Costa Verde Cruises

Explore the Green Enchantment of Costa Verde with Cruise1st

Costa Verde, meaning "Green Coast," is a picturesque stretch along Portugal's Atlantic shoreline, famed for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this enchanting region is a destination that invites exploration, relaxation, and adventure. Fun fact: Costa Verde is home to stunning natural parks, beautiful beaches, and exquisite vineyards, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking both tranquillity and excitement. Cruising to Costa Verde provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover its hidden treasures and immerse yourself in authentic local experiences, all while lounging on a luxurious ship.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Costa Verde Itineraries

• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet of 16 ships, Celebrity offers 3 that visit Costa Verde, including Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Equinox. Renowned for their premium experiences and creative culinary offerings, these ships provide guests with an upscale cruising experience. Most departures occur from vibrant ports like Southampton or Barcelona, making it easy to start your journey to this green paradise.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: A compact fleet of 2 ships sees both Ambition and Ambience offering itineraries to Costa Verde. Each vessel focuses on a traditional cruising experience combined with modern amenities, ensuring a chill and comfortable atmosphere onboard. Cruises often set sail from ports like Tilbury (London) or Liverpool, giving cruisers easy access to this lush coastline.
• Holland America Line: With a total fleet size of 11, Holland America has 2 ships, Nieuw Statendam and Volendam, sailing to Costa Verde. They're known for their enriching experiences onboard, featuring amazing culinary events and live entertainment. Prepare for departures from Dover or Fort Lauderdale, giving a good mix of options to start your voyage to this beautiful region.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring a fleet of 20, Norwegian has 5 ships visiting Costa Verde, with Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star leading the charge. These ships boast a lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options and delightful dining experiences. The most common departure ports include Southampton and Le Havre for your ideal cruise getaway.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, P&O offers 2 ships specifically for Costa Verde itineraries—Ventura and Aurora. Known for their British flair and onboard charm, these ships provide a range of dining options and entertainment. Most journeys begin from Southampton, providing a convenient departure point for cruising towards the lush landscapes of Costa Verde.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Costa Verde

• Oceania Cruises: With a total fleet size of 8, Oceania has 4 ships travelling to Costa Verde, including Sirena and Marina. Celebrated for their incredible culinary programs and destination immersion, Oceania crafts an intimate luxury experience for their cruisers. Most sailings depart from ports such as Southampton or Amsterdam, allowing guests to enter this stunning region seamlessly.
• Seabourn: Featuring a fleet of 6, Seabourn has 2 ships visiting Costa Verde, specifically Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation. Famed for their luxurious all-inclusive experience and intimate onboard atmosphere, they provide exceptional service to all guests. Departures usually take place from Lisbon or Barcelona, opening the door to an extravagant adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara operates 2 ships—Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—that visit Costa Verde. Known for immersive experiences and extended port stays, Azamara ensures you have ample time to explore the beauty of the region. Departures are typically from Lisbon or Barcelona, making it easy to embrace the charm of Costa Verde.
• Explora Journeys: This line has a sleek fleet of 2, with EXPLORA II making its mark on Costa Verde. With a focus on sustainability and luxury, Explora is crafting exceptional journeys through this stunning region. Departures most commonly occur from Miami or San Juan, making for a convenient start.
• Silversea: With a total fleet size of 12, Silversea operates Silver Dawn, which sails to Costa Verde. Their all-inclusive luxury experience allows guests to indulge in world-class service and amenities. Departures typically occur from popular ports like Southampton or Los Angeles, ensuring a stylish entry into the coastal beauty of Costa Verde.

Top Harbours to Explore in Costa Verde

• Leixoes: This charming harbour serves as the gateway to Porto, where you'll find stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and excellent port wine. Cruise passengers can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade or indulge in a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard. Don't forget to snap a photo of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge!
• Porto: Known for its picturesque riverfront and delicious port wine, Porto has plenty to offer. While in port, visit the stunning Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, or explore the fortified Ribeira district. A boat cruise along the Douro River provides breathtaking views of the vibrant city and its terraced vineyards.

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Costa Verde

• Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon is a vibrant city filled with history and charm. Visitors can explore iconic sites such as the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the lively Alfama district. Don’t miss a ride on the historic Tram 28 for a unique way to see the city.
• Southampton, United Kingdom: A bustling port city, Southampton offers historical landmarks and shopping. Take the time to visit the SeaCity Museum or stroll through the Old Town before embarking on your cruise to Costa Verde.
• Barcelona, Spain: Famous for its stunning architecture by Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is a cultural hotspot. While in port, visit the renowned Sagrada Família or take a leisurely stroll down La Rambla for shopping and tapas bars.
• La Coruña, Spain: This vibrant coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and rich maritime history. While here, visit the Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse that has stood for nearly 2,000 years, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque promenade.
• Bilbao, Spain: Home to the stunning Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao offers a mix of modern and traditional Spanish culture. Cruise guests should explore the charming Casco Viejo or take a walk along the Nervión River for unique views of the city.

Best Times to Cruise to Costa Verde

Cruising to Costa Verde can be delightful at various times of the year. From April to June, temperatures range from 10-20°C, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration. July to September is peak travel season, with temperatures often exceeding 20-30°C, perfect for enjoying sunny days along the coast. The autumn months (October to November) bring cooler temperatures of 10-20°C, allowing for splendid foliage views and fewer crowds, making it perfect for relaxation and strolls through local towns.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Costa Verde

On average, a week-long cruise to Costa Verde can range from $1,500 to $3,000 AUD, while a two-week adventure can cost between $2,800 and $5,500 AUD. Luxury cruises usually start at around $5,000 AUD for a week and can reach upwards of $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are often included on board, but if you decide to test the local cuisine, expect dining to cost between $15-$50 AUD per meal depending on the restaurant—drinks typically cost around $8-$15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you're considering a cruise to Costa Verde, you might also explore these enticing alternatives:

• Adriatic Sea: A stunning destination with breathtaking coastlines and rich cultural history, the Adriatic Sea is perfect for those seeking captivating landscapes and vibrant towns like Dubrovnik and Split.
• Albania: With unspoiled beaches and charming villages, Albania is growing in popularity as a travel destination. Visitors will appreciate the mix of history and natural beauty, ideal for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
• Croatia: Known for its stunning coastline and ancient cities, Croatia offers a mix of culture, history, and beach relaxation. This region is perfect for those who want to explore beautiful islands and stunning national parks.
• Azores: An extraordinary group of Portuguese islands bursting with lush greenery, volcanic landscapes, and hiking opportunities, the Azores provide adventure seekers with unforgettable scenery.
• Spain: With an array of vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and rich history, Spain remains a delightful destination for those looking to soak in European culture while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.

Ready to set sail for the stunning Costa Verde? Cruise1st is your ticket to explore this lush region, with unique experiences awaiting around every corner. Book your dream trip today!