360° Sun Deck · M/Y Harmony V
External Dining Area
The External Dining Area where meals are served “al fresco”, is located on the Sun Deck being the ideal place to bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery.
Rivers of West Africa Cruise
10-Day flight inclusive packageFrom £3,889
8-Day Cruise onlyFrom £2,704
Departure DatesJan to Feb
10-Day
8-Day Cruise only
Departure Dates
01The cruise
A Unique West African River Cruise
This West African river cruise takes you deep into the interior along the length of the Gambia River, following in the footsteps of famous explorers.
The Atlantic Coast & the Gambia River
The journey begins along the Atlantic coast of Senegal and Gambia, then sails 240 miles upstream past riverbanks rich in flora, fauna and birdlife.
Village Life by Small Ship
Regular stops at traditional fishing villages and bustling market towns bring you close to the local culture and some of the friendliest people anywhere – a journey only possible aboard a small vessel, and a rare way to connect with the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
Your Holiday Package Includes:
- Return flights from the UK & In-destination transfers
- 7 Night Cruise on Board M/Y Harmony V on a full-board basis
- 2 Night stay Hotel in Dakar on a B&B basis
02Rivers of West Africa Cruise
Cruise Highlights
Birds
Incredible Bird-Life
Witness a dazzling array of bird species in their natural habitat along the Gambia River.
Wildlife
Wonderful Wildlife on the River Bank
Spot hippos, crocodiles, and monkeys as you sail along the river’s edge.
Bao Bolong
The Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve
Explore this rich and diverse ecosystem, home to unique flora and fauna.
Markets
Native Markets
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and flavors of local Gambian markets.
By pirogue
A Trip in a Traditional Pirogue
Glide through the serene waterways in a traditional canoe-like boat.
Giving back
The School Funded by Variety Cruises’ Clients
Visit a local school supported by generous donations from cruise guests.
The people
The Incredible Gambian People
Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local communities.
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Rivers of West Africa Cruise
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03The route
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1Thursday
Fly to Dakar
Arrival and Check-In
Upon landing, transfer to the Radisson Blu Hotel for a relaxing 2-night stay.
Arrival and Check-In
Upon landing, transfer to the Radisson Blu Hotel for a relaxing 2-night stay.
Enjoy the evening at your leisure with the option for an early swim—the beach is just 20m away—or explore the local area to find a delightful spot for dinner.
Exploring and Settling In
After checking in, take a moment to unwind in your elegant accommodation, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the hotel.
- Day 2Friday
Explore Dakar & Goree Island
Day of Leisure or Cultural Exploration
You might want a relaxing day on the beach or to explore the local area.
Day of Leisure or Cultural Exploration
You might want a relaxing day on the beach or to explore the local area.
Dakar and Gorée Island Tour
For history and culture enthusiasts, consider the optional Dakar and Gorée Island tour. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gorée Island stands as a poignant reminder of human exploitation, having served as the largest slave trading center on the West African coast from the 15th to 19th century. - Day 3Saturday
Depart from Dakar
Embarkation and Welcome Aboard
Join us on board between 2 PM and 6 PM. Spend time familiarizing yourself with your home at sea and meeting fellow voyagers. Enjoy a delightful welcome dinner as we set sail southwards towards the Saloum River Delta.
Meals included: Breakfast, DinnerEmbarkation and Welcome Aboard
Join us on board between 2 PM and 6 PM. Spend time familiarizing yourself with your home at sea and meeting fellow voyagers. Enjoy a delightful welcome dinner as we set sail southwards towards the Saloum River Delta.
Meet the Onboard Naturalist
Get to know our onboard naturalist, who will guide you in identifying the diverse sea life, river life, bird life, and wildlife throughout your journey.Overnight at Sea
- Day 4Sunday
Djiffere – Banjul
Explore the Sine-Saloum Delta
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, crocodiles, turtles, and manatees as we venture into the breathtaking Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this vital birding area is home to around 200 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and raptors.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or DinnerExplore the Sine-Saloum Delta
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, crocodiles, turtles, and manatees as we venture into the breathtaking Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this vital birding area is home to around 200 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and raptors.
Optional Excursion
Visit Joal Fadiout, a unique island built entirely of clam shells, offering a glimpse into local heritage and tradition.Afternoon Sailing
This afternoon, we begin our sail to Banjul, The Gambia.Overnight in Banjul
- Day 5Monday
Banjul – Abuko Nature Reserve
Banjul: Gateway to the Gambia River
Banjul, The Gambia’s capital city, serves as the gateway to the 700-mile-long Gambia River. This morning, join our optional half-day tour exploring Banjul and the nearby town of Bakau, famous for its Kachikally Crocodile Pool and lush Botanic Garden.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or DinnerBanjul: Gateway to the Gambia River
Banjul, The Gambia’s capital city, serves as the gateway to the 700-mile-long Gambia River. This morning, join our optional half-day tour exploring Banjul and the nearby town of Bakau, famous for its Kachikally Crocodile Pool and lush Botanic Garden.
