Pearls of Southern Spain & Portugal

Your marvellous cruise begins in Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region. Here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht for the start of a memorable journey along the Mediterranean coasts.  Please book your flight to arrive into Barcelona prior to 01:00 PM. Docked: 18:00

The historic port city of Mahón is the capital Menorca, one of Spain’s stunning, though lesser-known, Balearic Islands.  Mahón is known for its uniquely shaped, naturally deep harbour, ranked among the largest in the world and its delightful Old Town. This compelling city is also famed for its markets, eateries and cuisine; the birthplace of mayonnaise (named after the city) and its local speciality, Mahón, a bold-flavoured, semi-firm cow’s milk cheese. DiscoverMORE Cultures of Menorca (extra expense, must be pre-booked) Discover the beautiful island of Menorca, starting in Ciutadella with its charming houses and traditional architecture. Travel to Mahón, home to the worlds largest natural port. Stop at the picturesque fishing village of Fornells for photo opportunities. Visit Monte Toro for breathtaking views and the Monte Toro Virgin Chapel. Explore Subaida cheese farm and vineyard, enjoying tastings of their products. If time allows, sample local gin in Mahón before taking a guided walk through the town and returning to your ship.   Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 4 hours Docked: 12:00 - 18:00

Set on the beautiful island of Mallorca and the capital of Spains Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, is a city steeped in history and brimming with remarkable architecture. One of Palmas most notable landmarks is the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria, which overlooks the Bay of Palma. Dating back to the 13th century, this masterpiece of Gothic architecture boasts one of the largest rose windows — a decorated circular window with stained glass — in the world. Included Excursion Walking tour of Palma de Mallorca  Embark on a walking tour of the Jewish quarter, exploring the historic "Call Maior," and ending at the stunning Spanish Gothic Cathedral, notable for its tall columns and arches over 500 years old. Inside, visit the Treasure Museum, featuring ancient manuscripts, artwork, and religious artifacts. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to Bellver Castle, a 14th-century medieval fortress that once served as a royal retreat and prison. From its elevated location, savor panoramic views of Palma and the Bay, concluding your excursion steeped in Palma’s history and beauty.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours DiscoverMORE Valldemossa and Son Marroig (extra expense) Discover Valldemossa, a charming village known for its stunning landscapes. Guided by an expert, explore the Carthusian Monastery, a historic site where composer Chopin and writer George Sand stayed in 1838. Visit its museum featuring original Chopin sheets and Sands manuscripts. Enjoy a mini piano concert at the nearby King Sancho Palace, followed by free time to stroll through vibrant streets, savor local treats like Coca de patata and frozen almond milk, and shop for souvenirs. Finally, admire breathtaking views from the ancient residence of Archduke Luis Salvador at Son Marroig before returning to the port.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.5 hours Docked: 08:00 - 22:00

Ibizas party scene is legendary, attracting thousands of revellers each year from across the world. This gorgeous Balearic Island, lying just off the coast of Spain, has become synonymous with electronic dance music, a jetsetters lifestyle and late-night revelry. Despite its hedonistic reputation however, Ibiza also promotes responsible tourism, with initiatives to ensure the islands natural beauty, including beautiful sandy coves backed by pine-clad hills, is preserved for future generations. Today choose between our EmeraldACTIVE or DiscoverMORE option. EmeraldACTIVE Dalt Vila walking tour  Explore the medieval enchantments of Old Town Ibiza, known as DAlt Vila, with a guided walking tour through its UNESCO World Heritage Site. Traverse narrow lanes, steep cobbled streets, and panoramic terraces overlooking the town and bay. Enter DAlt Vila through Ses Taules Gate, flanked by replicas of mighty Roman statues. From the main square, venture through this medieval realm, passing landmarks like the 14th-century cathedral, the Episcopal Palace, the historic Town Hall, and the Convent of the Dominicans. After the guided portion, enjoy some free time and a refreshment (coffee & ensaimada).  Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 3.5 hours DiscoverMORE Organic Farm, Hierbas Workshop & Santa Eulalia (extra expense) Step away from the coast and into the tranquil countryside of Ibiza to discover the island’s authentic rural traditions. This immersive visit to a local family-run farm offers a unique insight into both the past and present of Ibicenco agricultural life. Begin with a guided tour of the estate, where daily life on the farm unfolds among animals and aromatic gardens. Participate in a hands-on Hierbas Ibicencas workshop, learning to identify, gather, and prepare a traditional herb liqueur using a blend of 20 native plants such as mint, wild thyme, fennel, rosemary, chamomile, and lemon verbena. Under local guidance, prepare the herb-and-anise infusion that defines this time-honoured drink. The experience also includes a tasting of local specialties, including natural juice, wine, cheese, sobrasada, and Ibicenco coca—a traditional pastry. At the end of this enriching visit, take home a 1-liter bottle of the prepared herb liqueur—a flavourful souvenir of Ibiza’s countryside culture.  Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 4.5 hours Docked: 08:00 - 17:00

