23 th December  to 2 th January  2008

The World just may be the perfect spot to reflect upon the past year and contemplate the next. Come aboard in Las Palmas, on Gran Canaria, the largest of the Canary Islands. Not far off Africa’s west coast, the seven major islands of this volcanic archipelago enjoy a mild climate the year round. The attractive old Vequeta and Triana neighborhoods are perfect for exploring on foot. The Museo Canario features exhibits highlighting the region’s original inhabitants, the Guanches.

A short sail brings us to Lanzarote, easternmost of the Canaries. Two large fortresses stand watch over the harbor at Arrecife, while a third is situated on a small island near the harbor’s entrance, all built to protect the island from marauding pirates. Eons of volcanic activity have left behind a fascinating landscape of petrified lava fields, craters and vast caves created by underground lava flows. Amazingly, this has not stopped diligent farmers from cultivating grapes in the volcanic ash—the resulting Malvasia wine may be sampled at any of a number of bodegas.

Next, a visit to Puerto del Rosario on the island of Fuerteventura. Unlike the rest of the Canaries, Fuerteventura is much more arid and desert-like. Some 150 beaches ring the island, making it a popular spot for water sports, particularly windsurfers. The steady breezes also powered the many windmills which still decorate the island, used by enterprising farmers to draw well water for irrigation.

The World heads a bit further north now, to the Portuguese island of Madeira and the port of Funchal (29-30-31 December 2007). This delightful “Floating Garden” rises steeply from the Atlantic, with dramatic cliffs ringing the verdant isle.  Funchal’s patterned pavements, swaying palms and whitewashed houses splashed with bougainvillea create a mos appealing vista. During our stay here, be sure to find time for a visit to Monte for a toboggan ride; to sample the eponymous Madeira wine; and for cocktails or dinner at famed Reid’s Palace, now owned by Orient-Express.

There’s one final treat in store as we sail from Funchal on New Year’s Eve: a truly spectacular fireworks display.

Your captain will ease out into the bay, joining cruise ships and elegant private yachts that have gathered to enjoy the annual extravaganza.