Home > Winter Sun: Treasures of Portugal & Andalusia

Winter Sun: Treasures of Portugal & Andalusia

Explore cultural destinations of Portugal and Spain

Cruise Code: A12526

1 of 5

Leixoes, Portugal

2 of 5

Lisbon, Portugal

3 of 5

Malaga, Spain

The waterfront of Vigo in Spain's Galician region

4 of 5

Vigo, Spain

5 of 5

Cadiz, Spain

Date:

17 November 2025

Duration:

12 nights

Departure:

London Tilbury

Ship:

Ambience

ORCA

Sail from Tilbury and explore a fascinating mix of cultures and coastlines. Discover Porto’s colourful riverside charm from Leixões, then wander Lisbon’s elegant squares and grand avenues. In Spain, Málaga enchants with its sun-soaked boulevards, artistic heritage and Mediterranean flair, while Cádiz offers a taste of Andalusian life with its winding streets and lively plazas. Galicia’s Vigo brims with seafood and seafaring history.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

Leixoes
Near the city of Porto, Leixos is one of Portugal's major seaports and is widely associated with the exporting of port wine. Day trips to Porto are a popular activity, but there are also quayside beaches and cafes to enjoy on either side of the Douro River.

Cadiz
The ancient seaport of Cadiz is a testament to Spain's seafaring history. From charming plazas to sun-drenched beaches, the city invites exploration of its cultural richness and Andalusian allure.

Vigo
Vigo, nestled in Spain's Galician region, allures with its historic Old Town, stunning waterfront, and the pristine Cies Islands a short boat ride away. Explore medieval streets, discover Castro Fortress, and savour the delights of fresh seafood and other Spanish delicacies.

Up to £250 Onboard Credit

Enjoy up to £250 Onboard Credit per cabin

Book

Itinerary

Sails from (and returns to) London Tilbury
12 nights
5 Ports of call
2 Countries

Full itinerary:

Day 1 - 17 November 2025

London Tilbury

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Day 2 - 18 November 2025

at sea

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Day 3 - 19 November 2025

at sea

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Day 4 - 20 November 2025

Leixoes, for Oporto

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Day 5 - 21 November 2025

Lisbon

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Day 6 - 22 November 2025

at sea

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Day 7 - 23 November 2025

Malaga

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Included in all bookings

All port taxes, fees and charges -
Porterage of luggage between the port and cabin. -
Spa access -
Use of gym, swimming pool and hot tubs -
Range of fitness, dance and wellness classes -
Amazing entertainment -
Informative guest speakers* -
Captain’s Gala Dinner and Baked Alaska Parade* -
Comfortable accommodation in chosen cabin category -
Flexible cancellation policies† -
Captain’s cocktail party* -
Exceptional full board cuisine -

More Info

Speakers & Acts

Martin Daniels

Guest Act - Comedy Magic

Comedian, entertainer, magician and presenter Martin Daniels is a spectacular stage and screen performer, captivating audiences with his uproarious sense of humour, charming personality and consummate magical skill. Martin’s TV appearances started as a presenter on the practical joke show Game for a Laugh and still in his early twenties, Martin was catapulted to stardom in a show that received over 17 million viewers every week. His TV career continued with many shows and his unique blend of magic and comedy has proven incredibly popular with audiences across the UK theatres and cruise ships worldwide.

Ray Turner

Guest Act - Comedian

Best Known as the UK’s number 1 warm-up artiste Ray has warmed up studio audiences for all your favourite TV shows. However, he’s off again on his travels so sit back and let Ray entertain you with his own inimitable style of observational comedy, topical humour, music and the odd (very odd) song.

Sandie Izatt

Craft

After spending 20 years as a Social Worker and gaining her Diploma in Social Work at Anglia Ruskin University, Sandie has now retired and is now able to enjoy her passions in life, crafting, travelling and meeting new people. She started crafting at the age of 10 with her mother teaching her to knit, which Sandie still enjoys doing. She previously owned her own business selling wool and crafting kits and taught these skills within the shop environment. Now retired Sandie is still crafting and sells at many craft Fayres. She attends craft groups where she learns and demonstrates new crafts as they come along. She likes to work with bright fabrics using different embellishments to suit the changing seasons and celebrations. She enjoys sharing her passion and skills with others and considers the environment and recycled products where possible.

FAQs

Is there internet access or Wi-Fi onboard? Read
When will I get my tickets? Read
What is the dress code on board? Read
What type of plug sockets are used on board? Read
Do you arrange car parking at the ports? Read

ORCA

ORCA is one of the UK’s leading whale and dolphin conservation charities, dedicated to the protection of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the world. Ocean Conservationists will be showcasing the incredible diversity of wildlife that can be spotted from the deck, helping everyone learn more about the marine environment around them whilst collecting vital data about whales, dolphins and porpoises to contribute to their protection. Whilst on board, the team will be delivering activities to help guests learn more about these amazing animals as well as the threats they face, including the Ambassador & ORCA pledge and the first ever cruise "Anti-whaling" campaign.

What to expect on this sailing... A fantastic itinerary taking in three countries but also giving ORCA much needed winter data to understand the movement of different species during the colder months. Crossing hotspots like the Bay of Biscay and the Iberian Coast will give an important insight into how these animals migrate around during the winter each year.

The Ship - Ambience

Here she is, our flagship of the fleet, our first lady of the sea: Ambience. Derived from the French ... Read More

1400

Guests

789

Cabins

10

Guest Decks

What’s on board

Journeying to new lands to explore their landscape, culture and cuisine, on board a stylish, environmentally friendly ship.

