Explore the Enchanting Region of Asturias with Cruise1st
Set along the northern coast of Spain, Asturias is a region filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delightful cuisine that beckons travellers to explore its beauty. Known for its stunning cliffs, lush valleys, and picturesque beaches, Asturias is often referred to as 'Green Spain' due to its vibrant greenery and natural charm. Fun fact: Asturias is the birthplace of the Spanish language and is famous for its ancient cave paintings, which make it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Embarking on a cruise to Asturias allows you to dive into this unique region, visit charming cities, and experience the hospitality of the locals.
Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Asturias
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P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, P&O features 3 ships that visit Asturias, including the Arcadia and Ventura. These ships are well-regarded for their entertaining onboard activities and culinary experiences tailored to suit all tastes. Most cruises depart from Southampton, making it convenient for cruisers from the UK to access this stunning Spanish region easily!
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Ambassador Cruise Line: With a fleet of 2, Ambassador has both of their ships—Ambition and Ambience—offering itineraries to Asturias. With a focus on providing friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, these ships are perfect for cruisers looking for a more intimate experience. Departures commonly occur from Newcastle-upon-Tyne or Tilbury (London), allowing a great start to your Asturias cruise.
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Cunard: Boasting a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard has 2 vessels that provide itineraries to Asturias, including Queen Anne and Queen Victoria. Known for their elegance and exceptional services, Cunard ships offer a refined atmosphere with various well-curated activities. Departures typically occur from Southampton, perfect for cruisers keen on mixing luxury with adventure.
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MSC Cruises: With 23 ships in total, MSC features 2 that travel to Asturias, notably MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia. These vessels focus on family-friendly activities and gourmet dining experiences. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Genoa, giving an excellent opportunity to kick off your adventure in style.
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Royal Caribbean Cruises: This expansive fleet of 29 includes 1 ship sailing to Asturias—the Independence of the Seas. Guests can enjoy lively entertainment and an array of dining options onboard. Most sailings depart from Southampton, providing a convenient gateway to the beauty of Asturias.
Luxury and Small Ship Options to Asturias
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Oceania Cruises: This line operates a fleet of 8, with 2 ships—Vista and Sirena—offering itineraries to Asturias. Renowned for exceptional dining and extensive wine selections, Oceania promises an indulgent cruise experience. Departures generally occur from Southampton or Antwerp, providing a refined travel experience from the very start of your journey.
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Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea features 2 vessels cruising to Asturias: Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. Guests experience all-inclusive luxury, personalised service, and gourmet dining. Most departures are from Southampton or Lisbon, setting an exciting stage for your journey to Asturias.
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Seabourn: Operating with a fleet of 6, Seabourn has 1 ship—the Seabourn Venture—visiting Asturias. Known for its intimate luxury cruising experiences, this ship allows guests to explore Asturias at a relaxed pace while enjoying top-tier service. Departures generally occur from Lisbon or Barcelona, immersing passengers in vibrant coastal culture before reaching Asturias.
Top Ports to Experience in Asturias
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Gijón: As the largest city in Asturias, Gijón is a bustling port offering a mix of modern attractions and historical sites. Visitors can stroll along the scenic promenade, explore the picturesque old town with its charming streets, or visit the iconic Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, a cultural complex featuring an art gallery and theatre. If time permits, enjoy some local cider in the iconic cider houses!
Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Asturias
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Southampton, England: As a major port, Southampton serves as the launchpad for many Mediterranean cruises. Here, passengers can visit the fascinating SeaCity Museum or explore the historic city walls and Old Town. Don’t forget to grab a meal at one of the charming waterfront restaurants!
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Bordeaux, France: Known for its exceptional wines, Bordeaux boasts beautiful architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. Cruise passengers can explore the UNESCO-listed city centre, visit the wine museum, or indulge in local delicacies at one of the many fine restaurants.
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Lisbon, Portugal: This historic city enchants with its colourful streets and stunning vistas. Visitors can explore iconic sites like the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. The charming neighbourhood of Alfama is perfect for wandering, with lively Fado performances and delicious pastel de nata waiting to be sampled.
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La Coruña, Spain: This beautiful coastal city yields a rich maritime history. Cruise guests should explore the Tower of Hercules, an ancient Roman lighthouse, or stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade to enjoy local seafood delicacies.
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Bilbao, Spain: Famous for the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao offers art enthusiasts a unique experience. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the historic streets lined with charming cafés and shops, yet save some time to enjoy pintxos at a local bar!
When to Sail to Asturias
Asturias is delightful to explore at different times of the year. From March to June, temperatures range from 10-22°C, providing a pleasant climate that's perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. Summer (July to September) sees warmer weather, typically between 15-30°C, ideal for sun-soaked beach days along the Asturian coast. Autumn (October to November) cools down to about 10-20°C and offers beautiful fall foliage, making it an excellent time for hiking and exploration.
Cost of Cruises to Asturias
Expect a week-long cruise to Asturias to generally range from $1,400 to $2,500 AUD, while two-week trips can go from $3,000 to $5,500 AUD. For luxury cruises, anticipate prices starting around $5,500 AUD for a week and reaching up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining onboard is usually included, but if you venture ashore for local cuisine, expect to spend about $15-$45 AUD per meal. Drinks at local bars typically cost between $5-$10 AUD.
Alternative Regions to Consider
If a cruise to Asturias piqued your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next outing:
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Adriatic Sea: Known for its stunning coastline and charming historical cities like Dubrovnik and Split, the Adriatic Sea offers diverse experiences for beach lovers and culture seekers alike.
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Baltic Sea: With its unique blend of vibrant cultural cities and stunning natural scenery, a cruise through the Baltic Sea combines breathtaking landscapes with fascinating history.
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Canary Islands: Perfect for a sunny getaway, the Canary Islands feature gorgeous beaches, volcanic landscapes, and warm weather year-round, ideal for relaxation.
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Basque Country: Just a step away from Asturias, the Basque Country is renowned for its distinctive culture, stunning coastlines, and amazing culinary scene, making it an exciting alternative.
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Portugal: Rich in history and culture, Portugal presents beautiful coastal cities, delightful cuisine, and captivating historical landmarks, providing a diverse travel experience.
Eager to set sail on an unforgettable adventure to Asturias? Cruise1st is here to help you plan the perfect getaway that’s filled with beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences waiting to be discovered!