Portugal Cruises

Uncover the Allure of Portugal with Cruise1st

Portugal is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Renowned for its picturesque cities like Lisbon and Porto, this Iberian country also boasts breathtaking coastlines and lush vineyards. Did you know that Portugal has the oldest borders in Europe and was once a powerhouse in maritime exploration? When you set sail on a cruise to Portugal, you not only visit a land steeped in history but also enjoy delectable cuisine, the famous port wine, and the charm of local traditions. Embarking on a cruise allows you to experience the diversity of the Portuguese landscape—from the rolling hills of the Douro Valley to the stunning cliffs of the Algarve—all while enjoying the comfort of your ship!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Portugal Itineraries

• MSC Cruises: This line operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 12 offering itineraries to Portugal. Notable ships, MSC Magnifica and MSC Virtuosa, stand out for their spectacular onboard entertainment and stunning dining options. These ships are particularly family-friendly and offer immersive experiences with various activities for all ages. Cruises to Portugal often depart from international ports such as Genoa or Southampton, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, P&O has 7 ships visiting Portugal, including Azura and Ventura, known for their vibrant atmospheres and diverse entertainment. These ships cater to families and couples alike, offering everything from restaurants to relaxing lounges. Domestic departures are available from Sydney, but international options primarily include Southampton and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, making them easily accessible for Australian cruisers.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 17 ships, 10 sail to Portugal, with Sky Princess and Crown Princess leading the charge. These ships are celebrated for their culinary offerings and luxurious amenities. Most cruises depart from domestic ports such as Sydney or Fremantle, as well as from international locations like Southampton or Fort Lauderdale.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 vessels in their fleet, 13 make the journey to Portugal. The Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star are noteworthy for their extensive dining choices and entertainment options, perfect for those looking for a lively cruise experience. Expect to depart from ports such as Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome) for a fantastic start to your holiday.
• Cunard: This prestigious cruise line has a smaller fleet of 4 ships, with 3 visiting Portugal. Notable vessels like Queen Victoria and Queen Anne offer an elegant experience characterized by fine dining and sophisticated onboard entertainment. Departures usually take place from Southampton or Hamburg, giving cruisers a touch of tradition and opulence from the outset.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Portugal

• Oceania Cruises: With a total fleet size of 8, Oceania boasts 7 ships offering itineraries to Portugal. The Marina and Sirena are top choices, known for their world-class dining and destination-centric experience. Departing mainly from Miami or Barcelona, these ships focus on delivering an intimate cruising experience, perfect for food and wine enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into Portuguese culture.
• Seabourn: Comprised of 6 luxury options, Seabourn has 4 ships, including Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation, that sail to Portugal. These ships are renowned for their ultra-luxurious service, gourmet dining, and attention to detail. Departures typically occur from Lisbon or Barcelona, allowing travellers to enjoy a premium experience right from the start.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 3 ships that venture to Portugal. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest are famed for their immersive destination experiences, allowing guests to explore each port in depth. Most sailings begin in Lisbon or Barcelona, providing easy access to vibrant locales and culture.
• Explora Journeys: Featuring a total of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II visit Portugal on select itineraries. With an emphasis on sustainability and wellness, these ships offer upscale amenities with a focus on enrichment and relaxation. Departures largely occur from Barcelona or Miami, maximizing the experience for eco-conscious cruisers.
• Silversea: This luxury cruise line boasts a fleet of 12, with 6 visiting Portugal. The Silver Dawn and Silver Ray are renowned for their exclusive experiences and thoughtfully curated itineraries. Expect to depart from Lisbon or Cape Town, indulging in ultra-luxury travel along the beautiful Portuguese coast.

Top Portuguese Harbours to Explore

• Lisbon: Portugal's vibrant capital features stunning architecture, including the iconic Belém Tower and the ornate Jerónimos Monastery. Cruise passengers can ride the famous tram 28, wander through the colourful streets of Alfama, and indulge in delectable local cuisine, particularly the famous pastéis de nata! Take a guided city tour for insights into Lisbon's rich heritage during your limited time in port.
• Madeira (Funchal): This lush island is known for its stunning landscapes and unique wine. While docked in Funchal, cruise guests can explore the remarkable Botanical Garden or take a cable car up to Monte for breathtaking views. Don't miss the traditional toboggan rides back down, which offers a fun and exhilarating way to experience the island!
• Ponta Delgada: As the capital of São Miguel Island in the Azores, Ponta Delgada is a true paradise for nature lovers. Visit the stunning Sete Cidades Lakes, hike through lush greenery, or try your hand at whale watching! A visit to a local pineapple plantation can also be a delightful and fruity experience while in port.
• Leixões: This port serves as a gateway to the stunning city of Porto, famous for its port wine. Take a quick shuttle or guided tour to Porto, where you can walk across the historic Dom Luís I Bridge, explore the lively Ribeira area, and sample local wines straight from the cellars along the Douro River!
• Mindelo, Cape Verde: Though technically not in Portugal, Mindelo often features in itineraries to Portugal due to its cultural ties and beautiful beaches. Enjoy the lively music scene and colourful markets. Consider taking a city tour for a taste of the local life, or soak up the sun at one of the beautiful nearby beaches.

Best Times to Cruise to Portugal

When planning your cruise to Portugal, consider the superb weather and scenery across the seasons. From April to June, expect pleasantly mild temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, perfect for outdoor exploration. July to September brings warmer days, ideal for soaking up the sun, with temperatures reaching 25-35°C along the coast. October and November offer beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures around 10-20°C, a great time for less crowded attractions and hiking.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Portugal

For a week-long cruise to Portugal, prices typically start from around $1,500 to $2,500 AUD, while two-week excursions can range from $3,000 to $5,000 AUD. Luxury offerings can start at $5,000 AUD for a week and go up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining is often included on cruises; however, if you venture ashore, expect to shell out around $20-$50 AUD for a nice meal and about $10-$15 AUD for drinks.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you're contemplating a cruise to Portugal, consider these enticing alternatives:

• Spain: Blessed with coastlines, history, and rich culture, Spain offers an array of destinations from Barcelona’s architecture to Andalusia’s flamenco. Each city is distinct, providing endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment!
• Adriatic Sea: Famous for its captivating coastlines and historical towns, the Adriatic Sea will introduce you to enchanting cities like Dubrovnik and Split, making it a delightful destination for beach lovers and enthusiasts of rich history.
• Canary Islands: Known for their year-round warm climate, the Canary Islands offer unique volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and lush vegetation. Ideal for sunseekers and nature lovers alike.
• Algarve: If you're seeking stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs, the Algarve provides picturesque landscapes, delectable seafood, and countless charming towns for exploration.
• Greece: Combining ancient history and charming island scenery, Greece is known for breathtaking sunsets, crystalline waters, and delightful culinary experiences. Perfect for those looking for a sunny escape filled with adventure!

Ready to set sail on your Portuguese adventure? With Cruise1st, we’re here to help you create unforgettable memories whilst exploring the magnificence of Portugal and beyond!