Today, MSC Lirica docked in Ceuta, a Spanish autonomous city on the northern coast of Africa.
I hadnโt heard of Ceuta before this cruise, but it turned out to be a fascinating blend of cultures and history.
๐งโ๐ฆฏโโก๏ธย Exploring Ceuta on Foot.
After breakfast, I joined Helen and Shaw for a walk through the city. We met Tony and Kathy, who, coincidentally, live near me in Spain and know my friend Chris. Together, we explored:
- Shrine of Our Lady of Africa.
- Monument to the fallen in the African War.
- Ceuta Cathedral.
๐๏ธ Beach Walk & Border Views.
We walked along the southern beach, watching locals fish and enjoying the coastal scenery. A local told us the furthest visible point was Morocco, but the border was closed. It was a reminder of the political tension; Spain doesnโt recognise Gibraltar as English, and Morocco doesnโt recognise Ceuta as Spanish.
๐ฐ Fortress.ย
After a long beach walk, we visited Ceutaโs walled fortress and made our way back toward the port. Shaw returned to the ship, while the rest of us explored the shopping district and stopped for drinks at a small cafรฉ bar.
โMediterranean Maritime Park & Lunch.
We headed to the Mediterranean Maritime Park and found a restaurant inside. The food was delicious, and I enjoyed a long, relaxed meal with Helen, Kathy, and Tony. We talked for hours before returning to the ship.
Photos: Ceuta.
While docked in Ceuta aboard the MSC Lirica, I spent the day exploring this unique Spanish city on the northern coast of Africa. This photo album captures the blend of cultures, coastal views, and architectural charm that define Ceuta. From scenic promenades to quiet corners, each image reflects the character of a place where continents meet and histories intertwine.
Click on any image to see a larger version of the image with a description.
๐ Lost ID Card & Security Help.
As we approached the port, I realised Iโd lost my shipย IDย card. We had walked miles, visited bars and restaurants, and seen many sights. Kathy spoke to port security in Spanish, and they contacted the ship. Amazingly, someone had found my card and returned it. The shipโs scanner confirmed my identity, saving me the hassle of having to replace it.
๐ฝ๏ธ Dinner & Evening Entertainment.
This evening, I joined Helen and Jean for dinner. We enjoyed a great meal and watched a guitarist perform in the theatre; he was excellent. Later, Helen and I attended a couplesโ game show in another bar. It was so bad, it was funny, like a 1970s holiday camp show. Afterwards, I had a pint at the bar and returned to my cabin.