-
Day 1ThursdayUpon landing transfer to Radisson Blu hotel for 2-night stay. Evening at leisure for an early swim – the beach is 20m away, and the chance to explore for dinner.Uk to Dakar
-
Day 2Friday
Explore Dakar & Goree Island
You might want a day on the beach, or to explore the local area but, if you’re a culture /history vulture try the optional Dakar and Goree. Goree island today is a UNESCO World Heritage site and serves as a reminder of human exploitation. From the 15h to 19th century it was the largest slave trading centre on the West African Coast. -
Day 3Saturday
Depart from Dakar
Meet us on board between 2PM and 6PM. Spend some time getting to know your home at sea and fellow voyagers, then join us for a welcome dinner before we set sail southwards, towards the Saloum River Delta. In particular get to meet the on board naturalist who will help you identify the sea life, river life, bird life and wild life. Overnight at sea.Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner -
Day 4Sunday
Djiffere – Banjul
Dolphins, crocodiles, turtles and manatees – keep your eyes peeled for all of these and more as we venture into the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO biosphere reserve, this important birding area is home to around 200 different bird species including flamingos, pelicans and raptors. Today our optional excursion visits JOAL FADIOUT best an island built of clam shells. This afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia. Overnight in Banjul.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner -
Day 5Monday
Banjul – Abuko Nature Reserve
Banjul is The Gambia’s capital city and gateway to the 700-mile long Gambia River. We’ll sail the river this afternoon, but this morning we have an optional half-day tour of Banjul itself, plus the town of Bakau; known for its kachikally crocodile pool and botanic garden. Mid-afternoon we sail upstream on the Gambia River to Tendaba. Overnight docked in Tendaba.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner -
Day 6Tuesday
Tendaba
Today, we offer two optional excursions out of Tendaba, a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It’s reachable from our ship by motor pirogue – small canoe-like boats. In the morning we’ll walk from Tendaba to Batelling to visit the Kiang West National Park – home to many rare species of bird as well as Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbaby and marsh Mongoose. When you’re all primated out, we’ll jump in a safari truck heading back to the ship, via Tendaba, passing local villages as we go. In the afternoon the excursion is to Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve – with six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable birding and boating opportunities. Overnight docked in Tendaba.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner -
Day 7Wednesday
Gambia River – Kuntaur – River Gambia National Park
Early morning we continue our journey upstream on the Gambia River, heading to the bustling port town of Kuntaur. This is the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going vessels, even our small one. The optional excursion this afternoon is a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, a part of The Gambia National Park where a local park ranger teaches us all about the park’s flora and fauna. Then, as we drift slowly and peacefully back towards Kuntaur, keep a look out for the chimpanzees at a rehabilitation project en route. You may also spot hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and more. An exceptional dance, the Kankurang, is performed on our return to Kuntaur. The Kankurang is believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner -
Day 8Thursday
Kuntaur – Janjanbureh – Kaur
Our optional tour today takes us first to Janjanbureh via bus and local ferry. Janjanbureh, formerly known as Georgetown, is one of the oldest towns in The Gambia. Wander the streets and take in the laid back vibes before we head back to the bus and on to our second destination: Lamin Koto. Here, you’ll see a new school in the process of being built, thanks to generous donations from Variety Cruises and our clients. From here we’ll visit the mysterious stones of Wassu, a sacred burial ground thousands of years old, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch we sail downstream to the small fishing village of Kaur where you can see how local Gambians live here today. Lastly, join us in the evening for our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, back towards Banjul.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner -
Day 9Friday
Kaur – Banjul
One more day in The Gambia, with lots more to learn and discover. This morning we anchor at Kunta Kinteh Island. Strategically located in the middle of the Gambia River, the island has a dark history in the slave trade, the story of which has been told to the world via author Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will teach us about the history, after which you’ll have some time to walk around before we head back to Banjul. Tonight we host Gambian Night on board, complete with a concert performed on the kora, a west African string instrument. Overnight at sea, heading towards Dakar.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner -
Day 10Saturday
Dakar
Early morning arrival in Dakar and one last breakfast before our trip comes to an end and we transfer you to your onward flight.Meals included: Breakfast
Call our experts: 0208 324 3117 Mon – Fri: 09:00 to 18:00 / Sat: 09:30 to 17:00
On Board
M/Y Harmony G
10-Day package
From: £3,061
Departure Dates
Jan to Feb
Discover the Rivers of west Africa
This is a cruise with a difference, deep into the interior of West Africa along the length of the Gambia River. In many ways it’s a chance to follow in the footsteps of famous Explorers and discover the ‘dark continent’ at a leisurely pace, stopping at traditional fishing villages and colourful bustling market towns.
The first part of the itinerary runs along the Atlantic coast of Senegal and Gambia. Then we enter the river Gambia and sail 240 miles upstream, discovering the fascinating and hugely varied rich flora, fauna and bird life along the river banks. En route we make regular stops at towns and villages brim-full of amazing local colour and some of the friendliest people you can imagine. In all honesty it’s a unique experience that you can only make on a small vessel.
