Cantabria Cruises

Explore the Wonders of Cantabria with Cruise1st

Looking for a cruise destination that’s bursting with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture? Look no further than Cantabria! Nestled along Spain's northern coastline, this stunning region boasts picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and a fascinating mix of ancient and modern influences. Fun fact: Cantabria is home to the famous Altamira Cave, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art," featuring stunning cave paintings dating back over 36,000 years! A cruise to Cantabria promises unforgettable experiences, with plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Cantabria Itineraries

• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7 ships, P&O has 3 offering itineraries to Cantabria, particularly the Ventura and Arcadia. These ships are popular for their British charm, diverse dining options, and family-friendly amenities. Most cruises depart from Southampton, providing an easy gateway for cruisers keen to explore this captivating Spanish coastline.
• Cunard: Operating a smaller fleet of 4 ships, Cunard features 1 ship—Queen Anne—sailing to Cantabria. Known for its sophisticated ambiance and luxury service, Cunard offers unique onboard experiences like formal dining and themed balls. Most voyages set sail from Southampton, allowing cruisers to indulge in both elegance and adventure.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: With 2 ships, Ambassador offers 1 ship—Ambition—making its way to Cantabria. This line is known for its friendly atmosphere and immersive itineraries. Cruises to Cantabria typically depart from Tilbury (London), perfect for those in the UK looking to discover northern Spain's treasures.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Cantabria

• Oceania Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 8, Oceania has 1 ship—Sirena—that sails to Cantabria. Renowned for its outstanding culinary experiences and enhanced cultural immersion, Oceania promises a luxurious journey. Departures are typically from Barcelona, setting the stage for an exceptional Mediterranean adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara operates a fleet of 4, and 1 of its ships, Azamara Quest, includes Cantabria on its itinerary. Known for its unique destination experiences and immersive onboard activities, Azamara focuses on small port exploration. This ship typically departs from Athens, ensuring an authentic experience steeped in culture and history.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea features 1 ship—Silver Dawn—offering itineraries to Cantabria. Silversea is synonymous with lavish, all-inclusive travel, where every detail is taken care of. Cruises primarily set out from Los Angeles or Lisbon, perfect for a luxurious Mediterranean cruise experience.

Top Cantabrian Harbours to Explore

• Santander: The capital of Cantabria, Santander is a thrilling destination with a blend of history and modernity. Cruise visitors can stroll along the lovely Sardinero Beach or visit the iconic Palacio de la Magdalena. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the bustling Mercado del Este for local delicacies or take a scenic walk along the waterfront before heading to the charming Old Town.

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Cantabria

• Southampton, England: Dominion starting point for many cruises, Southampton offers a range of attractions, from historical sites like the medieval town walls to the vibrant Ocean Village Marina. While docked, take a day trip to the nearby New Forest National Park for scenic walks and picturesque villages or to the bustling city of Brighton.
• Lisbon, Portugal: With its stunning architecture, diverse culture, and fantastic cuisine, Lisbon is a captivating port of call. Visitors should check out iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or take a tram ride through the city's colourful streets. Sampling local pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at a café is a must!
• Bordeaux, France: Famous for its wine, Bordeaux is an excellent port for culinary exploration. Visitors can take vineyard tours, stroll through the historic Place de la Bourse, or indulge in sampling locally produced wines and gourmet dishes at the Les Halles de Bacalan market.
• Seville, Spain: This enchanting city is famous for flamenco dancing, stunning cathedrals, and vibrant plazas. While visiting, you can take a walk through the stunning Maria Luisa Park, enjoy shopping in the historic Santa Cruz district, and experience local tapas in one of the many lively bars.
• La Coruña, Spain: This coastal city boasts a picturesque waterfront and stunning beaches. Be sure to visit the Tower of Hercules—an ancient Roman lighthouse still in use. A stroll along the promenade offers incredible views of the coastline.

The Best Times to Cruise to Cantabria

Cruising to Cantabria is delightful throughout the year! The best months to visit are from April to June, when temperatures range from 15–25°C, making for pleasant sightseeing weather. Expect more tourists during the summer months of July to August, when temperatures can soar between 25–30°C, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities while soaking in the sun. September to October offers cooler temperatures of about 10–20°C, ideal for those looking to enjoy nature's stunning autumn colours without the summer crowds.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Cantabria

A week-long cruise to Cantabria generally costs between $1,300 and $2,300 AUD, whereas a two-week journey may range from $2,600 to $4,500 AUD. Luxury cruises tend to start around $4,500 AUD for a week and can reach $9,500 AUD for two weeks. Dining on board is usually included, but if you venture ashore, you can expect meals in local restaurants to cost about $20-50 AUD, and drinks to be around $10 AUD each, allowing you to enjoy the local flavours without worrying about breaking the bank.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're thinking about a cruise to Cantabria, consider these intriguing alternatives:

• Adriatic Sea: Famous for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and rich history, the Adriatic Sea is a must-visit for beach lovers and culture enthusiasts. With ports like Dubrovnik and Venice, you'll experience a blend of vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery.
• Asturias: Nestled just west of Cantabria, Asturias offers breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its rugged coastlines, lush mountains, and delectable cuisine including cider, Asturias is a fantastic getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
• Basque Country: Known for its unique culture and gourmet cuisine, the Basque Country is perfect for foodies looking to explore local culinary delights while soaking in beautiful coastal views and vibrant cities such as Bilbao and San Sebastián.
• Galicia: Renowned for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and rich maritime history, Galicia offers a unique experience filled with delicious seafood and captivating cities like Santiago de Compostela, renowned for its pilgrimages.
• Catalonia: Known for its incredible architecture and stunning coastline, Catalonia captivates visitors with its vibrant cities, beaches, and world-class cuisine. The beauty of Barcelona makes it a must-see destination.

Your adventure to Cantabria awaits! Let Cruise1st navigate you through all the enchanting experiences that this beautiful region has to offer. Book your cruise today!