Afternoon Sailing
Mid-afternoon, we set sail upstream along the Gambia River toward Tendaba.Overnight Docked in Tendaba
- Day 6Tuesday
Tendaba
Exploring Tendaba and Beyond
Tendaba is a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It is accessible from our ship via motor pirogue—small, canoe-like boats. Today, we offer two optional excursions for those seeking adventure and discovery.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or DinnerExploring Tendaba and Beyond
Tendaba is a small Muslim fishing village with a population of around 600 people. It is accessible from our ship via motor pirogue—small, canoe-like boats. Today, we offer two optional excursions for those seeking adventure and discovery.
Morning: Kiang West National Park
Begin with a walk from Tendaba to Batelling to explore the Kiang West National Park, home to rare bird species, Guinea baboons, Senegal bushbabies, and marsh mongooses. After a morning immersed in wildlife, hop into a safari truck for the journey back to the ship, passing through local villages along the way.Afternoon: Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve
Visit the Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve, featuring six major bolongs (creeks) and remarkable opportunities for birding and boating.Overnight Docked in Tendaba
- Day 7Wednesday
Gambia River – Kuntaur – River Gambia National Park
Journey Upstream to Kuntaur
Early this morning, we continue our journey upstream along the Gambia River, arriving at the bustling port town of Kuntaur. This marks the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going vessels, including our small ship.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or DinnerJourney Upstream to Kuntaur
Early this morning, we continue our journey upstream along the Gambia River, arriving at the bustling port town of Kuntaur. This marks the last inland stop navigable for ocean-going vessels, including our small ship.
Optional Excursion: Baboon Island
Take a motor pirogue journey further inland to Baboon Island, part of The Gambia National Park. A local park ranger will share insights about the park’s rich flora and fauna. As we peacefully drift back toward Kuntaur, keep an eye out for chimpanzees from the rehabilitation project, as well as hippos, crocodiles, Red Colobus monkeys, and other wildlife.Evening Entertainment: The Kankurang Dance
Upon returning to Kuntaur, witness the exceptional Kankurang dance, a cultural tradition believed to dispense justice and ward off evil spirits. - Day 8Thursday
Kuntaur – Janjanbureh – Kaur
Optional Tour: Janjanbureh, Lamin Koto, and Wassu
Begin your day with a bus and local ferry journey to Janjanbureh (formerly Georgetown), one of The Gambia's oldest towns. Stroll through its streets and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or DinnerOptional Tour: Janjanbureh, Lamin Koto, and Wassu
Begin your day with a bus and local ferry journey to Janjanbureh (formerly Georgetown), one of The Gambia's oldest towns. Stroll through its streets and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
Next, travel to Lamin Koto, where you'll visit a new school under construction, made possible by generous donations from Variety Cruises and its clients.
Continue to the Wassu Stone Circles, a mysterious sacred burial ground thousands of years old and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit Kaur Village
After lunch, sail downstream to the small fishing village of Kaur, where you can observe the daily life of local Gambians.Captain’s Farewell Dinner
Conclude the day with our signature Captain’s Farewell Dinner as we sail downstream, heading back toward Banjul. - Day 9Friday
Kaur – Banjul
Discover Kunta Kinteh Island
Spend one more enlightening day in The Gambia, starting with a visit to Kunta Kinteh Island, strategically located in the middle of the Gambia River. The island holds a somber place in history as a center of the slave trade, a story famously told in Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will provide an in-depth account of its past, after which you’ll have time to explore the island at your own pace.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch or DinnerDiscover Kunta Kinteh Island
Spend one more enlightening day in The Gambia, starting with a visit to Kunta Kinteh Island, strategically located in the middle of the Gambia River. The island holds a somber place in history as a center of the slave trade, a story famously told in Alex Haley’s book, Roots. A local guide will provide an in-depth account of its past, after which you’ll have time to explore the island at your own pace.
Return to Banjul
After the visit, we return to Banjul for the evening.Gambian Night On Board
Celebrate Gambian culture with a special Gambian Night on board, featuring a live concert performed on the kora, a traditional West African string instrument.Overnight at Sea
Overnight at sea as we sail toward Dakar. - Day 10Saturday
Dakar
Morning Arrival in Dakar
Begin your day with an early morning arrival in Dakar and enjoy one last breakfast onboard as you reflect on the unforgettable journey.
