The HANSEATIC nature invites you to join a very special springtime cruise, with a multifaceted route from the Atlantic islands to Seville, the capital of Andalusia. To start your adventures, a majestic island silhouette heralds the mighty creative forces of the earth. La Palma rises 2,400 m (7,874 ft) out of the ocean and reaches depths of up to 4,000 m (13,123 ft) below the surface of the water. The capital Santa Cruz de la Palma exudes fascinating Spanish charm at the foot of a mighty extinct volcano. Old houses in the colonial style and decorated wooden balconies will awaken your photographic skills, while the idyllic narrow streets invite you to take a stroll. The Caldera de Taburiente National Park* will enchant you with one of the largest calderas in the world. In contrast, a volcano hike* reveals an unforgettable panorama of lighthouses, salt pans and small fishing bays.

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. Enjoy a leisurely independent stroll through the streets or take an evening tukxi ride through Funchal*.

Set sail for more sunny destinations in the spring along the Costa del Sol. Marbella, with its exclusive marina of Puerto Banus, is more than just an elegant seaside resort. A walking tour of Marbella and Puerto Banus* transforms the narrow streets of the old town into lifelines of past eras, with beautiful Renaissance style and Arabic elements. Historic Ronda* is one of the famous “white villages” and a highlight of Andalusia, with parts of the town perched on the edge of a 160 m (525 ft) deep gorge spanned by a bridge. Spring is the best time to discover the traces of the Moorish rule and the birthplace of bullfighting.

Malaga is another place famed for its cultural riches – whether the Castillo de Gibralfaro high above the city, the sculptures by Salvador Dalí or the house where Picasso was born. For something else with a little surrealism, the Segway tour* is an unusual way to see the city. The two-wheeled electric vehicle is steered by the driver’s body movement. The scenic tour to Granada with visit to the Alhambra* (subject to availability of entrance tickets) takes you to one of the most outstanding masterpieces of Moorish Islamic architecture in Europe. The most beautiful palace of sultans in Spain enchants visitors with its vast gardens and prized mosaics. Take the advice of the joyful motto “viva la vida” in Mijas with a wine tasting* in a rustic bodega. How many winding streets weave through the village? Are you faster on foot than the donkey taxis? It’s time to find out.

If the conditions are good and the authorities give the green light, we’ll set sail in our Zodiacs today and take you right to the heart of the experience. You can look forward to a surprising adventure on the scenic Costa Tropical with springtime panoramas on this flexible day.

Choose a spot on one of the many open deck areas to thoroughly enjoy the experience of cruising on the Guadalquivir. Only a small ship such as the HANSEATIC nature is able to approach Seville this way. Take advantage of the opportunity to get to know Andalusia’s capital and its cultural treasures. Take a city tour* to explore the vibrant city filled with broad boulevards, gorgeous gardens, narrow lanes and small squares. The centre is dominated by Seville’s magnificent landmark, the famous Giralda, which was built as a minaret by the Moors and topped with a baroque belfry by the Christians. Alternatively, travel through time with a visit to the picturesque little town of Carmona and the Roman necropolis*, one of the most important archaeological sites in Andalusia. Make the most of your time here and enjoy the evening charms of Seville independently – perhaps with a typical glass of sherry and some traditional tapas. What better and more life-affirming way to start the spring?