Portugal Cruises

Discover the Charms of Portugal on Your Next Cruise

Portugal, a country rich in history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, offers an exciting cruising destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation. The country is renowned for its captivating cities, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking views along its coastline. Fun fact: Portugal is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Livraria Bertrand, located in Lisbon! A cruise to Portugal allows you to explore the best of this enchanting destination while enjoying delightful onboard experiences.

Top Harbours to Visit in Portugal

When cruising through Portugal, be sure to explore these incredible harbours that showcase the country’s unique charm:

Ports Visited Before or After Your Cruise

While the above harbours are charming, several key ports are often visited before or after cruising in Portugal:

Best Times to Cruise to Portugal

The ideal time to visit Portugal is between April and October, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. Spring (April to June) is great for fewer crowds and blooming landscapes, while summer (July to September) offers warm days perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities. If you prefer milder weather and a more relaxed atmosphere, consider cruising in the shoulder months of September to October when temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C.

Cruise Costs Overview for Portugal

When booking your cruise to Portugal, expect to pay around $1,500 to $3,500 for a 1-week cruise and $4,500 to $8,000 for luxury options. For a 2-week cruise, prices can range from $2,500 to $6,000 for standard packages and $9,000 or more for luxury experiences. The cheapest months for cruising tend to be during the shoulder seasons of April to early June and September to October, whereas the peak summer months can cause prices to climb. While dining out, anticipate spending about $20 to $50 for a meal, with drinks typically ranging from $5 to $10.

Major Cruise Lines to Portugal

• MSC Cruises
  MSC boasts a fleet of 23 ships, with 11 offering itineraries to Portugal, including MSC Magnifica and MSC Poesia. Most cruises depart from Genoa or Barcelona. MSC is well-known for family-friendly experiences, featuring various onboard activities and entertainment options that cater to all ages.
• P&O Cruises
  P&O operates a fleet of 7 ships, all of which visit Portugal, including Azura and Ventura. Departures typically occur from Sydney or international ports like Southampton and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. P&O Cruises is recognised for their classic British cruising experience, providing guests with traditional onboard dining and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Princess Cruises
  Princess Cruises features a fleet of 17 ships, with 10 offering itineraries to Portugal, including Crown Princess and Sky Princess. Cruises generally depart from Sydney or international ports such as Southampton and Fort Lauderdale. Princess is known for its exceptional service and onboard offerings, creating memorable experiences for all cruisers.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian’s fleet includes 20 ships, with 13 dedicated to Portugal, such as Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star. Most departures occur from Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome). Norwegian offers a freestyle dining concept that allows guests to enjoy an extensive range of dining and entertainment options at their own pace.
• Cunard Line
  Cunard operates a fleet of 4 ships, with Queen Victoria and Queen Anne regularly sailing to Portugal. Departing from ports like Southampton and Hamburg, Cunard is synonymous with luxury and elegance, offering refined dining, exquisite entertainment, and unparalleled service.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 7 that offer itineraries to Portugal, including Marina and Sirena. Departures typically take place from Miami or Barcelona, and Oceania is renowned for its gourmet dining experiences and culturally immersive itineraries tailored to showcase Portugal’s beauty.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent has a fleet of 6 ships, with 5 offering itineraries to Portugal, including Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Navigator. Most typically depart from Barcelona or Lisbon. Regent is acclaimed for its all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring that every element of your cruise is attended to with exceptional service.
• Silversea
  Silversea has a fleet of 13 ships, with 6 offering Portugal itineraries, including Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. Departures occur from Lisbon or Barcelona, and Silversea is known for its exclusive small-ship experience, focusing on personalized service and unique excursions on every voyage.
• Seabourn
  With a total fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn has 4 that visit Portugal, including Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation. These ships generally depart from Lisbon or Barcelona, offering an ultra-luxury experience with exceptional service, intimate dining settings, and beautifully designed onboard amenities.
• Azamara Cruises
  Azamara operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 visiting Portugal, including Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Departures typically occur from Lisbon or Barcelona. Azamara is favoured for its destination-focused approach, allowing guests to immerse themselves in local cultures with longer port stays.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If Portugal captivates your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Spanish Coast: Explore the stunning Spanish coastline, rich history, and diverse culture while enjoying tapas and lively local festivals. The vibrant cities of Barcelona and Valencia are perfect for culture enthusiasts.
• Adriatic Sea: The stunning coastline of Croatia offers crystal-clear waters, charming towns like Dubrovnik, and many historical landmarks. This region is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in rich history and culture, with various activities on and off the ship.
• Caribbean: Known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes, the Caribbean is a fantastic destination for relaxation and exploration, offering unique island cultures and an array of water activities.
• Azores: This Atlantic archipelago features lush green landscapes, beautiful volcanic scenery, and unique wildlife, making it a perfect alternative for nature lovers seeking adventure and beauty in the outdoors.
• Amalfi Coast: Known for its stunning sea cliffs and charming coastal villages, the Amalfi Coast offers gorgeous views, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine—a dreamy destination for all travellers.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Portugal with CruiseAway today! With history, culture, and stunning natural beauty waiting for you, it’s time to set sail on the adventure of a lifetime!