Meals included: BreakfastMorning Arrival in Dakar
Begin your day with an early morning arrival in Dakar and enjoy one last breakfast onboard as you reflect on the unforgettable journey.
Transfer to Your Onward Flight
After breakfast, we’ll arrange your transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of an incredible adventure.
Ports of call: Dakar – Banjul – Gambia River– Kantaur - Gambia River National Park – Kaur – Tendaba – Djiffere – Janjanbureh
Best Time to Visit West Africa
Reliable sunshine is virtually guaranteed throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the low 20s in winter 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, making it an ideal destination year-round.
04Your Vessel
The M/Y Harmony V
Motor yacht · Built 2009
M/Y Harmony V
- Guests
- 49
- Cabins
- 25
- Crew
- 16–18
- Length
- 55m
- Breadth
- 8.2m
- Speed
- 10 knots
- Renovated
- 2021
- Draft
- 3m
- Stabilisers
- Twin
- Flag
- Greece
Contemporary Design and Safety
A sleek 55m yacht launched in June 2009, built to Eurosolas standards with twin stabilisers for a smooth, secure voyage.
Elegant Interiors
A spacious lounge with an American bar leads to a warm-toned dining room, both with large windows onto the view.
Relaxation on Deck
A 200m² sun deck with shaded outdoor dining, a bar, deck chairs and sun loungers for lazy days at sea.
Recreational Activities
A stern swim platform with ladder, plus kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkelling equipment to enjoy.
Decks & cabins
Find your cabin on board
Choose a deck to see its plan, then tap a gold point for the cabins or a camera for a photo. Every cabin is compared below, with prices from the price list.
Decks of M/Y Harmony V
CabinsPhoto of the area
360° Sun Deck · M/Y Harmony V
External Dining Area
The External Dining Area where meals are served “al fresco”, is located on the Sun Deck being the ideal place to bask under the sun, read a good book or just gaze at the scenery.
Oceans Lower Deck · M/Y Harmony V
Interior Lounge
The spacious lounge with the classy seating, the American bar and the joining dining room, boast large windows providing beautiful views of the ports of call.
Oceans Lower Deck · M/Y Harmony V
Dining Area
The classy Dining Room offers large windows providing for the most beautiful views of all destinations the ship cruises to, while accommodating all guests at one single seating and provides a high standard of cuisine, always with some local flavours.
COceans Lower Deck · M/Y Harmony V
Category C
- 1 double bed
- 11–12.5 m² · 119–135 sq ft
The category C cabins are located on the main deck offering large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors.
In every cabin
- Flat screen TV sets
- DVD players
- Mini fridges
- Hairdryers
- Individually controlled A/C
- Safe deposit boxes
BOceans Lower Deck · M/Y Harmony V
Category B
- 2 lower beds or 1 double bed
- 12.5–13 m² · 135–140.5 sq ft
The Category B cabins are located on the Main Deck offering large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors.
In every cabin
- Flat screen TV sets
- DVD players
- Mini fridges
- Hairdryers
- Individually controlled A/C
- Safe deposit boxes
ARiviera Main Deck · M/Y Harmony V
Category A
- 2 lower beds or 1 double bed
- 12.5–13.5 m² · 135–146 sq ft
The category A cabins are located on the main deck offering large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors.
In every cabin
- Flat screen TV sets
- DVD players
- Mini fridges
- Hairdryers
- Individually controlled A/C
- Safe deposit boxes
PRiviera Main Deck · M/Y Harmony V
Category P
- 1 double bed or 2 lower beds
- 14–16 m² · 150–173 sq ft
The Category P cabins are located on the Upper Deck offering a sofa, large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors.
In every cabin
- Flat screen TV sets
- DVD players
- Mini fridges
- Hairdryers
- Individually controlled A/C
- Safe deposit boxes
Compare the cabins
On board Facilities
Dining & Lounges
- Single seating dining
- Indoor & Outdoor Lounge – Bar
- Indoor & Outdoor Restaurant
Amenities
- Audiovisual in Lounge
- Mini library
- Beach Towels
Recreational Activities
- Snorkeling equipment
- Kayak & SUP boards
- Board Games
- Swimming Platform
Wi-Fi
Cabin Features
- Windows: Upper & Main Deck Cabins
- Triple Occupancy Cabins: Category A
- TV
- Mini Safe
- Mini Fridge
- En Suite Bathroom with Shower
- Individually Controlled A/C
- Hairdryers
05Your Hotel
Noom Hotel Dakar Sea Plaza
Prime Location in Dakar
In the affluent Fann Corniche area, just 20 yards from the beach, with an outdoor pool and golf nearby.
