Portugal Cruises

Discover the Enchanting Waters of Portugal on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to Portugal, a dazzling gem of Europe that enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture! With its breathtaking coastline, charming towns, and delectable cuisine, Portugal is a perfect destination for cruise enthusiasts. Fun fact: Portugal is the origin of the beloved Port wine, and offers fascinating wine regions where you can indulge in tastings. Cruising to Portugal allows you to explore its captivating cities while enjoying the luxury and comfort of your ship.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Portugal

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 24, MSC has 13 ships—MSC Magnifica, MSC Musica, and MSC Virtuosa—that offer itineraries to Portugal. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and fantastic onboard services, MSC Cruises ensures a memorable experience for all guests. Most cruises generally depart from international ports like Barcelona and Southampton, providing seamless access to Portugal’s stunning coastlines and cultural gems.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 7, P&O offers 6 ships—Azura, Britannia, Iona, Ventura, Oceana, and Arcadia—that visit Portugal. Renowned for their friendly atmosphere and diverse entertainment options, P&O guarantees a delightful cruising experience. Departures generally take place from major international ports including Southampton, making it convenient for cruisers eager to explore Portugal.
• Cunard: With a fleet size of 4, Cunard has 3 ships—Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth—offering itineraries that include a visit to Portugal. Cunard is known for its classic ocean liner experience, complete with elegant ambiance and attentive service. Most departures occur from major ports such as Southampton, enabling easy access to the captivating destinations within Portugal.
• Princess Cruises: A cruise line with a fleet of 17 ships, Princess offers 7 vessels—Regal Princess, Caribbean Princess, Sky Princess, Emerald Princess, Majestic Princess, Ruby Princess, and Crown Princess—that feature itineraries to Portugal. Known for phenomenal onboard entertainment and culinary adventures, Princess Cruises will ensure your holiday is nothing short of fantastic. Departures commonly take place from key international ports like Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, providing easy access to Portugal’s picturesque shores.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of 21, Norwegian features 11 ships—Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Star, Norwegian Epic, and Norwegian Spirit—that include itineraries to Portugal. Known for their freestyle cruising concept, Norwegian allows guests to enjoy a relaxed and tailored vacation experience. Most departures take place from international ports, including Barcelona and Miami, making it convenient for travellers heading to Portugal.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Portugal

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania features 7 ships—Marina, Riviera, Regatta, Insignia, Sirena, Vista, and Nautica—offering itineraries to Portugal. Renowned for gourmet dining and destination immersion, Oceania creates a luxurious cruising experience tailored to discerning travellers. Most departures occur from international ports such as Barcelona and Miami, allowing for easy transportation to your Portuguese adventure.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Operating a fleet of 11 ships, Viking provides 6 vessels—Viking Jupiter, Viking Sky, Viking Sea, Viking Orion, Viking Star, and Viking Venus—featuring itineraries to Portugal. Known for their award-winning itineraries and immersive experiences, Viking allows guests to engage deeply with the local culture and sights. Departures typically take place from international ports like Barcelona and Lisbon, ensuring seamless access to delightful Portuguese destinations.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea features 8 ships—Silver Nova, Silver Dawn, Silver Spirit, Silver Whisper, Silver Shadow, Silver Explorer, Silver Galapagos, and Silver Cloud—offering itineraries that showcase Portugal. Famous for their all-inclusive experiences and exceptional service, Silversea ensures a premium cruise experience. Departures normally occur from international ports such as Fort Lauderdale and Southampton, paving the way for your enchanting cruise to Portugal.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara provides 3 ships—Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, and Azamara Onward—that sail to Portugal. Celebrated for their immersive travel experiences and extended port stays, Azamara ensures guests get a chance to truly explore local cultures. Departures usually happen from international ports like Barcelona and Lisbon, providing easy routes for adventurers headed towards Portugal.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of 2, Explora offers both ships—EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II—that include itineraries to Portugal. Renowned for their ocean- and destination-driven approach, Explora Journeys focuses on delivering immersive experiences. Departures typically take place from international ports like Barcelona and Miami, ensuring smooth travel as you explore Portugal!

