Ferry from Portsmouth to Santander

The ferry from Portsmouth to Santander is one of the most popular ferry routes from England to Spain. The crossing takes approximately 32 hours and 30 minutes and is exclusively operated by Brittany Ferries. Once in Santander, it’s easy to drive on to Salamanca or Madrid. This journey can be booked starting from 120 pounds.

If you’re looking to travel on to Barcelona or Alicante, then the route from Portsmouth to Bilbao would be a better choice

Key Travel Information:

The journey takes approximately 32 hours and 30 minutes.
A ferry sails to Santander twice a week, on Thursdays and Fridays.
You can board on foot, or travel by car, camper, or motorcycle.
Brittany Ferries is the sole operator of this route, using the Santoña and Salamanca ferries.

This page offers detailed information on the ferry service from Portsmouth to Santander, including the schedule, fares, available travel options, and what passengers can anticipate during their voyage.

Portsmouth to Santander Ferry Timetable

A ferry departs from Portsmouth to Santander every Thursday and Friday. The scheduled departure times are at 19:00 on Thursday and at 23:59 on Fridays.

Delays or changes to the schedule can occur, so it is advisable to check the latest sailing schedule from Brittany Ferries directly. Below is an example of what a typical timetable might look like:

Ferry Timetable: Portsmouth to Santander

Ferry Prices from Portsmouth to Santander

The cost of taking the ferry from Portsmouth to Santander can vary throughout the year, influenced by the season and overall demand. The most budget-friendly option is available at £120 for a single journey if you’re travelling on foot. Should you decide to bring a vehicle, additional charges will apply. Ticket prices also vary depending on the transport type and the number of passengers. Below, you’ll find the starting prices for different travel options.

Portsmouth to Santander ferry prices

Early Bird tickets

Book 60 days in advance or earlier to benefit from our Early Bird discount. Additionally, if you make your booking through the website, you’ll receive an extra £20 off. With these discounts, a single journey on foot will cost you £120! This is a great way to save while planning your travels.

Additional Costs to Consider

As the ferry from Portsmouth to Santander includes an overnight journey, booking some form of accommodation is mandatory. You have several options to choose from based on your comfort and privacy needs. A reserved seat, which costs £13, is the most budget-friendly option. It’s worth noting, though, that while affordable, this option offers limited privacy.

If you prefer more privacy and space to store your belongings, you might want to consider a cabin. The 2-berth inside cabin is available for £115, providing a cosy and private space for you or you and one other. For groups or families, the 4-berth inside cabin, priced at £147, might be more suitable, offering ample space and privacy.

Reserved Seat: £13 per seat
2-Berth Inside Cabin: £115 per cabin
4-Berth Inside Cabin: £147 per cabin

The Crossing from Portsmouth to Santander

The crossing from Portsmouth to Santander takes approximately 32 hours, covering a distance of 550 miles. Please ensure you arrive at least 45 minutes before departure for check-in. If you are travelling with a pet, you should be present at least 90 minutes before departure. The Brittany Ferries port in Portsmouth is easily accessible by car or public transport. You can use the M3 or A3 if coming from London. From the Midlands, take the A34 to the M3, from Bristol and South Wales take the A36, and from the South West take the A31. These routes all lead to the M275, which takes you directly to the port. Parking is available at the port, with options for both short and long stays, at a daily rate of £13. Brittany Ferries Portsmouth Port Address:

Wharf Road,
Hants,
Portsmouth PO2 8RU

The ferry route from Portsmouth to Santander is quite a scenic and significant maritime journey, crossing the Bay of Biscay. This stretch of water lies between the western coast of France and the northern coast of Spain and is known for its variable weather conditions, which can range from calm to extremely turbulent, making it an interesting route for sea travel. The journey covers a substantial distance, offering passengers a chance to experience long hours at sea with the opportunity to spot diverse marine life and birds, especially as the Bay of Biscay is a renowned location for whale and dolphin watching.

On-board

On the Portsmouth to Santander route, you will be travelling on the Santoña Ferry. This is the newest vessel in the Brittany Ferries fleet and is equipped with the latest amenities and facilities. Onboard the ship, you can enjoy comfortable overnight accommodation and a variety of dining options, including a tapas restaurant. The Santoña Ferry offers a range of cabins, from cosy two-berth rooms to luxury suites, ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers. Additionally, you will find a selection of bars, a cinema, and even a children’s play area, making it ideal for both adults and families.