As a major naval station on the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena has been greatly influenced by various cultures over the centuries. This historical crossroads of civilisations is evident in the citys diverse architectural styles from the Roman era to Art Nouveau. A must-see landmark is the ancient Roman Theatre, unearthed in 1987 and restored for public viewing. EmeraldPLUS Spains most noble tradition: the strikingly elegant Andalusian horses  Just a few kilometers from the Port of Cartagena, this beautiful ranch showcases magnificent pure Spanish-bred horses with fine bloodlines. You can observe and touch the mare and foal pairings, witness Spanish Horse Training and stallion management. Established by the Conesa family for 40 years, the ranch offers a taste of traditional family life in nature.   Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours Docked: 09:00 - 14:00

Málaga was founded by the Phoenicians and has been under the rule of various civilisations, including the Romans and Moors, each leaving their mark on the citys culture and architecture. Several historical sites and landmarks that are worth exploring in Málaga, including the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress overlooking the city, and the nearby Roman Theatre. DiscoverMORE Tour of the charming white village of Mijas (extra expense) Travel along the coastal road, passing Torremolinos, Benalmádena, and Fuengirola, before ascending the mountain road leading to Mijas. Mijas, renowned for its picturesque charm, unfolds at an altitude of 1,300 feet with steep, narrow streets adorned by immaculate white houses. Explore the unique Chapel of Virgen de la Peña, a small grotto church carved into the rock. Built by Mercedarian monks in 1520, it houses the image of Virgen de la Peña, the villages patron saint. Pass by the bullring, visit the local Catholic church, and relish the impressive panorama from Mijas balcony. Conclude your walking tour with a visit to the Mayan Monkey Mijas chocolate museum, where youll delve into the history of chocolate and witness demonstrations of age-old machines still in use today. Enjoy tasting pieces of organic chocolates and a glass of wine.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours Docked: 11:00 - 21:00

Guarding the slender Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier has been Europes gateway to Africa for centuries, welcoming with an intoxicating blend of exotic cultures and influences unique to Morocco. Built on the slopes of a chalky limestone hill, the Old Town, filled with charming narrow streets and houses bearing eclectic styles, is dominated by a Kasbah, the Sultans Palace, now a museum of Moroccan art, and the Great Mosque – all, must-see attractions. DiscoverMORE Walking tour of Medina and Kasbah (extra expense) Discover Tangier, where Europe meets Africa, creating a vibrant cultural fusion. Experience the lively crowds, fragrant markets, and the soothing rhythms of land and sea in this captivating "white city." Start your adventure from the pier, exploring the enchanting Kasbah and the winding souks of the Medina, where you can barter for unique souvenirs and admire local handicrafts. Your journey also includes a visit to the American Legation, enriching your understanding of Tangiers rich history and significant international role.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours Docked: 08:00 - 18:00

