Galicia Cruises

Explore the Enchantment of Galicia with Cruise1st

Galicia, located in the northwest corner of Spain, is a treasure trove of culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Known for its lush greenery and rugged coastline, this region is famous for its unique blend of Celtic and Spanish influences. Fun fact: Galicia is home to the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James), a medieval pilgrimage route that attracts thousands of walkers each year. Opting for a cruise to Galicia lets you experience its vibrant cities, breathtaking scenery, and rich traditions without the fuss of constant hotel changes. From the delicious seafood to the warm hospitality, a holiday here promises to be unforgettable!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Galicia Itineraries

• P&O Cruises: This line operates a fleet of 7 ships, with 6 including Galicia in their itineraries. The Ventura and Arvia are particularly popular choices, known for their fantastic onboard entertainment and wide variety of dining options. Cruises typically depart from Southampton or Bridgetown, making it smooth sailing for cruisers heading to experience the charm of Galicia.
• Princess Cruises: With a total fleet of 17 ships, 5 of them visit Galicia, including the Sky Princess and Majestic Princess. These ships are praised for their luxurious amenities and dedication to delivering exceptional service. Regular departures from Southampton or Civitavecchia (Rome) ensure that cruisers can easily embark on their exploration of this beautiful region.
• Cunard: Known for its sense of tradition and luxury, Cunard has 4 ships, with 3 offering itineraries to Galicia. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne provide a combination of elegance and comfort that attracts discerning travellers. Departures commonly take place from Southampton or Barcelona, giving cruisers a taste of old-world charm on their journey.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line features a fleet of 23 with 3 ships visiting Galicia. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia offer fun-filled experiences onboard with a myriad of activities and dining choices. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Buenos Aires, setting the stage for an incredible journey to the stunning Galician coast.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: With a fleet of just 2, Ambassador offers a uniquely British experience with 2 ships visiting Galicia, Ambition and Ambience. Catering to those who seek a more intimate onboard atmosphere, the cruises primarily depart from Tilbury (London) or Liverpool, making it easy for cruisers from the UK to venture to this captivating region.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Galicia

• Oceania Cruises: This luxury cruise line boasts a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 sailing to Galicia. The Vista and Sirena are well-loved for their focus on culinary excellence and destination immersion, providing guests with a truly enchanting experience. Most itineraries depart from Southampton or Barcelona, giving you great flexibility in planning your journey.
• Azamara Cruises: Comprising 4 ships, Azamara features 3 that visit Galicia, including the Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Known for their smaller ship experience, Azamara focuses on cultural immersion, allowing guests to connect more deeply with each destination. With departures most often from Lisbon or Portsmouth, you can seamlessly include Galicia in your travels.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea offers 2 ships making stops in Galicia, specifically Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. These ships cater to luxury travellers with all-inclusive experiences and personalized service. Departing mostly from Southampton or Lisbon, journeying with Silversea guarantees an upscale holiday in breathtaking locations.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6, Seabourn has 1 ship—the Seabourn Sojourn—ready for voyages to Galicia. This cruise line prides itself on providing luxurious amenities, excellent dining, and a high level of personal service. Most sailings depart from Barcelona or Monte Carlo, allowing cruisers to join this extraordinary voyage to Galicia.

Top Harbours to Discover in Galicia

• La Coruña: Known for its stunning coastline and the iconic Tower of Hercules, La Coruña is a charming port for cruise visitors. Stroll along the beautiful promenade, explore the local market to taste delicious tapas, or visit the fascinating Domus, a museum dedicated to human beings. The ancient Old Town is worth a visit, as it is filled with history and unique architecture!
• Vigo: A vibrant city nestled on the coast, Vigo offers a delightful mix of culture and natural beauty. Cruise passengers can visit the beautiful islands of Cíes National Park, known for their stunning beaches and hiking trails. Be sure to sample some famous local seafood in the bustling port area, particularly the fresh octopus dishes that the region is renowned for!
• Ferrol: This charming city boasts a rich naval history and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the historical centre, visit the Naval Museum, or take a walk along the scenic promenade. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby medieval fortress of Castillo de San Felipe for breathtaking views of the estuary!

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Galicia

• Southampton, England: A major port city known for its maritime history. While docked here, you can explore the SeaCity Museum or visit the iconic Mayflower Theatre. Southampton also serves as a convenient entry point to London, where world-famous attractions await.
• Lisbon, Portugal: One of Europe's oldest cities, Lisbon is a fantastic destination known for its historic neighborhoods and vibrant culture. Cruise visitors can explore the charming alleyways of Alfama, take in panoramic views from São Jorge Castle, or enjoy a tram ride on the iconic Tram 28!
• Leixoes, Portugal: This port serves as a gateway to Porto, famous for its port wine and stunning riverfront. While visiting, take a guided tour of a winery or stroll along the picturesque Ribeira District for stunning views and vibrant street life.
• Barcelona, Spain: This iconic city is full of art, history, and architectural wonders. Cruise passengers can visit the famous Sagrada Família, walk along Las Ramblas, or enjoy the beach at Barceloneta—a perfect start to your cruise in Galicia!
• Bilbao, Spain: Renowned for the stunning Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao is a cultural hub. Explore the charming Old Town, indulge in delicious pintxos at local bars, and enjoy the beautiful riverfront while taking in the unique architecture of the city.

Best Times to Book Your Cruise to Galicia

Traveling to Galicia can be enjoyable throughout the year! From April to June, the weather warms up and temperatures range between 15-25°C, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities. July to August brings warmer, sunnier days with temperatures hitting 25-30°C, ideal for beach enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Alternatively, autumn (September to November) offers slightly cooler temperatures from 10-20°C and a beautiful palette of fall colors, perfect for hiking and enjoying fewer crowds.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Galicia

A typical cruise to Galicia can range from $1,200 to $2,000 AUD for a week-long adventure, while two-week cruises may cost around $2,500 to $4,000 AUD. For luxury seekers, expect starting prices around $4,000 AUD for a week-long journey and around $8,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining is generally included on board, but if you decide to explore local cuisine, expect meal prices to range from $15-40 AUD. Local drinks may range between $8-12 AUD each, adding a delightful touch to your dining experience.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re considering a cruise to Galicia, think about these intriguing alternatives:

• Adriatic Sea: Known for its stunning coastal towns and beautiful islands, the Adriatic Sea is perfect for those looking to explore ancient history and bask on the sun-soaked beaches.
• Basque Country: Close to Galicia, the Basque Country offers vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable culinary experiences that will excite any food lover.
• Asturias: Famous for its breathtaking mountains and coastal scenery, Asturias is perfect for those seeking unspoiled nature alongside a rich history of local traditions.
• Catalonia: This region blends stunning coastal scenery with vibrant city life, particularly in Barcelona. A fantastic choice for culture lovers and beachgoers alike!
• Portugal: With its stunning coastline, historic cities, and delicious cuisine, Portugal offers an enticing alternative for those interested in culture, relaxation, and delightful culinary experiences.

Ready to set sail on a journey to the beautiful region of Galicia? Cruise1st has the perfect getaway awaiting you! Immerse yourself in captivating landscapes, local cultures, and unforgettable flavours, creating lasting memories on this extraordinary adventure.