Costa Blanca Cruises

Experience the Vibrant Costa Blanca with Cruise1st

Located along Spain’s southeastern coast, Costa Blanca is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches, charming towns, and vibrant culture. With an impressive coastline stretching over 200 kilometers, this region is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine a year. Fun fact: Costa Blanca means "White Coast" in Spanish, a name derived from the area's beautiful white sandy beaches and the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean Sea. A cruise to Costa Blanca allows you to explore exquisite coastal towns like Alicante and Benidorm, while enjoying all the comforts of life at sea. It's the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and breathtaking scenery!

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Costa Blanca

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 7 vessels that offer itineraries to Costa Blanca, most notably the MSC Magnifica and MSC Seaview. Both ships are well-loved for their family-friendly amenities, diverse dining options, and entertainment facilities that make every cruise a delightful experience. Most cruises depart from international ports like Genoa or Miami, providing various options for cruisers planning their seaside escape.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line boasts a fleet of 11 and has 4 ships visiting Costa Blanca, with Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam being the stars of the show. These ships excel in offering unique cultural experiences onboard and a variety of dining options featuring international cuisines. Cruises commonly depart from domestic ports like Sydney, with major international ports like Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome) being ideal for your journey to Costa Blanca.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7 ships, P&O has 4 that sail to Costa Blanca, with Arvia and Arcadia leading the charge. Known for their British charm and exceptional service, P&O ensures a comfortable cruise experience. Most itineraries depart from Southampton, making for a convenient start to your Mediterranean adventure.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Featuring a fleet of 27, Carnival has 4 vessels that grace the waters of Costa Blanca, including Carnival Glory and Carnival Horizon. What sets these ships apart is their focus on fun! With lively entertainment options and diverse dining choices, there’s always something exciting happening onboard. Expect most departures from Barcelona or New Orleans, making it easy to start your journey to Costa Blanca.
• Cunard: This luxurious line features 4 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Costa Blanca—Queen Anne and Queen Victoria. These ships are recognized for their elegant style, refined dining, and immersive onboard experiences. Most sailings depart from Southampton, allowing cruisers a refined start to an exciting Mediterranean itinerary.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Costa Blanca

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, Oceania has 4 ships that sail to Costa Blanca, including Marina and Sirena. Known for their emphasis on gourmet cuisine and destination-focused itineraries, Oceania provides a unique cruising experience for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Departing ports commonly include Barcelona or Miami, great starting points for exploring this stunning region.
• Explora Journeys: A smaller fleet of just 2 ships, Explora offers the EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II for journeys to Costa Blanca. These ships focus on sustainability and well-being, catering to travellers who appreciate luxury while also prioritizing the environment. They typically depart from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), allowing you to embark from vibrant cities filled with rich history.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn features 2 vessels that visit Costa Blanca, known as Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation. These ships are celebrated for their intimate atmosphere and high-end service, creating an exclusive experience onboard. Common departure points include Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), where cruise passengers can enjoy the cultural richness of these ports before heading to the sunny Costa Blanca.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara has a fleet of 4, and 2 of their ships—Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward—include Costa Blanca in their itineraries. They are known for their destination immersion, often providing longer stays in port for cruisers to fully explore the local culture and attractions. Most departures occur from Lisbon or Barcelona, convenient for those beginning their Mediterranean adventure.
• Silversea: Silversea operates a fleet of 12 ships, with 1 ship—Silver Whisper—offering itineraries to Costa Blanca. Renowned for its all-inclusive luxury experience, Silversea ensures that every detail is taken care of for an unforgettable journey. Departures are typically from Málaga, a great access point for exploring the gorgeous Costa Blanca.

