Duration
12 Nights
Journey Type
Sailing from Portugal
Ports
10 Ports
19 May
Setting sail from Lisbon
The roots of historic Lisbon's fame lie in its strategic position on the edge of the Atlantic and the fact it offers one of the world's greatest natural harbours. No surprise therefore that it became the home of the world's most famous explorers such as Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator. Built on seven hills, we always find Lisbon to be soulful, captivating and picturesque, with architecture which reflects its status as a great port.
Don't miss
Belem Tower, dating from the 1500s, was both a fortress and the explorers’ departure point. On the façade you will find a stone rhinoceros sculpted into the tower – Europe’s first sight of this extraordinary beast!
20 May
Portugal: Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.
21 May
Spain: Vigo
Vigo is the biggest city in Galicia, Spain’s verdant northwest corner. The city itself is a busy fishing port with limited tourist appeal, but it’s a great base for striking out into the countryside, visiting the lovely Cíes Islands just offshore or joining the pilgrims in Santiago de Compostela, 60 miles to the north.
22 May
At sea
23 May
France: Belle-Île-en–Mer
Beautiful Belle-Île-en–Mer is the largest of Brittany’s islands, and the wild coastal landscapes inspired some of Monet’s most famous paintings. This peaceful island benefits from a pleasantly mild climate, and has plenty of secluded beaches and coastal paths that are ideal for hiking and cycling.
24 May
France: Concarneau
Concarneau’s pretty old town, the Ville Close, is one of Brittany’s most popular attractions. Designed by Vauban and surrounded by medieval walls, the old town sits on an island connected to the mainland by two small bridges. The surrounding coastline is also a big draw for tourists, with some lovely beaches.
25 May
France: Roscoff
26 May
Jersey: St Helier
Situated just 14 miles off the coast of Normandy, the sunny island of Jersey blends British seaside charm with a discernible French influence. The bustling capital, St Helier, is the perfect base for exploring the island’s beautiful beaches, wartime fortifications and superb seafood restaurants.
27 May
France: Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo grew rich off the back of maritime trade and its plundering corsairs, a seafaring heritage that is still proudly on display today. It’s great fun getting lost in the streets of the walled old town, and the famous medieval abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is an easy day-trip.
28 May
France: Le Havre
Le Havre was more or less flattened during World War II, which makes the city’s UNESCO World Heritage status all the more remarkable. Rebuilt by the Belgian architect Auguste Perret, Le Havre is now characterised by a striking modernist style; don’t miss the towering, concrete Église St-Joseph.
29 May
At sea
30-31 May
Arriving in London Tower Bridge
In our view there couldn't be a more magical port than Tower Bridge. Only the smaller ships can make it up the river to the Pool of London, tying up next to HMS Belfast, with glorious views to the north of the Tower of London, and to the south of the modern City Hall. As you sail from here, the bridge opens, stopping the traffic for your departure. The skyline boasts the bridge itself, and behind it the City's modern architecture: the Gherkin, the Cheese Grater and the Walkie Talkie building.
Our tip
Stroll along the South Bank to Shakespeare’s Globe – pre-book to see a performance if you can, either at the Globe, or in the entrancingly tiny Sam Wanamaker theatre – a gem.
Your home from home
Silver Wind is a little ship with an intimate style and personal service, which has earned her a well deserved loyal and dedicated following.
What we love
Silver Wind is a lovely size; with just 274 guests, she's a cruise ship in miniature, and an ice-strengthened hull allows her to offer both expedition and classic voyages. You can expect all the facilities and space of a larger ship, with the intimacy of a small yacht. She's comfortable in the middle of a great ocean, but can also slip up rivers and into tiny harbours.
Capacity | 274 Guests (240 guests in polar waters) |
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Crew | 239 International Staff |
Style | The Italian verve and sparkle of Silversea makes for a social, welcoming ambience and cosmopolitan style. The international passenger mix creates a sophisticated and elegant environment. |
Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Our recommended hotel
The Pousada de Lisboa, newly opened in May 2015, has a great location in the heart of the city and an interior to wow you.
Take a day trip from Lisbon
Visit Sintra – Roman and Moorish influences make this magical city with its fairytale palaces and extravagant villas a must.
Where to stay in London
The Guoman Tower Hotel, right by the bridge to the North of the river, has fantastic views to put you in the mood.
A tour of Tower Bridge
A private tour to Tower Bridge's Towers, high-level Walkways and new glass floor, then down to the Engine Rooms, is rather special.