Navigating the Spanish Atlantic Coast: Complete Guide
Introduction
The northern Spanish Atlantic coast, with its dizzying cliffs, wild beaches, and picturesque fishing ports, is a true paradise for sailors.
From the Basque Country to Galicia, passing through Cantabria and Asturias, this coast offers a diversity of landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Plan your maritime itinerary in Spain with Orca Retail and let yourself be tempted by a journey along the mythical north Atlantic coast.
Discover secret coves, visit historic towns, taste local specialties, and soak up the authentic atmosphere of the Spanish coasts.
On the road!
Foreword: What to know before sailing in Spain
Required Permits
To sail in Spain, a boating license is mandatory if you wish to operate a motorboat or a sailboat, depending on the size of the vessel:
For boats under 6 meters (and engines under 15 HP), a basic pleasure craft license is required.
For more powerful motorboats or sailboats over 12 meters, an advanced pleasure craft license is necessary.
French or international licenses (ICC) are generally accepted, but it is advisable to check if a specific license is required for navigation in Spanish waters.
Weather and Navigation Conditions
The climate is oceanic, with colder winters and cooler summers than on the Mediterranean coast. This area, especially around Galicia and the Canaries, can be more exposed to winds and swells. The southwest wind is quite frequent, but the weather is generally milder compared to the North Sea. Conditions in the Cantabrian Sea (in the north) are sometimes more unpredictable and require special attention, especially in spring and autumn.
The Canary Islands, in particular, benefit from a subtropical climate, allowing for navigation almost all year round.
Port Infrastructures
Spain has an excellent network of marinas along its coasts, from the islands to the mainland areas.
On the Atlantic coast, the ports are well developed, especially in areas like Galicia or around Cadiz. The services are often a bit simpler, but the welcome is very friendly and the network is growing.
The Canaries offer high-quality marinas, particularly suited for yachts and international sailors.
The wild anchorages are numerous and allow anchoring in calm and preserved places, away from the crowd.
Seasonality
The best period for sailing in Spain extends from May to October.
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May and June offer mild weather, ideal for avoiding the crowd, with pleasant temperatures and calm seas.
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July and August are the high season, with optimal weather and perfect conditions for sailing. However, this period attracts many tourists, making some marinas very busy.
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September and October are also excellent, with pleasant temperatures and fewer people.
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The Canary Islands can be visited at any time of the year, due to their temperate climate.
San Sebastián (Donostia in Basque)
What to do in San Sebastián?
This elegant seaside city, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Cantabrian", offers an exceptional living environment. The La Concha beach, shell-shaped, is the emblem of the city.
The historic center, with its pedestrian streets and colorful houses, is a delight to explore. Food lovers will be thrilled by the pintxos, these typical Basque Country tapas.
The Mount Urgull, overlooking the city and housing a historic fort, offers an unbeatable panoramic view.
Sailing in San Sebastián
The marina of San Sebastián is located at the foot of Mount Urgull. It offers a full range of services and facilities for boaters.
The bay of La Concha is protected, but navigation can be disrupted by the north wind, the tramontane.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near the cliffs.
- Port authority: Puerto de San Sebastián
Bilbao
What to do in Bilbao?
Bilbao, famous for its Guggenheim Museum and avant-garde architecture, offers much more than just a museum.
Its historic center, with its narrow streets and old houses, invites you to stroll. The Ribera Market, a must for food lovers, is full of fresh products.
The city also has many green spaces, such as the Doña Casilda Iturrizar park, and offers a multitude of cultural and sports activities.
Nature lovers can explore the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, while the more sporty can enjoy the beaches of the Basque coast.
Bilbao is also a dynamic city, with a lively nightlife and many events throughout the year.
Sailing in Bilbao
The port of Bilbao, once marked by heavy industry, has transformed into a dynamic space where maritime culture meets contemporary art. The Bilbao estuary, with its calm waters and varied landscapes, offers an ideal setting for boaters.
Sailing in this region presents some peculiarities to consider. The tides, often significant, affect water depths, requiring special attention when planning routes. Additionally, maritime traffic, although regulated, requires vigilance, especially in port areas.
- Port authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Bilbao
Santander
What to do in Santander?
Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is a dynamic city with a rich historical heritage. The cathedral, the Palace of La Magdalena, and the Cabo Mayor lighthouse are some of the must-see sites.
The beaches of Santander are renowned for their fine sand and clean waters.
Sailing in Santander
The port of Santander is a large commercial and leisure port. It offers a wide range of services and facilities for boaters.
The bay of Santander is protected, but navigation can be disrupted by the north wind. Discover the islands of the bay, such as Mouro Island, and enjoy their beaches and preserved nature.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near the cliffs.
- Port authority: Santander Port Authority
Gijón
What to do in Gijón?
Gijón, a dynamic coastal city, offers a perfect blend of industrial heritage, nature, and urban life.
Its beaches, like the famous San Lorenzo, are ideal for relaxing and engaging in water activities. The historic center of Cimadevilla, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, invites you to wander.
Cultural enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the Asturias Railway Museum or the Asturias People's Museum.
For a deeper immersion into regional history, a trip to Oviedo is a must.
This university city, the capital of Asturias, houses the magnificent Oviedo Cathedral, a gem of Romanesque architecture. The Alvar Aalto Foundation, on the other hand, presents the finest works of the Finnish architect in a permanent exhibition.
Sailing in Gijón
The port of Gijón is well-equipped to welcome sailors, with modern facilities and a wide range of services.
The waters are generally calm, but the northwest wind can make navigation tricky at certain times of the year. The seabed is mixed, with rocky and sandy areas.
- Port Authority: Gijón Port Authority
Avilés
What to do in Avilés?
Avilés is a charming small port city, a true haven of peace away from the large crowds.
The historic center is enchanting, with well-preserved medieval buildings, such as the plaza Mayor, the old church of Sabugo, and the Valdecarzana Palace.
The city is also an important cultural center, with institutions like the Casa de la Cultura and the Asturias Art Museum.
For a touch of modernity, don't miss the Niemeyer Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Sailing in Avilés
The port of Avilés is a mixed port, with commercial and leisure facilities.
The waters are generally calm, but it is important to consider maritime traffic in the estuary. The seabed is mainly sandy.
- Port Authority: Avilés Port Authority
La Coruña
What to do in La Coruña?
La Coruña is a lively port city, full of life and culture.
Don't miss the Tower of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, nor the old town with its picturesque squares and its narrow alleys.
Sailing in La Coruna
The port of La Coruna is a major port on the Galician coast, with many facilities for pleasure boaters.
The waters around La Coruna are stirred by waves and currents, requiring careful navigation, especially in bad weather. The seabed is mainly rocky.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Portuaria de La Coruna
Vigo
What to do in Vigo?
Vigo, the largest city in Galicia, is renowned for its fishing port, one of the most important in Europe. Its fish market is a spectacle not to be missed.
The city also offers many museums, theaters, and parks. The Castro de Baroña, an ancient fortified village, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Sailing in Vigo
While sailing near Vigo, boaters can admire the steep cliffs, observe marine wildlife, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Galician coast.
The Vigo estuary, one of the largest and deepest in Spain, offers an exceptional setting for boaters.
Sailing in the estuary also allows discovering secret coves, traditional fishing villages, and enjoying panoramic views of Mount Castro.
From the port of Vigo, it is also possible to explore the Cíes Islands, a true natural paradise with its fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
However, it is important to navigate carefully due to the maritime traffic and sometimes strong currents.
- Port Authority: Autoridad Portuaria de Vigo
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