Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal – with Smithsonian Journeys

Located on the seashore between the mountains of Montjuïc and Tibidabo, Barcelona offers its many visitors a perfect blend of tradition and modernism. Truly an open-air museum, the “prodigious town” reveals an astonishing range of artistic treasures and museums, combining Roman ruins, medieval districts and a number of avant-garde elements from the 20^th Century. Over the years, it has been marked by some of the greatest artists, such as Picasso, Miró or Gaudí, most of whose work has been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Take the time to stroll along the Ramblas and enjoy the gentle, typically Mediterranean lifestyle of the capital of Catalonia.

Palma de Mallorca will reveal its many treasures: idyllic coves, majestic limestone cliffs that plunge into the clear sapphire- and turquoise-coloured waters of the Mediterranean, and vast plains planted with almond trees, olive trees and vineyards. When your ship calls at the capital of the Balearic Islands, take a walk to discover its emblematic monuments, such as its famous cathedral, and amble through its old streets. Here, like a painting, the island’s historical heritage forms a backdrop to the lively and warm cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Mediterranean.  

Valencia - the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avantgarde and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, more traditional and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously, but above all it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress centre and City of Arts and Sciences, emerging from a crystal blue pool.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

A historical and festive town, Málaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you will go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.

Andalusia’s Cadiz is located on the Costa de la Luz, in the south-west of Spain. From the beaches of Cortadura, to the flamenco bars of Santa Maria, through the colourful streets of la Viña, you will be amazed by this city, which is both steeped in history and extremely festive. In the medieval El Pópulo district, you will stroll along covered passages in the narrow gaps between houses. You will also be able to mosey around the lush Mina square. The star of the show is the magnificent cathedral and its dome crowned with yellow porcelain, presiding above the Ocean.

At the entrance of the River Arade, Portimão is a former sardine port that has become a famous seaside city. From this pleasant town, you can explore Silves, the former capital of the Algarve. The town is dominated by a Moorish castle, one of the best preserved in Portugal. You can also admire the incredible cathedral with its baroque façade, built on the site of an old mosque. Then you will go to Monchique, a small mountain town surrounded by a forest lush eucalyptus and cork oaks. In the maze of narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, you will discover here a wilder and more authentic Algarve.

Portugal’s capital city located on the banks of the Tagus, only a few kilometres from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbour, impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and its Moorish streets, this district is the oldest one of the city and one of the most typical. Not far from there, Chiado’s elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of of luxury shopping.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship

Length: 142 metres

Passenger Capacity: 264 (200 in Antarctica)

Built: 2011

L’Austral is a sleek, French-designed expedition yacht combining modern elegance with an intimate atmosphere. With just 132 staterooms for 264 guests, she offers the refined feel of a private yacht, enhanced by attentive service and stylish interiors featuring fine materials, harmonious colours, and discreet touches of brightness. Built by Fincantieri in Ancona, Italy, she is 466 ft long with a 59 ft beam, ice-class certified (1C), and equipped with the latest eco-design innovations, continually upgraded to improve environmental performance.

Designed for both polar adventures and tropical voyages, L’Austral features six guest decks, elegant dining venues, and 11 Zodiacs for immersive exploration. Life on board blends relaxation and discovery, with refined gastronomy, welcoming social spaces, and an emphasis on responsible travel. From the subantarctic islands to sunlit coasts, she offers a chic and comfortable way to experience the world, always with PONANT’s signature style of elegance, intimacy, and connection to the sea.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship

Length: 142 meters

Passenger Capacity: 264 (in twin cabins, 200 in Antarctica)

Built: 2011

Le Boréal, along with her sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial, embodies PONANT’s signature blend of luxury, intimacy, and serene well-being. Designed with both conviviality and tranquillity in mind, she offers inviting shared spaces alongside peaceful retreats for moments of quiet escape. Her sleek exterior and refined interiors reflect the careful thought and craftsmanship that define the fleet, with a décor that captures the spirit of a private yacht. Featuring 132 staterooms and suites, she welcomes up to 264 guests in an atmosphere that feels both elegant and personal.

Built in 2010 by Fincantieri in Ancona, Italy, Le Boréal measures 466 ft in length, with a beam of 59 ft, an ice-class 1C hull, and eco-design innovations continually updated to improve her environmental performance. With six passenger decks, 11 Zodiacs for exploration, and attentive French-flag service, she is equally at home navigating icy polar waters or warm, sunlit coasts. Life on board combines refined gastronomy, engaging social activities, and immersive excursions, creating a travel experience where elegance meets adventure.