Costa Blanca Cruises

Costa Blanca, located on Spain’s southeastern coast, is a stunning region known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and warm Mediterranean climate. This sun-soaked paradise attracts cruisers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Fun fact: the area is home to more than 200 beaches, including the renowned Playa de San Juan, which has been consistently named one of Europe’s best beaches! When visiting Costa Blanca with a cruise, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore charming villages, sample delicious Spanish cuisine, and bask in the glorious sunshine.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Adventures to Costa Blanca

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC has 6 ships that sail to Costa Blanca. Notable vessels include MSC Magnifica and MSC Seaview, both known for their relaxed atmospheres, excellent entertainment options, and stunning ocean views. Departures typically occur from international ports like Genoa or Miami, providing cruisers a range of options to kick off their vacation.
• Holland America Line: This sophisticated cruise line has 11 ships, with 4 dedicated to Costa Blanca. The Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam are particularly worthy to mention for their upscale dining experiences and immersive onboard activities. Departures most commonly take place from Sydney or international ports such as Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), ensuring flexibility for cruisers.
• P&O Cruises: With a total fleet size of 7, P&O has 4 ships offering cruises to Costa Blanca. The Arvia and Arcadia shine with their enriching onboard experiences, catering to cruisers of all ages. Most sailings depart from Southampton, making it easy for UK cruisers to embark on their Spanish adventure.
• Cunard: This luxury line features 4 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Costa Blanca. Queen Anne and Queen Victoria are renowned for their classic elegance and exceptional service. Departures typically occur from Southampton, making it accessible for local cruisers keen on an upscale experience.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20, Norwegian has 3 ships that cruise to Costa Blanca. The Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Getaway are popular picks, known for their freestyle dining options and lively onboard activities. Departures often take place from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens, providing plenty of flexibility to start your journey.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Costa Blanca

• Oceania Cruises: This high-end cruise line boasts a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 offering itineraries to Costa Blanca. The Sirena and Marina provide an upscale atmosphere, renowned for their fine dining options and intimate onboard experiences. Most departures are from Barcelona or Southampton, ensuring a luxurious entry into the beauty of Costa Blanca.
• Seabourn: With 6 ships, Seabourn has 2 that visit Costa Blanca. The Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation offer an all-inclusive luxury experience, focusing on personalised service and gourmet dining. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Lisbon, setting a perfect tone for your Mediterranean exploration.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara has 1 ship, the Azamara Onward, that visits Costa Blanca. Renowned for longer port stays and immersive itineraries, this cruise line offers a unique opportunity to explore local culture. Departures are primarily from Barcelona, allowing for an easy departure point before diving into the delights of Spain.
• Silversea: This luxury line has a total fleet size of 12 with 1 vessel sailing to Costa Blanca, namely the Silver Whisper. Silversea is celebrated for its all-inclusive experience and spacious suites. Departures occur typically from Málaga, making it a convenient starting point for your journey to Costa Blanca.

Top Harbours to Explore in Costa Blanca

• Alicante: This vibrant coastal city offers stunning architecture and beautiful beaches. When your cruise docks here, explore the historic Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views or visit the bustling Explanada de España for a taste of local cuisine and shopping. Beaches such as Postiguet are perfect for a quick dip or sunbathing.
• Barcelona: Often called the jewel of Spain, Barcelona boasts magnificent Gaudí architecture, world-class cuisine, and an exciting nightlife. Don’t miss out on visiting the iconic Sagrada Família or strolling through the magical streets of the Gothic Quarter. Grab some tapas and enjoy the local scene at one of the nearby eateries.
• Valencia: Known for its stunning City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia is a fantastic port of call. Explore the Turia Gardens, visit the impressive Valencia Cathedral, or indulge in a traditional paella at a local restaurant. If you’re there during Spring, the Las Fallas festival is an unforgettable sight!
• Málaga: Explore the birthplace of Picasso when your cruise docks in Málaga. You can visit the Picasso Museum, explore the historic Alcazaba fortress, or relax on the nearby La Malagueta beach. Don’t forget to try local specialties like espeto (sardines on a stick) when you’re here!
• Palma de Mallorca: This island destination is famous for its stunning cathedral, La Seu, and charming old town. Grab a stroll along the marina, bask in the Mediterranean sun on the beach, or taste the delectable ensaïmada pastry while you explore the local shops and market stalls.

Best Times to Cruise to Costa Blanca

Cruising to Costa Blanca offers pleasant weather most of the year. From January to March, temperatures are mild, averaging between 12°C and 19°C, making it perfect for exploring towns without the summer heat. April to June sees temperatures rise to around 18°C to 28°C, ideal for sun-seeking travellers. The summer months, July to September, can bring warm weather, with temperatures averaging 24°C to 32°C, making beach days irresistible. Finally, October to December, temperatures cool slightly, averaging between 15°C and 25°C, providing a great balance of warmth and fewer crowds.

The Cost of a Cruise to Costa Blanca

When planning your dream getaway, expect a one-week cruise to Costa Blanca to range between $1,200 and $2,500 AUD, depending on your choice of cruise line and accommodation. If you opt for a more luxurious experience, prices may climb to $3,500 to $6,000 AUD for similar itineraries, but you’ll be rewarded with upscale amenities and unique dining experiences.

Dining during your travels will generally cost about $15 to $30 AUD at local restaurants, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Spanish flavours. If you fancy a drink, local wines and cocktails will usually cost around $5 to $12 AUD, allowing you to fully enjoy the local culinary scene without busting your budget!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re considering a cruise to Costa Blanca, you might also want to explore these enticing alternative regions:

• Baleric Islands – Known for their stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, the Andalusian Islands provide a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure arising from local culture and activities, from sunbathing to sailing.
• Southern Africa – An incredible mix of diverse cultures, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Southern Africa offers a unique experience for those eager to explore thrilling adventures in nature.
• Turkey – This region boasts stunning coastlines, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Sites like Ephesus and the bustling bazaars will keep adventurers captivated.
• Croatia – Known for its beautiful coastlines and historic cities, Croatia provides an immersive experience in Mediterranean culture, as well as stunning vistas and delicious local cuisine.
• Greek Islands – With their exquisite beaches, charming villages, and rich history, the Greek Islands offer a delightful combination of relaxation and cultural exploration. Whether it’s Santorini or Mykonos, each island has its own unique charm to enjoy.

Now that you’re inspired, it’s time to book your incredible cruise holiday to Costa Blanca with Cruise1st. Delight in everything this sunny Spanish gem has to offer, and create unforgettable memories along the way!