Ferries Bilbao

When planning your trip to Bilbao, you can take advantage of fixed discounts to enjoy lower-cost ferry tickets. Brittany Ferries provides special fares for certain passenger categories, such as:

• Children (4-15 years old) are entitled to lower fares
• Infants and toddlers up to 3 years old usually travel for free

There are currently 2 available ferry routes to Bilbao:

Rosslare - Bilbao

Direct ferries from Rosslare to Bilbao are available around 2 times per week, from July to December. The trip takes about 27 hr 30 min, while passenger tickets start at €98.

Portsmouth - Bilbao

You can travel by ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao seasonally, from April to October, with 1-2 weekly crossings. The journey takes 33-36 hr and ferry ticket prices start from €53.

Brittany Ferries operates conventional cruise vessels to Bilbao from Rosslare (Ireland) and Portsmouth (UK).

How much luggage can you take on the ferry to Bilbao?

When traveling with Brittany Ferries to Bilbao, you can bring as many bags as you can carry on board by yourself, regardless of size or weight, at no extra cost. You can store your luggage in the baggage room, which remains closed until 20-30 min before arrival. For more details, contact the reception desk when you board the ferry.

The duration of a ferry trip to Bilbao depends on the chosen route:

• Rosslare - Bilbao: approximately 27 hr 30 min
• Portsmouth - Bilbao: approximately 32 hr 15 min

Which is the fastest route to Bilbao?

The fastest route to Bilbao is from Rosslare in the Republic of Ireland. The crossing takes approximately 27 hr 30 min.

What is the cheapest ferry route to Bilbao?

The cheapest ferry route to Bilbao is from Portsmouth (UK), with passenger tickets starting at €53.

Keep in mind that the final ticket cost depends on vehicle selection, discounts, offers, and cabin type.

Which port of departure should I choose?

The best departure port for your ferry trip to Bilbao depends on where you're starting your trip from:

• Portsmouth is the best option for travelers departing from southern England. It offers the lowest fares to Bilbao and accommodates foot passengers, vehicles and pets on comfortable overnight cruise ferries.
• Rosslare is ideal if you're traveling from Ireland. Although fares are generally higher, it offers the shortest crossing to Bilbao and avoids the need to travel through the UK before reaching Spain.

What other factors should I consider?

When planning a trip and booking a ferry to Bilbao, keep these factors in mind:

• Seasonality: both ferry routes to Bilbao operate seasonally, with more frequent sailings during the summer months. Booking several weeks or even months in advance is recommended, especially if you're traveling in summer or bringing a vehicle.
• Travel time vs. price: all ferries to Bilbao are conventional cruise ferries. While the crossings are long, they offer cabins, restaurants, lounges and vehicle transport, making them a comfortable option for overnight travel.
• Departure times: both routes offer 1 to 2 sailings per week, so departure schedules can significantly influence your travel plans. Be sure to check the timetable before booking.

Can I travel on the ferry to Bilbao with a car?

Yes, all ferries to Bilbao are equipped with car decks for transporting vehicles.

Always check availability and keep in mind that car deck spots may be more limited during summer months. Also, make sure you bring along your driver’s licence, vehicle registration and insurance documents.

How much does it cost to bring my car to Bilbao?

Prices for vehicle transportation on ferries to Bilbao depend on your chosen route:

• Rosslare - Bilbao: prices start from €147 for a car and €98 for a motorbike.
• Portsmouth - Bilbao: prices start at around €155 to transport a car and €45 for a motorbike.

Can I take my camper van on the ferry to Bilbao?

Yes, you can take your camper van or motorhome on routes to Bilbao. Here are indicative starting prices for each route:

• Rosslare - Bilbao: prices start from €189 for a large van and €216 for a motorhome.
• Portsmouth - Bilbao: prices normally start at about €291 for a large van and €304 for a motorhome.

Brittany Ferries operates the Bilbao ferry routes with conventional cruise ferries that are designed for long-haul travel. Onboard, you will find a range of modern amenities and services, such as:

• Comfortable air-conditioned lounges and spacious outer decks with sea views
• Restaurants, cafés and bars serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and meals
• Entertainment including children’s play areas with digital and physical games, a video-on-demand platform and a travel and sea exhibition
• Onboard wellness facilities, including spa, massage and beauty treatments
• Duty-free shops and kiosks selling snacks, gifts and travel essentials
• Wi-Fi hotspot with a range of data bundles to stay connected during the trip

Cabins & accommodation

Are there cabins on the ferries?

Yes, on ferries to Bilbao you can choose among different types of cabins:

• Standard inside cabins
• Outside cabins with a sea view
• Deluxe cabins and suites with a double bed and a sea view
• Accessible cabins for passengers with disabilities
• Pet-friendly cabins

All cabins feature a desk, toiletries, and an ensuite bathroom.

Note: we suggest you plan your trip in advance, as there might be limited cabin availability.

What type of seats can you book?

Travelers can choose between standard reclining seats or deck-lounge seating (included in the ticket).

Can I travel first class?

Yes, when travelling to Bilbao by ferry, you can book a range of deluxe cabins for greater comfort and privacy. These premium cabins have extra room, a double bed and additional amenities and services such as a TV, Wi-Fi access, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and complimentary breakfast.

Are the ferries accessible?

