FerryConnect

UK → Spain

Plymouth → Santander

The quickest ferry crossing from Britain to Spain, run by the flagship Pont-Aven from Plymouth’s Millbay docks to Santander. It is the natural choice for the South West and Wales, with one night on board.

⏱ About 20h🚢 1 operator📅 Two departures a week from April to November🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly

Plymouth to Santander ferry at a glance

The ferry from Plymouth to Santander takes About 20h across the Bay of Biscay, operated by Brittany Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: two departures a week from April to November.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-28.

Sources: brittany-ferries.co.uk · brittanyferriesnewsroom.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Santander to Plymouth

Brittany Ferries also sails Santander to Plymouth, taking About 20h.

Plymouth to Santander ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Two departures a week on Pont-Aven

April to November

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Brittany Ferries timetable →

Source: Brittany Ferries press release and route page. Verified 2026-09-28.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Plymouth and Santander

📐 420 Nautical Miles
Plymouth⇄Santander
⏱ About 20h · 📐 420 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Compare All Operators

Ready to cross from Plymouth to Santander?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

Compare on Direct Ferries→
🏨Port Hotels (Plymouth)
Rates →
🚆Port Trains & Buses
Schedules →
🚗Car Hire at Quay
Compare →
🎟Things to do in Santander
Tours →

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Brittany FerriesAbout 20hPont-Aven

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

420 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Plymouth station is a short taxi ride from Millbay, with trains to Exeter, Bristol and London Paddington
  • The ferry terminal is in central Santander, a short walk from the old town

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from PlymouthPlymouth → Roscoff5h 15m (day) – 11h (overnight) · Brittany FerriesAlso sails from PlymouthPlymouth (Devonport) → Torpoint (Cornwall)About 6m · Torpoint Ferry (Tamar Crossings)Onward from SantanderPortsmouth → SantanderAbout 33h (two nights at sea) · Brittany FerriesNearby alternative crossingPortsmouth → Bilbao29h 30m – 36h · Brittany FerriesNearby alternative crossingRosslare → BilbaoOne or two nights at sea · Brittany FerriesMore ferries in United KingdomDover → Calais1h 30m · P&O Ferries, DFDS, Irish Ferries
⚓ Plymouth Millbay Ferry Port guide⚓ Santander Ferry Terminal (Estación Marítima) guide⛴ All ferries from Plymouth⛴ All ferries from Santander🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Plymouth to Santander?
The crossing typically takes About 20h. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Plymouth to Santander ferry sail?
Two departures a week on Pont-Aven. April to November. This is the pattern published in the Brittany Ferries press release and route page (checked 2026-09-28); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Plymouth to Santander?
Brittany Ferries operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Plymouth to Santander ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Plymouth to Santander ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Plymouth to Santander ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Plymouth from Santander by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 420 nautical miles (roughly 778 km).