Port
Casablanca, Morocco
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All,68
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$2510
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
2 Days/1 Night
Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (L/D) Casablanca - Marrakech
Marrakech is more than just a city -- it is a pearl polished by its own rich history, and its tradition of hospitality has for centuries been known to welcome visitors. Nestled in the foothills of the snowcapped Atlas Mountains, the city is divided into two distinct parts -- the medina (Old Town) and the modern European gueliz (New Town).
A scenic road trip from Casablanca brings you to Marrakech. Watch for the Koutoubia Minaret -- a 12th-century Moorish monument.
The famous Bahia Palace was built in 1880 by the great Sidi Moussa and is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. It shows you how the privileged of this Imperial City lived during the 19th century. The use of marble, stucco and mosaics predominates in the apartments, opening onto courtyards filled with fountains and plant life.
Find yourself (or lose yourself) in the labyrinth of souks (markets) that is the Old Town. Textiles, clothing, handicrafts, colorful alleys, small squares and a bewildering array of stalls and ateliers devoted to specific crafts make up this really fascinating part of town.
Head to Jemaa al-Fnaa Square to mingle with soothsayers, acrobats, snake charmers and water sellers. Enjoy Moroccan tea in this open space, which has become the beating heart of Marrakech.
Hotel: Les Jardins de La Koutoubia (or similar)
Day 2 (B/L) Marrakech - Casablanca
Enjoy a short walk through the Majorelle Gardens, home to the late Yves Saint Laurent. Today, his gardens house a collection of plants from the four corners of the earth, flourishing among elegant ornamental lakes and an Art Deco villa. Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé fell in love with the colors and culture of Marrakech, and they resided here for what they described as some of the most beautiful years of their lives.
Nearby is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, where the most precious YSL works are gathered. This 43,000-square-foot building, inspired by contemporary and Moroccan architecture, was designed by a Paris-based firm. Blues and greens dominate one side of the entrance hall, reds and tangerines the other. The museum showcases more than 5,000 dresses and 15,000 haute couture accessories.
Another impressive building in Marrakech is the Dar El Bacha Museum -- among the most beautiful palaces of the ocher city. Built in the early 20th century, Dar El Bacha was the residence of Thami El Glaoui -- Pasha of Marrakech in 1912.
Return to Casablanca by road and reboard the ship.
Please note: Travel time to Marrakech is 3.5 hours each way.
This tour is non-refundable after booking or waitlisting. Waitlisted requests are cleared in the order received and are subject to the tour's cancellation policy.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered. Please err on the side of conservatism with your attire. You must remove your shoes before entering the mosque(s). Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water.
Do not take photos of military personnel without their consent. Mind your belongings, particularly at points of interest or crowded places. Bring sturdy non-skid walking shoes.
The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. You must book this tour PRIOR to sailing. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. The cut-off date is 60 days before the ship's call at Casablanca. Accommodation is included (hotels are subject to change). Airport transfers, transportation by air-conditioned coach, any flights and entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour.
Important information regarding visa requirements: It is solely each participant's responsibility to obtain any necessary visas, tourist cards and vaccinations, if required, to participate in Mid-Cruise Adventures or Overnight Journeys and to keep apprised of any policy changes. Visas may be required for any/all countries your tour departs from and travels through and for the country where you will rejoin the ship. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the cruise. Your travel agent can assist you with your visa needs. If you require further assistance, Seabourn's preferred visa service is VisaCentral. US and Canadian citizens can reach them by phone or email: US citizens: 866 788 1100 or email customerservice@visacentral.com. Canadian citizens: 866 665 9956 or email customerservice@visacentral.ca. VisaCentral phone numbers and email addresses for Dutch, German, Australian, United Kingdom, Belgian, Singapore, Spanish, Swiss and French citizens can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of Seabourn's website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the VisaCentral website at https://visacentral.com/seabourn. You must advise VisaCentral of your Mid-Cruise Adventures or Overnight Journeys, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.