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Nine-day Atlantic coast expedition cruise from Portsmouth to Lisbon aboard a hybrid-powered vessel
- UNESCO sites, coastal scenery, and wild Atlantic landscapes
- Historic ports including Saint-Malo, San Sebastián, and Gijón
- Zodiac excursions to charming fishing villages and remote promontories
Trip Details
- Departs
- 21 September 2028
- Returns
- 29 September 2028
- Ship
- MS Fridtjof Nansen
- Operator
- HX Expeditions
9 ‑day all‑inclusive Europe Expedition Cruise from Portsmouth to Lisbon
The 8-night Europe voyage aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen sails from Portsmouth to Lisboa, calling at Saint-Malo, Douarnenez, Pasajes, Gijon, Ferrol and Leixoes, with 1 day at sea.
- Follow Europe’s Atlantic coast from Portsmouth to Lisbon, shifting from the English Channel to the Iberian Peninsula.
- Explore UNESCO sites, spectacular scenery, and breathtaking coastal nature along the way.
- Discover historic ports, charming fishing villages, gastronomic delights, and wild coastal landscapes.
You sail aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen. One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently. On board: All cabins and suites enjoy outside views; Science Center with advanced microscopes; Wellness Center with massage and spa treatments; Expedition Team; Three restaurants; Indoor and outdoor gyms with on-deck running track; Outdoor infinity pool and two hot tubs; Sauna with a panoramic outside view.
Departures & Pricing
- 21 Sep 2028 - 29 Sep 2028
from $5,619 pp twin share / $8,148 pp sole use *
- Polar Outside from $5,619 pp twin share
- Arctic Superior from $6,574 pp twin share
- Expedition Suite from $7,879 pp twin share
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
MS Fridtjof Nansen
One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
- Guests
- 490
- Gross tonnage
- 20,889
- Speed
- 15 knots
- Length
- 140 m
- Launched
- 2020
- Beam
- 23.6 m
- Deck plans
- 9
Deck 11
Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary
- 1
England’s Historic Port
Sail from Portsmouth’s dramatic harbour Your expedition cruise begins in Portsmouth. For centuries, this historic harbour has been one of Britain's most important naval ports, making it a fitting place to start our journey. The Historic Dockyard is home to the renowned Henry VIII's flagship Mary Rose, giving great insight into life at sea in the 16th century. The iconic Spinnaker Tower stands gracefully over the historic harbour and the Solent. Sample fish and chips in a traditional pub overlooking the harbour entrance in Old Portsmouth, where fishermen, port workers, and naval seamen once mingled. MS Fridtjof Nansen awaits you in the harbour. After being welcomed aboard, settle into your cabin and get ready for the adventure.
- 2
Saint-Malo
A beautiful Breton town steeped in history
Viewed from the sea, Saint-Malo is an impressive sight, fringed by fortified bastions and gently sloping beaches. We’ll anchor off the town and use our Zodiacs to go ashore.
A circular walk along the ramparts offers the best views of the town and surrounding islands. Follow the historical trail within the old city walls through a maze of cobbled streets and visit Demeure De Corsaire to learn about the feared corsairs and the town’s pirate heritage.
You can walk to Île de Grand Bé at low tide or join an excursion to visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel. The island has the remains of an ancient fort, and this is where the renowned local writer Chateaubriand is buried.
- 3
Fascinating Finistère
Inspiring coastal scenery and maritime history
Enjoy a relaxing morning on board, perhaps enjoy the wellness facilities, or attend a lecture with the Expedition Team.
We’ll use our Zodiacs to go ashore at the picturesque seaside town of Douarnenez, where you'll find the colourful quaysides, sandy beaches, and steep cliffs that inspired famous painters like Renoir and Boudin. As well as fishermen’s huts and seamen’s chapels, Douarnenez hosts a wonderful maritime museum with boats from around the world.
While here, you can choose to discover the wild beauty of Pointe Du Raz, a promontory facing the elements of the Atlantic Ocean, where Finistère really does feel like the ‘End of the Earth’. Or explore the charming Breton town of Quimper, whose skyline is dominated by the twin spires of Saint Corentin Cathedral.
- 4
At Sea
Relax and recharge as at sea
Today the ocean is yours. We sail south towards Spain, and the rhythm of the sea sets the pace.
Share stories with fellow travellers in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, or find a quiet spot on deck to watch for marine life and seabirds from the comfort of the hot tub.
In the Science Centre, the Expedition Team brings the Iberian Peninsula to life, preparing you for the discoveries ahead.
- 5
Explore San Sebastián
Discover the jewel of the Basque Country
Our voyage continues to the Basque region.
