Sailing the Spanish Atlantic coast: Complete guide
Spain's North Atlantic coast, with its breathtaking cliffs, wild beaches and picturesque fishing ports, is a real Eldorado for sailors.
From the Basque Country to Galicia, via Cantabria and 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, sample local specialities and soak up the authentic atmosphere of Spain's coasts.
En route!
San Sebastián (Donostia in Basque)
What to do in San Sebastián
This elegant seaside town, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea", offers an exceptional living environment. The shell-shaped Concha beach is the city's emblem.
The historic center, with its pedestrian streets and colorful houses, is a delight to stroll through. Food lovers will be delighted by pintxos, the typical tapas of the Basque Country.
The Mount Urgull, overlooking the town and home to a historic fort, offers stunning panoramic views.
Sailing in San Sebastián
San Sebastián's marina is located at the foot of Mount Urgull. It offers a full range of services and facilities for boaters.
The bay of La Concha is protected, but navigation can be disrupted by the north wind, the tramontana.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near cliffs.
- Port authority: Puerto de San Sebastián
Bilbao
What to do in Bilbao
Bilbao, famous for its Guggenheim Museum and avant-garde architecture, offers much more than just a museum.
His historic center, with its narrow streets and old houses, invites you to stroll. The marché de la Ribera, a must for gourmands, is packed with fresh produce.
The city also boasts numerous green spaces, such as the Parc de Doña Casilda Iturrizar, and offers a multitude of cultural and sporting activities.
Nature lovers can explore the Urdaibai biosphere reserve, while the more sporty can enjoy the beaches of the Basque coast.
Bilbao is also a dynamic city, with a lively nightlife and numerous events throughout the year.
Navigating Bilbao
The port of Bilbao, once marked by heavy industry, has metamorphosed into a dynamic space where maritime culture rubs shoulders with contemporary art. The ria de Bilbao, with its calm waters and varied landscapes, offers an ideal setting for yachtsmen.
Navigation in this region has a few peculiarities to take into account. The often significant tides influence water depths, requiring special attention when planning routes. What's more, maritime traffic, although regulated, requires vigilance, especially in port areas.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Bilbao
Santander
What to do in Santander
Santander, capital of Cantabria, is a dynamic city with a rich historical heritage. The cathedral, the palais de la Magdalena and the Cabo Mayor lighthouse are just some of the must-see sights.
Santander's beaches are renowned for their fine sand and clean waters.
Sailing in Santander
The port of Santander is a major commercial and yachting port. It offers a wide range of services and facilities for yachtsmen.
Santander Bay is protected, but navigation can be disrupted by the north wind. In particular, discover the islands in the bay, such as the island of Mouro, and enjoy their beaches and unspoilt nature.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near cliffs.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Santander
Gijón
What to do in Gijón
Gijón, a dynamic coastal city, offers a perfect blend of industrial heritage, nature and urban life.
Beaches, such as the famous San Lorenzo, are ideal for relaxation and water sports. The historic center of Cimadevilla, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, invites you to take a stroll.
Culture lovers won't be left out with theMuseum of the Ferrocarril of Asturias or the Museum of the People of Asturias.
For a deeper immersion in regional history, an excursion to Oviedo is a must.
This university town, capital of Asturias, is home to the magnificent Oviedo Cathedral, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. The Fondation Alvar Alto, meanwhile, presents the Finnish architect's finest works in a permanent exhibition.
Sailing in Gijón
The port of Gijón is well equipped to welcome yachtsmen, with modern facilities and a wide range of services.
The waters are generally calm, but the north-westerly wind can make navigation tricky at certain times of the year. The seabed is mixed, with rocky and sandy areas.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Gijón
Avilés
What to do in Avilés
Avilés is a charming little port town, a real haven away from the big crowds.
The historic center is a delight, with well-preserved medieval buildings, such as the plaza Mayor, the old church of Sabugo and the palace of Valdecarzana.
The city is also an important cultural center, with institutions such as the Casa de la Cultura and the Asturian Art Museum.
For a touch of modernity, don't miss the Centre Niemeyer, an architectural masterpiece designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Navigating to Avilés
The port of Avilés is a mixed port, with commercial and pleasure facilities.
The waters are generally calm, but marine traffic in the ria must be taken into account. The seabed is mainly sandy.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Avilés
La Coruña
What to do in La Coruña
Corunna is a bustling port city, full of life and culture.
Don't miss the Hercules Lighthouse, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, or the old town with its picturesque squares and narrow alleys.
Sailing in A Coruña
The port of A Coruña is a major port on the Galician coast, with numerous facilities for yachtsmen.
The waters around La Coruña are choppy with waves and currents, requiring careful navigation, especially in bad weather. The seabed is mainly rocky.
- Port authority: Autoridad Portuaria de La Coruña
Vigo
What to do in Vigo
Vigo, Galicia's largest city, is renowned for its fishing port, one of the most important in Europe. Its fish market is a sight not to be missed.
The city also offers numerous museums, theaters and parks. The castro de Baroña, an ancient fortified village, is a must-see for history buffs.
Sailing in Vigo
Sailing near Vigo, yachtsmen can admire the steep cliffs, observe the marine wildlife and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Galician coast.
The ria of Vigo, one of the largest and deepest in Spain, offers an exceptional setting for yachtsmen.
Sailing 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's also possible to explore the Cíes Islands, a true natural paradise with its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
However, it is important to navigate with caution due to maritime traffic and sometimes strong currents.
- Port authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Vigo
ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT BOATING AND RIB BOATS?
Découvrez nos produits !
Read more about the world of RIBs:
- The best RIB boat accessories
- Preparing to launch your inflatable boat
- Guide to inflating your RIB inflatable boat
- What safety equipment for RIB boats