Plymouth to Santander Ferry
Check prices & times »The Plymouth to Santander ferry is the shortest direct crossing from the UK to Spain, run by Brittany Ferries across the Bay of Biscay. At around 20 to 22 hours it's the quickest way to reach northern Spain by sea, and the natural choice for anyone starting in the West Country.
It's a seasonal route, sailing roughly from April to November on the Pont Aven — long regarded as one of the finest ferries serving the British Isles. This guide covers the crossing, the ship and how to book.
Plymouth to Santander at a glance
| Route | Operator | Crossing time | Season | Ship |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plymouth – Santander | Brittany Ferries | ~20–22 hours | Seasonal (roughly April–November) | Pont Aven |
The shortest direct UK–Spain crossing, sailing seasonally on the Pont Aven. Outside the season, use the year-round Portsmouth routes instead.
The crossing
This is a long Bay of Biscay crossing rather than a quick hop — around 20 to 22 hours, with a night on board. You sail in the afternoon from Plymouth and arrive in Santander the following day.
Being a little further west than Portsmouth, Plymouth gives the shortest sea crossing to Spain. The Bay of Biscay is known for its wildlife, and dolphins and whales are often spotted from the deck along the way.
The ship: Pont Aven
The route is served by the Pont Aven, one of Brittany Ferries' flagship ships and widely regarded as one of the finest ferries serving the British Isles.
Onboard there's a wide range of facilities — restaurants, bars, shops, a cinema, a swimming pool and children's play areas — plus a range of cabins including prestigious Commodore Class cabins with satellite TV and a private balcony. On a crossing this long, the ship really is part of the trip.
Arriving in Santander
Santander is a pleasant seaside city, and its ferry terminal is right in the centre — just a few minutes' walk from the railway station.
That makes it easy for foot passengers as well as drivers: from the station there are fast trains to Madrid and narrow-gauge services to Bilbao and Oviedo. Santander is also the gateway to Cantabria, Asturias and the Picos de Europa mountains.
Travel documents and EES
Spain is in the EU and the Schengen area, so you'll need a valid passport. The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) applies — on your first crossing since it went live, border officers register your fingerprints and a photo, with later trips quicker.
Allow a little extra time on arrival during the rollout, and check your passport's dates before you travel.
Entry/Exit System (EES) »
Booking and travel tips
A few practical things worth knowing:
- Book early: cabins and vehicle space on this seasonal route sell out well ahead in summer
- Out of season: if you're travelling November to March, use the year-round Portsmouth–Santander route instead
- Road trips: the route is ideal for cars, campers and motorhomes — enter your dimensions carefully
- Pets: carried, with pet-friendly cabins and kennels
- Wildlife: Brittany Ferries runs specialist whale and dolphin watching cruises on this route
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Plymouth to Santander ferry?
Around 20 to 22 hours — the shortest direct crossing from the UK to Spain, with a night on board.
Who runs the Plymouth to Santander ferry?
Brittany Ferries, on the Pont Aven, sailing seasonally roughly from April to November.
Is the Plymouth to Santander ferry year-round?
No — it's seasonal. Outside the season, use the year-round Portsmouth to Santander route.
What ship runs the Plymouth to Santander route?
The Pont Aven, one of Brittany Ferries' flagship ships, with cabins, restaurants, a cinema and a pool.
Where does the ferry arrive in Santander?
Right in the city centre, a few minutes' walk from the railway station, with onward trains to Madrid, Bilbao and Oviedo.