Basque Country Cruises

The Basque Country, located in the northeastern region of Spain and extending into southwestern France, is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and incredible cuisine. Known as “Euskal Herria” in the local language, this area is home to a proud heritage and is recognised for its distinct traditions, language, and artistic prowess. Fun fact: the Basque people have their own language, Euskara, which is unrelated to any other language in the world! A cruise to the Basque Country allows you to explore its vibrant cities such as Bilbao and San Sebastián, stunning coastlines, and picturesque wine regions in a refreshing and enjoyable way.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Basque Country

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 5 dedicated to itineraries that include the Basque Country. The Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess are standout choices known for their wide variety of dining options and engaging entertainment programs. The Sky Princess features a relaxing adults-only sanctuary, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Most of these cruises depart from Southampton or Rome, providing convenient embarkation points for an enchanting experience in this unique region.
• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 focused on itineraries to the Basque Country. The Nieuw Statendam and Westerdam provide a refined cruising experience with excellent culinary options and engaging cultural enrichment activities. Departures generally occur from Barcelona or Rotterdam, ensuring easy access to the magnificent sights of the Basque Country.
• MSC Cruises boasts a fleet of 23 ships, with 2 dedicated to the Basque Country. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia are popular for their family-friendly amenities and lively onboard entertainment. The MSC Virtuosa features stunning areas for relaxation and entertainment, making it ideal for families. Departures typically occur from Genoa or Barcelona, offering excellent gateways to begin your exploration of the Basque region.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises consists of 29 ships, with 6 that highlight the Basque Country in their itineraries. The Anthem of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are renowned for their innovative activities such as rock climbing walls and zip lines, ensuring a fun-filled experience. These ships typically depart from Southampton or Barcelona, making it easy for voyagers to embark on their exciting journey.
• P&O Cruises has a fleet of 7 ships, with 3 that visit the Basque Country. The Britannia and Azura are known for their welcoming environments and excellent service. These ships provide a range of activities from casual dining to theatrical performances. Most departures are common from Southampton, offering great access for UK guests wanting to enjoy the splendid landscapes of the Basque Country along the way.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in the Basque Country

• Oceania Cruises operates 8 ships, with 2 focused on itineraries that include the Basque Country. The Vista and Sirena are renowned for their luxurious atmosphere and exceptional dining experiences that celebrate local flavours. Departures typically occur from Miami or Rome, fostering a seamless entry into the enchanting Basque region.
• Azamara Cruises features a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 dedicated to exploring the Basque Country. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward focus on immersive experiences, often featuring late-night port stays for guests to enjoy the local nightlife and culture. Departures typically happen from Lisbon or Southampton, facilitating smooth transitions into this captivating region.
• Seabourn consists of a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 2 focusing on itineraries that include the Basque Country. The Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Ovation are celebrated for their all-inclusive luxury service, spacious suites, and fine dining options, creating an intimate cruising experience. Departures usually occur from Barcelona or Lisbon, ensuring guests start their journey in style.
• Explora Journeys has a fleet of 2, both offering itineraries focusing on the Basque Coast. The EXPLORA I and II are recommended for their upscale accommodations and wellness-oriented journeys, providing guests with unique luxury experiences. Most departures are commonly from Barcelona or Miami, making it easy to connect to the splendors of the Basque region.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries in the Basque Country. The Balmoral and Bolette are both noted for their welcoming atmosphere and personal touches, perfect for relaxing and enjoying regional excursions. Departures are typically from Southampton or Liverpool, making travel easy for guests exploring the vibrant scenery of the Basque coast.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Basque Country

• Bilbao – The largest city in the Basque Country is known for its stunning Guggenheim Museum, which features modern architecture and contemporary art. Take a scenic walk along the estuary and explore the city’s thriving culinary scene, including local delights such as pintxos (Basque tapas). The charming old town, Casco Viejo, invites you to wander through its narrow streets lined with shops and cafés.
• San Sebastián – Renowned for its picturesque beaches and stunning bay, San Sebastián is a top culinary destination in Spain. Visit La Concha Beach for sunbathing, or indulge in delectable tapas in the bustling Old Town (Parte Vieja). Don’t miss trying the local specialty, especially the pintxos that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage!
• Vitoria-Gasteiz – This historic city is known for its well-preserved medieval centre and rich cultural scene. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa María or enjoy a leisurely stroll in the picturesque parks that surround the city. Vitoria-Gasteiz’s culinary offerings are noteworthy, so grab a meal at a local bistro for a true taste of Basque cuisine.
• Getxo – A beautiful coastal town near Bilbao, Getxo features stunning mansions and picturesque beaches. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade or enjoy the views from the picturesque Puente Colgante (hanging bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a perfect place to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of the Basque coastline.
• Saint Jean de Luz – Just across the border in France, this charming fishing port is known for its golden beaches and vibrant Basque culture. Explore the colourful marina, visit the local artisan shops, and sample fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants. The nearby Fort Socoa offers panoramic views of the bay, making it an ideal spot for a scenic photo opportunity.

When to Cruise the Basque Country

The Basque Country offers a delightful climate that varies throughout the year, providing visitors with numerous options for exploration. From January to March, winter reigns with cool temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C, making it lovely for sightseeing in a more tranquil setting. Spring (April to June) brings mild temperatures around 10°C to 20°C, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and local festivities. Summer months (July to September) see temperatures average 20°C to 30°C, ideal for beach activities and experiencing the vibrant local culture. Autumn (October to December) cools down to approximately 10°C to 20°C, providing opportunities to enjoy local wine and cuisine during harvest festivals.

Costs of Cruising to the Basque Country

A one-week cruise to the Basque Country typically ranges from £800 to £1,600, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodations selected. Luxury cruises generally start around £3,500, with potential increases based on the level of service and available amenities. While exploring the region, expect to spend around £10 to £25 for meals at local restaurants, with drinks typically costing between £3 and £8, allowing you to savour the flavours of authentic Basque cuisine during your stay.

The Basque Country awaits with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. Start planning your unforgettable cruise holiday through Cruise1st today, and get ready to explore the incredible treasures of this captivating region!