The ferries to Bilbao are generally accessible to travellers with disabilities, featuring ramps and lifts to move between decks, adapted seating and amenities in common areas, as well as wheelchair accessible cabins with adapted amenities.

Brittany Ferries also offers boarding assistance upon request and prior notification at least 48 hr before your journey.

Important: accessibility features vary from vessel to vessel, so it is recommended to contact the operator at the time of booking for further details.

Can you take pets on the ferry to Bilbao?

You can bring your pet on ferries to Bilbao, provided you include it in your booking. During the trip, smaller pets must be kept in their carrier, while larger pets must wear a muzzle and be kept on a leash.

Where can pets stay during the crossing?

When travelling with Brittany Ferries, your pet can either stay in a pet-friendly cabin, in the onboard kennels or in your vehicle. The ferries have designated walking areas, however, pets are not allowed in standard cabins, lounges or dining areas.

Important: if you decide to leave your pet in your vehicle, try to leave a window slightly open for ventilation.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

Yes, ferries to Bilbao offer a Wi-Fi hotspot so you can stay connected during the trip.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Entertainment options depend on the route and vessel, but typically include:

• Children’s play areas with digital and physical games, a video-on-demand platform and a travel and sea exhibition
• Onboard wellness facilities, including spa, massage and beauty treatments
• Duty-free shops and kiosks selling snacks, gifts and travel essentials

What travel documents do I need to go by ferry to Bilbao?

Ferry routes to Bilbao from Portsmouth (UK) and Rosslare (Ireland) are international crossings, so make sure you have the necessary travel documents before departure.

• A valid passport is required for all passengers traveling to Spain.
• Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa or other entry authorization. Always check the latest immigration requirements before your trip.
• If you're traveling with a vehicle, carry your driver's license, vehicle registration certificate and valid motor insurance documents.
• If you're bringing a pet, don't forget your pet passport or animal health certificate, vaccination records and any additional documents required for entry into Spain.

How to book ferry tickets

You can easily book ferry tickets to Bilbao on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks:

1. Select Bilbao as your destination, along with your port of departure and travel dates.
2. Add passengers, pets, and vehicles.
3. Compare ferry operators, travel times, and ticket prices.
4. Complete your booking securely online.

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive your ferry tickets by email. Ferryhopper lets you manage your booking, check for updates, and access customer support all in one place.

Check-in and boarding procedures

We always recommend arriving at the port well in advance of departure. More specifically:

• Foot passengers: arrive at least 1 hour before departure.
• Passengers travelling with a vehicle: arrive 2 hours before departure.
• Have your passport, ID and booking confirmation ready for inspection at check-in.
• Follow the instructions provided by terminal staff for boarding.

Can I board with an electronic ticket?

Brittany Ferries does not currently support electronic tickets. Therefore, you will have to collect your paper tickets before boarding your ferry to Bilbao.

We recommend that you always review your confirmation email carefully for operator-specific instructions and arrive at the port on time, with your booking reference and identification documents readily available.

Bilbao is a scintillating modern city of culture filled with superb art, world-class architecture, and an exceptional gastronomical scene. Nestled along the Nervión River, Bilbao is renowned for its striking landmarks, the combination of Michelin-starred restaurants standing alongside traditional pintxos bars, and the Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum, which is a bucket list destination for art lovers from all around the world.

For more info on the vibrant heart of the mythical Basque Country of Spain, check out our Bilbao travel guide.

Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when travelling by ferry to Bilbao:

• Check that your passport, visa (if required) and other travel documents are valid before your trip.
• As crossings to Bilbao are long and take place across the Bay of Biscay, sea conditions can occasionally be rough. If you're prone to seasickness, consider bringing appropriate medication.
• Booking a cabin is highly recommended for a more relaxing and comfortable journey.
• Take advantage of the onboard facilities offered by Brittany Ferries, including restaurants, bars, lounges, children's play areas and onboard shopping, to make the most of your ferry journey.

Best time to book

It's a good idea to book your ferry to Bilbao as early as possible, especially if you're traveling during the peak season.

• Summer is the busiest time of year, with ferries often filling up weeks in advance, particularly for travelers bringing a vehicle or booking a cabin. For travel between June and September, booking 2 to 3 months in advance is recommended to secure the best fares and accommodation options.
• During the shoulder season, availability is generally better, while winter sailings may offer greater flexibility and occasional promotional fares.

The port of Bilbao (Puerto de Bilbao) is situated at Zierbena in the País Vasco region, around 3 km from the port town of Santurtz and 21 km from Bilbao city.

Are there traveller amenities at the port of Bilbao?

At the terminal, you can find a snack bar, an information desk, a departure lounge, accessible toilets, Wi-Fi and short- or long-stay parking. You will find car-rental agencies, a wider selection of hotels, shops and restaurants in Santurtzi and central Bilbao.

How to get to the port of Bilbao

The port of Bilbao is easily accessible by car and metro.

If you’re traveling by car, the Bilbao ferry terminal is accessible from both the west (Santander) and the east (Madrid and Barcelona) of Spain via the A8. Take the N644 turn-off and follow the yellow 'ferry' signs on this road to Bilbao ferry port.

If you’d rather travel by metro, the nearest station to the port is Santurtzi, approximately 3 km from the terminal.

You travel by direct ferry to Bilbao from the ports of Rosslare in the Republic of Ireland and Portsmouth in the UK.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Bilbao, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.