How to Reach Spain via Ferry: Your Ultimate Guide

Traveling to Spain via ferry is a scenic and often overlooked option for those looking to visit this beautiful country. From the various routes available to essential travel tips, this guide will help you plan and execute your ferry journey to Spain.

Popular Ferry Routes to Spain

There are multiple international ferry routes that lead to Spain, catering to travelers from different parts of the world.

UK to Spain

UK residents have a few ferry options to discover Spain:

From Portsmouth to Santander or Bilbao, UK From Plymouth to Santander, UK

Ireland to Spain

Irish travelers can also board a ferry to Spain:

From Rosslare to Bilbao, Spain

Morocco and Algeria to Spain

Travelers from North Africa can take a ferry to Spain:

From Tangier to Tarifa and Algeciras, Morocco From Algiers or Oran to Alicante, Spain

Spanish Islands and Coastal Cities

Those traveling from Spanish islands like the Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza) and the Canary Islands, as well as from coastal cities like Ceuta and Melilla, can also reach continental Spain via ferry.

Specific Ferry Routes

Britain Ferries operates a regular service from Portsmouth and Plymouth to northern Spain. Some notable routes include:

Portsmouth - Santander Plymouth - Santander Plymouth - Bilbao

These ferries often offer overnight options, making the journey more comfortable. For longer trips, some ferries provide mini cruises and extend ashore stops, known as 'foot passenger' services, allowing disembarking to explore the land.

Bringing Your Car

Many ferry operators allow passengers to bring their cars on board. This option is particularly appealing to travelers who want to drive their vehicles directly into Spain and continue exploring the country at their leisure.

Example: My sister traveled from Portsmouth to Bilbao with her car years ago. The ferry night service made the journey convenient, and she was able to drive her car straight into Spain.

Additional Ferry Routes

Beyond the direct UK and Ireland routes, there are various other ferry connections to Spain:

Rome to Barcelona, Italy Sardinia to Barcelona, Spain Morocco to Tarifa and Algeciras Algeria to Alicante

These routes provide connectivity from mainland Europe and beyond, making it easier for travelers to reach Spain via ferry.

Conclusion

Traveling to Spain via ferry offers a unique and pleasant way to explore the country. Whether you are coming from the UK, Ireland, North Africa, or Spain itself, there are numerous ferry options to choose from. So plan your journey, book your tickets in advance, and experience the journey to Spain by sea.