Discover the Vibrant Wonders of Spain on Your Next Cruise
Welcome to Spain, a captivating country brimming with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the historic ambiance of Seville, Spain offers a rich tapestry of experiences that are perfect for exploration by cruise. Fun fact: Spain is home to over 1,500 beaches, many of which boast the coveted Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safety! Opting for a cruise allows you to journey through this exciting country, exploring multiple ports while enjoying the comfort and amenities of your floating hotel.
Top Major Cruise Lines to Spain
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MSC Cruises: With a total fleet size of 24, MSC features 19 ships—MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, and MSC Fantasia—offering itineraries to Spain. Celebrated for their family-friendly atmosphere and excellent onboard facilities, MSC Cruises provides a diverse range of entertainment options, from water parks to dining experiences that cater to all tastes. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome), making it convenient for cruisers wanting to explore Spain.
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Cunard: Operating with a fleet of just 4, Cunard includes 3 ships—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—providing itineraries that feature Spain. Renowned for their classic elegance, Cunard offers sophisticated dining, luxurious amenities, and captivating entertainment options, perfect for a refined cruising experience. Most cruise departures happen from major international ports like Southampton, creating a delightful connection to Spain's coastal allure.
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P&O Cruises: With a fleet size of 7, P&O ships are all available for sailings to Spain, showcasing their commitment to travel in this beautiful region. Known for their relaxed atmosphere, P&O Cruises combines friendly service with top-notch entertainment options. Departures typically occur from key ports like Southampton and Barcelona, allowing guests to enjoy a smooth journey to explore the delights of Spain.
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Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet size of 17, Princess has 9 ships—Royal Princess, Caribbean Princess, and others—offering itineraries to Spain. With themed cruises and engaging cultural events, Princess Cruises provides immersive experiences designed to showcase the essence of each destination. Most departures happen from international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona, making for easy access to Spain's vibrant coast.
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Royal Caribbean: With a large fleet of 30, Royal Caribbean offers 9 ships—Allure of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Anthem of the Seas—that cruise to Spain. Known for their innovative ships packed with activities, Royal Caribbean ensures a dynamic cruising experience with entertainment ranging from rock climbing walls to surf simulators. Departures generally occur from prominent international ports like Barcelona and Lisbon.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Spain
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Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11, Viking has 7 ships—Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Jupiter, and Viking Saturn—operating itineraries to Spain. Renowned for their culturally immersive experiences and destination-centric approach, Viking ensures that each journey connects guests with the heart of Spanish culture. Most departures occur from international ports such as Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome), allowing a seamless transition into your Spanish adventure.
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Silversea: Offering a fleet of 12, Silversea has 8 ships—including Silver Spirit and Silver Ray—visiting Spain. Known for their all-inclusive luxury journeys and community-focused service, Silversea offers personalized itineraries for discerning travellers. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Barcelona and Lisbon, providing easy access to incredible Spanish destinations.
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Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania includes 7 ships—Nautica, Sirena, and Riviera—that feature itineraries to Spain. Celebrated for their culinary excellence and intimate onboard atmosphere, Oceania provides an upscale cruising experience with local excursions focusing on cultural tastes and sights. Most departures happen at major international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona.
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Explora Journeys: Comprising 2 ships—EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II—this new cruise line prioritizes immersive experiences and sustainability while offering itineraries to Spain. With a company ethos rooted in qualitative travel experiences, Explora provides unique engagement with local cultures. Departures commonly occur from ports like Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome).
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Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara features all 4 ships—Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, Azamara Onward, and Azamara Pursuit—focused on itineraries that explore Spain. Known for their immersive destination experiences and emphasis on longer stays in ports, Azamara invites guests to connect with local culture deeply. Departures usually occur from major international ports such as Pireus (Athens) and Barcelona.
