Portugal Cruises

Explore the Charms of Portugal with CruiseAway

When you think of captivating landscapes, delectable cuisine, and rich history, **Portugal** should definitely come to mind. A cruise to this beautiful country offers an extraordinary opportunity to visit its magnificent cities, stunning coastline, and picturesque vineyards. While cruising, you can explore the vibrant city of Lisbon, savour traditional pastéis de nata, and discover the stunning Douro Valley wine region. Fun fact: Did you know that Portugal is home to the world’s oldest bookstore, **Livraria Bertrand**, located in Lisbon? With a cruise, you can experience all this and more in the lush surroundings of Portugal!

Must-Visit Harbours in Portugal

There are several harbours in Portugal that showcase the country’s extraordinary culture and natural beauty. Here are five top ports to explore:

• Lisbon: The capital city is a vibrant hub packed with historic charm. Explore **Belém** for its iconic **Belém Tower** and indulge in famous **pastéis de Belém**. While docked, don’t forget to wander through the narrow streets of **Alfama** and visit the stunning landmark of **São Jorge Castle** for panoramic views of the city. Pro tip: Use the historic tram to get around and avoid hilly climbs!
• Porto: Famous for its port wine, Porto offers stunning riverside views. Take a stroll along the **Ribeira** and visit one of the many wine cellars for a tasting. Don’t miss **Livraria Lello**, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world—it’s a book lover’s paradise! Insider tip: Consider a boat tour on the Douro River for a different perspective on the city’s stunning architecture!
• Madeira (Funchal): Known for its remarkable landscapes and subtropical climate, Madeira is perfect for nature lovers. Visit the beautiful **Botanical Garden** and take a cable car up to **Monte** for beautiful views. While you’re there, try the famous **Madeiran wine** and local delicacies like **espada com banana** (scabbard fish with banana). Pro tip: Take the levada walks for easy access to stunning scenery!
• Cadiz, Spain: While technically located in Spain, this port is a popular stop for cruises to Portugal. Cadiz is known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. Stroll through the charming **old town**, and visit the iconic **Torre Tavira** for stunning views. Insider tip: Sample the local seafood tapas in one of the traditional taverns while enjoying a refreshing sip of sherry!
• Valencia, Spain: Valencia offers a vibrant mix of ancient history and modern culture. Sample the famed **paella** and explore the stunning **City of Arts and Sciences**. This city’s beautiful beaches are perfect for lounging. Don’t forget to visit the **Valencia Cathedral** for a touch of history. Pro tip: Try to catch the local market’s fresh produce and vibrant atmosphere!

Best Times to Cruise Portugal

The best time to sail to **Portugal** is generally during the **spring months from April to June** and **early autumn from September to October**. At this time, temperatures typically hover between **20°C and 28°C**, offering delightful weather for sightseeing. The summer months can get quite hot, often reaching **30°C and above**, which translates to larger crowds and potential higher prices. If you prefer fewer tourists and lower fares, aim for these shoulder seasons while still enjoying great weather!

The Cost of Cruising in Portugal

When it comes to budgeting for your trip, expect to pay around **$1,600 to $3,000** for a one-week standard cruise to Portugal, while a two-week adventure typically ranges between **$3,000 and $5,500**. If you’re looking for luxury, prices start at around **$4,500 for a week**. As for dining, plan to set aside about **$15 to $30** per meal in local restaurants. The price range can vary depending on whether you’re enjoying a casual café or a fine dining experience. Budget-friendly cruise options are available in the shoulder seasons as well!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Portugal Itineraries

