How to Plan Your First Cruise Around Spain

Spain has a quite rich history. Romans, Catholics, followers of Islam, Almoravids, Nasrids, and Sephardim ruled this land. Monuments of past eras have been preserved in practically every corner of Spain: ancient castles, aqueducts, majestic palaces, and medieval monasteries. 

In addition, there are many beautiful parks and nature reserves in the country. While planning a sail to Spain, you may face some difficulties. Especially if it’s your first cruise experience. What to expect, which ports are the most notable, and answers to other questions you’d find in this article.

What do you need to go on a cruise?

Above all, if you’re looking for a comfortable mode of transport for a big family trip, pay attention to Spain car rental. We recommend getting 7 seats car hire Palma airport, or any other convenient location. Why choose rental24h services? It has confirmed its reliability through:

• Passport.
• International passport and valid visa.
• Copies of passport and visa.
• Medical insurance.

Important! In chronic diseases, an extract from the medical history will not be superfluous. In an emergency, the doctor will get acquainted with it and promptly provide assistance.

• Cruise voucher.

This usually looks like a multipage document, which contains the buyer’s details, cruise date, route, ship name, departure time, arrival time, port address, etc.

• Cash or a bank card, or better – all together.
• Mobile phone with charger, PowerBank.
• Personal first aid kit with everything you need.

Why book through an agent when you can buy on the cruise line’s website?

If you have never been on cruises before and have not booked them yourself, it will be very difficult for you to understand all the intricacies of the purchase. First, the low prices we find are often booked on foreign sites, which are often not in English. But you still need to go through web registration, figure out where the liner is sailing from, and find it in the port.

But what if you need to change your booking: replace or add a passenger, preferably without a penalty? The process of correspondence with a cruise company is not the easiest task for a person who does not speak languages well enough. The cruise agent is always in touch, and you will communicate in English.

When is the best time to go on a cruise?

The most favorable weather conditions are in summer. If you want to avoid crowds, it is best to plan a cruise for early May or late August. The most affordable price offers can be found in April, September, and early January. From December to February, there are mostly warm days, with little chance of rain.

Which ports can you visit?

You can look forward to the next ports: Barcelona, Bilbao, Málaga, Cartagena, Alicante, Ibiza, Seville, La Coruna, Palma de Mallorca, Vigo, and Valencia. But will be there a certain one or not? It depends on the itinerary of your specific cruise. 

Orienting on the spot is not the best option for a limited time. Therefore, it is better to have a preliminary plan of action in the ports: book an excursion or make a plan for exploring the area on your own. If you are going to use public transport, it is better to have a printed timetable with you. And don’t forget to check the timetables at the bus and train stations, as changes are possible. It’s a good idea to consider cars for rent, that would allow you to see as many local attractions as possible.

Where is the best place to book a cabin?

Inside cabins are the best choice for you, but if you (or your companion) want a cabin with a balcony, choose closer to the waterline and amidships of the ship. Well, for those who want a fun rock’n’roll on the waves they prefer bow or stern decks.

Do you still look for car rental offers on arrival? Hire them using online services and save time!

What is the optimal duration of a cruise for the first time?

If you are a first-timer, pick up a cruise lasting 7 days or close to it. During this period you’re likely to visit from 3 to 6 ports. Three-day sampler actually wouldn’t let you observe more than 1 or 2 destinations. You just won’t have time to savor the feeling enough. 

On the other hand, deciding to go on a voyage for the first time is not the smartest option. You obviously can run into a lot of problems that were not even suspected. Crowding, pitching, wandering neighbors, and a bad view from the cabin. Nobody is immune from such a combo. But would you tolerate it for more than 15-20 days?