Travel Diary: Seabourn Cruise through Portugal, Morocco, and Spain

For eight unforgettable days, Members sailed aboard the Seabourn Sojourn, gliding along the scenic coasts of Portugal, Morocco, and Spain. From the lively streets of Lisbon to the electric nights of Ibiza, this journey blended exploration, indulgence, and luxury, with a side of celebration that only Exclusive Resorts could provide. Whether sipping fine wines in the Algarve or exploring the vibrant souks of Tangier, Members enjoyed every moment, soaking up the culture, camaraderie, and relaxation. Ready to set sail? Let’s dive into this Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey.

Day 1 | Lisbon, Portugal

Arriving in Lisbon, Members were whisked away in style with semi-private transfers to the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon, setting the tone for an elevated escape. The hotel lobby buzzed with laughter and hugs, reuniting journey-mates. That evening, a private buyout of the lush Lisbon Botanical Gardens awaited them. With flag throwers adding flair and artisan stalls showcasing local treasures, the atmosphere was nothing short of magical. As Members mingled over an open bar, they indulged in a lavish dinner featuring exquisite local cuisine. To top it off, all Members were gifted a personalized, hand-painted tile to bring home as a charming reminder of a wonderful start to their trip, ensuring the night was a stunning prelude to the adventures ahead.

Day 2 | Lisbon, Portugal

Members kicked off their journey with a choice of complimentary experiences: a delightful 3-hour walking tour or a fun tuk tuk tour of Lisbon. Those who ventured out immersed themselves in the city’s vibrant culture, sampling delicious local cuisine and soaking in stunning views, while others took advantage of the fantastic shopping opportunities that Lisbon has to offer. By late afternoon, everyone was welcomed aboard the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn, their floating home for the week. After a comprehensive safety briefing, Exclusive Resorts CEO James Henderson introduced the exceptional Exclusive Resorts team and the Additional Programming Team to enhance the experience. That evening, the Sail Away Cocktail Hour fostered camaraderie among Members, with laughter and connections already forming as groups gathered for dinner

Day 3 | Algarve, Portugal

In Algarve, the anticipation was palpable as Members embarked on a variety of excursions, with many opting for the captivating Grotto Tours that highlight the region’s stunning coastal formations. By early afternoon, the Additional Programming Team took center stage: Wine Sommelier Kyle Erickson charmed attendees with his masterclass, "How to Taste Wine Like a Professional," sparking enthusiasm that had Members clamoring for more tastings throughout the week. Meanwhile, Lecturer Geoff DeVito intrigued all with "Getting to Know Tangier: Trade, Travels & Top Tales in Northwest Africa," an enlightening session that particularly resonated with first-time explorers. As twilight approached, the evening sparkled with the mesmerizing magic of Blake Vogt, whose tricks left the audience in awe. The night continued with DJ Otto igniting the dance floor in the club, ensuring the camaraderie of the day lingered well into the night.

Day 4 | Tangier, Morocco

As the ship docked in Tangier, the allure of Morocco beckoned, inviting Members to dive into a vibrant tapestry of exotic spice markets, historic souks, and bustling medinas. For many, this was their first experience of Africa, heightening the excitement of the day. With a strong interest in the area, numerous Members embarked on full-day excursions, exploring the enchanting cities of Tangier, Tetouan, and the Blue City, fully immersing themselves in local culture and hunting for unique treasures. Those seeking a hands-on experience enjoyed exclusive cooking classes that unveiled the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. The day culminated in a lively onboard Caviar Sail Away party, where ABBA classics filled the air as the sun gracefully dipped below the horizon, wrapping up a day of unforgettable exploration.

Day 5 | Day at Sea

Tuesday was a delightful day at sea, with many Members sleeping in and enjoying the lovely weather. The morning began with a lively Exclusive Resorts: Club Update led by James, who shared exciting news about new properties and updates to the residence collection with Members. Enthusiasm filled the air as they discussed the Once-in-a-Lifetime 2025 inventory and upcoming Member events. The day was packed with entertainment, featuring hourly classes from the Additional Programming Team, including fitness sessions and wine tastings. Members enjoyed a lively West Regional Cocktail Party followed by another thrilling magic show by Blake Vogt. The night wrapped up with Casino Night, where Members Mr. Vuylsteke and Ms. Brunetti took home trophies for the blackjack and poker tournaments, respectively.

Day 6 | Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Arriving in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, the day was a perfect blend of culture and relaxation. Members explored the stunning Palma Cathedral, strolled through the charming streets of the old town, and indulged in private winery tours and cooking classes. For those seeking a more active adventure, hikes, and biking tours showcased the island’s natural beauty. As the day came to a close, the onboard Flamenco performance provided a fiery finale, bringing the vibrant spirit of Spain straight to the ship’s deck.

Day 7 | Ibiza, Spain

Thursday morning brought the Seabourn Sojourn to the sun-soaked shores of Ibiza, where Members eagerly welcomed a day of leisure. Many hailed Ibiza as their favorite stop, indulging in shore excursions like catamaran tours, kayaking, and exploring the vibrant city. Onboard, a beautiful piano performance by Members Krista and Glenn Strauss delighted the audience, showcasing the incredible talent within the community. As evening fell, excitement mounted for the Exclusive Blanc Bash, with Members gathering on the pool deck, dressed to the nines in all-white ensembles. Invitations, accompanied by delicate white roses, had been sent to their suites, setting the stage for a night to remember. The pool deck came alive with a lively band, blanc-themed drinks, and delectable desserts, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The Seabourn staff noted it as their most successful pool deck party ever, and the festivities continued late into the night at the onboard club with DJ Otto, leaving Members raving that it was one of their favorite onboard parties to date.

Day 8 | Barcelona, Spain

The final stop brought Members to the architectural wonderland of Barcelona, where Gaudí’s masterpieces, bustling markets, and tree-lined boulevards set the stage for an unforgettable day. The grand finale was a private, after-hours buyout of Casa Mila, offering Members breathtaking rooftop views of the city. As the evening unfolded with a dazzling light show and a heartfelt farewell toast from James, the journey concluded on a high note, leaving Members with memories to cherish for a lifetime. One Member remarked, “I would have paid double for this experience,” capturing the essence of this spectacular send-off. Not a bad way to end the adventure.

Day 9 | Departure

All good things must come to an end, and as Members disembarked in Barcelona, there were plenty of hugs, plans for future adventures, and a few lingering goodbyes. Some Members extended their stay in Europe, while others were already talking about their next Exclusive Resorts journey. And with that, another incredible Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey was in the books.

All photos courtesy of Udi Gordon.