Here’s your 10-night Sailcation itinerary...
IMAGINE Cruising’s 10-night no-fly exclusive Spain and Portugal Sailcation offers an itinerary jam-packed with stunning destinations and a star-studded line-up of evening entertainment – we take a look at exactly what passengers can expect…
Day 1: Embark Ventura in Southampton
The Sailcation begins! Settle into your cabin before going to explore the ship’s offerings, from the 10 restaurants to the lavish spa. You’ll dine in the remarkable White Room restaurant, inspired by celebrity chef Marco Pierre White, and meet new friends for drinks in the Metropolis bar with its amazing floorto-ceiling video screen.
Day 2: At sea
Kick off the holiday with some relaxation – why not heard to the Oasis spa for some pampering, or unwind in a whirlpool? For the dedicated fitness fans, the ship’s gym has all the equipment you could want for a full workout.
Day 3: Santander
The capital of Cantabria boasts ridiculously beautiful beaches; sun seekers can lay out a towel and relax, while those who prefer something more active may want to take on some of the epic watersports on offer. Alternatively, you could head to the Península de la Magdalena, where you can enjoy views of the seals, sea lions and penguins that live here.
Day 4: At sea
The ship has three main restaurants offering a great range of dining options. Then, for some post-dinner entertainment the Havana Show Lounge is a mustvisit (and yes, there is salsa dancing).
Day 5: Vigo
Located on the rugged coastline of the Galicia region, this undulating city has plazas dating back to the medieval times, beautiful bay views and easy access to the nearby Cíes Islands, with white-sand beaches and crystalline waters worthy of the Caribbean.
Day 6: Overnight stay in Lisbon
Today you’ll head south to the Portuguese capital where you can enjoy the breathtaking sunset views before heading out to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife. Foodies will be spoilt for choice thanks to the traditional restaurants serving up plates piled high with olives, baskets of rough country bread and bowls of arroz de feijão (rice and beans).
Day 7: Lisbon
After the overnight stay you’ll have another day to explore the bustling city’s cobbled alleyways, domed cathedrals and tempting eateries. Or for intrepid explorers, the surrounding hills are a must-visit, if only for the views.
Day 8: Porto
Popular little bars and narrow paved streets are key features of this wondrous city, along with highlights such as the Bolsa Palace and Soares dos Reis
National Museum - an art museum located inside an 18th century palace. Feeling peckish? There are plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants, gourmet steakhouses, craft beer bars and Portuguese-style tapas joints to discover.
Day 9: At sea
Nobody wants to stick to a rigid schedule on holiday, which is why Ventura’s restaurants Cinnamon and Saffron both offer “freedom dining” – allowing you to dine whenever you want between 6.30 and 9.30pm. Other culinary highlights include the Glass House, with brilliant food and wine options, Indian cuisine at Sindhu, or a “molecular gastronomy experience” at Epicurean at The White Room.
Day 10: Guernsey
The second-largest of the Channel Islands awaits. Located just off the coast of Normandy, it offers rugged coastlines, beautiful beaches, Victorian forts and other historic sites such as Castle Cornet and La Vallette Underground Military Museum.
Day 11: Disembark in Southampton
Sadly the sensational Sailcation has to come to an end – but you’ll have no doubt made some incredible memories thanks to the brilliant cruise, celebrity guests and sun-soaked locations!