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Welcome to Vantage Explorations’ Ireland to Portugal: Spirited shores

More than just a way to wet your whistle, Europe’s iconic beverages embody the very soul of their nations. Castles, cathedrals, and entire cities have been built by the profits from these beloved libations; each bottle telling a story of tradition, innovation, and the colourful characters behind the craft.

From the fruity complexity of Irish whiskey and the hearty pour of Dublin’s Guinness to the refined elegance of France’s Le Médoc wines, where the châteaux are as legendary as the vintners themselves, each beverage offers a taste of its homeland. Across the continent, breweries serve stouts, lagers, and ales that are woven into daily conversation, while vineyards pass down their vines through generations. Our journey leads us through sunlit vineyards, darkened port caves, bustling breweries, and historic whiskey distilleries, where passion and patience are poured into every glass. Come join us, at the bar, on the pews, and amongst the vines, as we explore the rich history behind Europe’s spirited shores.

Highlights

Sip your way through Dublin, from Teeling whiskey to Guinness and the tales of Irish emigration
Visit a Wicklow dairy farm and taste Baileys at its creamy, local source
Enjoy Irish coffee at Blarney Castle or sample Jameson at its iconic distillery
Taste your way through Bordeaux, with winery tours, at St. Emilion or on a visit to La Cité du Vin
Revel in Porto’s riverside charm and Lisbon’s city vibes

Itinerary

Staterooms and Prices

Choose your departure

Our Ship

The Douglas Mawson

Our new purpose-built small ship, the Douglas Mawson.
Capacity
154 Passengers Maximum (130 on Expedition)
Year built
2025
Cabins
86
Length
104.4 m
Decks
8
Speed
10-12 Knots