Off on your annual holiday or short break to Spain? There are alternatives to flying!
Why endure endless airport queues, luggage restrictions, being confined to a seat with little legroom and playing Jenga with your snack wrappers and coffee cups on the tiny fold down table.
Instead, consider travelling aboard this beauty where you can start your holiday from the moment you embark!
A2B via Sea® is going to show you an alternative way to travel where there are no luggage restrictions, you can dine in style, watch a movie, purchase some goodies in the shop and relax in the comfort of your own private ensuite cabin - and you can even take your four legged fury friend after all, they are part of the family.
Sisters Galicia, Santoña and Salamanca are large, modern and spacious vessels with copious amounts of exterior deck areas to marvel at the passing vistas, breathing in the fresh sea air and spotting passing dolphins as you sail to your holiday destination.
Let's get aboard and check them out!
All three ships primarily operate the long haul routes from Portsmouth to Bilbao & Santander in Spain plus Rosslare Europort to Santander & Cherbourg (France), although you may find yourself aboard one of these trio when travelling the shorter hop from Portsmouth to Cherbourg.
All three vessels are essentially the same other than a few minor décor differences to give them their own identity.
Passenger amenities aboard the trio are concentrated on two decks (7 and 8) though passenger cabins and exterior decks extend to other areas of the ship as you can see from these easy to read onboard plans but don't worry, the onboard crew are MAGNIFICENT and will always go above and beyond to help you with any queries.
Starting at what is arguably the hub of both ships, Camino de la Playa is the main reception aboard and can be found on Deck 7 amid ships.
A cavernous facility, space and light seems to be the brief when the ships were being designed; seaside tones of royal blue and beige feature heavily to create a relaxing ambience.
The prominent Pursers Office is open throughout the voyage and the personnel within are friendly & courteous and able to assist with all queries including arranging the secure storage of my overnight bag during my crossing aboard Galicia – a luggage room can be found around the corner from the reception.
Happy, polite and friendly plus don't they look smart in their uniform!
Below: luggage storage close to the Pursers Office aboard Galicia
Directly opposite the reception is a public lounge with an array of interactive computers where you can [virtually] explore the ship and get some handy hints and tips for your Spanish destination.
Vending machines are available in the vicinity serving hot beverages including coffee, hot chocolate and soup plus one serving confectionary.
For those of you who are regular readers of my blogs you will know I love coffee therefore, having this accessible 24/7 allowed me to grab a cuppa prior to the opening of the ships’ dining rooms and was especially appreciative at ‘silly o’clock’ in the morning where I could have my morning coffee up on the exterior deck watching the sunrise.
Passing the glazed staircase giving access to Deck 8, a wide arcade spans the length of Deck 7 on the port side enabling access to the facilities both fore and aft.
This arcade consists of a fully carpeted lounge zoned into smaller seating areas by periodic full height divides enabling families and groups to call the space their own. Note the braille signage on the wall.
Being open plan to the adjacent corridor does mean privacy is lacking however, these seating areas are the ideal spot for ‘people watching’ as at some point everyone passes through here plus, it makes for an ideal resting area to admire your purchases from the shop.
The latter is located directly opposite the lounge and is open periodically throughout the journey.
The duty free shop offers a good range of wines, beers, spirits and tobacco products together with travel accessories, confectionary, clothing, electrical goods, children's toys and a selection of regional produce such as meats and cheeses which I found of particular interest as I find these to be excellent gifts for friends and family.
Continuing forward along the aforementioned arcade we pass WC facilities and stairwells giving access to the ships’ other decks before arriving at the Azul Restaurant.
Essentially the ships main dining room, Azul has an informal and casual atmosphere however, it does have a classy and luxurious ambience with a rich colour pallet of oak and marine green which feature on the panelling and upholstery of the seating which are positioned on deep pile grey coloured carpeting with flecks of teal to create a nautical flavour.
Royal blue coloured ceramic tiling pops against the dark panelling of the servery and the chalk white coloured counter tops which present a mouth watering array of dishes.
Azul Restaurant is not open throughout the voyage – only periodically at designated times therefore, if you are intending to dine check the opening times upon boarding.
