Transportation
By coach with allocated seating
Ferry Crossing
Brittany Ferries Plymouth - Santander
Ferry Meals
Optional at extra cost on-board ship
Resort Hotel
Astuy Hotel Isla
Resort Hotel Meals
Buffet style breakfast + wine with plated evening meal

Itinerary

Cost

Dates

Highlights

Destination Info

Hotel

Ferry Info

Day 01 :

Travel to Plymouth

Pick-up from your allocated departure point.
Meet your tour guide and board the transfer coach to Plymouth, with comfort stops en route.
Arrive in Plymouth in good time before boarding Brittany Ferries' Pont Aven for the overnight sailing to Santander.
Enjoy onboard facilities including an en-suite inside twin cabin for 2 persons, sunbathing on deck, a swimming pool, onboard shopping, restaurants/cafeterias (at own cost), cabaret entertainment, and bars.

Day 02 :

Arrive Santander

Arrive in Santander after lunch and board the transfer coach to Isla, Cantabria, Spain.
Check into the Astuy Hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 03 :

Coach Excursion

After a buffet breakfast, enjoy an included coach excursion to Castro Urdiales.
Explore the charming coastal town known for its medieval architecture and fishing heritage.
Return to Isla in the afternoon.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 04 :

Free Day

After a buffet breakfast, enjoy free time in Isla at your own pace.
Relax on the beach next to the Astuy Hotel or explore the local surroundings.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 05 :

Coach Excursion

After a buffet breakfast, enjoy an included coach excursion to Bilbao.
Visit this vibrant city, home to the famous Guggenheim Museum, stunning architecture, and a lively Old Town.
Return to Isla in the afternoon.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 06 :

Free Day

After a buffet breakfast, enjoy a free day in Isla.
Relax on the beach, enjoy local seafood restaurants, or take a scenic walk along the coast.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 07 :

Coach Excursion

After a buffet breakfast, enjoy an included coach excursion to Santoña Market.
Explore this bustling market, famous for its fresh seafood, regional cheeses, and authentic Cantabrian produce.
Return to Isla in the afternoon.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 08 :

Free Day

After a buffet breakfast, enjoy another free day in Isla.
Relax at the beach, visit local attractions, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline.
Evening meal with complimentary wine.

Day 09 :

Return to Santander

After a buffet breakfast, board the transfer coach to Santander and the ferry port.
Enjoy free time to explore the city centre of Santander at your own pace.
Board Pont Aven for the overnight sailing to Plymouth.
Enjoy onboard facilities.

Day 10 :

Return Home

Enjoy facilities onboard Pont Aven before arriving in Plymouth in the afternoon.
Board the transfer coach for the return journey home, with comfort stops en route.

Destination Information

Isla, Cantabria

Isla is a charming seaside village in the municipality of Arnuero, located in the autonomous community of Cantabria, Spain. It lies on the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, along the Bay of Biscay, and is well known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and natural landscapes.

Geography & Climate

Isla is situated between the larger towns of Noja and Santoña, making it a popular summer destination.
It has a mix of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and green hills that are typical of the Cantabrian coastline.
The climate is oceanic, with mild summers and cool, rainy winters, making it a great spot for visitors who enjoy lush, green landscapes.

Beaches

Playa de la Arena – One of the most famous beaches in Isla, offering golden sand and calm waters.
Playa del Sable – A quieter beach ideal for relaxation.
Playa de Los Barcos – A smaller, more intimate beach often used by local fishermen.

Tourism & Attractions

Marismas de Santoña, Victoria y Joyel Natural Park – A nature reserve nearby, home to diverse bird species and a great spot for hiking.
Historic Old Town – Features traditional stone houses, churches, and small plazas, giving visitors a glimpse of Cantabrian culture.
Church of San Julián y Santa Basilisa – A historic church with beautiful architecture.

Gastronomy

Isla is famous for its seafood, particularly:
- Navajas (razor clams)
- Langostinos (prawns)
- Marmita de bonito (tuna stew)
The region also produces artisan cheeses and sidra (cider), which are popular in northern Spain.

Activities

Surfing & Water Sports – The beaches around Isla offer excellent conditions for surfing and paddleboarding.
Hiking & Nature Walks – The coastline and surrounding hills provide stunning trails.
Cultural Festivals – Traditional Cantabrian festivals and local events take place throughout the year, especially in the summer.
Bilbao
Bilbao is the cultural and economic hub of the Basque Country. Famous for the iconic Guggenheim Museum, the city boasts a blend of modern architecture and historic Old Town (Casco Viejo). Visitors can explore the charming streets, try traditional Basque pintxos, and stroll along the scenic Nervión River. Bilbao’s markets, vibrant shopping districts, and artistic landmarks make it a must-visit destination.