We berth at Pasajes, a port tucked into a narrow sea inlet with over 1,000 years of maritime history, and from here San Sebastián is a short journey away. Wander the Parte Vieja quarter with its Gothic church, Baroque façades, and lively squares, then head to La Concha beach or take the cable car up Monte Igueldo for sweeping coastal views. Make sure you find time to sample some traditional Basque cuisine. The delicious pintxos are perfect small bites to snack on as you tour the city.
Before returning on board, take time to explore Pasajes itself, where 17th century residences line quiet streets above the water.
- 6
Gijón’s golden sands
A unique cultural flavour in Asturias
Enjoying a prime position on the Bay of Biscay, Gijón is the cultural heart of Asturias, a city that grew from a Roman-era fishing village into a prominent port. Explore old town charm in the Cimadevilla quarter and Barrio del Carmen, with their Baroque churches and the Plaza del Marqués, or hike up to Mirador de la Providencia, an unusual viewpoint shaped like the hull of a ship with panoramic coastal views.
Afterwards, relax on the golden sands of Playa de San Lorenzo, take a coastal walk, or settle in for freshly caught fish and Asturian delicacies with a glass of local cider.
- 7
Galician highlights
See Galicia's heritage in Ferrol
Enjoy a relaxing morning on board, perhaps enjoy the wellness facilities, or attend a lecture with the Expedition Team.
As we enter the Ría de Ferrol early in the morning, head to the observation deck and take in the imposing forts of La Palma and San Felipe, standing guard on either side of the headland.
Ferrol is one of Spain's best-preserved 18th-century port cities. Criss-cross the grid of streets in Barrio de la Magdalena and visit the city's maritime museums. Ferrol is also the starting point of El Camino Inglés, one of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, and you may be able to join an excursion to Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Christianity's most important pilgrimage destinations.
- 8
Charming Porto (Leixões)
The city of white and blue wonders
Our final stop is Leixões, gateway to Portugal's northern coast. Before heading ashore, there's time to explore locally: the lighthouse of Leça, the Boa Nova Chapel, and the beautiful Praia Azul beach are all within reach.
A shuttle bus takes you into Porto, famed for its port wine and UNESCO-listed historic centre. This is a city made for walking: pastel houses, colourful tiled façades, ornate churches, and panoramic views across the Douro River unfold at every turn. Stroll the bustling Ribeira docks, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge, snack on petiscos, and finish with a port wine tasting at the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.
- 9
Legendary Lisbon
Set out from this enchanting city
The Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture, shaped by centuries of exploration and a restless curiosity for discovering the world. After disembarkation, take a stroll through the classical streets of Baixa, the bohemian energy of Bairro Alto and Chiado, or the winding lanes of Alfama, the old Islamic quarter, where a Roman theatre and Moorish fortress still stand.
A short trip from the centre brings you to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery before you set sail.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- A stay in a cabin of your choice.
- All day coffee, tea and soft drinks.
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests.
- A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home.
- Wind and waterproof expedition jacket.
- Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer.
Not included
- International flights
- Depending on your flight arrival, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
- Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
Accommodation
MS Fridtjof Nansen
One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
On board: All cabins and suites enjoy outside views; Science Center with advanced microscopes; Wellness Center with massage and spa treatments; Expedition Team; Three restaurants; Indoor and outdoor gyms with on-deck running track; Outdoor infinity pool and two hot tubs; Sauna with a panoramic outside view; Explorer Lounge and Bar; Indoor and outdoor observation decks; Expedition launch/Tender pit; On board shop; Lecture hall and group room; 50% of all cabins are suites with a private balcony.
Polar Outside
- RR – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 19–23 m².
Arctic Superior
Arctic Superior cabins are comfortable and spacious.
These cabins feature a double bed that can be divided into two single beds in some cabins on request at the time of booking. Some also have a sofa bed, and many have a private balcony.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, a minibar (charges apply), European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. A bathrobe and slippers are also available free of charge.
- XT – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 18 m².
- TT – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 27 m².
- XTD – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, 15–19 m².
- XY – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, 19 m².
- XTJ – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, limited view, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 18 m².
- TY – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 24–26 m².
Expedition Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites.
Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and hot tubs.
Suites feature a double bed that can be divided into two single beds on request at the time of booking, and some have a sofa bed.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, a single-serve coffee machine, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities as well as a minibar (charges apply), daily turn-down service, and laundry.
Complimentary fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant is part of the experience, and a takeaway service means you can also enjoy dinner exclusively. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- MA – XL Suite with balcony: private balcony and large windows, double bed, optional twin, 46–48 m².
- MB – XL Suite: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 44 m².
- MC – Corner Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 20–30 m².
- MD – Large Suite with balcony: private balcony and large windows, double bed, optional twin, 35 m².
- ME – Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 22–28 m².
- MF – Corner suite: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 22 m².
Common questions about this voyage
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Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
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