FerryConnect

UK → Spain

Portsmouth → Santander

A two-night cruise-ferry from Portsmouth across the Bay of Biscay to Santander, the capital of Cantabria. Drivers use it to skip the long run through France to northern Spain, the Picos de Europa and Portugal.

⏱ About 33h (two nights at sea)🚢 1 operator📅 Two sailings a week each way in October 2026; about one a week from November 2026 to February 2027🚗 Vehicles accepted🐕 Pet friendly
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Portsmouth to Santander ferry at a glance

The ferry from Portsmouth to Santander takes About 33h (two nights at sea) across the Bay of Biscay, operated by Brittany Ferries. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: two sailings a week each way in October 2026; about one a week from November 2026 to February 2027.

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 · brittany-ferries.co.uk · How we verify

Return crossing: Santander to Portsmouth

Brittany Ferries also sails Santander to Portsmouth, taking About 33h (two nights at sea). From Santander, Salamanca sails on Wednesdays and Sundays at 14:00 in October 2026.

Portsmouth to Santander ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Two sailings a week on Salamanca in October 2026: from Portsmouth on Mondays at 21:45 and Fridays at 22:00. About one sailing a week each way from November 2026 to February 2027.

Published departure times

  • 21:45 (Mon)
  • 22:00 (Fri)

Return: From Santander, Salamanca sails on Wednesdays and Sundays at 14:00 in October 2026.

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

Official Brittany Ferries timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Brittany Ferries press release and route page. Verified 2026-10-03.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Portsmouth and Santander

📐 470 Nautical Miles
Portsmouth⇄Santander
⏱ About 33h (two nights at sea) · 📐 470 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Brittany FerriesAbout 33hSalamanca

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

470 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The ferry terminal is in central Santander, a short walk from the old town and the city’s bus and train stations
  • The A-67 and A-8 motorways connect Santander with Bilbao, Burgos and Madrid

Related Ferry Crossings

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⚓ Portsmouth International Port guide⚓ Santander Ferry Terminal (Estación Marítima) guide⛴ All ferries from Portsmouth⛴ All ferries from Santander🧭 Ferries from the UK to Europe🧭 Ferries from the UK to Spain🗺 All ferries in United Kingdom🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Portsmouth to Santander?
The crossing typically takes About 33h (two nights at sea). Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Portsmouth to Santander ferry sail?
Two sailings a week on Salamanca in October 2026: from Portsmouth on Mondays at 21:45 and Fridays at 22:00. About one sailing a week each way from November 2026 to February 2027. This is the pattern published in the Brittany Ferries press release and route page (checked 2026-10-03); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth from Santander by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 470 nautical miles (roughly 870 km).