Spain, Portugal and Morocco: Atlantic Horizons

Description

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.

Trip Name

Spain, Portugal and Morocco: Atlantic Horizons

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 103 metres Passenger Capacity: 102 (in 53 cabins) Built: 2003 / Refurbished 2014 With just 53 cabins, National Geographic Orion offers an intimate and refined platform for exploring some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich regions—from the Pacific Islands and Asia to Antarctica and the Mediterranean. Purpose-built for expedition travel, she boasts an ice-class hull for navigating polar waters and exceptional manoeuvrability that enables access to secluded bays, narrow inlets and winding rivers—places far beyond the reach of larger cruise ships. Life aboard Orion is designed to immerse guests in the natural world, with panoramic deck spaces, a whirlpool hot tub, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Her public areas include two relaxed dining venues, a lounge with bar, an observation library, fitness centre and spa, as well as the OM System Photo Gear Locker to support photography at all levels. Open-Bridge access allows guests to connect with the ship’s officers and learn about navigation first-hand. Whether sailing through polar pack ice or anchoring off a tropical atoll, Orion delivers a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Barcelona, Spain / Embark Ship

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

Day 2 - Day 2 Columbretes Islands

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

Day 3 - Day 3 Valencia

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

Day 4 - Day 4 Cartagena

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

Day 5 - Day 5 Málaga

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

Day 6 - Day 6 Tangier, Morocco

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

Day 7 - Day 7 Algarve Region, Portugal

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

Day 8 - Day 8 Lisbon

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

Day 9 - Days 9-11 At Sea

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

Day 10 - Day 12 Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores

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

Day 11 - Day 13 Ponta Delgada / Disembark Ship

Disembark in Ponta Delgada and transfer to the airport for flights home. Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

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)