Wall mounted menus are conveniently framed on an adjacent wall for your perusal.
Dining in Azul is a real treat. The dining room is filled with natural light owing to the oversized windows which are on three sides and those positioned by the picture windows are afforded magnificent views of the passing vistas.
Just look at those porthole inspired windows - I adore them.
Although a large facility it is sub divided into smaller areas by decorative bulkheads to create a more intimate atmosphere.
On a personal note, I was particularly impressed with the lounge seating adjacent to the forward windows - the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine or coffee after having my meal and gaze out to sea allowing my mind to wonder - very relaxing!
For children to burn off some energy, or perhaps build up an appetite, there's a playroom located within the adjacent family lounge; parents and guardians can relax in a comfortable seat safe in the knowledge their children are safe and close by.
Thoughtfully, Brittany Ferries have provided child high-chairs for those younger passengers who are eating in Azul - everyone is catered for!
Speaking of children, aboard Galicia, Salamanca and Santoña you'll also find a nursery upstairs on Deck 8.
Let's head on up and check it out.
Younger passengers can utilise the toys and interactive games in a safe and secure environment.
Deck 8, just like Deck 7 below, is also easy to navigate with amienieties forward and amidship with cabins astern.
A good alternative to the Azul Restaurant downstairs is the Tapas Restaurant.
Named Taberna De Tapas, the décor within is designed with a nod to Spain with its rich coloured wall panelling, vibrant red, peach and yellow coloured seating and attractive tilled façade to the servery.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner plus light snacks are served from this informal dining room - what a great setting to have a bite to eat.
Traditional Spanish tapas is also available at the Plaza Maya Bar located amidships on Deck 8, just a few steps away from Taberna De Tapas.
Occupying a central position the Plaza Maya Bar is THE place to be whilst sailing to your holiday destination.
Not only is this one of the locations for entertainment (I'll come back to this later), this venue is the ideal spot to chat to friends & family and perhaps make new acquaintances over a drink.
Wooden panelling and parquet flooring creates a warm and homely ambience.
Arguably the most impressive room aboard, its main feature is the giant skylight set within a void of deck 9 above – mirrored surrounds with a baroque overlay and ornamental railings is certainly a focal point and upon entering the bar one could imagine being transported to a relaxing Spanish square or pavement café owing to the shaft of brilliant natural light.
The tinted surfaces of the skylight transforms the glazed panels into a giant mirror as the sun goes down and effectively becomes a wall of art.
A large flat screen TV takes prime position in the centre of the bar nestled below the skylight and shows sporting events.
An array of seating styles from sofas, tub chairs and bar stools cater for all passenger requirements plus, you'll note slight differences in the colour pallet giving each of the three sisters their own identity;
Santoña offers brightly coloured upholstery mirroring the colours used by Spanish artist Ruben Sanchez.
Salamanca presents a contemporary colour pallet of spring yellow and urban grey.
Galicia offers earthy tones of terracotta and green.
A modest staircase with frosted glass screens and stainless steel handrails gives access to the reception on Deck 7 below.
Looking to pamper yourself? Well, at the forward end of Deck 8 is the
Commodore C-Club Lounge.
Accessible for those occupying a Commodore suite or Club Cabin accommodation, plus those who have paid the supplement to gain entry (subject to availability), one can enjoy a peaceful oasis of calm where unlimited drinks and snacks are provided.
With a capped capacity of around 100 persons this lounge never gets busy regardless of how busy the rest of the ship is.
Commanding a forward position one is guaranteed the best views aboard through the oversized windows which are on three sides; relaxing in a comfortable chair perusing a copy of Brittany Ferries inhouse magazine with your chilled glass of wine and a slice of delicious moist cake on a side table as you glide through the Bay of Biscay is absolute bliss!
Although open plan one can find cosy nooks to relax.
Meals, snacks and beverages are replenished throughout the journey from the lounges own servery.
A point worth noting is this lounge is not open during the night.
So, let's talk entertainment.
Having undertaken several voyages travelling aboard all three sister ships on numerous routes I can give you first hand hints and tips after all, that's what A2B via Sea® does; I undertake the voyage so you know what to expect when undertaking your own adventure.
There's so much to do!
Firstly, let's talk interactive.
