Cantabria Cruises

Explore the Diverse Charm of Cantabria: Your Next Cruise Adventure

Cantabria, nestled in northern Spain, is an enchanting blend of dramatic coastlines, lush green valleys, and rich cultural history. With its stunning architecture and vibrant gastronomy, visiting Cantabria on a cruise presents a unique opportunity to discover an often-overlooked gem. Fun fact: Cantabria is home to the Altamira Cave, famous for its prehistoric paintings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the area's ancient artistic heritage. Embarking on a cruise to Cantabria allows cruisers to immerse themselves in the area’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant local traditions—with plenty of time to create lasting memories.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Cantabria

• P&O Cruises commands a fleet of 7 ships, with 3 vessels making their way to the picturesque shores of Cantabria. The Ventura and Arcadia are particularly noteworthy for their elegant ambience and excellent dining options that cater to a variety of tastes. Ventura provides a vibrant onboard atmosphere with numerous entertainment activities, while Arcadia offers sophisticated evenings filled with live music and fine dining. Most cruises to Cantabria depart from Southampton, making it a convenient choice for British travellers eager to discover the wonders of the Cantabrian coast.
• Cunard operates a fleet of 4 ships, with the luxurious Queen Anne offering intimate itineraries to Cantabria. Cunard is famous for its opulent experiences and traditional British charm, ensuring a leisurely and indulgent sailing experience. With elegant dining options, classy afternoon teas, and captivating entertainment, Queen Anne embodies the spirit of refined cruising. This cruise line typically departs from Southampton, allowing guests to comfortably settle into their journey across the charming Cantabrian Sea.
• Ambassador Cruise Line has a fleet of 2 ships, with the Ambition offering routes to Cantabria. Focused on creating memorable experiences, Ambassadors' cruising experience shines through their warm onboard services and engaging itineraries. Their cruises often depart from London, allowing passengers a comfortable start to their exploration of enchanting Cantabria.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Cantabria

• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with the Azamara Quest navigating to the beautiful coastline of Cantabria. This luxury cruise line is recognised for its intimate atmosphere and unforgettable land excursions, giving guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture and customs as they explore. Departures generally occur from Barcelona, allowing for a seamless connection to your journey.
• Oceania Cruises boasts a fleet of 8 ships, with the Sirena making waves in Cantabria. Their deep focus on culinary excellence promises diverse onboard dining experiences that integrate local flavours and gourmet delights. Departures from Barcelona make it easy for cruisers to enjoy luxurious amenities combined with exploration of beautiful Cantabria.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with Borealis providing intimate itineraries that include visits to Cantabria. Known for personal service and unique excursions, Fred Olsen embodies a relaxed onboard experience where guests feel at home. As cruises often depart from Southampton, it makes for an easy and enjoyable beginning to your discovery of Cantabria's coastal beauty.

Key Harbours to Discover in Cantabria

• Santander - The crown jewel of Cantabria, Santander enchants visitors with its beautiful beaches and gorgeous architecture. When the cruise docks, explore the stunning Palacio de la Magdalena and enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque waterfront promenade. For those with a little extra time, indulge in local delicacies, such as the region's famous anchovies, at one of the nearby seafood restaurants.

Ports Typically Visited Before or After Exploring Cantabria

• Southampton, England - A lively port city, Southampton is known for its rich maritime history and cultural attractions. Take some time to explore the city’s museums, or venture to nearby historic sites such as Tudor House and Garden. With plenty of dining options, it’s a great place to fuel up before setting off on your cruise.
• Lisbon, Portugal - As picturesque capital city, Lisbon offers charming neighbourhoods filled with sights to see such as the iconic Belém Tower and vibrant colourful streets. Enjoy a tram ride around the city and stop to sample traditional Portuguese pastries, particularly the famous Pastel de Nata, offering a sweet treat before embarking on your journey to Cantabria.
• Seville, Spain - An alluring Andalusian city, Seville is here to enchant you with its stunning architecture and flamenco culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the stunning Royal Alcázar or place your feet on the beautiful plaza of Plaza de España, making your time here a remarkable prelude to Cantabria.
• La Coruña, Spain - This coastal city boasts a rich maritime history alongside beautiful beaches. Visit the Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse still in use today, and relax at the promenade while sampling delicious Galician seafood dishes.
• Gijón, Spain - A vibrant city with a lovely waterfront, Gijón offers a mix of history and modernity. Explore the Roman remains at Cimavilla before indulging in cider tastings at a local sidrería (cider house), as cider is a regional specialty.

Seasonal Advantages of Visiting Cantabria

When planning a cruise to Cantabria, the seasonal climate plays an essential role in your experience. From January to March, temperatures range between 5°C and 15°C, perfect for sight-seeing without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons. Spring, from April to June, sees warmer temperatures of 10°C to 22°C, welcoming blossoming landscapes and outdoor activities. The summer months of July to September experience delightful weather with temperatures soaring to between 15°C and 30°C, making it an outstanding time for beach activities and exploring local markets. Autumn, from October to December, offers a milder climate from 8°C to 18°C, creating a lovely atmosphere for leisurely walks and enjoying local festivities.

The Cost of Cruising to Cantabria

The price range for cruising to Cantabria can vary significantly based on the cruise provider and itinerary. For a week-long cruise, anticipate spending around £700 to £1,200 per person, while a two-week cruise typically costs about £1,400 to £2,400. Luxury experiences can start at around £1,800 weekly, featuring premium amenities and exceptional service. Expect to budget approximately £10 to £30 for meals while ashore, with drinks averaging around £3 to £10, depending on your choice of refreshment while exploring this stunning region.

Explore Alternative Regions for Your Next Cruise

If Cantabria has piqued your interest, consider these captivating regions as alternatives for your next cruise adventure:

• Asturias - Known for its stunning landscapes filled with mountains and coastline, Asturias offers diverse culinary experiences, wonderful cider, and delightful local music traditions. The region invites guests to explore picturesque villages and natural parks.
• Basque Country - Renowned for its distinctive culture and exceptional cuisine, the Basque Country features beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, delicious pintxos, and a rich artistic heritage, making it a delightful alternative.
• Arctic - For those seeking adventure, cruising in Arctic waters offers breathtaking landscapes, encounters with wildlife, and captivating cultural experiences while exploring one of the world’s most pristine environments—truly an unforgettable journey.
• Amalfi Coast - Famed for its dramatic cliffs, charming coastal villages, and Mediterranean flavours, the Amalfi Coast invites cruisers to indulge in beautiful sights and tastes with plenty of opportunities for swimming in turquoise waters.
• Adriatic Sea - This historical coastline features stunning islands and fascinating towns. Explore ancient cities such as Dubrovnik or Split while enjoying the breathtaking views of the brilliant blue waters that line the coast.

With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, a cruise holiday to Cantabria offers a beautiful blend of adventure and relaxation. Booking your trip through Cruise1st ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the charm that this captivating region has to offer. Start planning your unforgettable journey today!