Spain & Portugal Cruise: Freedom of the Seas

This 7-night ocean cruise offers Irish holidaymakers an excellent opportunity to explore the Atlantic coastlines of the Iberian Peninsula. Departing on the 9th of May 2027, the Spain Portugal freedom cruise is a well-organised trip that begins with a flight from Dublin to London Heathrow, followed by a transfer to the port of Southampton. Once on board the Freedom of the Seas, guests will enjoy a full board dining experience with fantastic onboard entertainment and facilities included throughout the week.
The journey starts in the historic port of Southampton, the premier passenger ship port in the United Kingdom. It serves as a grand gateway for your voyage. After a relaxing day at sea to familiarise yourself with the ship’s many amenities, your first port of call is Bilbao in Northern Spain. This city successfully blends its 700-year history with modern architecture. You can take a leisurely walk through the Old Quarter to see the Teatro Arriaga or visit the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, which is an architectural landmark in its own right.
The itinerary continues southward to Lisbon, the vibrant and colourful capital of Portugal. Holidaymakers from Ireland will find much to admire in this city, from the Baroque churches to the traditional Fado music. A popular way to see the sights is by riding the iconic Tram 28 through the city’s hilly neighbourhoods or visiting the 16th-century Torre de Belem, which stands at the mouth of the River Tagus.
The final stop before returning to the UK is Vigo in Spain. Known for having one of the largest fishing fleets in Europe, Vigo is a treat for those who enjoy fresh seafood. The Casco Vello, or old town, is a maze of narrow streets and squares perfect for exploring on foot. Nearby is the famous Santiago de Compostela, which may be visited as an optional excursion.
With a 20kg checked-in bag included and all transfers handled, this cruise provides straightforward value and convenience. The Spain Portugal freedom cruise combines the ease of sea travel with the chance to see some of Europe’s most famous coastal cities. Whether you are relaxing on deck during the sea days or exploring the historic ports, the Freedom of the Seas provides a comfortable base for your holiday. Please note that while excellent dining and entertainment are included, gratuities and travel insurance are not part of the standard package. A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your place, with the remaining balance due 16 weeks before departure. Our senior travel advisors at Travel Escapes are ready to assist with any booking advice you may need for this sailing.
What is the dining arrangement on the Freedom of the Seas?
Are flights from Ireland included in the package?
What is the baggage allowance for this trip?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Flight from Dublin to Heathrow
- Transfer from airport to port in Southampton
- 7 nights cruise on the Freedom of the Seas based on two sharing
- Excellent dining on a full board basis while onboard
- Fantastic onboard entertainment & facilities
- Flight from Heathrow to Dublin
- 20kg Check-in bag per person
Itinerary
1Departure from Southampton+
Your journey begins in Southampton, the premier passenger ship port in the United Kingdom and a historic gateway to the sea. After arriving via your transfer from Heathrow, you will board the Freedom of the Seas. Take some time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship as you prepare to set sail along the dramatic coastline of southern England.
2Relaxing Sea Day on Spain Portugal freedom+
Spend your first full day at sea familiarising yourself with the excellent facilities on board. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the full board dining and fantastic entertainment that makes the Spain Portugal freedom cruise so enjoyable. Whether you prefer relaxing on deck or taking part in the organised activities, there is plenty to keep you occupied as we head towards the Spanish coast.
3Exploring Bilbao and the Guggenheim+
Arrive in Bilbao, a city that perfectly balances its 700 years of tradition with modern dynamism. You can explore the Old Quarter to see landmarks like the Teatro Arriaga and the Cathedral of Santiago. A highlight for many Irish holidaymakers is the Guggenheim Museum, an architecturally stunning building that has become a global symbol for the city.
4Cruising the Atlantic Coast+
Enjoy another day at sea as the ship travels southward. Take advantage of the full board hospitality and the various leisure spaces on board. It is a wonderful time to relax and recharge before arriving at our next destination in Portugal.
5Discovering Colourful Lisbon+
Today we visit Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal. This historic city is famous for its Baroque churches and brilliantly preserved architecture. You might choose to ride the iconic Tram 28 through the city's hilly neighbourhoods or visit the Torre de Belem, a 16th-century tower that has guarded the mouth of the River Tagus for centuries.
6Vigo and the Galician Shoreline+
Vigo is home to one of Europe's largest fishing fleets and is a fantastic place to sample fresh local seafood. Explore the steep, narrow streets of the old town, known as Casco Vello. For those interested in religious history, an optional excursion is often available to the holy pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela.
7Final Relaxing Day at Sea+
Your final day at sea provides one last chance to enjoy the onboard entertainment and excellent dining. Reflect on your journey through Spain and Portugal as the ship makes its way back towards the English Channel.
8Return to Southampton+
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09 May 2027 | Inside | €1,349 | Enquire Now |
| 09 May 2027 | Oceanview | €1,619 | Enquire Now |
| 09 May 2027 | Balcony | €1,899 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: RCI