Must-Visit Harbours in Spain
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Barcelona: The vibrant capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is famous for its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere. While your cruise is docked, explore the masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Familia or Park Güell. Stroll down La Rambla, enjoy local tapas, or visit the bustling markets for an unforgettable experience!
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Palma de Mallorca: Known for its beautiful beaches and rich history, Palma offers a mix of cultural sights and relaxation. Visit the stunning Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, then unwind on the sandy beaches or sample delectable local pastries, such as ensaimadas, during your time in this picturesque port!
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Santa Cruz de Tenerife: This bustling capital of the Canary Islands provides visitors with tropical landscapes and a vibrant atmosphere. While in port, check out the Auditorio de Tenerife, visit the beautiful Parque García Sanabria, or take an excursion to the stunning Mount Teide National Park, home to Spain's highest peak.
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Málaga: A gem on the Costa del Sol, Málaga boasts a lovely blend of history, culture, and beach relaxation. Vist the impressive Alcazaba and the Picasso Museum, or enjoy the sun on the nearby beaches while trying delicious local seafood. Be sure to sample some traditional churros or local wine while exploring!
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Valencia: Known for its stunning architecture and cultural diversity, Valencia offers an enjoyable mix of history and modernity. Explore the historic old town, visit the City of Arts and Sciences, or relax in the Turia Gardens. Don't forget to indulge in some authentic paella, as this dish originated from Valencia!
Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Spain
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Civitavecchia, Italy: As the main port for cruising to Rome, Civitavecchia is an essential embarkation point for exploring Spain. With the iconic Colosseum, the Vatican, and world-renowned cuisine within reach, visitors can easily spend an unforgettable day in the Eternal City.
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Lisbon, Portugal: A vibrant capital known for its picturesque hills and historic neighbourhoods, Lisbon offers plenty of activities, from exploring the Belém Tower to enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Bairro Alto. Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies, such as pastéis de nata!
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Dubrovnik, Croatia: Renowned for its stunning Old Town and defensive walls, Dubrovnik is often frequented by cruises heading to Spain. Walk along the ancient city walls, take in panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, or enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafés while soaking up local culture.
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Valletta, Malta: A small but rich capital, Valletta is a blend of history and stunning architecture. Guests can visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, explore the Grand Harbour, or relax at one of the nearby beaches to connect with the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Best Times to Cruise to Spain
The ideal time to cruise to Spain is typically from April to October, with temperatures ranging from about 15°C to 30°C, perfect for exploring the lively cities and enjoying the stunning beaches. The months of summer, particularly June to August, are popular with travellers looking for sunny weather. For those wanting to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower prices, consider travelling from November to March, when temperatures may drop to about 8°C to 20°C, but be prepared for cooler, wetter weather.
Costs of Cruising to Spain
A typical one-week cruise to Spain generally starts at around $2,800, while a two-week itinerary may cost approximately $5,500. If you are interested in luxury cruise options, expect pricing to begin around $7,800 for a one-week journey. Dining and drinking costs in Spain vary widely, with meals generally priced between $12 and $60, while drinks typically range from $5 to $15, allowing you to fully indulge in the rich culinary offerings throughout your exploration.
Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise
If exploring Spain piques your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:
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Portugal: Known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food and wine, Portugal offers a diverse range of experiences that enrich any trip.
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Adriatic Sea: Featuring picturesque coastal towns and beautiful landscapes, the Adriatic Sea is ideal for explore beautiful destinations such as Croatia and Montenegro.
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Western Mediterranean: With its blend of charming towns and vibrant culture, the Western Mediterranean offers easy access to stunning ports across Spain and beyond.
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Eastern Mediterranean: Known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural history, the Eastern Mediterranean offers a unique mix of stunning island getaways and historical marvels.
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Canary Islands: A tropical escape known for year-round warmth, the Canary Islands provide a blend of beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and welcoming local culture.
Are you ready to embark on a captivating journey through Spain’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and prepare to discover all that this enchanting region has to offer!