The destinations on your cruise have been selected for their ability to showcase the cultural and culinary traditions of Spain and Portugal.
You will be able to taste authentic food and drink in its place of origin, including Pasteis de Nata in Lisbon; paella in Valencia; tapas and Jerez sherry in Cádiz; port wine in Oporto; and olive oil in Málaga.
Many cultural highlights await your discovery too, including chances to visit Pablo Picasso’s house in his birthplace, Málaga, and learn the art of flamenco with a local Bailaora (dancer) from Cádiz. You can also admire architectural delights such as Moorish buildings in Andalusia and decorative Azulejo tiles in Portugal.
On cruises with a little bridge there is a BMB host on board but no team. Bridge is for days at sea only.
Departure - late afternoon
Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late afternoon
A short journey from Leixões takes you into the heart of Oporto, with its fortress-like Cathedral – offering stunning views across the city, and the Baroque Church of Clérigos. Head to the historic Ribeira District, where the narrow, cobbled lanes wind their way down to the Douro River, or visit one of the many wine cellars for a taste of the rich and smooth fortified wine named after the city, Port.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - early evening
Malaga is a city that is rich in history and culture – located on the shores of the Mediterranean, it is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and his childhood spent here is reflected in many of the recurring themes of his paintings, including flamenco and bulls. Known as the olive capital of the world, the Andalusian region accounts for 35% of the olives produced in the EU and are closely monitored by officials from the regional government.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late afternoon
Originally constructed in 223 BC by the Carthaginians, Cartagena is immersed in ancient history and has been through some incredibly turbulent times. Its heyday was during the Roman era, and there are several archaeological sites in the city, many only discovered when built over in recent years. The first of these sites to be discovered was the Roman Theatre, which held 6,000 spectators; and other sites including the Baths and the Augsteum.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late afternoon
Synonymous with Spain, the delicious paella rice dish originated in Valencia and was originally known as arroz a la Valencia, which takes its name from the pan it is cooked in, typically large, round and shallow. Believed to have been created in the 15th century for Valencian farmers working in the rice fields using ingredients local to their surroundings; nowadays it is popular with chicken or seafood. Close by is Albufera Natural Park – an important stopover for migratory birds.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - early afternoon
Located on the east coast of Menorca, Mahón is the largest city on the island and has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian architecture, including buildings with sash windows and balconies. The city has a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves, which are home to the protected Mediterranean pillow coral.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late afternoon
One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cádiz is known for its palm trees, ancient buildings and maritime history. The Old Town is home to the striking 18th century Cádiz Cathedral and over 100 watchtowers, as well as traditional Tapas bars. Tapa derives from ‘cover’, where one legend has it that bartenders would cover drinks with a saucer to keep out the dust created by the breeze in the city, and would add little treats of olives and ham to entice customers to visit again. Tapas are best served with a glass of Spanish wine from Jerez de la Frontera.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late morning
Where the Tagus – the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula – meets the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is spread along the shores of both river banks, connected by the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge. Belém Tower is a World Heritage Site tower that was originally built here to defend the city, before it was transformed into a lighthouse and customs house. Close by is the renowned Discovery Monument, representing the prow of a caravel – led by Prince Henry the Navigator and other prodigious Portuguese pioneers.
Arrival - late morning
Departure - late afternoon
Overlooking the River Tagus, Portugal’s capital city offers an abundance of maritime highlights, including the iconic Ponte de Abril suspension bridge, and the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, which served as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Vasco de Gama and other Portuguese explorers. The delicious pastéis de nata are also not to be missed when visiting Lisbon, particularly when sampled at the original bakery, which opened in 1837.
Arrival - early afternoon
Departure - early evening
An important maritime city for centuries, Vigo is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and has one of the best natural ports in the world. The port area was heavily influenced by the sea, and has many old fishing houses and markets selling locally caught seafood. A neoclassical Cathedral, the Collegiate Church of Santa Marta is built on the site of a gothic church that was burnt down by Francis Drake; and there is an impressive statue dedicated to literary author Jules Verne.
Arrival - early morning
What's included?
Chargeable extras
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours. *Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea not included. Upgrade to All Inclusive Drinks Package is available as a chargeable optional extra and can be added to your booking up to six days prior to your cruise departing.
Great value offers
Great value offers on selected fares and cabin grades available on this cruise. Please contact our Reservations team for further details.
Please note, rooms 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.
*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted view.
*Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.