Must-Visit Harbours in Portugal

• Lisbon: The capital city brims with charm and culture. When your cruise docks, explore the historic neighbourhood of Alfama, sample delicious pastries such as the famous Pastéis de Nata, and take a stroll along the scenic waterfront. Don't miss a visit to the stunning Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites!
• Funchal, Madeira: Known for its lush landscapes and pleasant climate, Funchal serves as a perfect getaway. While in port, explore the vibrant Farmers' Market, take a ride on the famous Monte Toboggan, or relax in the beautiful Botanical Gardens that boast exotic plants from across the globe.
• Leixões: The main port serving the city of Porto, Leixões is full of sights to see and flavours to taste. Visit the stunning Palácio da Bolsa, enjoy a wine tasting session at a local port winery, or take a scenic walk along the Douro River, admiring the historic architecture that surrounds you.
• Ponta Delgada: The capital of the Azores, Ponta Delgada offers stunning views of the ocean and lush islands. When your cruise docks here, explore the beautiful parks, visit the historic Forte de São Brás, or indulge in local delicacies at the market. The nearby Sete Cidades Lakes—a stunning twin-lake formation—is also worth a visit!
• Porto: Renowned for its port wine production, Porto is a city where history and charm abound. Explore the Ribeira District, relax in one of the city's beautiful parks, and visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning views of the Douro River. Don't forget to stop by one of the many wine cellars for a unique tasting experience!

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Portugal

• Copenhagen, Denmark: A popular departure point, Copenhagen captivates visitors with its canals, colourful buildings, and rich history. While in port, visit the renowned Tivoli Gardens, see the Little Mermaid statue, or enjoy a ride on a canal boat for a unique perspective of the city.
• Stockholm, Sweden: Often a stop on itineraries to Portugal, Stockholm is made up of numerous islands and is known for its beautiful waterways. Explore the historic Gamla Stan (Old Town), take a guided tour of the Vasa Museum, and don’t miss a chance to wander through the charming streets lined with cafés and shops.
• Warnemünde, Germany: Frequently included in cruises heading to Portugal, Warnemünde is famous for its sandy beaches and charming promenade. Take a stroll along the beach, visit the nearby town of Rostock for its historical architecture, or enjoy a meal at one of the lovely waterfront restaurants before setting sail!

Best Times to Cruise to Portugal

The best time to cruise to Portugal is typically from April to June and September to October, when temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C, providing ideal weather for exploring cities and attractions. Spring sees the landscape blooming, with vibrant flowers and a festive local atmosphere. In autumn, the weather remains mild, offering an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to enjoy the grape harvest!

Costs of Cruising to Portugal

A typical one-week cruise to Portugal usually starts around $1,900, while a two-week itinerary can cost approximately $3,800. For luxury cruises, prices generally begin around $6,000 for a week. Dining options in Portugal can vary, with meals normally costing between $10 and $40, while drinks generally range from $5 to $12, allowing you to relish in delightful local flavours without breaking the bank.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If the captivating charm of Portugal has captured your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:

• Spain: With its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, Spain invites you to immerse yourself in its legendary architecture and delightful cuisine, offering a glorious alternative for any traveller.
• France: Discover the romantic allure of France as you explore charming towns, indulge in wine tastings, and visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Mont Saint-Michel.
• Italy: Known for its rich history, stunning scenery, and delectable cuisine, Italy offers an abundance of experiences that will make your cruise unforgettable.
• Madeira: Famous for its stunning landscapes and mild climate, Madeira provides beautiful floral scenery and captivating natural wonders that will take your breath away.
• Greece: Explore the stunning islands, rich history, and fascinating mythology that Greece has to offer, making it a perfect alternative for those seeking sun, sand, and culture!

Are you ready to embark on a spectacular adventure through the beautiful landscapes and rich history of Portugal? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today, and prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders waiting for you in this remarkable region!