Spain Cruises

Discover the Vibrant Wonders of Spain on a Cruise

Spain, a country bursting with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, is an irresistible destination for cruisers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Not only is Spain a feast for the senses, with its world-renowned tapas and vibrant festivals, but it also boasts spectacular coastal scenery and historical landmarks. Fun fact: Spain is home to over 8,000 km of coastline, making it one of the most beautiful seaside destinations in Europe! Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Barcelona or the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol, a cruise to Spain promises unforgettable experiences.

Top Harbours to Explore in Spain

During your cruise, you’ll have the chance to discover some of the most stunning harbours Spain has to offer. Here are five must-visit destinations:

• Barcelona
  Barcelona is a vibrant city, known for its unique architecture and rich history. After disembarking your cruise, take a stroll along the famous La Rambla to soak in the local atmosphere. Don’t忘 forget to visit the stunning Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s iconic basilica that’s still under construction. If you’re pressed for time, make sure to grab some tapas at nearby restaurants or take a quick dip at one of the city’s beautiful beaches before you set sail again!
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
  Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the Canary Islands, offers beautiful parks and a fantastic waterfront. Upon arrival, take the time to explore the stunning Auditorio de Tenerife, an architectural gem. If you have limited time, hop on a local bus to visit the picturesque town of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a scenic ride up to Mount Teide for breathtaking views!
• Palma de Mallorca
  The capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, is known for its historical sites and beautiful beaches. As your cruise docks, visit the magnificent Palma Cathedral (La Seu) and explore the charming streets of the old town. For a unique activity, consider renting a bike to cycle along the coastal paths or enjoy a leisurely meal at a local café to savour traditional dishes like paella.
• Valencia
  Valencia is a captivating mix of historical architecture and modern attractions. On your stop, don’t miss the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural masterpiece. If time allows, explore the local market to taste some delicious horchata or indulge in authentic paella. Stroll through the Turia Gardens for a leisurely escape in nature before it’s time to board your cruise.
• Málaga
  Málaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, brims with cultural richness. After arriving, discover the Picasso Museum or venture to the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress offering spectacular city views. If pressed for time, relax at the popular Malagueta Beach or enjoy a refreshing drink—try some local wine—before heading back to your ship!

Popular Ports Before or After Your Spain Cruise

Many cruisers will also have the opportunity to explore fascinating harbours that are typically visited before or after Spain:

• Civitavecchia (Rome)
  Serving as the main port for Rome, Civitavecchia allows cruisers to explore iconic sites such as the Colosseum and Vatican City. If you have limited time, consider a guided tour that efficiently showcases the highlights while allowing ample time to enjoy a gelato!
• Lisbon
  As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon is known for its colourful architecture and steep hills. If your cruise includes a stop, explore historic districts like Alfama or Belém, and be sure to sample a pastel de nata (custard tart) from a local bakery as a sweet treat while taking in the views from São Jorge Castle!
• Nice
  Known for its stunning coastal views and Mediterranean charm, Nice is a wonderful addition to a Spain cruise. Enjoy a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, relax on the beach, or explore the vibrant markets showcasing local produce and crafts.
• Cádiz
  A historic port city in southern Spain, Cádiz offers cruisers the chance to explore charming old streets filled with unique architecture. Take a walk along the seawall, visit the Cádiz Cathedral, or indulge in fresh seafood at a local tapas bar before heading back to the ship!
• Marseille
  The bustling port city of Marseille offers a rich maritime history and delicious cuisine. Explore the Old Port, visit the stunning Palais des Festivals, or take a boat trip to the Calanques for breathtaking views of the rocky coast.

Best Times to Experience Spain

The ideal time to cruise to Spain is from April to June and September to October, when temperatures range between 15°C and 28°C. This allows you to enjoy pleasant weather while avoiding summer crowds. For those seeking milder conditions, consider visiting from January to March, when temperatures typically range from 8°C to 18°C, providing a more tranquil experience as you explore Spain’s rich history and stunning scenery.