Santander
Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is a picturesque port city with stunning beaches, elegant architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. Key highlights include the Palacio de la Magdalena, the beautiful Sardinero Beach, and the vibrant Mercado de la Esperanza, where visitors can sample local seafood. The city’s charming promenades, excellent seafood restaurants, and cultural sites make it a delightful place to explore.

Santoña
Santoña is renowned for its fresh seafood and lively market. The town is particularly famous for its anchovies, regarded as some of the best in Spain. The Saturday market is a bustling hub where visitors can explore a wide variety of local produce, including artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, cured meats, and regional delicacies. The town is also known for its scenic waterfront and maritime heritage.

Castro Urdiales
A charming coastal town with medieval charm, Castro Urdiales features a picturesque harbor, sandy beaches, and historical landmarks. Highlights include the Santa María de la Asunción Church, an impressive Gothic cathedral, and the Castillo de Santa Ana, a medieval fortress offering panoramic sea views. The town’s lively waterfront promenade and delicious seafood restaurants make it a delightful excursion destination.

Brittany Ferries Plymouth Santander

The Brittany Ferries Pont-Aven is a large, modern cruise ferry that operates between Plymouth (UK) and Santander (Spain), offering a comfortable and scenic travel experience, ideal for coach groups seeking both relaxation and convenience during their journey.

General Overview:

Size and Capacity: The Pont-Aven is a spacious ferry that can accommodate over 1,500 passengers and 500 vehicles, including coaches. It features a range of onboard facilities designed for comfort and entertainment during the sailing, which typically takes about 20 hours from Plymouth to Santander.
Comfort and Design: The ferry is designed with large, open spaces, contemporary interior designs, and a range of seating and accommodation options, from standard seats to luxurious cabins. Its layout ensures that passengers can move around easily, and there are several areas where coach groups can gather together.

Onboard Amenities for Coach Groups:

Cabins:
- Cabins: Coach group private cabins, ranging from inside cabins to premium cabins with sea views.
Dining and Meals (Extra Cost):
- Self-Service Restaurant: The self-service restaurant is a popular option, offering a variety of meals, including hot dishes, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. While meals are available at an additional cost, they cater well to groups with a wide range of options.
- À La Carte Restaurant: For a more refined dining experience, the à la carte restaurant provides an upscale menu featuring Mediterranean and French-inspired dishes. Coach groups looking for a more leisurely, special dining experience can enjoy a selection of high-quality meals here.
- Café and Bar: There are several casual dining options onboard, including a café that serves snacks, hot drinks, and light meals. The bar area is perfect for socializing with a drink in hand, offering a selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and soft drinks.
Entertainment and Relaxation:
- Cinema and Lounge Areas: Coach groups can enjoy various entertainment options during the trip, such as films in the onboard cinema or simply relaxing in one of the lounges with panoramic views. The ferry features ample indoor seating areas for relaxation, perfect for unwinding after a meal.
- Shopping: The onboard shop offers a selection of goods, including duty-free products, souvenirs, and snacks. Coach groups can browse the shop or buy travel essentials.
Children and Families:
- The ferry is family-friendly, with dedicated areas for children’s play and family cabins if needed. It is a good option for coach groups traveling with young children.
Accessibility:
- The Pont-Aven is fully accessible to passengers with reduced mobility, with lifts, accessible cabins, and designated spaces for wheelchairs. Coach groups traveling with elderly passengers or individuals with disabilities will find the facilities accommodating.

Coach Group Considerations:

Group Check-in: The ferry service is experienced in handling groups, so dedicated check-in procedures are available for smooth boarding and disembarkation. The group leaders will receive assistance in managing the coach passengers during the boarding process.

Additional Services at Extra Cost:

Wifi: Wi-Fi is available on board for an additional charge, allowing passengers to stay connected during the journey.
Upgraded Cabins: There is the option to upgrade to more luxurious cabins, with amenities like larger windows and better sea views.

Summary for Coach Groups:

The Brittany Ferries Pont-Aven offers a high standard of comfort, with a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options to suit coach groups. Although meals and certain services are at an extra cost, the ferry ensures a relaxing and enjoyable journey. With its spacious seating areas, varied dining options, and facilities for all ages, it’s an excellent choice for groups traveling between Plymouth and Santander.

Isla Cantabria Spain

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Ferry Info

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