CME Cruise Conference

Barcelona, Spain - For those fortunate enough to begin and end their cruise in the magnificent city of Barcelona, an unparalleled opportunity awaits to frame your voyage with unforgettable experiences! Whether you choose to dive into its vibrant Catalan culture for a few days before you set sail, or prefer to unwind and explore its many wonders upon your return – or perhaps even a bit of both – Barcelona is ready to dazzle you.

This is a city that truly has it all: world-renowned architecture, a tantalizing culinary scene, and an infectious zest for life where even a casual stroll provides a constantly renewing feast for the eyes. Imagine the thrill of seeing Gaudí's fantastical Sagrada Família for the first time, its spires reaching for the heavens – an architectural masterpiece you'll never forget (do book your tickets well in advance, it’s as popular as it deserves to be!). Then, picture yourself strolling down the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, marveling at the whimsical façades of Gaudí’s Casa Batlló or Casa Milà (La Pedrera), architectural wonders that seem sprung from a dream.

Don't miss the chance to lose yourself in the charming labyrinthine alleys of the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), discovering hidden plazas, the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral, and abundant opportunities for shopping of all sorts. For a true taste of local life, dive into the sensory explosion of their food markets; try Santa Caterina near the Cathedral or the famous Mercado de La Boqueria, right off of Las Ramblas. Or perhaps spend some quality time exploring the trendy and artistic El Born district. Start your day with coffee at one of its many charming cafes, then enjoy the extensive collection of Picasso's early works at the Museu Picasso. Just around the corner, the European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM) houses a great collection of contemporary figurative art. El Born is also fantastic for tapas or pintxos, and you might even catch a stunning flamenco performance at Palau Dalmases.

Consider staying for a day or three in the Gothic Quarter or near Plaça de Catalunya to really get a feel for what makes Barcelona one of the world's great cities. Its unique "flavor," a result of its history as the regional capital of Spain's prosperous Catalunya, offers a delightful mix of Spanish and French influences (it's quite close to the French border, after all). Yes, you can practice your Spanish here, but you'll also see and hear Catalan, with its own distinct charm. You won’t regret your time here.

Don't worry about getting around; Barcelona is wonderfully accessible! Arriving at El Prat Airport (BCN), you can easily reach the city center via the convenient Aerobus or a taxi. While the city is very walkable, its extensive sights are best navigated using the efficient Metro system (an Hola Barcelona Travel Card or simply using your contactless payment makes it a joy!). Choosing a hotel in areas like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, or near Plaça de Catalunya offers a fantastic base. When it's time to head to your cruise at Moll Adossat, a taxi or the Portbus (T3) from near the Columbus Monument will get you there smoothly. Let Barcelona’s captivating charm be the unforgettable frame to your incredible cruise journey!

At Sea -

Tangier, Morocco - Situated just across the narrow Strait of Gibraltar from Europe, Tangier has long comprised a hybrid culture that is nearly as European as it is African. Standing atop Cap Spartel, one can gaze down on the place where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. The “Hollywood” district where the foreign embassies have traditionally been located reflects the European influence. But ascending the hill above the waterfront, one enters the narrow, winding alleys of the Kasbah, the city’s oldest, most Moroccan section. Down the coast, nearby Tetouan retains a nearly untouched walled medina, with sections originally occupied by Andalusian, Berber and Jewish populations. It is small enough that visitors can explore it without risking becoming lost, making it a perfect choice as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Porto Leixoes, Portugal - Visit this city once and you are sure to want to come back for more. Located in northern Portugal, the city spreads across the base of a forested valley with crimson peaks on its sides. While it is famous for its Port wine, Porto is also home to many attractions including the Réserve Naturelle de Scandola, the marine reservation protected by UNESCO with amazing Calanques.

Lisbon, Portugal - Make your own discoveries in the city that launched the Age of Discovery. Cross the River Tagus on its soaring suspension bridge. Wander the maze of streets in the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter, dominated by the medieval Castle of St. George where peacocks strut and shriek. Stroll the Baixa, shop for elegant shoes.

Cadiz (Seville), Spain - Experience Spain’s vibrant culture on a Seville cruise, departing from the historic port of Cadiz. Drenched in Andalucian sunlight and scented with orange blossoms, the city sprawls along the Guadalquivir River. It boasts a rich Moorish legacy with three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, featuring gracefully adorned towers and palaces showcasing intricate Mudejar design.

Malaga, Spain - Málaga is the gateway to the Andalusian countryside and the Costa del Sol, some of the region’s most impressive beaches. It also is home to a number of magnificent palaces, including the Moorish Alcabaza and Gibralfaro.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain - The Spanish island of Mallorca offers towering mountains and dramatic cliffs rising over clear, blue water — but its jewel is Palma de Mallorca, the island's capital and largest city, where you'll find quaint historic streets, Gothic castles and gastronomic delights. Cruise to Palma de Mallorca and check out one-of-a-kind Palma Cathedral: The 14th-century Gothic spires of exterior contrast the modernist interior designed by in the early 1900s by Gaudi. See the circular courtyard and Arab-inspired arches of Castell de Bellver, and take in the fresh scent of the miles of pine forest that surround it. Or rent bikes and pedal east to Palma Beach, where you can soak in the sun on the white sands and clear waves.