Embark on a £1 Mediterranean family holiday this summer

Family holidays to Spain and the Mediterranean can easily rack up the costs, when you factor in flights, hotels, food and more – but what if your child could travel for just £1?

Ambassador cruise ship Ambience

Ambassador Cruise Line is sailing in to rescue families still mulling over their summer holiday plans and worrying about rising costs.

The British brand is offering a serious bargain this August as it’s giving Spain and Portugal multigenerational cruise to families for a snip.

And when we say a snip, we mean a snip. Children’s fares cost just £1 and that’s including all food and unlimited soft drinks!

Meanwhile, adult fares start from £999 (including all dining plus a free adult drinks package and gratuities) for the 14-night Balearic cruise: coming to £2,000 in total for a family of four for a two-week European holiday, a mere £143 a day. We’re summer lovin’ that maths for sure!

Now we’ve got you interested in the impressive price, let’s have a look at the itinerary and what you can get up to at each port of call on your family cruise.

Family cruise: Multigenerational Summer Balearics Getaway

Ambassador’s Borough Market restaurant

Leixoes, for Oporto, Portugal

Leixoes, your first family cruise call, is the main port serving northern Portugal and the city of Porto on the River Douro.

Porto is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture and world-famous port wine so spend your time here exploring the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, admiring the intricate tile work on buildings and taking in breathtaking views of the Douro.

There’s also a vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries and performance spaces showcasing the best of Portuguese creativity. Kids will love the interactive World of Discoveries Museum, it takes visitors on a journey through Portuguese history and the Age of Discoveries, with exhibits that include a replica of a caravel ship and a virtual reality experience. Take that Columbus!

Another option is Museu do Carro Eléctrico where little ones can ride on historic trams and learn about the history of public transportation in Porto. Choo choo.

If they need to burn off some energy, take them to Parque da Cidade – the large park has playgrounds, bike paths, a mini-golf course and plenty of open space for kids to run around and play. Remember, there’s always a glass of port if the adults need some strength…

Porto, Portugal

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Your second stop on this family cruise is Palma de Mallorca, the capital city of the Spanish island of Mallorca and home to stunning beaches and historic architecture.

The city’s highlights include the impressive Gothic-style Palma Cathedral, the bustling Paseo del Borne shopping district and the charming Old Town, with its narrow streets and picturesque squares – be sure to pack some comfortable shoes!

For culture, Palma de Mallorca boasts museums and art galleries, while Castell de Bellver will be a hit with youngsters. The 14th-century castle has a unique circular shape and kids will have a blast exploring the its ramparts and learning about the castle’s history. There are great views from here too – how about a rendition of I’m King of the Castle?

If the gang fancy a spot of adventure, Jungle Parc in Santa Ponsa features ziplines, rope bridges and other challenging obstacles set among the trees, while Palma itself has several lovely parks.

Prefer something less energetic? Take a scenic train ride on the historic Sóller Railway from Palma to the charming town of Sóller, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the mountains and countryside en route.

Alternatively, hit up one of Palma’s beaches – Playa de Palma and Cala Major are a good bet – here kids can swim in the turquoise waters, build sandcastles and play in the sun, and you can get stuck into that latest thriller.

Palma de Mallorca cathedral

Ibiza, Spain

A week into the family cruise, your Ambassador ship Ambience will sail into Ibiza. The Spanish island might be famous for its clubs and nightlife but it’s also home to beautiful natural scenery, from rugged cliffs to idyllic coves and crystal-clear waters, so is perfect for family members of all ages, whether you fancy parties or prostrating yourself on golden shores.

To see the beauty of the island’s coastline up close, take a boat tour to check out secluded coves, swim in the crystal-clear water and even go snorkelling on an underwater world discovery. Want the water without getting wet? Head to one of Ibiza’s beaches such as Cala Llenya and Talamanca for fun in the sun.

If you fancy stretching your legs, meander around Dalt Vila, the old town of Ibiza. The UNESCO World Heritage site is snaked with narrow streets and historic architecture.

Meanwhile, thrill-seekers will love adventure park Acrobosc Ibiza in Santa Eulalia where they can tackle ziplines, rope bridges and other obstacles amid the treetops. See, anyone can get high in Ibiza…

Ibiza

Cádiz, for Seville, Spain

Your penultimate port of call is Cádiz, an ancient port city in the Andalucia region of southwestern Spain. Founded over 3,000 years ago, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and features such historical architecture gems as Cadiz Cathedral and the Torre Tavira, a lookout tower that offers panoramic views of the city.

If you’re staying in Cádiz, explore the charming streets of the Old Town, sample delicious seafood dishes and soak up the Andalusian sunshine on the city’s sandy beaches.

However, from here travellers can venture to the magnificent city of Seville, home to many famous landmarks, including the impressive Cathedral of Seville, the historic Alcázar Palace, and the beautiful Plaza de España. It is also renowned for its flamenco music and dance – perhaps the ideal opportunity to improve your dad dancing?

Animal and fairytale lovers alike will be enchanted by a horse-drawn carriage ride – Seville is famous for them – while mini Kings and Queens will enjoy roving the palace and grounds of the Real Alcázar.

For views, climb the Giralda Tower (the bell tower of the cathedral) and for relaxation swing by Parque de María Luisa. Kids still not satisfied? Whisk them away to Isla Mágica, a theme park bursting with rides, shows and attractions for all ages.

Plaza de España, Seville

Vigo, for Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Last but not least, your family cruise will call at Vigo in Galicia on Spain’s northwest coast. The lively city benefits from an atmospheric old quarter and a dynamic cultural scene but is also a gateway to a number of other attractions.

From Vigo, cruisers can head to Santiago de Compostela, said to house the remains of St. James the Apostle in the impressive Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Consequently, the city has become the final destination of the Camino de Santiago, a popular pilgrimage route for Christians that has been followed for over a thousand years.

Gather the family and mooch around the historic centre of Santiago de Compostela – a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with narrow, maze-like streets, delightful squares and beautiful architecture – and then stop to fuel up in one of the city’s charming cafes and restaurants.

There’s more culture to be had at the Museum of the Galician People, which showcases the history and culture of Galicia. Or, if you want to know about the legendary Camino de Santiago, visit the city’s Museum of Pilgrimage and Santiago.

However, if your kids would rather simply run around and the adults fancy a breather, Santiago de Compostela has several parks and gardens that are perfect for a family outing; Belvis Park has a playground while Alameda Park affords great urban views.

Pretty good for just a quid for your kid, hey!

Santiago de Compostela