Spain & Portugal: Catalonia Coastlines to the Algarve

Welcome to Spain and the spectacular coastal city of Barcelona. One of the most vibrant, cosmopolitan cities in Europe, Barcelona is famous for its beautiful beaches, incredible food, cutting-edge art scene and buzzing nightlife.   As you board Scenic Eclipse, you’ll be warmly greeted by the crew and shown to your luxurious verandah suite. Take the time to explore your Discovery Yacht before dinner, from the outdoor Vitality pool on Deck 10 to the indulgent Senses Spa# on Deck 6 and the Observation Lounge and Terrace on Deck 5, where you can see the twinkling lights of Barcelona as you depart.   Please book your flight to arrive into Barcelona prior to 02:00 PM.

You’ll arrive in Valencia this morning. Spain’s third-largest city is an inspiring blend of old and new. It has one of the largest historic centres in Europe, with buildings dating back to the 13th century, sitting close to modern architectural gems like the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Running for more than nine kilometres through the centre of the town is the magnificent Turia Garden, a green space that was created by diverting a river in the 1980s. Join the locals riding bikes, playing sport, listening to live music or just relaxing in the sun.  Freechoice: Panoramic Drive and walking tour of Valencia:Enjoy a guided drive and walking tour of Valencia’s Gothic architecture, its wonderful cathedral and the futuristic City of Arts and Science complex.  Tastes of Valencia:Take a scenic 25-minute drive to a traditional Valencian restaurant for a paella demonstration and a tasting of Iberico ham and wine.  City of Arts & Sciences: Experience a panoramic drive to Valencia’s old city centre, the City of Arts and Sciences complex and the Prince Felipe Museum of Sciences. Albufera Natural Park & Lake: Drive through the city, followed by a boat ride at La Albufera nature reserve to immerse in the stunning landscapes and wildlife. 

Start your day at sea with breakfast on the verandah as you cruise through the deep blue waters of the Alborán Sea. Or perhaps an invigorating workout in the gym or a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.  Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor pool on Deck 10 to the expansive 550sqm Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas and Vitality pool. Stop at one of the nine bars and lounges on board or curl up with a book in the library of the Observation Lounge. 

Sail into Spain’s famous Costa del Sol and the 3,000-year-old city of Málaga. Millions of visitors flock to the region each year for its namesake sunshine, rich history and artistic soul. The city is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and proudly pays homage to the virtuoso with a dedicated museum. Uncover gastronomic delights such as ‘tinto de verano’, a refreshing iced summer wine, and wander the streets filled with architectural delights from colourful baroque designs to historic Roman theatre.  Freechoice: Walking Tour of Malaga: Discover the art and architecture of Malaga on foot and sample local delicacies at the bustling Atarazanas Market.  Captivating Malaga Guided: Experience Malaga’s most famous attractions.  Tour the Charming White Village of Mijas: Discover the picturesque, whitewashed village of Mijas. Founded by the Tartessians and occupied by Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, it is perched on a 400-metre-high mountainside.   Visit to the Alhambra: Explore the 14th-century Alhambra in Granada, Spain, a stunning fortress with palaces, military buildings, and administrative centers, declared a National Monument in 1870 and UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

This morning, you’ll arrive in Gibraltar. Dominating the mouth of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar is a natural fortress, and a little slice of Britain tucked within the borders of Spain. The skyline is dominated by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar, a 426-metre-high limestone promontory. Discover the winding streets below, lined with numerous British shops and traditional pubs, and be amazed that you’re just a stone’s throw from Spain.  Freechoice: Hike the Mediterranean Steps:Experience a challenging, guided hike up the Rock and be rewarded with phenomenal views of the Strait of Gibraltar.   Operation Torch Tunnels:Pay an exclusive visit to the Admiralty Tunnel, where General Eisenhower had an office during WWII. This Allied command centre was where Operation Torch, the invasion of North Africa, was planned.  Panoramic Gibraltar & Gourmet wine & Food Pairing:Take a panoramic guided tour of Gibraltar and Chatham Counterguard, where you can appreciate the vaults, stonework and arched roofs. You’ll have a tasing of local wins along with a selection of gourmet bites. 