Stylish Rooms
Marble floors, designer furniture, flat-screen TVs and walk-in showers, with Atlantic views from select rooms.
Dining & Drinks
International fusion and modern takes on Senegalese classics in the restaurant, plus cocktails at the poolside bar.
Nearby Attractions
An excellent base for visiting Dakar’s IFAN Museum of West Africa and the historic island of Gorée.
Facilities
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
- 24-hour front desk
- Room service
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
Room Options
Superior room with garden view (included in your holiday)
The following room types are available with a supplement:
- Superior room with balcony sea view
- Superior room with terrace garden view
- Premium room with balcony sea view
- Junior suite with balcony sea view
- Royal suite with terrace sea view
06Departure dates
Prices
Rivers Of West Africa flight inclusive package 2027
Package price includes:7-night cruise (full board), 2-night hotel with breakfast, flights from the UK, local transfers and port charges
Prices (£) per person from:
| Departure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers | Category P | Special Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14/01/2027* | £3,889 | £4,585 | £5,193 | £5,541 | ||||
| 28/01/2027 | £3,889 | £4,585 | £5,193 | £5,541 | ||||
| 04/02/2027 | £3,889 | £4,585 | £5,193 | £5,541 | ||||
| *2 complimentary shore excursions: Banjul & Bakau Excursion, Tendaba, Baobolong Reserve |
Rivers of West Africa Cruise 2027 - Single & triple occupancy
| Single occupancy | 50% supplement |
| 3rd guest | 30% reduction in Category P |
What’s Included
- Flights from London or Manchester
- All local transfers
- 2 nights at Noom Hotel Dakar Sea Plaza (or similar) on a bed and breakfast basis
- Accommodation on board for 7 nights in your chosen grade of cabin with private SH/WC & air conditioning, mini fridge and TV with complimentary movies.
- Full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a local themed party evening , fun BBQ on the beach or on deck (weather permitting) and Captain’s Dinner
- Filter coffee, tea and 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
- On board Gambian River Naturalist
- Port charges
What is extra
- Beverages, except filter coffee, tea, and water
- Shore excursions on the islands or other land arrangements
- Crew gratuities (optional – recommended amount: EUR 15–18 per passenger per day)
- Passenger personal expenses
- Wi-Fi (available at charge)
Rivers Of West Africa 2027
Prices (£) per person - including £365 port charges| Departure Dates | Category C | Special Offers | Category B | Special Offers | Category A | Special Offers | Category P | Special Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16/01/2027* | £2,704 | £3,400 | £4,008 | £4,356 | ||||
| 30/01/2027 | £2,704 | £3,400 | £4,008 | £4,356 | ||||
| 06/02/2027 | £2,704 | £3,400 | £4,008 | £4,356 | ||||
| *2 complimentary shore excursions: Banjul & Bakau Excursion, Tendaba, Baobolong Reserve |
Rivers of West Africa Cruise 2027 - Single & triple occupancy
| Single occupancy | 50% supplement |
| 3rd guest | 30% reduction in Category P |
What’s Included
- Accommodation on board for 7 nights in your chosen grade of cabin with private SH/WC & air conditioning, mini fridge and TV with complimentary movies.
- Full-board: Buffet breakfast and two meals daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a local themed party evening , fun BBQ on the beach or on deck (weather permitting) and Captain’s Dinner
- Filter coffee, tea and 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
- On board Gambian River Naturalist
- Port charges
What is extra
- Flights (can be arranged on request)
- Local transfers (can be arranged on request)
- Beverages, except filter coffee, tea, and water
- Shore excursions on the islands or other land arrangements
- Crew gratuities (optional – recommended amount: EUR 15–18 per passenger per day)
- Passenger personal expenses
- Wi-Fi (available at charge)
Speak to our cruise team
020 8324 3117Mon–Fri 09:00–19:00 · Sat 09:30–17:00
Peace of mind
Book with confidence
Every payment you make to us is financially protected, from deposit to balance. Holidays with flights are covered by our ATOL licence, and holidays without flights by our ABTOT membership. Trading since 1995.
ATOL Protected — Licence 9511
All flight-inclusive holidays are fully ATOL protected
ABTOT Member — No. 5660
Additional protection for bookings without flights
Reviews
What our cruise guests say
Independent reviews of Seafarer cruises, collected by Feefo.
Excellent
4.6out of 5
Based on 643 guest reviews of our service on Feefo
Feefo Platinum Trusted Service AwardFour years in a row