Out on deck

facilities

There are spacious deck areas from which you can enjoy the panoramic views. And, when the weather is fine, there are two swimming pools, four hot tubs and a large screen for outdoor movies and sporting events.

View in 360°

Green Sea Spa

facilities

Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and strives continually to exceed guest expectations. With our guests in mind, we have created an all-encompassing spa experience that relaxes, refreshes and renews in a serene, comfortable and welcoming environment. From facial treatments to massages and hair care to healing treatments; there is something for everyone.

View in 360°

Raffles Bar

lounges-bars

Raffles Bar will take you back to the halcyon days of the roaring twenties, with decor to make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Raffles is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner drink in style. With exclusive drinks including the Mint Berry Delight cocktail and Botanical Fusion cocktail, you'll be spoilt for choice. Our expert bar team are always on hand to help mix a drink just to your taste.

View in 360°

Borough Market

restaurant

Looking for a more casual way to dine? Borough Market is the place to head. With stunning views and a variety of food stalls to tempt your tastebuds, why not join us for a bite? #### Discover our food stations **Points East** - A taste of Asian fusion cuisines **Sugar Bun** - Enjoy a sweet treat at our dessert bar **The Oven** - Missing your Sunday Roast? Our galley team are ready with all the trimmings **Grave 'n' Grains** - Our dedicated vegetarian stall, where you can enjoy freshly made salads and more **Crouton** - Enjoy a warming bowl of soup and a fresh bread roll at Crouton **Salt and Vinegar** - Another taste of the UK with our dedicate fish and chip station, you can enjoy this Friday night treat any day **Borough Market Bar** - Let our Borough Market team bring you the perfect drink to match whatever food takes your fancy!

View in 360°

Your on board Experience

Don't just take our word for it, hear what guests say about their time on board.

More about the ship

Average Customer Rating:

4.7/5

Independent Service Rating based on 2813 verified reviews. View All

“Phone and book; you will not be disappointed.”

I usually book my holidays Online myself, but sadly, the software Ambassador Cruise line use for their booking system leaves alot to be desired BUT the live phone bookers are fantastic. They really sound like they are happy that you are going on a cruise, and not just see it as a 'job' to book you in. It was clear, easy and nothing was too much of a problem. I was (and is!) VERY happy with the phone bookers and can't wait for my cruise to start...

Trusted Customer

“Customer service you wish every company had”

No nonsense customer service as it should be. Wish other companies were this competent. Cruises are great value and relaxed atmosphere

Chief tortoise

“Best service”

I had an instant reply to my enquiry which encouraged me to purchase deal. Very encouraging.

Trusted Customer

“Review”

Good food Great service

Janet Goulding

“Review”

Top class Staff were friendly and helpful Everything was catered for

Trusted Customer

“Review”

Staff very helpful in sorting cabins and requirements out quickly

Trusted Customer

“Not travelled yet, but booking was easy”

Booking was easy so I have no complaints. I do not see the point of this review really as I have not been on the cruise and will not do so for over 2 years, therefore I cannot say if Ambassador will come up to expectations

Janice McLintock

“Guest services very responsive”

Mia was extremely helpful and very quick to respond to my booking enquiry. Very impressed with guest services.

Trusted Customer

“Cruise to Denmark and Sweden”

Was fine, no problem at all, booked on -line. Cruise was interesting, not been to any of the ports in Sweden, Copenhagen always good destination

JAMES WHYTE

“5 time with Ambassador,never had a problem. Great trip everytime”

Booked by phone call, no waiting. First class service lovely lady answered all my questions, paid for cruise. All done in 14 minutes. Well done everyone 👏

Trusted Customer

“Simple & straight forward”

Straight forward booking process. All options clearly laid out and explanations of what is and is not included

Trusted Customer

“75”

Excellent and easy web site.

Marylynne Jane Hayward

“Review”

OK, quick booking, took 11 mins and i was on hold for a minute or so. no explanation about meal times, room upgrade, tips cost, bed configuration though. Did all that later online

Trusted Customer

“Quick and easy to book”

First time with Ambassador. Found booking quick and easy to follow

Trusted Customer

“Time to communicate”

Easy to book online . Easy to communicate online. We have not been able to contact the company via phone. The displayed telephone numbers aren’t working from the States.

william frail

“Easy booking”

Very polite and helpful lady took the booking today and made it stress free and simple

Trevor Perchard

“Looking forward to November 2026!”

I have only just booked this cruise which commences in early November,2026. As a result I am unable to comment as I have not been on the ship. I have read the route that will be cruised and I look forward to visiting some new ports and quite a few ports that I have already visited over the years.

Trusted Customer

“Booking”

Quick efficient cost we’re very competitive and itinerary was just what we required

Trusted Customer

“Exceptional care wherever you are on board”

Last year l went on a cruise to Norway with you,it was superb in every way even when we experienced a hurricane in the Norwegian Sea ! We were so well looked after. That’s why lm coming with you again to Gems of Spain on September 28thRegards Val Thompson

valrie Thompson

“Good value”

Easy to book

Trusted Customer

Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited is a company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 13299365

0808 196 6692

0808 303 2573

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Winter Sun: Treasures of Portugal & Andalusia

Explore cultural destinations of Portugal and Spain

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary

London Tilbury

at sea

at sea

Leixoes, for Oporto

Lisbon

at sea

Malaga

Cabins & Fares

Included in all bookings

Speakers & Acts

Martin Daniels

Ray Turner

Sandie Izatt

FAQs

ORCA

The Ship - Ambience

What’s on board

Out on deck

Green Sea Spa

Raffles Bar

Borough Market

Your on board Experience