valley at close range. Head for the dry, rugged and volcanic interior when you explore the "wild west" in a jeep*. The archipelago's cultural capital can be found on Sao Vicente. Explore Mindelo on foot* and discover a melting pot of cultures at the African market and in the old town. Fogo, the "fire island", is dominated by the Pico do Fogo at a height of over 2,800 m (9,186 ft). Marvel at the fire island's volcanic landscape* on a tour to the edge of the caldera. Alternatively, take a walk through Sao Filipe* and marvel at the picturesque capital with its numerous colonial houses.

When your cruise comes to an end on the small sunshine island of Sal, you'll take a wonderful sense of summer home with you.