Embark on a journey across seas and centuries, sailing from the artistic heart of Barcelona to the volcanic islands of the Azores. Along the way, encounter the ancient legacies of the Mediterranean, the Moorish traditions that shaped North Africa and Iberia, the coastal charms of Portugal and the Azores’ otherworldly beauty. Explore storied kasbahs, idyllic villages and rugged coastlines—sometimes with expert guides, other times at your own pace—and discover how centuries of history, cuisine and culture have left their mark on these storied shores.
- Sail the famed Strait of Gibraltar, the gateway between Africa and Europe, taking in the view from the open deck of National Geographic Orion
- Stroll Cartagena’s magnificent Roman Theatre, then set out on a tapas tour to sample traditional local dishes
- Experience Lisbon’s charm as you marvel at its architectural masterpieces and listen to the soulful sounds of Fado music in the Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood
- Wander Tangier’s labyrinthine medina and climb to the legendary kasbah
- In São Miguel, sample traditional Azorean cozido, cooked underground by volcanic heat, and spot whales on a catamaran cruise (weather permitting)
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Arrive in Barcelona and transfer to a shared hospitality space. This afternoon, explore the city at your own pace, enjoying its architectural masterpieces, the lively street rhythms of Las Ramblas or the beautiful views atop Montjuic. Embark the ship in the late afternoon and set off on your journey.
Meals Included: Dinner
The ship anchors near the city of Castellón on mainland Spain. From here, enjoy water activities in the Columbretes Islands, an archipelago 30 miles off the coast. The islands are a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities to observe endemic species such as Andouin's gull, Eleonora's falcon and Scopoli's shearwater.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin your journey through Valencia with a visit to its majestic cathedral, home to the revered Holy Chalice—believed by many to be the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. Savor an authentic paella, the city’s signature dish, before exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex where science, culture and architecture converge. Later, set out independently to wander the winding streets of the old quarter, browse the bustling Mercado Central or take in world-class art at the Palau de les Arts.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Uncover Cartagena’s remarkable history, from its Roman foundations to its role as a Mediterranean stronghold. Stand before the magnificent Roman Theatre, admire the remains of the Augustus Temple and see the imposing city walls—a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Later, set out on a tapas tour of the city, weaving your way through narrow lanes and bustling terraces as you taste local delicacies like caldero del mar menor, a traditional fisherman’s rice dish.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Málaga is one of Spain’s oldest cities—a vibrant coastal hub where layers of ancient history blend with contemporary culture. Explore the Alcazaba, a remarkably well-preserved Moorish fortress overlooking the sea, and climb to the Castillo de Gibralfaro, the 14th-century stronghold that once guarded both the Alcazaba and the city below.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tangier lies just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain and has long been a gateway between Africa and Europe—a true cultural crossroads. Stroll the winding streets of its medina, ascend to the city’s legendary kasbah or visit the American Legation Museum, a symbol of centuries-old diplomacy, and the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located outside the country.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enter Portugal in the Algarve, the sun-drenched southern coast renowned for its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and whitewashed villages. Choose from a variety of activities: kayak in tranquil waters, spot dolphins along the coast, set out on a scenic afternoon hike or wander the cobblestoned streets of a coastal town that embodies the Algarve’s timeless charm.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arrive in Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital, where historic architecture, timeless traditions and scenic beauty converge. Visit the iconic Belém Tower and the ornate Jerónimos Monastery, then wander the winding lanes of Alfama—the city’s oldest quarter—where the soulful sound of Fado drifts through the air.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As you sail toward the Azores, enjoy the ship’s premium amenities and onboard experiences. Step onto the Bridge to watch for wildlife and observe the captain navigate the ship, unwind with a massage from the wellness specialist or attend naturalist talks on your destination.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Venture into the lush Furnas Valley and enjoy a traditional Azorean specialty for lunch: cozido, a hearty stew of meats and vegetables slow-cooked underground by volcanic steam. Weather permitting, set out with local spotters on a catamaran in search of cetaceans.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Disembark in Ponta Delgada and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Itineraries are subject to change.
National Geographic Orion
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 103 metres
Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins)
Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014
Engineered for maximum comfort and safety, Orion is equipped with the latest technology including large retractable stabilizers, sonar, radar, and an ice-strengthened hull. A shallow draft plus bow and stern thrusters provide the convenience of being able to maneuver close to shore. 14 Zodiacs ensure quick disembarkation and offer the ideal transport for up-close exploration.
National Geographic Orion meets strict specifications for environmental protection and the on board waste management systems meet the stringent Antarctic operational standards enabling us to travel to the most pristine environments. A host of advanced design features and technology ensures sustainable marine environmental practices.
National Geographic Orion accommodates 102 guests in 53 cabins, including several with balconies. She is spacious and modern, with a variety of public rooms that offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Friendly and informal, Orion fosters a welcoming atmosphere where like-minded guests share in exceptional experiences and enrichment.
Her public rooms include a dramatic window-lined main lounge, as well as an observation lounge and library perched at the very top of the ship, with plentiful observation decks. The spacious lounge is the heart of our expedition community, and is suited for spirited cocktail hours, informative presentations and our nightly tradition of Recap. In addition, a dedicated theater provides a unique setting for specialist presentations or films and slideshows. Both the main dining room and outside buffet easily accommodate all guests at once for open seating dining. On selected nights, weather permitting, our dining room menu is also available on the outside deck.
While Orion interiors are elegant, life aboard is always casual, with no need for formal clothing. And you’ll find shipboard services like laundry, in-room cabled internet, and public-area wifi make packing and traveling more convenient.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
