Join Us For A Winter Escape Cruise and Paint Spain
Experience Spain like never before with our watercolor workshops cruise along the coast of Southern Spain. Partnering with Windstar Cruise Line, our unique watercolor workshop cruise itineraries take you down the coast of Southern Spain, offering the opportunity for plein air painting sessions in beautiful locations and classroom-style instruction onboard.
From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the sun-kissed shores of Málaga, and the historic coastal gems of Valencia and Cartagena, you’ll capture the beauty of the Spanish coastline with a brush in hand. Explore hidden harbors and small ports, while still taking in the remarkable history of cities like Gibraltar, Palma de Mallorca, and more.
workshop includes:
- Half-day watercolor workshops on-and-off board (plein air sessions)
- 7-nights luxury accommodation onboard the Star Legend, an all suite ship
- 5 excursions (one in each full-day port) that the art instructor hand-selected
- All on board meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included
- Daily Wifi
workshop DOES NOT INclude:
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
What You'll See & Paint Southern Spain
This November, escape the cold, winter months and set sail with us on an all-suite, luxury cruise along the sun-kissed shores of Spain. Each destination, from the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the historic shores of Málaga, serves as your artistic inspiration. Guided by watercolor instructor Al Kline, you will capture the essence of these beautiful destinations, transforming your experience into art. Alongside a small group of fellow artists who share your passion for creativity and exploration, you’ll enjoy tapas (Spanish small-plates), paint the coastlines of Palma de Mallorca, and learn Valencia’s vibrant history all while creating lasting memories on this unique watercolor cruise.
All workshop rates include five pre-selected excursions. If you’d like to change your excursion selection, please let us know and we will adjust the cost accordingly.
Included excursions:
- Palma de Mallorca City Sights
- Valencia Highlights
- Cartagena on Foot & Tapas Tasting
- Gibraltar Walking Tour Upper Rock
- Malaga & Picasso Walking Tour
What You'll Learn Watercolor Workshop Itinerary
We’ve transformed traditional watercolor workshops by combining artistic instruction, cultural immersion, and community engagement aboard luxury cruises. This workshop is open to all skill levels, guided by professional watercolor artist Al Kline, who will teach a variety of techniques, including:
Urban Sketching
Capturing the essence of cityscapes and architectural elements through quick, on-location sketches.
Value Studies
Understanding light and shadow to create depth and dimension in your work.
Plein Air Techniques
Painting outdoors to directly engage with natural landscapes and lighting conditions.
Composition and Design
Arranging elements effectively within your artwork to achieve balance and harmony.
Impressionistic Approaches
Embracing loose brushwork and vibrant colors to convey mood and atmosphere.
meet the artist
Meet Al Kline
your Watercolor instructor
Al Kline is a self-taught Artist who began painting watercolor in April 2017. He is a signature member of the Southwestern Watercolor Society (SWS) and Watercolor Society of South Texas (WSST). He is also member selected for exhibitions in both the American and National Watercolor Societies of America (AWS,NWS).
Through teaching, and now online instruction, Al has gained notice as an accomplished watercolor artist. His ability to simplify the painting process and skill of drawing and design have gained him international recognition.
Al has accepted numerous awards. His work has been recognized in local, state, national and international exhibitions. He is a signature member of the Watercolor Society of South Texas and Southwestern Watercolor Society and member of the American Watercolor Society, National Watercolor Society, and Transparent Watercolor Society of America.
Why You Should Join Our
watercolor workshop cruises
Are you ready to set sail and paint with us?
watercolor workshop cruise Itinerary
DAY ONE | Friday, November 7
Barcelona, Spain
Embarkation Day & Welcome Reception
Arrive early and settle into your suite on embarkation day, where we will set sail from Barcelona at 6:00 PM.
In the morning, explore this sunny Catalan metropolis at your leisure and enjoy a plein air demo with instructor Al Kline for those. who arrive early. In Barcelona, explore narrow alleyways, grand boulevards, homemade tapas, and more in this warm and welcoming city. Don’t miss UNESCO sites like the architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral.
In the evening upon embarkation, enjoy a welcome reception with the group and artist meet-and-greet. This is where you will receive an itinerary for the trip, meet other artists and the instructor, and get excited for this incredible painting journey you’re about to embark on in the warm and sunny South of Spain.
Day Two | Saturday, November 8
Palma de Mallorca
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board or En Plein Air
As we arrive at the southeastern coast of Mallorca, explore the island’s capital, Palma, known for its architectural designs and vibrant culture. Your excursion begins with a visit to the 14th-century Bellver Castle, one of Europe’s few circular castles, offering panoramic views of the city and countryside. Next, you’ll visit La Seu Cathedral and the exteriors of Almudaina Palace. Before returning to the ship, you will stop at the city’s iconic bullring, a marvel of unique architectural design.
In the afternoon, enjoy a 4-hour painting session with artist Al Kline, capturing the day’s inspiring landscapes and historic sites.
Day Three | Sunday, November 9
Valencia
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop On Board or En Plein Air
As we arrive in Valencia, take a scenic drive along Avenida del Puerto to the bustling Central Market, a hub of local flavors and culture. Begin your walking tour at the Gothic-style Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before continuing to the Cathedral to view the chalice claimed to be the true Holy Grail. Next, take a panoramic drive to the iconic City of Arts & Sciences, an architectural marvel designed by Calatrava.
