The Complete Guide To Getting A Ferry From The UK To Spain

Whether you’re visiting Spain for a well-earned break or moving there permanently, you’ll need to decide how to get there. Flying may be the default choice, but for many travellers it isn’t ideal — and one alternative has quietly remained popular for decades: the ferry from the UK to Spain.

In 2025, ferries are cleaner, faster, and more comfortable than ever, with modern LNG-powered ships connecting the UK, Ireland, and northern Spain. Below, we cover everything you need to know about taking a ferry to Spain — from routes and onboard services to pet travel, costs, and customs checks.

Why Travel by Ferry Between the UK and Spain?

Flying might be quicker, but ferries offer flexibility and comfort that airlines can’t. Many expats, pet owners, and long-term travellers choose the ferry for its convenience and calmer pace.

Here are some of the main advantages of travelling by sea:

• No baggage weight limits — pack your car or camper freely.
  
  
• Ideal for pets — less stressful than flying, with pet-friendly cabins and kennels.
  
  
• Comfortable cabins with beds, showers, and dining options.
  
  
• No airport queues or security lines.
  
  
• Freedom to move around, shop, or relax on deck.
  
  
• Arrive with your own vehicle, ready to explore Spain on your terms.

Who Operates Ferries from the UK to Spain?

The main operator is Brittany Ferries, which runs direct routes from England and Ireland to northern Spain. In 2025, Brittany Ferries continues to expand its eco-fleet with two LNG-powered vessels, Salamanca and Santoña, both offering quieter, cleaner, and more efficient crossings.

Services operate all year, though schedules are reduced in winter.

Main UK–Spain Ferry Routes (2025)

There are three direct passenger routes between the UK and Spain:

• Portsmouth → Santander – operated by Santoña and Galicia, sailing twice weekly. Approx. 28–33 hours.
  
  
• Plymouth → Santander – operated by Pont-Aven, sailing weekly during peak season (April–October). Approx. 20–24 hours.
  
  
• Portsmouth → Bilbao – operated by Salamanca, sailing twice weekly. Approx. 32–36 hours.

Each ship offers comfortable cabins, lounges, and restaurants, with onboard Wi-Fi and entertainment. Crossings can be overnight or two nights depending on route and season.

Ferries from Ireland to Spain (2025)

Travellers from Ireland can take the Rosslare → Bilbao route, also operated by Brittany Ferries, with two weekly crossings (Wednesday and Friday). The journey takes roughly 28–30 hours.

Seasonal Schedules

Crossings generally increase in spring and summer, with additional sailings around Easter and July–August. Winter schedules may reduce to one sailing per route per week, particularly in December–February.

How Long Does the Journey Take?

Travel time varies depending on route, vessel, and weather. Expect roughly:

• Portsmouth → Santander: 28–33 hours.
  
  
• Plymouth → Santander: 20–24 hours.
  
  
• Portsmouth → Bilbao: 32–36 hours.
  
  
• Rosslare → Bilbao: 28–30 hours.

Although the ferry takes longer than flying, it’s a more relaxed and scenic way to travel, particularly if you’re continuing south by road.

Driving Distances After Arrival

Spain is vast — more than twice the size of the UK — so journey times vary depending on your destination.

From Santander:

• To Madrid – 455 km (4.5 hours)
  
  
• To Valencia – 709 km (7 hours)
  
  
• To Marbella – 1,080 km (10+ hours)

From Bilbao:

• To Madrid – 416 km (4 hours)
  
  
• To Barcelona – 623 km (6 hours)
  
  
• To Málaga – 990 km (9.5 hours)

How Much Does It Cost in 2025?

Ticket prices depend on season, route, and vehicle type. Expect the following averages in 2025:

• Low season (November–March): £250–£450 per car + 2 passengers.
  
  
• High season (June–September): £600–£1,100 per car + 2 passengers.
  
  
• Cabins: from £80 (standard) to £250 (premium suite).

Motorhomes, pet cabins, and trailers incur additional fees. Early booking usually secures lower rates, and Brittany Ferries often runs “early bird” or “mini cruise” offers in winter.

Booking and Check-in

You can book directly via Brittany Ferries or through comparison sites such as Direct Ferries and Ferry Savers. Online check-in is available up to 24 hours before departure. Travellers should arrive 90–120 minutes before sailing to allow for passport and customs checks.

Post-Brexit Travel and Customs

Since the UK left the EU, all passengers must carry valid passports. Customs checks are now mandatory for vehicles, though most are quick and straightforward. Travellers carrying goods for resale, large amounts of alcohol or tobacco, or pets must declare them. There are no COVID-related restrictions for travel in 2025.

Taking Pets on the Ferry

Ferries remain the most pet-friendly way to reach Spain. All Brittany Ferries ships offer pet-friendly cabins or kennels. Dogs must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. UK-issued Animal Health Certificates (AHC) remain valid for 4 months for single entry into the EU. Pets with an EU-issued Pet Passport can travel freely.

Remember that dogs must wear a muzzle when outside the cabin or vehicle. Exercise areas and dedicated pet relief zones are provided onboard. Travellers must check in at least 90 minutes before departure when travelling with animals.

What’s On Board?

Modern ships are equipped with everything you need for comfort on long crossings:

• À-la-carte and buffet restaurants with Spanish and French menus.
  
  
• Tapas bars, lounges, and coffee shops.
  
  
• Cabins with en-suite bathrooms and TVs.
  
  
• Wi-Fi access and digital entertainment.
  
  
• Shops, cinemas, and children’s play areas.
  
  
• Pet-friendly decks and kennels.
  
  
• Eco-fleet technology for cleaner air and quieter sailing.

Sustainability and the New Eco Fleet

Brittany Ferries has introduced LNG-powered ships such as Santoña and Salamanca, cutting CO₂ and nitrogen emissions significantly. These vessels also feature modern stabilisers for smoother crossings and energy-efficient lighting and waste systems. Travellers can track their ship’s carbon footprint using the Brittany Ferries app.

Tips for First-Time Travellers

• Book early during summer months — cabins sell out fast.

• Bring snacks, chargers, and travel adapters.

• Carry passports, ferry tickets, and insurance documents together.

• Remember: there’s no duty-free alcohol limit when travelling from the UK to Spain for personal use, but customs can check excessive quantities.

• Keep a travel pillow and warm jumper for overnight sailings — air conditioning can be cool.

• On arrival, drive cautiously; Spanish roads use toll systems and right-hand traffic.

Accessibility and Assistance

All ferries offer accessible cabins and lifts between decks. Passengers requiring assistance can request priority boarding and adapted cabins when booking. Assistance dogs are welcome onboard and are exempt from pet kennel rules.

Why Choose the Ferry Over Flying?

Flying may be faster, but ferries offer a more enjoyable, flexible way to travel. They’re perfect for families, pet owners, or anyone relocating to Spain with their car. You’ll skip long security queues, enjoy private space, and arrive refreshed — ready for your adventure in Spain.

Planning a Longer Stay?

If you’re thinking beyond a short break and considering a move to Spain, make sure you understand healthcare options. Whether you’re visiting, studying, or retiring, private health cover offers quick access to English-speaking doctors and hospitals across Spain. Explore our Quick Guide to Sanitas Health Insurance for everything you need to know.

Sources

Brittany Ferries
UK Foreign Office travel advice
UK Department for Transport