Cruises departing from Lisbon offer one of Europe’s most captivating ways to begin a voyage. Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, is a city of steep cobbled lanes, vintage trams, and tiled facades that shimmer in the Atlantic light. It’s a destination travellers fall in love with, and what many don’t realise is that Lisbon isn’t just a beautiful place to visit, it’s also a remarkable place to start your cruise.
While it may not be the first port that comes to mind when planning a European sailing, that’s exactly what makes it special. Choosing a cruise departing from Lisbon means escaping the bustle of traditional embarkation hubs like Barcelona or Southampton, and beginning your journey somewhere altogether more authentic, intimate, and scenic.
(If you’re planning to explore Lisbon before or after your cruise, we recommend reading Mini Travellers Personal report on their time exploring Lisbon
Why Consider Cruising from Lisbon?
Lisbon’s location at the mouth of the Tagus River has made it a gateway to the world for centuries. From the explorers of the Age of Discovery to modern-day travellers, it has always been a port that promises adventure.
Embarking from Lisbon offers:
- A beautiful start (or end) to your voyage – few ports are as visually striking as Lisbon, where ships glide past pastel-coloured buildings and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.
- A more relaxed experience – the city’s port feels boutique in scale, often handling fewer embarkations than busier European hubs.
- Better value – because Lisbon isn’t a primary turnaround port, some sailings can be priced more competitively or offer unique one-off itineraries.
- Easy pre- and post-cruise stays – Lisbon’s well-connected airport, charming hotels, and excellent train links make extending your trip simple.
The Drawbacks of Sailing from Lisbon
While Lisbon’s charm is undeniable, there are a few practicalities to note:
- You won’t find every cruise line sailing from Lisbon, departures are often seasonal or linked to repositioning voyages.
- Flight schedules can be more limited than to major embarkation hubs, meaning a bit of extra planning for your arrival.
- Fewer sailings mean fewer cabin choices or loyalty programme deals compared to frequent-sailing ports.
That said, for those who appreciate something a little different, Lisbon offers an embarkation experience that’s both memorable and rewarding.
Cruise Lines That Sail from Lisbon
Several premium and luxury brands feature Lisbon on their itineraries, either as a starting point, ending point, or key call on Iberian or trans-European voyages.
Some examples for 2026 include:
River Cruises
- Scenic Azure – Delightful Douro with Lisbon & Madrid (13 nights, departing 27 May 2026 – fully booked).
- Scenic Azure – Unforgettable Douro with Lisbon & Porto (15 nights, from £7,228 pp, departing 3 June 2026).
- Travelmarvel MS Estrela – Lisbon with Douro Discovery (7 nights, from £4,595 pp, departing 1 June 2026).
These river itineraries combine luxurious sailing along the Douro River with curated land stays in Lisbon, Porto, and even Madrid, perfect for travellers who want to blend city exploration with slow, scenic river cruising.
Ocean Cruises
- MSC Cruises – MSC Opera – Portugal, Spain, Italy, France (10 nights, from £1,296 pp, departing 28 May 2026).
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Seven Seas Mariner – Heaven Across the Seas (11 nights, from £6,079 pp, departing 2 June 2026).
These ocean itineraries highlight how Lisbon acts as a springboard to the Mediterranean, with routes often taking in Spain, France, and Italy, or even longer transatlantic sailings to the Americas.
Search All Cruises Departing from Lisbon
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The Charm of Lisbon as a Cruise Gateway
What sets Lisbon apart is how richly it rewards those who linger. Spend a couple of days here before boarding your ship, and you’ll be treated to:
- Cultural depth – from the historic Alfama district to Belém’s monasteries and monuments.
- Gastronomic delights – seafood stews, custard tarts from Pastéis de Belém, and contemporary dining by the river.
- Effortless exploration – a compact city best enjoyed on foot, tram, or funicular.
Cruising from Lisbon isn’t just about the voyage, it’s about beginning your journey in a place that sets the tone for discovery.
Who Should Consider a Cruise from Lisbon?
Lisbon sailings appeal to:
- Travellers seeking unique itineraries beyond the typical Med or Northern Europe routes.
- Couples and culture lovers who want to immerse themselves in Portugal’s history and cuisine.
- Cruisers looking for premium or small-ship experiences, particularly on lines like Scenic, Regent, or Travelmarvel.
It’s a port that perfectly balances authentic local flavour with modern cruise convenience.
Final Thoughts – Cruises Departing from Lisbon
While Lisbon may not yet rival Barcelona or Rome for sheer volume of departures, that’s precisely its charm. It remains an embarkation point for those who value authenticity over crowds, and who see their cruise as part of a broader journey through Portugal, Spain, and beyond.
If you’re looking for a boutique start to your European cruise, consider setting sail from Lisbon, where golden sunsets over the Tagus mark the beginning of your adventure.
