Review: Destination mystery
When 16 Oddfellows and three friends boarded a Fred. Olsen cruise ship in November last year they had no idea of its destination.
Mysteries ahoy
19 people in the Oddfellows' party set sail with no idea where they were going
With six mystery ports scheduled in 11 days of sailing, our intrepid explorers were soon looking for clues as to where they were heading first.
Ipswich Oddfellows member and host of the trip, Wendy Atkins, said: “Our first morning, with the sunrise in the East, it was obvious that we were heading south. However, the Captain may have been playing tricks and doing some manoeuvres to put us off the scent!”
In the meantime, there was a lot to keep passengers entertained, including interesting talks, a murder mystery, craft sessions, quizzes and a drinks party.
Port one
Is it Suffolk, or is it Gijon?
As dawn broke on day two, the first destination was revealed to be the northern Spanish city of Gijon, which had an air of familiarity.
“The port reminded us of Felixstowe,” said Wendy. As some embarked on organised excursions while others explored their new surroundings independently, however, it was quickly confirmed they were not in Suffolk.
Port two
Anchors lined the naval museum in Ferrol
A short overnight hop westward delivered our travellers to their second secret Spanish stop – Ferrol.
Wendy described: “It was another interesting port, not well known to many regular passengers.
“There was a mix of interesting architecture and maritime history. A visit to the naval museum was a must and we’ve never seen so many anchors!”
It was great to meet up with people we’d met before and meet some new folk. We'll certainly go with Oddfellows again. Alison and Pip, Derby Derwent Valley Oddfellows members
Port three
Catch of the day at a fish market in Porto
Venturing beyond Spain, the ship next docked in Leixoes in Porto, Portugal.
Greeted by a broad esplanade full of joggers and sweeping sandy beaches crowded with surfers and beach tennis games, the group set about discovering the delights of the city.
They found a thriving fish market, where locals bought fresh fish before taking their purchases to side street restaurants to be cooked and served to them.
Port four
Lots to see and do in Malaga
A day’s sailing and another time change hinted at a return to Spain, with Malaga in the south of the country revealed as port number four.
“We navigated the Gibraltar Strait in darkness so couldn’t boast that we’d seen Africa,” said Wendy.
She added: “Malaga was amazing. Again, some spectacular architecture, and the cathedral was well worth a visit. Also the Roman amphitheatre.
“The weather was warm and sunny and walking through the gardens was a treat. Spotting the noisy parrots was a challenge though!”
There were so many great experiences to share with everybody. Elizabeth, Ipswich Oddfellows member
Port five
Remains of a Roman theatre in Cadiz
The Spanish odyssey and Roman themes continued for the penultimate stop in Cadiz, which offered ornate architecture and modern sculptures.
“The sea defences were testament to the city’s position close to the entrance of the Mediterranean,” Wendy said. “Christopher Columbus sailed twice from here.”
Port six
Our Oddies crew worked out the identity of their final port before arrival. Wendy said: “Lisbon wasn’t quite such a mystery, but a delight nevertheless.
“We took a local bus to Belem, the home of several museums and the site of the monument to commemorate the Age of Discovery. The structure stands 52m high, in the shape of a ship’s prow and is decorated with statues of people who made discovery possible.
“The highlight was a lift ride to the top for magnificent views over Lisbon and the River Tejo.”
Pictured: A monument to the Age of Discovery in Lisbon
Surprises and celebrations
The surprises kept on coming
On their last formal night, members received a mystery gift bag containing souvenirs from Spain and Portugal, Fred. Olsen gifts and some chocolates.
Celebrations for one member’s birthday were enjoyed on the final night of the trip, with a cake provided by the chef and a group of singing waiters.
Thank you for making me feel so welcome. Janice, an Oddfellows guest from Suffolk
Fancy a trip?
There's lots of upcoming trips with Oddfellows Travel in 2025
We’ve another brilliant schedule of Oddfellows Travel group holidays in 2025, including a cruise to beautiful Iceland in July. Discover everything we’ve got planned.
Visit the Oddfellows Travel page.