Goa, India
The former Portuguese colony of Goa is an emerald gem, beautifully set on India’s west coast.
Famed for its abundance of white sandy beaches and lush beauty, it is also home to many temples, churches and old houses that have made it a firm favourite with travellers around the world.
It is home to a variety of religions such as Christianity, Hindu and Muslim, with all the communities living in harmony.
The Goans’ easygoing attitude can be summed-up in the much used expression ‘susegado’ which means laid-back or relaxed.
Below are examples of excursions that have previously been offered from this port of call. A fully detailed programme of the included and optional tours available during your cruise will be sent shortly before your departure.
Cansaulim Beach
Take the opportunity to relax on this trip to spectacular Cansaulim Beach, the perfect way to unwind after several busy days sailing.
Spend the day on the golden-sand beach with its sun loungers, and perhaps enjoy a spot of snorkelling (equipment hire available). A delicious seafood buffet lunch with beer will also be served.
Included excursion
Duration: 5 hours
Goa Contrasts
This interesting tour reveals the beauty of Old Goa, as well as Panjim, a whitewashed city of endless beaches and swaying palms.
Departing from the pier, take the scenic journey to Old Goa, preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the 450 years of Portuguese rule in the area, several grandiose churches and convents were constructed - many of which are all that remain from this once great city.
Explore a few of them today, including the famed Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the body of Saint Francis Xavier is enshrined within a silver casket, and also the Cathedral of St Catherine, built in 1619.
Afterwards you explore Panjim, including the charming villas of the Portuguese Quarter, colourful fruit and flower markets and the enchanting views from atop Altinho Hill.
Included excursion
Duration: 4 hours
Jain Temples Full Day Tour With Lunch
This exciting full-day tour follows a similar itinerary to the included excursion (above), but includes a visit to the cashew factory in the morning before journeying to Karkala.
Also, you spend longer at Dr Soans’ Farm, where lunch is also included. This organic farm produces a vast range of exotic produce including squash, pineapple, mangosteen, egg fruit, coffee, olives and coconut, as well as many delicious spices.
It also features a small agricultural museum. Your lunch here will be a traditional dish, using produce from the farm, served on banana leaves.
After lunch you continue to the holy city of Moodibidri and the Temple of a Thousand Pillars. You arrive back at Spirit of Adventure in time for dinner on board.
Optional excursion
Duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes
Taste of Goa
This exciting full-day excursion takes you to the organic plantation at Savoi Ponda, established over 200 years ago and the largest in Goa.
One of the knowledgeable workers will take you on a guided tour through the aromatic groves, which are planted alongside the Mandovi River.
The myriad spices grown here include cinnamon, pepper, cloves and cardamom, as well as many exotic fruits such as papaya, guava, pineapple, lime, tangerine and coconut.
After your tour enjoy a traditional lunch of typical Goan Hindu cuisine, served in mud pots and banana leaves.
You then head back to Goa, enjoying a tour of the Old Town and it’s impressive baroque and Renaissance churches.
Optional excursion
Duration: 6 hours and 30 minutes