Top Harbours to Explore in Costa Blanca

• Alicante: This bustling coastal city is known for its stunning beaches and rich history. Cruise passengers can spend the day atop the Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views, or stroll along the beautiful Explanada de España, lined with palm trees and cafes. A visit to the local market is a must to sample fresh seafood and local delicacies!
• Benidorm: Famous for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, Benidorm is perfect for those looking for fun in the sun. Enjoy a beach day at Playa de Levante, then wander the charming old town in the evening for tapas and drinks. If you're after adventure, head to the nearby Terra Mitica theme park for thrilling rides!
• Torrevieja: Known for its salt lakes and beautiful beaches, Torrevieja offers a unique experience for cruise passengers. Explore the local salt processing museum or relax at Playa de La Mata. For just a short bus ride, visit the natural park at La Mata to enjoy splendid views and picnic spots!
• Altea: This charming town captivates visitors with its cobbled streets and stunning sea views. Cruise guests can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the artsy old town, famous for its blue-domed church, while indulging in the delightful local cuisine at a beachfront restaurant. The nearby promenade offers a lovely waterfront walk!
• Villajoyosa: Famed for its colourful houses along the waterfront, Villajoyosa is a quaint fishing town that delights. Spend your time exploring its chocolate museum, indulging in sweet samples, or relax on the golden beaches. Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic centre, dotted with charming shops and appetizing cafes!

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Costa Blanca

• Barcelona, Spain: Renowned for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and vibrant markets like La Boqueria. While in port, take a guided walking tour or indulge in classic tapas at one of the bustling local eateries.
• Lisbon, Portugal: The capital of Portugal, Lisbon, is filled with historic tram rides, colourful neighborhoods, and delicious pastries. Don’t miss the chance to explore Belem Tower or experience the lively atmosphere in the Alfama district.
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: Gateway to Rome, this port allows cruisers to experience the grandeur of the Colosseum, the Vatican, and more. A day trip can easily be arranged for those wanting to delve into the rich history of this iconic city.
• Valencia, Spain: Known for its City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia features stunning architecture alongside lovely beaches. Take an afternoon to explore the local markets, sample paella, or enjoy a walk along the Turia Gardens.
• Málaga, Spain: Combining coastal beauty with rich history, Málaga offers delightful museums, shops, and tapas bars. A visit to Alcazaba or the Picasso Museum makes for a perfect day of sightseeing.

Best Times to Cruise to Costa Blanca

The ideal time to explore Costa Blanca is during the spring (April to June) when weather is mild, ranging from 15-25°C, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the summer crowds. Summer (July to August) heats up at 25-35°C, making it an ideal beach getaway. Autumn (September to October) is pleasantly warm at 15-25°C, featuring beautiful fall colours and fewer tourists, making it a wonderful time for cultural explorations.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Costa Blanca

A week-long cruise to Costa Blanca typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,800 AUD, while two-week adventures may vary from $3,000 to $5,500 AUD. For luxury cruises, expect costs to start at around $4,000 AUD for a week and can reach over $9,000 AUD for longer voyages. Dining is generally included aboard cruise ships, but if you explore local restaurants, expect to pay around $15-40 AUD for meals, while drinks might cost between $5-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you're considering a cruise to Costa Blanca, think about these exciting alternatives:

• Amalfi Coast: Known for its stunning coastal cliffs and charming villages, exploring the Amalfi Coast is a dream for those who love breathtaking views paired with rich history and delightful food.
• Balearic Islands: Characterized by pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, this popular destination offers sun-soaked relaxation and lively culture, perfect for beach lovers and partygoers alike.
• Catalonia: Rich in art and history, Catalonia provides an enchanting mix of urban adventures in Barcelona and the stunning natural beauty of its mountainous regions—ideal for the culturally curious!
• Adriatic Sea: Renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, the Adriatic Sea offers a paradise of charming towns like Dubrovnik and Split, rich history, and crystal-clear waters.
• French Riviera: Famous for its glitz, glamour, and stunning landscapes, the French Riviera is perfect for those wanting a taste of luxurious Mediterranean life coupled with stunning views.

So, are you ready to soak up the sun along the beautiful Costa Blanca? Let Cruise1st help you navigate your way to a fabulous cruise experience where relaxation and adventure await!