Study Voyage: Spanish Mediterranean Coast, Andalusia & Portugal
With French elegance and a true spirit of discovery
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Barcelona to Lisbon
Aboard L'Austral this seven-night voyage links the western Mediterranean with the Atlantic. From Barcelona you follow the Spanish coast via the Balearics down to Andalusia, pass through the Strait of Gibraltar and conclude in Lisbon. Accompanied by Smithsonian Journeys, the cultural history of the Iberian peninsula is explored on board, framed by the premium all-inclusive concept and French refinement.
Route highlights
- Barcelona: Catalan metropolis with Gaudí's Sagrada Família, the Gothic Quarter and a Mediterranean harbour.
- Palma de Mallorca: Balearic capital crowned by the Gothic La Seu cathedral overlooking the bay.
- Valencia: City of Arts and Sciences, home of paella and a historic silk exchange.
- Malaga: Andalusian port, Picasso's birthplace, with the Alcazaba rising above the old town.
- Cádiz: One of western Europe's oldest cities, shaped by its Phoenician roots.
- Portimao: Algarve harbour, gateway to the limestone cliffs and sea caves of the coast.
- Lisbon: Atlantic capital on the Tagus with the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
Early booking advantage: Voyages in 2027 fill quickly - premium cabins are often reserved 18-24 months in advance. An early booking enquiry is non-binding and secures your preferred cabin category.
The Route
Barcelona
7 nights
Lisbon
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Tarragona · Embarkation
As Tarraco, Tarragona was the most important Roman city on the Iberian Peninsula. The amphitheatre, remains of the Circus Maximus and the forum stand directly next to the medieval cathedral - the archaeological ensemble has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
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Palma de Mallorca, Balearen
La Seu Cathedral - one of the most striking Gothic cathedrals in Europe - stands right by Palma's harbour. The Old Town with its noble palaces, Arab baths and Arab Quarter brings together three millennia of history.
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Valencia
Valencia is home to the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias - an architectural landmark by Calatrava in the city's former riverbed. The Old Town with the Silk Exchange (UNESCO World Heritage) and the Gothic cathedral, said to house the Holy Grail, deserves a leisurely exploration.
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At sea
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Málaga
On the Costa del Sol in Andalusia on Spain's southern Mediterranean coast lies Málaga at the foot of the El Torcal mountains. Birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the city is today a major cultural hub with the Picasso Museum, the Moorish Alcazaba from the 11th century, the Roman theatre ruins and a lively harbour quarter around the Muelle Uno.
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Cádiz
Cádiz is regarded as the longest continuously inhabited city in western Europe (founded by the Phoenicians around 1,100 BC). The "tacita de plata" (silver cup) lies on a peninsula in the Atlantic - golden La Caleta beach, old city walls and the largest cathedral in Andalusia.
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Portimão
Portimão on the Algarve was a Phoenician settlement and is today one of Portugal's best-known sardine-grilling spots. Praia da Rocha, the spectacular cliffs of Ponta da Piedade in Lagos and the hinterland of cork oak forests define the region.
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Lissabon · Disembarkation
Climate & best time to sail
Embarkation: Barcelona
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air °C | 15 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 31 | 27 | 23 | 18 | 16 |
| Sea °C | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 18 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 43 | 37 | 25 | 32 | 30 | 15 | 7 | 20 | 52 | 66 | 58 | 52 |
Long-term monthly normals · Reference: Balearic Islands (Palma)
Disembarkation: Lisbon
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air °C | 15 | 16 | 18 | 19 | 21 | 25 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 18 | 15 |
| Sea °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 19 | 17 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 76 | 58 | 62 | 44 | 16 | 5 | 6 | 28 | 88 | 104 | 102 |
Long-term monthly normals · Reference: Atlantic coast (Lisbon)
Destination
L'Austral
L'Austral belongs to Ponant's Odyssée class: 264 guests, ice-reinforced hull, French cuisine with wine at dinner. Large enough for comfort on the open sea, small enough for fjords, pack ice boundaries and islands without a harbour.
In northern Europe, L'Austral sails through Norwegian fjords and along the Scottish coast - natural encounters with the comfort of a French hotel.
The Ship
Cabins
Owner's Suite
The most exclusive suite on board, located on Deck 6. Separate bedroom, balneo bathtub, panoramic views, butler service and personalised attention from the crew.
Cabin layout
Prestige Suite with Balcony
Elegant suites on Decks 5 and 6. Separate living and sleeping areas, two dressing rooms, generous balcony. Round-the-clock butler service.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Spacious suites on Deck 6 with a separate bathtub and shower, sitting area and a private balcony. Butler service included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin
Outside cabin with a large panoramic window on Deck 3. Ideal for solo travellers or couples. All on-board amenities included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin with Balcony
Comfortable outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 with a private balcony. Convertible twin or double beds, shower bathroom.
Cabin layout
Prestige Cabin with Balcony
The most popular category: premium cabins on Decks 4-6 with a private balcony, sitting area and convertible beds. Unobstructed views of the destination.
Cabin layout
Deck plan · L'Austral
Cabin prices
Prices per person in double cabin (suites: based on double occupancy), all-inclusive. Subject to availability.
| Category | Price p.P. | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superior Aussenkabine | € 5.110 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Balkonkabine | € 5.490 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Kabine Deck 4 - CHANDERNAGOR | € 6.040 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Kabine Deck 5 - BENGALE | € 6.310 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Kabine Deck 6 - MAHE | € 6.630 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite - MAHE | € 9.030 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Suite Deck 5 | € 12.030 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Suite Deck 6 | € 12.630 | Available | Enquire |
| Owner's Suite - MAHE | € 18.950 | Available | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.08.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Schiffsreise in der gewählten Kabinenkategorie
- Vollpension an Bord: Frühstücksbuffet, französische Brasserie-Küche zum Mittagessen, mehrgängiges Abendessen
- Große Auswahl an Getränken in Markenqualität (Mineralwasser, Softdrinks, Wein, Bier, Champagner, Kaffee, Tee, ausgewählte Spirituosen)
- Inhalt der Minibar
- 24-Stunden-Roomservice
- Unbegrenzter WiFi-Zugang an Bord
- Ein Landausflug pro Person und Anlaufhafen
- Vorträge und Begleitung der Naturforscher und Lektoren an Bord
- Abendunterhaltung, Vorträge und Shows
- Zugang zu Fitnessbereich und Sauna
- Nicht-motorisierte Wassersport-Aktivitäten (Kajak, Stand-up-Paddle)
- Bei Expeditionsreisen: Zodiac-Anlandungen und Ausfahrten
- Hafen- und Sicherheitsgebühren
Not included
- An- und Abreise zum Schiff (Flüge, Bahn)
- Flughafentransfers
- Reiseversicherung
- Trinkgelder für Crew (übliche Empfehlung 8 bis 10 Euro pro Person und Tag)
- Premium-Spirituosen und ausgewählte Edel-Weine
- Zusätzliche, optionale Landausflüge
- Spa- und Wellness-Anwendungen
- Persönliche Ausgaben (Wäscheservice, Boutique)
- Tauchgänge
Frequently asked questions
How do I book this voyage?
Send us a non-binding enquiry via the form on this page. Our team replies personally within 24 hours with availability, cabin options and a tailored offer. No enquiry fee, no upfront payment.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 7 nights from EUR 4.850 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the L'Austral?
A maximum of 264 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
When is the best time to sail this voyage?
For embarkation in Barcelona the best time to sail is May to October; for disembarkation in Lissabon it is May to October.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
