Cantabria Cruises

Discover the Natural Beauty of Cantabria

Welcome to Cantabria, a stunning region in northern Spain known for its breathtaking coastlines, dramatic mountains, and charming towns. Nestled between the Bay of Biscay and the Picos de Europa mountains, Cantabria is home to beautiful beaches, lush green landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Did you know that Cantabria boasts over 200,000 years of history, with prehistoric caves showcasing cave art recognized by UNESCO? Cruising to Cantabria presents a fantastic opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, experience its delicious cuisine, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Cantabria

• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7 ships, P&O Cruises has 2 vessels—Britannia and Azura—offering itineraries that include Cantabria. P&O is known for its excellent British hospitality, family-friendly activities, and a wide range of dining options catering to all tastes. Most departures occur from international ports such as Southampton, enabling cruisers to effortlessly access the beauty of Cantabria.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: This newer cruise line operates a fleet of 2 ships, both of which offer itineraries to Cantabria. Ambassador focuses on providing value-oriented experiences and eco-friendly practices, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious travellers. Departures typically occur from popular ports like London, allowing easy access to the stunning views and experiences that Cantabria has to offer.
• Cunard: This prestigious cruise line features a fleet of 4 ships, with 1—Queen Mary 2—offering itineraries that include visits to Cantabria. Known for their luxurious onboard atmosphere and formal dining experiences, Cunard excels in providing an elegant cruise experience. Most departures occur from major international ports like Southampton and New York, ensuring seamless connections for cruisers heading to this lovely region.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12 ships, Silversea has 2 vessels—Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit—offering itineraries to Cantabria. Renowned for its all-inclusive luxury experience, Silversea provides personalised service and top-notch dining options, making it a fantastic choice for discerning travellers. Departures typically take place from international ports like Lisbon and Southampton, ensuring easy access to Cantabria's unique attractions.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara offers itineraries to Cantabria aboard Azamara Quest. Known for its immersive travel experiences and late-night stays at ports, Azamara allows guests to explore local culture and attractions at their leisure. Most departures occur from international ports like Lisbon and Gran Canaria, providing smooth access to the captivating scenery of Cantabria.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania has 2 ships—Marina and Sirena—offering itineraries to Cantabria. Oceania is celebrated for its culinary excellence and destination-centric experiences, ensuring every cruise is both enjoyable and enriching. Departures typically occur from major international ports such as Barcelona or Lisbon, facilitating easy transitions to stunning Cantabria.

Top Harbour to Explore in Cantabria

• Santander: Santander is the charming capital of Cantabria, famous for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere. While docked, explore the stunning Palacio de la Magdalena, stroll along the sandy shores of Playa de El Sardinero, and visit the picturesque Centro Botín art centre. Don't miss sampling traditional Cantabrian seafood dishes at local restaurants or wandering through the bustling Mercado del Este!

Additional Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Cantabria

• Bordeaux, France: As a popular French port city often visited before or after cruising to Cantabria, Bordeaux is known for its charming architecture and world-renowned vineyards. While in port, guests can take a guided wine tour through the nearby vineyards, discover Bordeaux's historic sites, such as the Place de la Bourse and the stunning Cité du Vin, or enjoy shopping at local boutiques and markets.

Best Times to Cruise to Cantabria

The ideal time to cruise to Cantabria typically spans from April to October, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This period provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy outdoor adventures, explore stunning landscapes, and experience vibrant local festivities. The November to March timeframe tends to be cooler and wetter, although visiting during these months can offer a unique experience as you explore the dense forests and picturesque coastlines with fewer crowds.

Costs of Cruising to Cantabria

A typical one-week cruise to Cantabria generally costs around $1200, while a two-week cruise may start from approximately $2200. For those interested in luxury experiences, expect prices to start around $4000 for a week. Dining costs in Cantabria can be quite reasonable, with meal prices averaging between $15 and $30, while drinks typically range from $3 to $8, ensuring you can enjoy delightful local flavours without overspending!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If visiting Cantabria has sparked your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Asturias: Known for its rugged coastlines, scenic mountains, and delicious cuisine, Asturias is a hidden gem that offers both natural beauty and cultural richness—perfect for those looking to discover authentic Spain.
• Basque Country: With its renowned culinary scene, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities such as Bilbao and San Sebastián, the Basque Country is a fantastic destination that highlights unique culture and flavours.
• Adriatic Sea: This beautiful region offers stunning coastlines, historic cities, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for exploring charming seaside towns and indulging in delicious local cuisine.
• Aalborg: Located in Denmark, Aalborg is rich in culture and history, offering stunning architecture and charming streets to explore, making it a delightful alternative for those seeking Scandinavian adventure.
• Canary Islands: A perfect tropical getaway, the Canary Islands feature beautiful beaches, a warm climate, and diverse landscapes, ensuring relaxation and adventure await visitors.

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey to Cantabria? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and experience the stunning beauty and warm hospitality this region has to offer!