Iberian Coast Odyssey – Bilbao & Lisbon

About this cruise

No complicated itinerary, no back-to-back transfers, just the ports, the ship, and the sea in between. This 10-night sailing from Dover on May 30, 2027 visits Le Havre (Paris), Bilbao and A Coruña, with additional stops along the Western Mediterranean. You wind up in Barcelona, so it's worth planning a night or two there. A few ports come in quick succession, which is great for sightseeing but means you'll appreciate the sea days when they arrive. The Western Mediterranean route takes in France, Spain and Portugal, 3 countries, and the differences show up in the food, the architecture, and the mood. Alicante stands out. It's A castle-topped city on the Costa Blanca. Around 10 hours per port on average, which is generous enough to go beyond the obvious. Carnival Sunshine keeps you well fed. 15 places to eat, with 8 included in the fare and a few specialty spots if you're in the mood. There are enough performances, events, and social mixers on a cruise this length that you couldn't do them all if you tried. And that's a good problem. Families and groups will find plenty to do: waterslides, shows, multiple pools, and something for every age. If you can, add a night in Dover before boarding. It's a good city to wander. Timing-wise, spring usually means comfortable temperatures and lower prices than peak season. All in all, it's a solid trip.