Your Holiday Package Includes:
Don’t miss…
Incredible bird-life
Wonderful wildlife on the river bank
The Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve
Native markets
A trip in a traditional pirogue
The school funded by Variety Cruises’ clients
The incredible Gambian people
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Ports of call: Dakar – Banjul – Gambia River– Kantaur - Gambia River National Park – Kaur – Tendaba – Djiffere – Janjanbureh
The Weather
Reliable sunshine is virtually guaranteed throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the low 20s in winter and up to the high 20s or even low 30s in the height of Summer. The climate generally provides warm or hot days with cooler nights and virtually no humidity
Your vessel: The M/Y Harmony G
Cabins
21 Ocean View
Guests
44
Crew
17
Length / Breadth
54m/177ft – 7.10m/23.3ft
The Harmony “G” stands as a modern mega yacht with a sleek, high-tech design, offering spacious and comfortable accommodations. It is specially designed to comfortably host up to 44 guests in 21 cabins, while also being nimble enough to access smaller harbours and islands that larger cruise ships can’t reach. The yacht features a generous lounge and bar, a dining room, and a large sun deck for guests to enjoy. Launched in January 2001 and having undergone its most recent renovation in 2019, the Harmony “G” meets the highest SOLAS safety standards. Its powerful engines and advanced stabilizers ensure a safe and smooth cruising experience.
Deck Plans
Cabin Selection
Category C
LOWER DECK- 1 DOUBLE OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
(10-11 sq.m. / 108-119 sq.ft.)
The Category C cabins are located on the lower deck. Cabins have bathroom with shower, individually controlled A/C, piped music, flat-screen TV (Satellite channels), CD/DVD player, telephone for internal use, mini safe, mini-fridge, hairdryer, adapters (220V).
Category B
MAIN DECK – 2 LOWER BEDS
(10.50-11 sq.m. / 113.5-119 sq.ft.)
The Category B cabins are located on the main deck. Cabins have bathroom with shower, individually controlled A/C, piped music, flat-screen TV (Satellite channels), CD/DVD player, telephone for internal use, mini safe, mini-fridge, hairdryer, adapters (220V).
Category A
MAIN DECK – 2 LOWER BEDS.
(10.50-11 sq.m. / 113.5-119 sq.ft.)
The Category A cabins are located on the main deck. Cabins have bathroom with shower, individually controlled A/C, piped music, flat-screen TV (Satellite channels), CD/DVD player, telephone for internal use, mini safe, mini-fridge, hairdryer, adapters (220V).
Category P
UPPER DECK – 1 DOUBLE BED OR 2 LOWER BEDS.
(15-18 sq.m. / 162-195 sq.ft.)
The Category P suites are located on the upper deck. Cabins have bathroom with shower, individually controlled A/C, piped music, flat-screen TV (Satellite channels), CD/DVD player, telephone for internal use, mini safe, mini-fridge, hairdryer, adapters (220V).
On board Facilities
- Single seating dining Indoor & Outdoor Lounge – Bar
- Indoor Restaurant
- Audiovisual in Lounge
- Mini library
- Beach Towels
- Snorkeling equipment
- Kayak
- Board Games
- Wi-Fi
Creature Comforts
- Large portholes: upper deck cabins
- Portholes: lower deck cabins
- Triple Occupancy cabins: Category A
- Flat-Screen TV
- Mini Safe
- Mini Fridge
- Individually controlled A/C
- En suite bathroom with shower
- Hairdryers
- Telephone for internal use
- Central music
Your Hotel: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dakar Sea Plaza
Located in the affluent Fann Corniche area of Dakar, Radisson Blu is housed in a contemporary building with outdoor pool. It features nearby golfing facilities.
Air-conditioned rooms at Radisson Blu Dakar are fitted with marble floors and designer furnishings. They all include a flat-screen TV and en suite bathrooms with walk-in showers. Some rooms overlook the Atlantic Ocean.
Guests can enjoy a fusion of international dishes at the restaurant of the hotel. The chef also offers a modern take on traditional Senegalese specialities. Drinks and cocktails are served outdoor by the pool bar.
Located only 20 yards from the beach, Radisson Blu hotel is a base to explore Dakar’s IFAN Museum of West Africa and Gorée Island.
