Sailing the Spanish Atlantic Coast: Complete Guide
The Spanish North Atlantic coast, with its steep cliffs, wild beaches and picturesque fishing ports, is a true El Dorado for sailors.
Of Basque Country to the Galicia, passing through the Cantabria and the Asturias, this coast offers a diversity of landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Plan your maritime itinerary in Spain with Orca Retail and let yourself be tempted by a journey along the mythical North Atlantic coast.
Discover secret coves, visit historic towns, taste local specialties and soak up the authentic atmosphere of the Spanish coast.
On the way!
San Sebastián (Donostia in Basque)
What to do in San Sebastian?
This elegant seaside town, nicknamed the "Pearl of Cantabria", offers an exceptional living environment. The Concha beach, shaped like a shell, is the emblem of the city.
The historic center, with its pedestrian streets and colorful houses, is a delight to explore. Gastronomy lovers will be delighted by the pintxos, these tapas typical of the Basque Country.
THE Mount Urgull, overlooking the city and housing a historic fort, offers a breathtaking panoramic view.
Sailing in San Sebastian
The marina of San Sebastián is located at the foot of Mount Urgull. It offers a complete range of services and facilities for boaters.
La Concha Bay is protected, but Navigation may be disrupted by the north wind, the tramontane.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near cliffs.
- Port Authority: Port of San Sebastian
Bilbao
What to do in Bilbao?
Bilbao, famous for its Guggenheim Museum and its avant-garde architecture, offers much more than a simple museum.
Her historic center, with its narrow streets and old houses, invites you to stroll. The Ribera market, a must for gourmets, is full of fresh produce.
The city also has many green spaces, such as the park of Doña Casilda Iturrizar, and offers a multitude of cultural and sporting activities.
Nature lovers can explore the reserve of the Urdaibai Biosphere, while the more athletic can enjoy the beaches of the Basque coast.
Bilbao is also a dynamic city, with a lively nightlife and many events throughout the year.
Sailing in Bilbao
The port of Bilbao, once marked by heavy industry, has been transformed into a dynamic space where maritime culture rubs shoulders with contemporary art. The Bilbao estuary, with its calm waters and his varied landscapes, offers an ideal setting for boaters.
Navigation in this region has some particularities to take into account. Tides, often significant, influence water depths, requiring special attention when planning routes. In addition, maritime traffic, although regulated, requires vigilance, especially in port areas.
- Port Authority: Bilbao Port Authority
Santander
What to do in Santander?
Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is a dynamic city with a rich historical heritage. The cathedral, THE Magdalena Palace and the Cabo Mayor lighthouse are some of the must-see sites.
Santander's beaches are renowned for their fine sand and clean waters.
Sailing in Santander
The Port of Santander is a large commercial and recreational port. It offers a wide range of services and facilities for boaters.
The Bay of Santander is protected, but navigation can be disrupted by the north wind. Discover in particular the islands of the bay, such as theMouro Island, and enjoy their beaches and unspoiled nature.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near cliffs.
- Port Authority: Santander Port Authority
Gijon
What to do in Gijón?
Gijón, a vibrant coastal city, offers a perfect blend of industrial heritage, nature and urban life.
Its beaches, like the famous San Lorenzo, are ideal for relaxing and practicing water activities. The historic center of Cimadevilla, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, invites you to stroll.
Culture lovers will not be left out with the Asturias Railway Museum or the Museum of the People of Asturias.
For a deeper immersion into regional history, an excursion to Oviedo is essential.
This university city, capital of Asturias, is home to the magnificent Oviedo Cathedral, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. The Alvar Alto Foundation, for its part, presents the finest works of the Finnish architect in a permanent exhibition.
Sailing in Gijón
The port of Gijón is well equipped to accommodate boaters, with modern facilities and a wide range of services.
The waters are generally calm, but the northwest wind can make navigation tricky at certain times of the year. The seabed is mixed, with rocky and sandy areas.
- Port Authority: Port Authority of Gijón
Avilés
What to do in Avilés?
Avilés is a charming little port town, a true haven of peace away from the big crowds.
The historic center is enchanting, with well-preserved medieval buildings, such as the Plaza Mayor, there old church of Sabugo and the Valdecarzana Palace.
The city is also an important cultural center, with institutions such as the house of culture and the Asturias Art Museum.
For a touch of modernity, don't miss the Niemeyer Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Sailing in Avilés
The port of Avilés is a mixed port, with commercial and recreational facilities.
The waters are generally calm, but it is worth taking into account the maritime traffic in the ria. The seabed is mainly sandy.
- Port Authority: Avilés Port Authority
La Coruña
What to do in La Coruña?
La Coruña is a bustling port city, full of life and culture.
Don't miss the lighthouse of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, nor the old town with its picturesque places and his narrow streets.
Sailing in La Coruña
The port of La Coruña is a major port on the Galician coast, with many facilities for boaters.
The waters around La Coruña are rough with waves and currents, requiring careful navigation, especially in bad weather. The seabed is mainly rocky.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Port of La Coruña
Vigo
What to do in Vigo?
Vigo, the largest city in Galicia, is famous for its fishing port, one of the largest in Europe. Its fish market is a sight not to be missed.
The city also offers many museums, theaters And parks. THE Barona Castro, an ancient fortified village, is a must-see for history lovers.
Sailing in Vigo
Sailing near Vigo, boaters can admire the steep cliffs, observe marine wildlife and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Galician coast.
The Vigo estuary, one of the largest and deepest in Spain, offers an exceptional setting for boaters.
Sailing in the ria also allows you to discover secret coves, traditional fishing villages and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Castro.
From the port of Vigo it is also possible toexplore the Cíes Islands, a true natural paradise with its fine sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
However, it is important to navigate with caution due to the maritime traffic and sometimes strong currents.
- Port Authority: Vigo Port Authority
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