Tasty Zilli delights on the open seas

Mar 25 2009 By Catherine Lillington

We join Captain Alan Leech on the bridge for our departure from Lisbon, guided by a local navigator who disembarked mid-sail (in the style of Milk Tray man) on to a small boat.

The Scouse captain directs the manoeuvre of the 214m long ship calmly, pointing out along the way the spectacular statue of Christo, which faces the one in ­Brazil. We were headed for Cadiz overnight at a speed of 17 knots.

In Cadiz we visit the Tio Pepe winery for sherry tasting and a tour of the atmospheric “nurseries” where the wines mature in American oak casks. Many of these have been signed by VIP visitors including Bobby Charlton, Margaret Thatcher, Steven Spielberg and Prince Philip.

The second and final night of our trip is spent sailing to Malaga, through the ­twinkling lights of the Straits of Gibraltar. And there’s plenty more bling once you hit Puerto Banus, a short drive from Malaga. Valentino, Missoni, Agent Provocateur, Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Bulgari and Gucci have all opened there.

Travel Facts

* As well as the gym there are facilities for sports including basketball, volleyball, table tennis and tennis

* There is also a casino, spa and cinema on board

* Clubs run for children aged from three to 12

* The currency for passengers is pounds sterling

* Passengers are kept informed with daily announcements from Captain Alan Leech and the ship’s own newspaper Cruise News.

Thomson Cruises offers seven-night cruise holidays onboard Thomson Celebration this summer from £729 per person based on two adults sharing an outside cabin. Sailing from Corfu, this price includes flights from Birmingham, resort transfers plus all taxes and charges. For more information or to book, visit www.thomson.co.uk/cruise or call 0871 231 3246.