Facilities
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
- 24-hour front desk
- Room service
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
Prices
Rivers Of West Africa flight inclusive package 2025
Including cruise, 2nights Dakar, Radisson Blu Sea Plaza, Transfers, Flights from LGW, Port Charges"Prices (£) per person:
Deparure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers | Category P | Special Offers | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
09/01/2025 | £3,167 | £3,654 | £3,933 | £4,447 | |||||
16/01/2025 | £3,167 | £3,654 | £3,933 | £4,447 | |||||
23/01/2025 | sold out | sold out | sold out | sold out | |||||
30/01/2025 | £3,167 | £3,654 | £3,933 | £4,447 |
Rivers of West Africa Cruise - Single & Triple occupancy
Category C | Category B | Category A | Category P | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Single use | £5,034 | £5,947 | £6,468 | £7,434 | ||||
3rd person | £2,849 | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||||
Port charges | Included | Included | Included | Included |
Rivers Of West Africa 2025
Prices (£) per personDeparure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers | Category P | Special Offers | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
11/01/2025 | £1,704 | £2,191 | £2,470 | £2,984 | |||||
18/01/2025 | £1,704 | £2,191 | £2,470 | £2,984 | |||||
25/01/2025 | sold out | sold out | sold out | sold out | |||||
01/02/2025 | £1,704 | £2,191 | £2,470 | £2,984 |
Rivers of West Africa Cruise - Single & Triple occupancy & port charges
Black Friday specials - No Single Supplement on selected departures - singles pay the normal cabin price before Black Friday share cabin discounts. Call for details, 0208 3243117Category C | Category B | Category A | Category P | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Single use | £2,935 | £3,848 | £4,370 | £5,074 | ||||
3rd person | £1,491 | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||||
Port charges | £309 | £309 | £309 | £309 |
Rivers Of West Africa flight inclusive package 2026
Including cruise, 2nights Dakar, Radisson Blu Sea Plaza, Transfers, Flights from LGW, Port Charges"Prices (£) per person:
Deparure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers | Category P | Special Offers | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
08/01/2026 | £3,245 | £3,732 | £4,024 | £4,553 | |||||
15/01/2026 | £3,245 | £3,732 | £4,024 | £4,553 | |||||
22/01/2026 | £3,245 | £3,732 | £4,024 | £4,553 | |||||
12/02/2026 | £3,245 | £3,732 | £4,024 | £4,553 |
Rivers of West Africa Cruise - Single & Triple occupancy
Category C | Category B | Category A | Category P | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Single use | £5,173 | £6,086 | £6,634 | £7,625 | ||||
3rd person | £2,919 | |||||||
Port charges | included | included | included | included |
Rivers Of West Africa 2026
Prices (£) per personDeparure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers | Category P | Special Offers | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
10/01/2026 | £1,774 | £2,261 | £2,553 | £3,082 | |||||
17/01/2026 | £1,774 | £2,261 | £2,553 | £3,082 | |||||
24/01/2026 | £1,774 | £2,261 | £2,553 | £3,082 | |||||
14/02/2026 | £1,774 | £2,261 | £2,553 | £3,082 |
Rivers of West Africa Cruise - Single & Triple occupancy & port charges
Black Friday specials - No Single Supplement on selected departures - singles pay the normal cabin price before Black Friday share cabin discounts. Call for details, 0208 3243117Category C | Category B | Category A | Category P | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Single use | £2,935 | £3,848 | £4,370 | £5,074 | ||||
3rd person | £1,491 | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||||
Port charges | £309 | £309 | £309 | £309 |
Flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester.
All local transfers
2 nights at Radisson Blu hotel (Dakar) on a bed and breakfast basis
On Board M/Y Harmony G
Accommodation on board M/Y Harmony G for 7 nights in your chosen grade of cabin with private SH/WC & air conditioning, mini fridge and flat screen TV with complimentary movies.
Full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a local themed party evening and Captain’s Dinner.
Regular (filter) coffee, tea and drinking water free all day, plus abundant fresh fruit.
Use of fishing and snorkelling equipment, sea kayak and stand up paddle boards (subject to availability).
Professional English speaking Cruise Director / Gambia River Naturalist
Port charges
Flights to Dakar are available from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham.
All flights are indirect via either Madrid, Lisbon, Istanbul, Barcelona depending on the airline.
Exact flight details and timings will be advised at the time of booking. Flight supplement may apply.
Outbound – Thursday
- Depart Heathrow:11:30 Arrive Madrid:15:00
- Depart Madrid: 18:00 Arrive Dakar: 20:40
Inbound – Saturday
- Depart Dakar:21:50 Arrive Madrid:-4:10
- Depart Madrid: 07:00 Arrive Heathrow: 08:25
ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 9511
- Dakar airport to Radisson blu hotel – approximately 1h 15 min
- Radisson blu hotel to Dakar port (cruise embarkation) – approximately 30 min
- Dakar port to Dakar airport – approximately 1h
- Beverages except regular (filter) coffee, tea and drinking water.
- Shore excursions or other land arrangements.
- Crew gratuities (optional – recommend Eur10-14 per passenger per day).
- Passenger personal expenses
- Wi-Fi (available at charge)
Book your Package with us to ensure full financial protection for your holiday.
Your flight inclusive holiday with us is financially secure as we are ATOL licensed and the full package is ATOL protected. We have been trading since 1995 so you can book with total confidence. |