Today, set out for the Moroccan city of Tangier, the European gateway to Africa. Tangier has long been one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, drawing visitors from all over the world for hundreds of years. Today, it thrives with prosperity, bolstered by a new business district, a marina, and a TGV train connection to Casablanca.  The city has a celebrated café culture, with more than 1,000 of them to be found. Wander through the labyrinthian laneways of the old town ‘medina’ souks, the traditional market where vendors hawk olives, preserved lemon, oils, spices, dates, chickens, lambs and much more.   Freechoice: Asilah:Experience the vibrant city of Asilah, celebrated for its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Visit the exterior of a Hammam.   Cap Spartel Hercules Caves and Kasbah: Travel along the Atlantic Coast to the Cap Spartel lighthouse and explore the enigmatic Hercules Caves and discover the historic Kasbah.  Tangier city tour with American Legation: Embark on a journey of culture and history through Tangier, including a visit to the American Legation.  Tetuan UNESCO Heritage:Explore Tetouan, a town filled with Arabic, Spanish and Andalusian architecture and enjoy local mint tea.  Cooking Class at the Blue Door: Prepare a sumptuous tagine in a hands-on culinary class in the Medina “Old town”. 

The historic city of Seville’s position on the bank of the Guadalquivir River means Scenic Eclipse can sail inland and dock right in its heart. You’ll be completely immersed in the elegant capital of Andalusia and able to step straight off the ship to start your own discovery.  Seville was ruled by the Moors for hundreds of years and became one of the world’s most important trading ports in the 16th and 17th centuries. Walk through remnants of this turbulent history, from the breathtaking Moorish Alcazar Palace to the spectacular Gothic Cathedral and the extravagant Plaza de España.  Freechoice: Monumental Seville: Be inspired by the grand landmarks of Seville, the capital of Andalusia.  Jerez and Sherry Tasting: Visit the sherry capital of Jerez de la Frontera to taste the region’s legendary drop.  Enrich Private Equestrian Show and Flamenco: Two of Seville’s most iconic art forms come together in this unforgettable performance. Flamenco dancers and specialised haute école riders will showcase traditional dance and dressage in a lavish spectacle that will delight every guest.  Scenic Eclipse will be docked in Seville overnight, so you will have the opportunity to explore the city at night. After a delicious dinner with local ingredients in one of the up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board, go for a nightcap in one of the citys tapas bars. 

Start your day with a stroll through the tranquil Parque de Maria Luisa with its glorious landscapes gardens, shady paths and shimmering ponds are a welcome retreat from the bustle of the city. You can even hire a rowboat to explore the park’s canals.  Explore Seville’s excellent museums and galleries such as the Museo de Bellas Artes. Housed in an historic monastery and displays works from Spain’s great masters. The Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions charts the history and culture of Andalusia while the Flamenco Dance Museum is dedicated to the local art form.  Freechoice: Jerez and Sherry Tasting: Visit the sherry capital of Jerez de la Frontera to taste the region’s legendary drop. Full Day in Cordoba: Spend a full day exploring Córdoba, the capital of Muslim Spain.   Seville Biking Tour: An ideal introduction to Seville, one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities. 

On the western Algarve, Portimão is a small port with a bustling historic centre. Once a well-known fishing port, now transformed into a breathtaking promenade with shops selling traditional lace, ceramics, and leather goods, and fantastic restaurants. Portimão is much loved for the steep limestone cliffs that surround its sandy beach of Praia da Rocha. Architectural masterpieces from the 19th and 20th centuries seamlessly blend with colourful contemporary structures creating the Portimão we know today.   Freechoice: Cabo St. Vicente & Sagres Fort:?Sagres is home to a unique fortress that protected the town from North African raiders. Explore Cape St. Vincent, the southwestern point of Europe.  Ponta da Piedade: Discover the idyllic setting of Ponta da Piedade on a traditional boat tour to see the area’s monumental cliffs and unbelievable tunnels and caves.  E-Biking to Praia da Rocha: Enjoy Portimão’s beautiful views on a biking tour to the beach Praia da Rocha.  Silves & Wine Tasting: Explore the historic village of Silves, the former Algarve capital, discover the iconic Silves Castle and indulge in a wine-tasting experience at Villa Alvor. 

Your voyage ends today in the colourful Portuguese capital city of Lisbon. At the centre of global seafaring tradition for more than 600 years, it’s a vibrant, multicultural hub with fascinating history, glorious architecture and incredible food. After breakfast farewell the crew and new friends who shared this incredible voyage with you. Youll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey or return flight home, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.  Please book your flight to depart out of Lisbon after 12:00 PM. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions. Helicopter and submersible are not able to operate in France. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.  The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.