Located in the valley of the Guadalquivir River, Seville is the stunning capital city of Andalusia and birthplace of Flamenco Included Excursion The best of Seville  Explore the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture—with a special visit inside the exquisite Casa de Pilatos, one of Seville’s most beautiful noble palaces. Your journey begins with a gentle stroll along the Guadalquivir River, where your guide will share stories of Seville’s golden age as a bustling port during Spain’s maritime empire. Your first landmark stop is the iconic Torre del Oro, a striking 13th-century watchtower that once guarded the river and welcomed treasure-laden ships from the New World. From here, you’ll walk past the grand University of Seville, once the Royal Tobacco Factory and now a symbol of the citys evolving identity. As you make your way into the historic heart of Seville, you’ll arrive at Casa de Pilatos. Enjoy a guided interior tour of this architectural gem, famous for its mix of Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Discover tranquil patios, intricate tilework, classical sculptures, and serene gardens.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours Docked: 16:00 - Overnight

During the Spanish conquest of the American continent, Seville was an important harbour but nowadays, this city is famed worldwide for its distinctive Andalusian culture, monuments, traditions and artistic heritage. DiscoverMORE Seville by e-bike (extra expense) We begin our journey in the shaded paths of Parque de María Luisa, gliding through its tranquil gardens on our way to the spectacular Plaza de España. From there, we follow the scenic Guadalquivir River, passing the historic Puente de Triana and continuing toward Isla de la Cartuja. The tour then takes us into the bustling Alameda de Hércules, one of Europe’s oldest public squares, and onward to the contemporary landmark Las Setas (Metropol Parasol), a bold symbol of Seville’s modern identity. We ride through Plaza Nueva and approach the heart of the city to view the impressive exterior of the Cathedral of Seville, as well as the Reales Alcázares and the Archivo de Indias, both part of Seville’s UNESCO-listed heritage. As the tour continues, we cycle past the Real Fábrica de Tabacos, steeped in history, before reaching the peaceful Jardines de Murillo, where the tour concludes amidst lush greenery and quiet paths.   Activity Level: Strenuous, Duration: 3 hours Docked: Overnight - 16:00

Situated at the mouth of the Arade River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean, Portimão harbours a long fishing tradition that developed predominately between the 19th and 20th centuries with the advent of the canning industry and tourism. Most of the buildings that you see in the streets and squares of the historic centre originate from this period. Portimão is known for its excellent sandy beaches lapped by warm, calm waters, making this quite the alluring holiday destination. DiscoverMORE The Moorish City of Silves (extra expense) Your adventure begins with a visit to the iconic Silves Castle, standing proudly as a testament to the regions historical significance. Explore the ancient walls and towers, each echoing tales of Algarves storied past. Pass by the Silves Cathedral, a historical gem adorned with relics that narrate the compelling story of the region. Indulge your senses at Villa Alvor, where the colors of the clay and limestone soil give rise to wines that carry hints of cinnamon, dates, and ginger. The lush green vineyards evoke memories of mint, while the distant blue horizon echoes cultural crossings and confluences. Taste the essence of Algarve in every sip as you sample the local wines that define this picturesque region.  Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours DiscoverMORE Cabo Sao Vicente & Sagres (extra expense) Start the journey by traveling towards Sagres, where youll explore its fortress situated at the southern tip of Peninsular Sagres. This fortress, renowned for its unique design, served as a protective stronghold against raiders from North Africa. Next, we head to Cape St. Vincent (Cabo S. Vicente), Europes most southwestern point, where you can admire the iconic lighthouse and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. This windswept headland, once considered the edge of the known world, boasts towering cliffs rising 60 meters above the tumultuous seas. The enduring presence of the lighthouse, visible from afar, symbolizes the maritime legacy of this historic site. Continue towards the historic town of Lagos. The town is full of character and played an important role during the period of discoveries. Enjoy a guided walk followed by some free time to explore the town at your own leisure.      Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4.5 hours Docked: 08:00 - 16:00

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly coastal city and capital, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday.  Please book your flight to depart out of Lisbon after 01:00 PM. Docked: 08:00 *Please verify with the Shore Excursion Manager onboard whether a DiscoverMORE tour is available on disembarkation day.  The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.