Portugal, Andalusia & the Spanish Mediterranean Coast via the Balearics
Secrets of the Iberian Peninsula
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Lisbon to Barcelona
This eight-night voyage aboard Le Boréal links the Atlantic with the western Mediterranean. From Lisbon you follow the Algarve and the Andalusian coast, pass through the Strait of Gibraltar and explore the Levantine coast as far as Catalonia, with a final call on Menorca. The marina platform and Zodiacs support landings, while premium all-inclusive and French refinement set the frame.
Route highlights
- Lisbon: Atlantic capital on the Tagus with the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
- Portimao: Algarve harbour, gateway to the limestone cliffs and sea caves.
- Cádiz: One of western Europe's oldest cities, with Phoenician roots.
- Valencia: Home of paella, the City of Arts and Sciences and a historic silk exchange.
- Peñíscola: Fortified peninsula on the Costa del Azahar, once seat of antipope Benedict XIII.
- Tarragona: Roman World Heritage ensemble on the Catalan coast with amphitheatre and aqueduct.
- Maó: Capital of Menorca on one of the Mediterranean's largest natural harbours.
- Barcelona: Catalan metropolis with the Sagrada Família and Gothic Quarter.
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
Lisbon
8 nights
Barcelona
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Lissabon · Embarkation
Built on seven hills, Lisbon blends a southern European sense of life with a great history of discovery. From the Tower of Belém, Vasco da Gama and other navigators set out into the unknown - yellow trams and the melancholic Fado still tell the tale today.
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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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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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At sea
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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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Peníscola
On a rocky promontory along the Costa del Azahar in Spain's Valencia region, this medieval fortified town juts directly into the Mediterranean. The Templar castle above the winding old town once served as residence to Pope Benedict XIII and as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
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Tarragona
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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Menorca
Menorca is the quietest and least discovered of the three large Balearics. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with the Camí de Cavalls (185 km coastal walking trail), the prehistoric Talayotic towers and the historic capital Ciutadella.
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Barcelona · Disembarkation
Climate & best time to sail
Embarkation: 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)
Disembarkation: 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)
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 | € 4.830 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Balkonkabine | € 5.080 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 4 | € 5.320 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 | € 5.570 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 | € 5.860 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite | € 9.240 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite | € 10.220 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite | € 10.470 | Available | Enquire |
| Owners Suite - LE FRANCE | € 18.170 | Available | 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. 8 nights from EUR 4.530 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.
When is the best time to sail this voyage?
For embarkation in Lissabon the best time to sail is May to October; for disembarkation in Barcelona it is May to October.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
