Study Voyage: Spain's Mediterranean Coast, Andalusia & Portugal
French elegance and the spirit of discovery aboard Le Boréal
Interested in this voyage?
Personal advice, no call centre - a reply within 24 hours.
Barcelona to Lisbon
Aboard Le Boréal 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 the Sagrada Família, the Gothic Quarter and a Mediterranean harbour.
- Palma de Mallorca: Balearic capital crowned by the Gothic La Seu cathedral.
- Valencia: City of Arts and Sciences, home of paella and a historic silk exchange.
- Malaga: Andalusian port, Picasso's birthplace, with the Alcazaba above the old town.
- Cádiz: One of western Europe's oldest cities, with Phoenician roots.
- Portimao: Algarve harbour, gateway to the limestone cliffs and sea caves.
- Lisbon: Atlantic capital on the Tagus with the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
The Route
Barcelona
7 nights
Lisbon
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Barcelona · Embarkation
Gaudí's Sagrada Família and Park Güell, the lively Las Ramblas boulevard, the Gothic Old Town: Barcelona is the most creative city in the Mediterranean. The Olympic Port marina sits right next to city life.
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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
Destination
Le Boréal
Le Boréal was the first ship of the Odyssée class and marked Ponant's move into expedition cruising. 264 guests, ice-reinforced hull, two restaurants - a ship built equally for the passage to the North Cape and the islands of the South Seas.
In northern Europe, Le Boréal sails through the fjords of Norway and along the British 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 · Le Boréal
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 | € 6.360 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Balkonkabine | € 6.860 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 4 | € 7.570 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 | € 7.930 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 | € 8.360 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite | € 11.490 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite | € 15.410 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite | € 16.180 | Available | Enquire |
| Owners Suite - LE FRANCE | € 19.480 | On request | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.08.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Full board in gourmet and À-la-carte restaurants
- Afternoon tea and pastries
- Open bar: water, soft drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, beers, coffee and tea
- Minibar in cabin, regularly refilled
- 24-hour cabin service
- All gratuities for crew and service staff
- Complimentary WiFi onboard (standard usage)
- Butler service (in higher suite categories on select ships)
- Zodiac excursions with experienced guides (on Expedition voyages)
- Expert lectures by scientists, marine biologists and historians
- Water sports equipment: kayaks, stand-up paddling, snorkelling gear (subject to weather and region)
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from ship (transfers, pre- or post-programmes)
- Some special shore excursions
- Spa treatments
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 5.810 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the Le Boréal?
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.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
