Costa de Lisboa Cruises

Costa de Lisboa, embracing the stunning coastline and charming towns surrounding Lisbon, is a must-visit destination for cruisers looking to explore Portugal‘s enchanting capital and its picturesque surroundings. With a delightful mix of stunning beaches, historic sites, and delectable cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Did you know that the region is home to the historic town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning palaces and gardens? A cruise to Costa de Lisboa effortlessly combines relaxation on the high seas with the cultural richness of this captivating destination!

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Costa de Lisboa

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, 9 of MSC‘s vessels visit Costa de Lisboa. Among them, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Musica stand out for their exceptional onboard entertainment and luxurious facilities. Both ships provide a mix of family-friendly activities and sophisticated relaxation areas. These cruises often depart from international ports such as Miami or Southampton, giving cruisers plenty of flexibility to begin their adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This popular line features 20 ships, with 13 sailing to Costa de Lisboa. Noteworthy ships such as Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star are known for their freestyle dining options and laid-back atmosphere. Most departures occur from Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), making it easy for passengers to hop on board and explore the beautiful coastal region.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, P&O has 6 ships visiting Costa de Lisboa. Ventura and Iona are the top two ships recognized for their luxurious accommodations and excellent dining experiences. Typical departures occur from Southampton, helping cruisers set sail towards the remarkable beauty of Portugal.
• Holland America Line: Featuring a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 4 that call on Costa de Lisboa. Nieuw Statendam and Volendam are particularly praised for their elegant design and cultural enrichment programs. Cruises depart from both domestic ports, mainly from Sydney, and international ports like Dover or Rotterdam, allowing diverse options for cruising enthusiasts.
• Cunard: Known for luxury cruising, Cunard has a fleet of 4 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to Costa de Lisboa. Queen Victoria and Queen Anne are distinguished by their classic elegance and exceptional service. Departures for these cruises most frequently occur from Southampton or Hamburg, ensuring a convenient start to an unforgettable journey.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines in Costa de Lisboa

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, Oceania has 6 ships cruising to Costa de Lisboa, including Sirena and Marina. Renowned for their exquisite culinary offerings and personalized service, guests can expect a truly luxurious experience. Most departures occur from ports like Southampton or Lisbon, providing flexibility for sophisticated travellers.
• Seabourn: Comprising 6 ships, Seabourn has 4 vessels that visit Costa de Lisboa. The Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation provide ultra-luxurious experiences with spacious suites and world-class amenities. Departures primarily occur from Lisbon or Miami, giving guests a taste of opulence right from the start.
• Azamara Cruises: This line has a fleet of 4 with 3 ships, such as Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest, sailing to Costa de Lisboa. Azamara is known for its immersive itineraries and excellent shore experiences. Departures mainly take place from Lisbon or Barcelona, ensuring seamless access to this fantastic region.
• Silversea: Featuring a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea offers 5 vessels that visit Costa de Lisboa, including Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. Silversea sets the standard with its all-inclusive luxury experiences and fine dining. Most cruises depart from Lisbon or Southampton, perfect for an extravagant getaway.

Top Harbours to Explore in Costa de Lisboa

• Lisbon: As Portugal‘s capital, Lisbon dazzles with its ornate architecture and rich history. Visit iconic sites like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. For those short on time, take a tram ride through the charming Alfama neighbourhood or indulge in a pastel de nata—local custard tart—at a traditional café.
• Sintra: Just a short trip from Lisbon, this fairy tale town is famous for its romantic architecture and stunning landscapes. Explore the colourful Pena Palace, wander through the lush gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, or enjoy panoramic views from the Moorish Castle.
• Cascais: A lovely coastal town, Cascais is known for its beautiful beaches and charming streets. Enjoy a leisurely day sunbathing or stroll through the town, soaking in the vibrant local markets. Make sure to try the fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant for the full experience!
• Estoril: Renowned for its glitzy casinos and stunning coastline, Estoril is adjacent to Cascais and offers a wonderful escape. Visit the Estoril Casino, one of the largest in Europe, or unwind at one of its beautiful beaches. Take a scenic walk along the promenade connecting you to Cascais—all in one delightful day trip!
• Setúbal: Just south of Lisbon, this vibrant city is known for its mouth-watering seafood, especially fresh sardines. Explore the charming streets of the city or take a boat ride through the natural beauty of Arrábida Natural Park for breathtaking views. Don’t miss visiting the beautiful Troia Peninsula for some relaxing beach time!

Optimal Times to Visit Costa de Lisboa

Costa de Lisboa enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it appealing year-round. During January to March, temperatures range from 10°C to 16°C—perfect for exploring historical sites without the summer heat. From April to June, it warms up, with temperatures climbing to around 15°C to 25°C, making it a beautiful time to witness spring blooms. The July to September period can see temperatures reach up to 30°C, ideal for enjoying the beaches or alfresco dining. Finally, come October to December, mild weather returns with average temperatures of 14°C to 24°C, providing a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing before the chill of winter settles in.

The Cost of a Cruise to Costa de Lisboa

When considering your budget, a typical one-week cruise to Costa de Lisboa ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 AUD, depending on the cruise line and cabin selection. Luxury cruises can be priced higher, typically ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 AUD, offering lavish amenities and services for discerning travellers.

When indulging in the local cuisine, expect meals at restaurants to cost around $20 to $40 AUD, with drinks averaging between $6 to $15 AUD for a local wine or beer. You can savour the fantastic flavours of Portugal while enjoying your cruise experience without splurging excessively.

Alternative Regions to Explore

If you’re keen to discover more captivating destinations, consider these intriguing alternatives to Costa de Lisboa:

• Andalusia – Renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage, Andalusia offers a unique flavour of Spain. Explore historical cities like Seville and Granada, filled with Moorish architecture, delicious tapas, and vibrant flamenco shows.
• The Canary Islands – An archipelago off the coast of North Africa, the Canary Islands provide dramatic landscapes, including volcanic peaks and beautiful beaches. With mild weather almost year-round, this destination offers a mix of relaxation and adventure throughout!
• Madeira – Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira enchants visitors with its rugged mountains, lush valleys, and stunning coastal views. Discover the beautiful botanical gardens, experience local wines, and explore the charming streets of Funchal!
• Bahamas – For a tropical getaway, the Bahamas offers stunning turquoise waters, idyllic beaches, and a lively atmosphere. Relax on stunning beaches, explore underwater caves, and immerse yourself in the colourful local culture!
• Southampton – A gateway to historical explorations and nearby attractions, Southampton has plenty to offer. Explore the city’s maritime history, visit the iconic Titanic Museum, or take day trips to nearby destinations like Stonehenge or the New Forest.

In conclusion, Costa de Lisboa is waiting for you, with its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes promising an unforgettable cruise experience. Booking your trip with Cruise1st will make it easier than ever for you to explore this stunning region of Portugal and more!