In the afternoon, return to the ship for a 4-hour painting session with artist Al Kline, capturing the city’s vibrant architecture and cultural essence.
day Four | Monday, November 10
Cartagena
As we dock in Cartagena, embark on a guided walking tour through the city’s historic Old Town, beginning with a stroll along the seafront. Discover iconic landmarks like the Palace Hall, Maritime Wall, and striking modernist architecture as you make your way through the streets.
Along the way, you’ll visit five local tapas bars, sampling traditional Spanish dishes such as Albondigas, Spanish omelet, and local cheeses, each paired with a glass of sangria, wine, or a soft drink.
Your final stop will be the recently restored Roman Theatre of Carthago Nova, where you’ll have time to explore and capture the ancient architecture before returning to the ship.
In the afternoon, enjoy plein air session in town as we dock in Cartagena overnight.
DAY five | Tuesday, November 11
Cartagena
Free Time & Afternoon Workshop On Board
Spend a leisurely morning exploring Cartagena at your own pace. Stroll through the historic Old Town, visit the Roman Theatre, or relax by the waterfront with a coffee and pastry as you take in the city’s coastal charm.
By 3:00 PM, return to the ship as we set sail for Gibraltar. In the afternoon, join artist Al Kline for a 4-hour painting session in our onboard classroom as we cruise toward our next destination.
Day Six | Wednesday, November 12
Gibraltar
Morning Workshop On Board & Afternoon Excursion
As we continue to cruise to Gibraltar, begin your day with a morning watercolor workshop led by artist Al Kline after a leisurly breakfast. After lunch, embark on a guided excursion starting with a cable car ride to the top of The Rock, where you’ll walk through lush paths to St. Michael’s Cave.
Then, board a minibus for a visit to the Barbary Apes’ den and the historic Great Siege Tunnels, passing by the Moorish Castle before heading into the city center.
After the excursion, enjoy an evening exploring Gibraltar at your own pace or return to the ship to relax before we set sail for our next destination at 10:00 PM.
DAY Seven | Thursday, November 13
Málaga
Morning Excursion & Afternoon Workshop En Plein Air
Begin your day in Málaga with a guided excursion through the city’s historic highlights. Start with a visit to the Alcazaba Fortress, a stunning 11th-century castle built for the Arabian Caliphs, followed by a drive to Gibralfaro Castle for panoramic views over the city and bay.
Next, explore the Museo Picasso Málaga, where you’ll admire over 150 works spanning Picasso’s life, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
In the afternoon, enjoy a plein air watercolor workshop with artist Al Kline, capturing the vibrant colors and Andalusian charm of Málaga.
As the sun sets, enjoy some free time to wander the lively streets of Málaga or relax on board. In the evening, we’ll come together for a farewell dinner to toast to an unforgettable journey on our last night docked in Málaga.
Day Eight | Friday, November 14
Málaga
Disembarkation Day & Farewell
Enjoy one final morning on board before heading off to your next destination or flight home. Whether you choose to participate in an additional excursion, catch your flight home, or continue your travels, we hope the memories, skills, and artwork you created on this journey stay with you.
We look forward to welcoming you on another artistic adventure soon!
More than a watercolor workshop What's Included
Small Group Painting Experience
- Half-day painting and lessons on and off-board
- One-on-one instruction with your art instructor
- Welcome reception with other students and meet-and-greet with the artist
- Personalized service from on-site travel coordinator
- Small private group setting experience (10-12 students maximum)
- Free time for painting or sketching in all port cities or leisure time of choice
Luxury Accommodation
- 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom
- Suites are all queen beds (Limited availability to separate beds, please inquire)
- Complimentary fresh fruit basket
- Cotton waffle robes
- L’Occitane en Provence bath toiletries
- Lighted make-up mirror and hair dryer
- Personal safe
- Beverage mini-bar refrigerator (additional charge)
- Satellite flat screen TV/DVD with movies, TV, News, and Music options
- Individually controlled temperature dial
- Nightly turn-down service
A Variety of Amenities
- Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
- Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
- Fitness room
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
Award-Wining Dining & Reception
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner served daily
- Open single seating dining for all meals
- World-class gourmet cuisine served in Amphora Restaurant
- Indoor/Outdoor Veranda Cafe serving breakfast & lunch
- Al fresco dining in Candles
- 24-hour complimentary room service
- Afternoon snacks daily, except on embarkation day
- Captain’s Welcome Aboard cocktail reception
- Deck BBQ under the stars (itinerary and weather dependent, may not be feasible on cruises embarking/debarking in US waters)
Shipboard Services & Entertainment
- Complimentary soft beverages including: bottled water, sparkling water, sodas, fresh juices, fruit smoothies, tea, coffee, cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and espresso
- Outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi
- Gym equipment: Cybex weights system, assorted free weights, two treadmills, two bikes, workout mats and benches
- Aft sports platform (marina), equipment includes complimentary snorkel gear, paddleboards, 1-2 person kayaks, and water mats
- Bridge open to all guests while ship is sailing
- Live music in lounge
- Local entertainment (subject to itinerary/availability)
- Library stocked with DVDs, CDs, books, and board games
*The workshop fee does not include airfare, passport or visa fees, travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, excursions other than what was pre-selected for you, and other exclusions as outlined in the deposit form
the votes are in!
New friendships and painting techniques
Return home with beautiful paintings, incredible memories and newfound friendships. Paint By Destination’s watercolor workshops will exceed your expectations and prove to be an investment in both your artistic growth and overall well-being.
Incredible value for
money
Not only will you receive top-notch guidance to improve your watercolor painting skills, but you will enjoy luxury accommodation, curated excursions, and immersive cultural experiences along the most iconic rivers in the world. The convenience and comfort of having everything organized for you makes this worth every cent.