What You Can Do on a Cruise: An Experience from Barcelona to Lisbon, Porto, Cadiz, and Tangier

For a cruise that recently concluded from Barcelona to Lisbon, Porto, Cadiz, and Tangier, we explored a multitude of activities and experiences that make cruising so enjoyable. This itinerary not only includes the fantastic destinations along the way but also delves into the diverse array of activities available on board. The cruise was filled with dining, entertainment, recreation, relaxation, excursions, and socializing opportunities, each offering a unique experience.

Activities Aboard the Ship

Upon embarking, passengers find themselves facing an array of activities and experiences designed to cater to every individual's interests. From dining options that range from casual buffets to fine dining restaurants, to entertainment featuring live shows, music, comedy acts, and movies, every aspect of the cruise is aimed at providing a memorable experience.

Dining

Cruise lines often feature multiple dining options, allowing passengers to enjoy a variety of cuisines. For our cruise, we had the opportunity to indulge in fine dining at one of the specialty restaurants, after which we enjoyed a choicer selection at the buffet. Many ships offer a range of dining options, from Mexican to Italian, Asian to American, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Entertainment

The entertainment on a cruise is equally diverse. From live shows and music performances to comedy acts and movies, there's always something happening. We attended various shows and enjoyed the live performances in the large theater, which hosted a series of entertaining acts throughout our journey.

Recreation

Recreational activities on the ship included swimming, mini-golf, rock climbing, and water slides. Some ships also have fitness centers and sports courts, which we took advantage of during the few calm days at sea. The ship had a well-equipped gym and a tennis court, where we spent some time maintaining our fitness levels.

Relaxation

Relaxation was a key part of our cruise. Many passengers, including my wife, took the time to enjoy the spa services, lounge by the pool, or sip cocktails on deck. The ship had a full-service spa with various relaxation techniques, making it the perfect place for a rejuvenating experience.

Excursions

When the ship docked at ports, we had the opportunity to explore the local attractions and go on guided tours. We found organized tours to be quite expensive, but we enjoyed the freedom of walking around and exploring on our own. We spent a couple of hours each day strolling through the cities, enjoying the charm and history of each port.

Socializing

Cruises provide great opportunities to meet new people through group activities, bars, and lounges. We spent evenings in the bar, enjoying drinks and conversation, before attending a live show and dancing the night away. The cruise line also hosted various trivia contests, bingo sessions, and other games that brought the passengers together in a fun atmosphere.

Shops

Onboard shops offered a range of goods, from souvenirs to luxury items. While we found the prices to be pricey, the variety of products available was impressive. My wife took up knitting during the two sea days, using the time to unwind and create.

Classes and Workshops

The cruise line also offered classes in cooking, art, dance, and other skills. We attended a cooking class and a dance workshop, learning new techniques and enjoying the process. These classes provided a unique opportunity to engage in new activities and meet like-minded individuals.

Kids Programs

Family-friendly cruises often have dedicated activities and clubs for children and teens. Our cruise included various programs for kids, keeping them entertained and engaged during their time on board.

Conclusion

Each cruise line and ship may offer different amenities and experiences. It's worth checking the specific itinerary and offerings when planning a cruise. Our Barcelona to Lisbon, Porto, Cadiz, and Tangier cruise was filled with a variety of activities, making it an experience to remember.