Portugal Cruises

Portugal, the picturesque gem on the Iberian Peninsula, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine. Did you know that Portugal is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon, which has been in operation since 1732? A cruise to Portugal provides the perfect opportunity to explore charming cities, discover ancient castles, and bask in the sun on scenic beaches. With picturesque coastal towns, delicious culinary experiences, and vibrant culture, cruising to Portugal is an unforgettable adventure that appeals to the senses!

Major Cruise Lines to Portugal

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC operates 11 ships that frequently visit Portugal. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia are standout choices, known for their family-friendly amenities and extensive onboard entertainment options. These ships provide a variety of dining venues featuring Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine. Most cruises to Portugal set sail from major international ports like Genoa or Southampton, making it easy for travelers to embark on their exploration of this vibrant country.
• P&O Cruises: P&O has a fleet of 7 ships, all of which offer itineraries that include stops in Portugal. The Azura and Ventura focus on providing a wide range of onboard activities for guests of all ages. With lively entertainment and diverse dining options, these ships ensure a fun-filled cruise experience. Most cruises depart from international ports such as Southampton or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, offering several departure choices for cruisers keen on discovering Portugal.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess has 11 ships dedicated to itineraries that reach Portugal. The Sun Princess and Majestic Princess are popular for their diverse onboard experiences and excellent service. Guests embarking on these cruises can typically depart from domestic ports like Sydney and Brisbane, as well as international options like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona, ensuring flexible travel arrangements.
• Cunard: Cunard operates a luxurious fleet of 4 ships, with 3 vessels that regularly visit Portugal. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne offer an elegant cruising experience, featuring fine dining, grand ballrooms, and enriching activities onboard. Typical departures occur from international ports such as Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona, with domestic options from Sydney to cater to Australian travelers.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 12 that cruise to Portugal. The Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star are popular for their flexible “freestyle cruising” approach, giving guests the freedom to choose their dining times and onboard activities. Departures occur primarily from international ports, including Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), making it easy to start your adventure in Portugal.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Portugal

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania features a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 dedicated to sailing in Portugal. The Marina and Sirena are known for their exceptional culinary offerings and destination-focused experiences that highlight the local culture. Most departures can be found at key international ports such as Barcelona or Lisbon, making it convenient to start your exploration of Portugal.
• Seabourn: Seabourn operates a fleet of 6 ships, with 4 that visit Portugal. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn are celebrated for their all-inclusive luxury offerings and personalized service. You can expect departures from ports including Lisbon or Barcelona, setting the stage for a grand adventure through Portugal.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara has a fleet size of 4, all of which offer itineraries covering Portugal. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward focus on immersive travel experiences and longer stays in port to fully enjoy local cultures. Common departure ports include Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), providing excellent access for those excited to discover the charms of Portugal.
• Silversea: Silversea’s fleet comprises 12 ships, with 5 dedicated to travelling through Portugal. The Silver Dawn and Silver Ray are known for their luxurious accommodations, all-inclusive service, and gourmet dining experiences. Typical departures occur from ports like Southampton or Lisbon, ideal starting points for experiencing all that Portugal has to offer!

Charming Harbours to Explore in Portugal

• Lisbon: Portugal’s captivating capital is known for its stunning hills, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture. Take a stroll through the charming alleyways of Alfama, visit the historic Belém Tower, and indulge in a delicious pastel de nata at a local bakery. A tram ride on the famous Tram 28 is an iconic way to see the city!
• Porto: Known for its famous port wine, Porto features picturesque river views along the Douro River. Explore the historic Ribeira district, admire the stunning Livraria Lello bookstore, and visit one of the many wine cellars for tastings. Make sure to snap a photo on the Dom Luís I Bridge for unforgettable views of the city!
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Santa Cruz is the capital of Tenerife and offers stunning beaches and striking architecture. Visit the Auditorio de Tenerife for a photo op, relax on the local beaches, or discover the lush scenery of Teide National Park by taking a day trip to see the stunning Mount Teide.
• Valletta, Malta: Valletta combines rich history with stunning architecture. Explore St. John’s Co-Cathedral and wander through the historic streets lined with accommodations and shops. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the Upper Barracca Gardens, which showcase the magnificent Grand Harbour!
• Cádiz: Located in the southwest of Spain, Cádiz is known for its historic architecture and beautiful beaches. While in port, take a stroll through the charming old town, visit the impressive Cádiz Cathedral, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Don’t forget to try the famous local tapas!

The Best Times to Cruise to Portugal

If you’re considering a cruise to Portugal, the best time to visit is from April to June when temperatures are mild, averaging between 17°C and 25°C, ideal for exploration without overwhelming heat or crowds. The summer months of July and August can be hot, with temperatures rising to around 30°C, perfect for beach enthusiasts but likely to be busy. For milder weather and fewer tourists, cruise in the autumn months (September to November) when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscape as the fall colors unfold!

Cost Overview for a Cruise in Portugal

If you’re planning on budgeting for your cruise to Portugal, expect prices for a 1-week cruise to range from approximately $1,500 to $2,800 AUD for regular cruises, while luxury options may start around $4,000 AUD and tend to increase from there. Dining in Portugal offers a range of prices, with meals at local restaurants typically costing between $25 to $40 AUD, while drinks may cost about $5 to $15 AUD. With many cruise packages covering meals, you can experience the local food scene without worrying about overspending!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re considering a cruise to Portugal, don’t overlook these alluring alternative regions that promise just as much wonder:

• Spain: Explore beautiful coastal cities, rich culture, and iconic attractions in Spain, such as Barcelona and Madrid, known for their artistic heritage and lively atmosphere!
• Western Mediterranean: Enjoy the incredible blend of cultures and picturesque coastlines with vibrant cities that make this region a perfect destination for an unforgettable escape.
• Italy: Dive into the delicious cuisine, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes of Italy. Explore iconic cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice while indulging in mouth-watering pasta dishes and gelato!
• North Africa: Venture into North Africa to experience the unique blend of cultures, ancient history, and stunning landscapes in Morocco and Tunisia, providing plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion!
• Canary Islands: Enjoy year-round sunshine while exploring these volcanic islands. Known for their stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse landscapes, the Canaries promise a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation!

Excited to set sail for the captivating beauty of Portugal? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today, and delve into the exquisite culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine, all waiting for you in this enchanting region!