Delights of the Iberian Peninsula

Welcome to Lisbon, the colourful capital of Portugal and a city with a proud seafaring history. Be immersed in its cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals.

This afternoon you’ll board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew. Meet your butler and settle in your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests at the Observation Deck for a glass of Champagne to toast the start of your fascinating exploration of Western Europe.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lisbon prior to 02:00 PM.

Lisbon has inspired explorers for centuries with its stunning setting at the Tagus River’s mouth. Its labyrinthine streets carry echoes of 16th-century navigators who sailed on the winds of the Age of Discovery. The city prospered greatly from its trade. And today’s streets are lined with the legacies of wealthy builders, including the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, stunning works that introduced Manueline architecture. Savoring local cuisine and port wine are favorite pastimes here. On any evening, the strains of fadospill from clubs in the historic Alfama District.

On the western Algarve, Portimão is a small port with a bustling historic centre. Spend the day exploring this former fishing town, where architectural masterpieces from the 19th and 20th century seamlessly blend with colourful contemporary structures, fronted by a breathtaking promenade.

Portimão is a major fishing port, and significant investment has been poured into transforming it into an attractive cruise port as well. The city itself is spacious and has several good shopping streets—though sadly many of the more traditional retailers have closed in the wake of the global economic crisis. There is also a lovely riverside area that just begs to be strolled (lots of the coastal cruises depart from here). Don’t leave without stopping for an alfresco lunch at the Doca da Sardinha ("sardine dock") between the old bridge and the railway bridge. You can sit at one of many inexpensive establishments, eating charcoal-grilled sardines (a local specialty) accompanied by chewy fresh bread, simple salads, and local wine.

On the shores of the Guadalquivir River lies Seville, the elegant capital of Andalusia. Arrive in the afternoon to explore this historic city, an architect's dream with striking architectural styles, from the Gothic design of the Cathedral de Santa María de la Sede to the Baroque beauty of the Iglesia Colegial del Salvador.

Docking right in the heart of the city, simply step off Scenic Eclipse II to start your own discovery. The ship will be spending the night in Seville, giving you ample opportunity to sample the city’s famed culinary scene, small bars and flamenco dancing.

Cádiz lies on Spain’s breathtaking province of Andalusia and gained incredible wealth during the 18th century; riches from the Americas were unloaded here after the Guadalquivir River to Seville silted up. This scenic southern region is the home of the matador and world-class equestrian art. Seville, city of polyamorous suitor Don Juan, boasts plenty of its own glories. Its grand cathedral, Alcázar Palace and Tower of Gold were built from the coffers of Spanish kings, but its fiery flamenco defines its true spirit. It is best to ponder it all while sipping sherry at a bodega.

Famed for its luxury cars, upscale boutiques, and impressive yachts, Puerto Banús is the epitome of exclusivity. Developed in the 1970s, this seaside town was designed to blend the charm of an Andalusian fishing village with the sophistication and elegance of a stylish port destination.

Set against a backdrop of immense mountains, wind your way through the town’s narrow streets lined with flower boxes. Or experience one of the excellent golf courses that dot the hills behind the town. You may also wish to visit the glitzy bars this evening before another late departure.

Puerto Banús is not a cruise destination in itself but is a renowned luxury marina and shopping complex on the Costa del Sol in Southern Spain, serving as a primary shore excursion destination from the main cruise port of Málaga. It is frequently twinned with the nearby historic city of Marbella.

Nestled against the sparkling Mediterranean, Almería’s port serves as a majestic gateway to Andalusia, sitting right at the foot of the sprawling Alcazaba fortress. You can step off your vessel and immediately wander through sun-drenched palm groves and a vibrant waterfront promenade that links the azure sea to the city's historic, Moorish-inspired heart. This inviting harbor perfectly blends modern maritime convenience with old-world charm, offering a seamless transition from the deck to the enchanting tapas bars and ancient cathedrals of one of Spain’s sunniest coastal gems.

Your journey ends in the city of Málaga, on Spain’s spectacular Costa del Sol. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga is one of the oldest cities in the world. After one final delicious breakfast on board Scenic Eclipse II, it’s time to disembark your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, taking with you a lifetime of memories of this truly unique journey in the Mediterranean.

Please book your flight to depart out of Malaga after 12:00 PM.

#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.  ^Experiences on board our two helicopters are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, tide and ice conditions.

Submersible not operational in Europe.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

As you sail into Malaga you will notice what an idyllic setting the city enjoys on the famous Costa del Sol. To the east of this provincial capital, the coast along the region of La Axarqua is scattered with villages, farmland and sleepy fishing hamlets - the epitome of traditional rural Spain. To the west stretches a continuous city where the razzmatazz and bustle creates a colourful contrast that is easily recognisable as the Costa del Sol. Surrounding the region, the Penibéetica Mountains provide an attractive backdrop overlooking the lower terraced slopes which yield olives and almonds. This spectacular mountain chain shelters the province from cold northerly winds, giving it a reputation as a therapeutic and exotic place in which to escape from cold northern climes. Malaga is also the gateway to many of Andalusia's enchanting historic villages, towns and cities.