Cruise Costs Overview for Spain

Curious about the pricing for cruises to Spain? A 1-week cruise typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 for standard packages, while luxury options can cost upwards of $4,500 to $10,000. If considering a 2-week journey, expect around $2,800 to $6,500 for regular cruise packages and upwards of $10,000 for luxury cruises. Cruises tend to be more affordable during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October, while peak summer months generally come with higher prices. Dining costs can vary, but expect to pay about $20 to $50 for a meal, and a drink will usually cost between $5 and $12.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Voyages to Spain

• MSC Cruises
  With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 15 that set sail for Spain, including MSC Magnifica and MSC Poesia. Most departures occur from international ports like Genoa or Barcelona. Recognised for family-friendly cruising experiences, MSC offers various onboard activities and entertainment that cater to all ages.
• Cunard Line
  Cunard operates a fleet of 4 ships, with Queen Victoria and Queen Anne visiting Spain. Departures are often from Barcelona or Southampton. Known for luxury and sophistication, Cunard offers formal dining and world-class entertainment, ensuring guests enjoy an upscale cruising experience.
• P&O Cruises
  P&O boasts a fleet of 7 ships, all offering Spain itineraries, with Azura and Ventura among the most popular. Departures typically occur from Sydney or international ports such as Southampton. P&O is celebrated for its extensive onboard activities and traditional British cruising experience, making guests feel right at home.
• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess has 12 that frequently visit Spain, led by Sun Princess and Sky Princess. Departures usually happen from ports like Sydney or Brisbane, as well as international ports like Barcelona. Princess Cruises are known for excellent service, dining options, and immersive shore excursions.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 13 offering itineraries to Spain, including Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star. Departures most often take place from Barcelona or Lisbon. Norwegian is known for its freestyle cruising concept, which provides guests with the freedom to enjoy a flexible onboard experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking has a total of 11 ships, with 7 of them visiting Spain, particularly Viking Saturn and Viking Star. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome). Known for its destination-focused cruises, Viking offers immersive experiences that allow guests to connect with local cultures.
• Oceania Cruises
  With 8 ships in its fleet, Oceania operates 7 that frequent Spain, including Marina and Sirena. Cruises usually depart from Barcelona or Miami. Oceania is renowned for its exquisite dining and destination-rich itineraries, ensuring that guests enjoy a delightful culinary journey alongside exploring various ports.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent sails with a fleet of 6 ships, five of which offer Spain itineraries, particularly Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Voyager. Departures often occur from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome). Known for its all-inclusive packages and personalised service, Regent provides an exceptional level of luxury throughout its cruises.
• Seabourn
  Seabourn operates a fleet of 6 ships, with three offering Spain itineraries, such as Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Common departure ports include Barcelona or Monte Carlo. Seabourn is recognised for its ultra-luxury experience, offering unmatched attention to detail and personalised service.
• Explora Journeys
  With a fleet of 2 ships, Explora has both actively visiting Spain, with EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome). Explora places an emphasis on creating meaningful journey experiences that resonate with the unique cultures of each destination visited.

Alternative Regions for Consideration

If Spain has captured your interest, consider exploring these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Italian Riviera: Known for its beautiful coastal villages, the Italian Riviera offers stunning landscapes and delightful cuisines. You can explore vibrant towns like Portofino and Cinque Terre, offering easy access to some of Italy‘s most picturesque settings.
• France: A cruise to France presents opportunities to experience rich history, exquisite wines, and stunning landscapes. A visit to the French Riviera, with destinations like Nice and Cannes, is perfect for those seeking glamour alongside cultural experiences.
• Adriatic Sea: The Adriatic Sea is home to stunning coastal towns like Dubrovnik and Split. With rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, this region provides a delightful cruising experience.
• Greek Islands: Discover the enchanting Greek Islands, known for their whitewashed buildings and crystal-clear waters. With exquisite local flavours, breathtaking views, and unique archaeological sites, these islands are perfect for a memorable adventure!
• Bali: A cruise to Bali offers a combination of stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences. Explore ancient temples, lush landscapes, and enjoy world-renowned Balinese hospitality that makes this island a tropical paradise.

Spain is waiting for you to explore its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delightful cuisine. Book your next cruise adventure with CruiseAway and set sail for an unforgettable experience!