Cunard Mediterranean: 12 nights from Southampton with Queen Victoria
May 19, 2028

Praia da Vitória

Ponta Delgada

Funchal

The famous Portuguese poet, Júlio Dinis described Funchal as: ‘The sea on one side, the mountains on the other and between these two majestic splendours, the city smiles like a sleeping child, safe and warm, between its parents’. Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira is the soul of Portugal. Settlers over 500 years ago were attracted to this sheltered place, which is structured like a natural ‘amphitheatre’. Gentle slopes, abundant greenery and flowers, rise above the pretty harbour for almost 1,200 metres. The port is located 15-minute walk from the city center, in Funchal's magnificent bay with its sparkling blue waters. Due to its strategic mid-Atlantic location, Madeira has been a stopover point for ocean-going ships for many years.

Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira is the soul of Portugal. Colonists over 500 years ago were drawn to this sheltered place, which is structured like a natural 'amphitheater'. Gentle slopes, abundant greenery and flowers, rise above the pretty port for almost 1200 meters. The magnificent bay of Funchal, with its sparkling blue waters, is home to the port, a 15-minute walk from the city center. Thanks to its strategic mid-Atlantic location, Madeira has been a stopping point for ocean-going ships for many years.

Oporto

At the mouth of the Rio Douro, the hilly city of Porto presents a mix of styles, eras and attitudes: narrow medieval alleys, extravagant Baroque churches, small squares and wide avenues, flanked by stately buildings.

The heart of Oporto is the Ribeira district, an area declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of winding alleys, zigzagging stairs and churches on every corner, village-style squares and old merchants' houses where Roman ruins are hidden under the foundations. In the last two decades Porto has undergone a remarkable rebirth – which is expressed in the buzz of its efficient metro system and the shimmering of some ambitious urban renewal projects. The crowning of the city's glories are the two latest masterpieces, Museu de Arte Contemporânea by Álvaro Siza Vieira and the 'Casa da Música, which have transformed the city into a place of pilgrimage for architecture enthusiasts.
The Dom Luís I bridge an audacious iron arch, which crosses the Douro river, is impressive and not to be missed. It was built by the Belgian engineer Théophile Seyrig, for road traffic. Since 2003 the upper level has been used exclusively by the city's metro trams.

Ferrol

Ferrol is the port city of the province of La Coruña, in Galicia, Spain. The sea is everywhere in this city, developed around it, first as a fishing village, then as a military enclave. City of strong marine contrasts, it preserves the charm of its origins for its streets and traditions. El Ferrol Viejo, the modernist district of La Magdalena, the walls of La Cortina from the 18th century, or the castles of San Felipe, are some of its main attractions. But its greatest attention is undoubtedly the celebration of Holy Week. Declared of Tourist Interest International, usually takes place between the months of March and April, according to the religious calendar. To enjoy the atmosphere, it is best to take a walk in the Magdalena district, whose layout is similar in every way to that of a chocolate bar, to the rationalism of the Enlightenment tradition, with wonderful modernist buildings such as the Jofre theatre. If you like naval history, don't miss the Castle of San Felipe. Built in the 18th century, under the influence of the Enlightenment. the Arsenal is a complex of hydraulic structures and unique buildings in Europe, which includes the Naval Museum, a fascinating tour is highly recommended. In addition, Holy Week in Ferrol, contains other very involving surprises. Its taste for good food is reflected in its markets, sweets and local establishments. Here the climate is warm and temperate. During the year, the average temperature is 14.1 °C.

Southampton

Southampton is a city positioned in the South of Great Britain and its port is one of the main ports in Europe. From the port of Southamptos it is possible to set sail for a Cunard transatlantic cruise and reach New York, or visit Amsterdam and Belgium with an MSC cruise. The city offers, further to the New Forest National Park, a wide natural park with its suggestive woods, also many museums and art galleries and remarkable architectural works. Noteworthy is King John’s Palace, of Norman origins as well as the old walls with 7 entrances to the city. An evidence of the Victorian Age is Tudor House, collecting objects dated back to that period. For the art lovers, Southampton City Art Gallery offers exhibitions of any kind of art, from drawing to photography with shows that attract many visitors.

Southampton: The UK's Grand Gateway to Global Cruises

Set sail from Southampton, the historic and vibrant port city on England's south coast, renowned as the UK's premier cruise departure point. With its rich maritime heritage, including its association with the Titanic, and excellent transport links, Southampton offers a grand beginning to voyages across the Atlantic, to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and beyond. Before embarking, explore its ancient city walls, maritime museums, and lively shopping districts. Southampton provides a seamless and exciting start to your global cruise adventure.

World-Class Journeys Begin from Southampton

Cruises departing from Southampton open up a world of possibilities, from transatlantic crossings to the Americas, sun-drenched Mediterranean escapes, and captivating Northern European explorations. Whether you dream of iconic cityscapes, breathtaking natural wonders, or culturally immersive experiences, Southampton serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the convenience of a world-class port and the anticipation of new discoveries as you leave the shores of England for unforgettable experiences on the open water, promising relaxation, entertainment, and endless exploration. Each voyage from Southampton promises a journey of a lifetime.