I cruised to Portugal and Spain aboard Fred Olsens’ 880-passenger cruise ship Boudicca, departing from Southampton. My cabin was an Atlantic deck K Grade single, set up with a double bed. The ship is a manageable size with its main Four Seasons restaurant for formal dining and a Secret Garden Café providing a more casual self-service option. Entertainment was well organised and with a good variety from comedians to west end style productions or string quartets, just remember to get there early for a good seat! There’s also a small gym and spa on board, a shop for essentials and ship souvenirs and a jeweller and photographer. The Boudicca team are friendly and welcoming and there’s a very British feel to Fred Olsen cruises, with pounds sterling and reasonably priced drinks on board.
After two days at sea, our itinerary took us to Portimao on the Algarve coast of Portugal. Characterised by the golden sandstone rock formations and some of the best beaches in Europe, the area is dotted with quaint fishing towns, comprising of many pretty streets and gardens to wander. And don’t forget to try the sardines, which are a local speciality.
We then sailed into Barcelona, before “parking up” in the central port for a stroll around the landmark city. One of my highlights was a visit from the port of Almeria to the Alhambra Palace in Granada. The fortified Alhambra Palace is world famous, and often referred to as the Red Palace due to its construction from red stone. The Arabian Palace, the heart of the Alhambra, is divided into three enclosures; one that was dedicated to matters of administration and justice, the Arrayanes Courtyard with the throne room which was used for official purposes, and the Courtyard of the Lions, which contained the King’s private residence. All three areas are magnificent examples of Arabian architecture.
From the beautiful port of Cadiz we visited Seville on the coach. Seville has pretty narrow winding streets, quaint squares and magnificent monuments to explore. Other impressive sights as La Giralda, the Almohad Tower with its Christian crown, Alcazar, the Mudejar Palace full of medieval legends, and the Cathedral, home to the tomb of Christopher Colombus were enchanting to discover. I also visited Gibraltar, home to the famous Barbary apes, and centuries of British naval history. And like with Barcelona you could walk right into town from the ship.
Our final port of call was Leixoes for the city of Porto. Famous for the Douro River, Porto, and the surrounding river valley have beautiful vineyards and charming farms that cling to the sides of the valley. This is famous port wine country is one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions and one of the oldest wine regions in the world. After a tour of the 18th century city we embarked on a short river cruise, experiencing a panoramic view of Oporto and its impressive six bridges. At the other bank of the river resides the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. We also visited the wine cellars where we enjoyed a special tasting of port wine.
Fred Olsen offers very good value for the UK cruiser. They offer lots of UK departures from various ports around the country, ideal for the single traveller as they provide very social and friendly cruises and the on board experience is consistent and reliable in quality. Come and see us to get the single cabin deals!
Travel Blog by Margaret Moulton
Phone Margaret: 01291 762006
Email Margaret: wells@milesmorgantravel.co.uk
Visit Margaret: 18 High Street, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2SG
