Sailing from Buenos Aires

Experience the beat of the birthplace of tango

Before we leave the world behind, take time to soak in the dazzling atmosphere of Argentina’s capital city. Among the parks and Belle Epoque architecture, you’ll find old cafés where you can sit and savor this exceptional place. There's so much to see and do in Buenos Aires that you may wish to join one of our optional Pre-Programs to discover the city world-famous Iguazu Falls.

Once you’ve soaked up the sights and sounds, it’s time to board MS Fridtjof Nansen. For the next 19 days, you’ll experience an entirely different sensory journey, centered on your personal self-care. 

Nature’s relaxing rhythms

Start to unwind on your first day at sea

As your cruise sets sail from Argentina and across the Atlantic Ocean, settle into the calming rhythms of life at sea. Let the pure sea air lift your mood as you open your mind to the opportunities ahead and reflect on your goals.

Join the Wellness Team to discover the many lifestyle and nutrition activities they'll be guiding you through. And learn about the positive power of connecting with nature with our ornithology and marine biology experts.

You'll also want to explore the many facilities of your comfortable expedition ship, including the gym, pool, spa and lounges.

Phase 1: Cleanse

Clear yourself of toxins, negativity and stress

Today we begin your wellness program with the first of four cycles: Cleanse. Over the next three days, you’ll take part in lectures and physical activities designed to release negative energy, ease tension and allow your mind and body to relax. Walks on deck refresh your mind, while yoga and stretching eases tension in your body. Book a session with a massage therapist, and enjoy the tasty, healthy meals you’ll find in our restaurants. Try a digital detox too. Disconnect from the internet and emails to declutter your mind and allow you to connect more fully with yourself and the world around you.

Phase 2: Renewal

Embracing positivity and mindfulness

By now you’ll be feeling delightfully relaxed, so it’s time to move to Phase 2: Renewal. Your Wellness Team will teach you how to transform negative habits and promote self-care, mindful behavior, and physical and mental health.

You’ll be taught the principles of yoga and put them into practice in a daily class that’s suitable for all levels. You’ll also take daily walks on deck, watching the seas and skies with our naturalists if the weather allows.

Workshops and food science sessions will help you discover many excellent nutritional principles to nourish a positive, healthy life.

Phase 3: Balance

Maintaining equilibrium in our busy lives

In Phase 3 of our core program, we look at balancing the demands of daily life with a mindful, healthful philosophy. Yoga teaches how to cope with negative emotions. Tai chi improves stability, flexibility and concentration. Meditation improves presence through mindfulness and breathing. You’ll be able to try music, sound healing and storytelling, or simply relax and enjoy the rhythms of the ocean. At the same time, you’ll learn about how sustainability supports healthy living. As a leader in sustainable travel, that’s central to our values and something we invite you to share.

Feeling nourished

Time for reflection along the African coast

As your health and wellbeing cruise sails towards the Cape Verde islands, you'll have completed our core vitality program. It's a major step. One that will equip you with exciting new principles to bring into your daily life. And reward you with new levels of enjoyment in the things you love. The guided practices and sessions that formed the first three parts of your program will now wind down, but your journey continues.

Take time to reflect on your experiences so far and discuss what you've learned with others. And carry your new energy and positivity into the next leg of your retreat.

Sunset over Santiago

The islands where ‘No Stress’ is the national motto

Today you’ll reach Cape Verde, an archipelago of subtropical and volcanic islands off the coast of Africa. Some of our guests will find this the perfect spot to end their retreat and gently adjust back to life on land.

As we arrive in Praia on the island of Santiago, look out for Farol de Dona Maria Pia lighthouse, built in 1881. On a clear day, you should also be able to see Platô, the site of the UNESCO-listed historic capital Cidade Velha.

We’ll say goodbye to some of our fellow travelers as the sun sets over the island, and prepare for our onward journey on the tranquillity of the seas.

Phase 4: Reconnection

Forging new bonds with yourself and nature

As you cruise towards Lisbon, you'll begin the final cycle of your retreat program: Reconnection.

You may have already experienced how nature can boost your health and happiness. What better place to embrace those wondrous feelings than deep out at sea. Soak up the tranquility of the natural wonders all around—daydreaming on the clouds, and catching sight of dolphins, flying fish and rare seabirds.

Connecting with nature is not only good for our health, but also the health of the planet. As you bond with its beauty, you’ll discover changes you can make to protect its fragile wellbeing.

Enchanting Lisbon

Our wellness journey ends in Portugal's relaxed capital

Get up early and enjoy stunning views of Lisbon as we cruise up the Tejo River. If you’re not ready to head home yet, you can extend your stay and join our optional two-day Post-Program for a guided tour of the city and its surroundings, including UNESCO town of Sintra, Monserrate Palace and Cascais.

Though you’ve reached the end of your retreat, you’ll continue your journey to a healthier, happier, more balanced life using the skills you’ve learned. And with a greater connection to nature to share with others.