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, **11** frequently cruise to Portugal. The **MSC Virtuosa** and **MSC Poesia** are key players, often departing from **Genoa** or **Southampton**. Known for a wide variety of onboard amenities and activities, MSC is an excellent choice for families and features diverse dining options from around the world.
• P&O Cruises: This well-regarded cruise line features a fleet of **seven ships**, all of which sail to Portugal. The **Azura** and **Ventura** lead the way and often depart from **Southampton** or **Santa Cruz de Tenerife**. P&O Cruises is known for its British hospitality, engaging itineraries, and entertainment options catering to all ages, making it a family-friendly choice.
• Princess Cruises: With **17 ships** in total and **11** cruising to Portugal, the **Crown Princess** and **Sky Princess** stand out. Departing mostly from **Southampton** or **Fort Lauderdale**, Princess Cruises is renowned for exceptional on-board service and immersive experiences, offering a variety of cultural excursions at each port.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line operates **20 ships**, with **12** navigating toward Portugal. The **Norwegian Sky** and **Norwegian Star** frequently sail from **Lisbon** or **Civitavecchia** (Rome). Known for their “freestyle cruising” concept, guests can enjoy flexible dining and a relaxed atmosphere on board.
• Cunard: With a fleet of **four ships**, three provide itineraries to Portugal, including **Queen Victoria** and **Queen Anne**. Departures primarily occur from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. Cunard is synonymous with luxury cruising, offering elegant dining, refined spaces, and exceptional service, delivering a sophisticated cruise experience to every passenger.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating a fleet of **six ships**, five sail to Portugal, with the **Seven Seas Splendor** and **Seven Seas Mariner** leading the way. Offering **16** ports of departure, primarily from **Barcelona** or **Lisbon**, Regent promises all-inclusive luxury experiences where fine dining, shore excursions, and beverages are included, all tailored to your preferences.
• Oceania Cruises: With **eight ships**, six provide itineraries to Portugal. The **Marina** and **Sirena** are notable ships often departing from **Miami** or **Barcelona**. Oceania stands out for its culinary excellence, showcasing gourmet dining that rivals top-notch restaurants and featuring cooking classes onboard for food enthusiasts.
• Silversea: Comprising **13 ships**, six cruise to Portugal, including the **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Spirit**. Departing most often from **Lisbon** or **Southampton**, Silversea ships offer an intimate and luxurious experience, with nearly one crew member dedicated to each guest, ensuring personalised service and attention to detail.
• Seabourn: With **six ships**, **four** sail toward Portugal, particularly the **Seabourn Sojourn** and **Seabourn Ovation**. Departing frequently from **Lisbon** or **Barcelona**, Seabourn excels in delivering ultra-luxury experiences, prioritising customised itineraries for an unparalleled cruise experience in term of exploration and hospitality.
• Explora Journeys: This line features **two ships**, both offering itineraries to Portugal—**EXPLORA II** and **EXPLORA I**. They typically depart from **Barcelona** or **Miami**. Explora Journeys focuses on sustainable luxury, providing guest-centric experiences that allow you to indulge in comfort while still appreciating local cultures and traditions during your journey.

Explore Alternative Regions

If the charm of **Portugal** has piqued your interest but you’d like to explore other remarkable destinations, consider these alternatives:

• Spain: A country filled with vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Spain is perfect for those looking for a similar Mediterranean adventure that boasts its unique flavours and sights.
• Southern Europe: This region is rich in culture, fabulous food, and historic landmarks—ideal for cruisers wanting to immerse themselves in the beauty of Mediterranean and Iberian traditions.
• Western Mediterranean: Offering a mix of stunning coastlines and beautiful islands, this area will let you explore incredible destinations without straying too far from Portugal’s charm.
• Canary Islands: With their stunning volcanic landscapes and a mild climate, these islands are a hidden gem for those seeking sun and adventure on a cruise.
• Cape Verde: Known for its vibrant culture and breathtaking islands, Cape Verde is perfect for cruisers seeking a mix of oceanic beauty and cultural exploration.

Portugal promises rich experiences, stunning views, and unique cultural encounters—from its iconic cities to picturesque vineyards. Truly, a cruise here offers you memories to treasure for a lifetime. Don’t wait—book your captivating getaway with CruiseAway and dive into the heart of Portugal!