Aboard Galicia, Salamanca and Santoña you'll find large touch screen interactive computers giving you a myriad of information on your destination - paper brochures are sooo last year!
Alternatively, why not partake in a tour of the ships' art collection and interior décor inspiration - it was fascinating!
Have you ever tried shuffleboard?
Well, you can with Brittany Ferries!
How about a pamper?
With Brittany Ferries you can indulge with an array of treatments.
Live music and bingo anyone?
Head to the Plaza Maya Bar where you can watch the ships' entertainment team performing live music & hosting team games.
You may be on vacation but you don't have to forgo your workout.
Gym equipment is provided on the uppermost exterior deck plus, when weather permits you can even partake in yoga - what a view for your morning workout!
Whilst up on deck keep your eyes peeled on the horizon......
The Bay of Biscay is one of the top places in the world to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. On some sailings a representative from ORCA will be aboard identifying differing species of marine life and answering passenger questions.
Brittany Ferries offer specific ORCA mini cruises - please checkout Brittany Ferries website for further information.
How about a night (or day) at the movies?
You can head to the TV room and curl up in one of the oversized, highly comfortable, swivel chairs and watch a film.
The cinema is more akin to a living room - intimate, informal and homely. Drinks and snacks can be purchased from the Plaza Maya Bar.
For those persons looking for some peace and quiet why not head to the lounge at the forward end of Deck 8, port side.
Firm sofas encompass the perimeter of the lounge whilst individual low backed seating forms small clusters within.
Again, each vessel has a slightly different interior colour pallet giving them their own identity which is shown to good effect in the pictures below.
Let's take a look at overnight accommodation after all, these ships do primarily ply the long haul routes to Spain from the UK and Ireland.
Overnight accommodation is mandatory aboard Galicia, Salamanca and Santoña. However, the trio do offer a range of accommodation to suit all budgets and requirements.
For those of you who's priority may be to save some money for your time ashore a reclining seat maybe your answer.
Located on Deck 8 access to the lounge is via a frosted glass door with a key-code entry system giving added privacy, which you can see from the picture below.
A fully carpeted facility with warming and comforting tones of grey, the seats are relatively comfortable and consist of a reading light, cup holder and side table, though no USB/charging sockets. However, European two pin sockets can be found within the lounge.
Buttons on the side of the arm rest allow the seat to recline and a footrest to be raised effectively making a (kind of) bed.
Luggage racks are available within the lounge which is a good feature though, as always, unattended luggage are left at your own risk.
Top tip, don’t forget to pack a (light weight) blanket as you may find this of use during the night; I forgot mine and instantly regretted it – not that it’s cold in the lounge, it's just nice to snuggle up!
That being said, one can be purchased from the reception desk in the foyer.
For added comfort why not opt for a private cabin.
Galicia, Santoña and Salamanca offer a large array of differing types of well appointed cabins, all with private ensuite facilities, free video on demand and are ideal as you have your own private space, somewhere to relax, have a siesta or curl up and watch a movie.
The ships offer 'outside cabins' (with window) or inside (without) though the later has a 'fake' window where you can [virtually] look out across the sea between a pair of partially open shutters to give the impression of a window - impressive!
On another of my numerous voyages I sampled a four berth outside cabin. Owing to the departure and arrival times of my crossing between Spain and the UK a considerable amount of my journey would be during daylight hours which is why I treated myself to a window cabin.
The mattress', duvet's and pillows were divine - so comfortable!
Although I was travelling solo I had the whole cabin to myself. Conveniently the beds can be stowed away giving me additional space.
Having a TV with a 'video on demand' system is priceless! So much choice of (free) box office hits and English speaking TV programmes. And the best bit, this can be found in every cabin category.
Forgotten your two or three pin adaptor? Don't worry!!
Every cabin offers a choice of charger units.
My private ensuite bathroom was spotlessly clean and offered a power shower and WC plus towels and shampoo / shower gel combo.
In addition to 'standard class' cabins, two berth Commodore Suites are available which benefit from having a double bed, complimentary access to the
Commodore C-Club Lounge, TV, video on demand, mini bar and breakfast served in your cabin *
Premium two berth Club Cabins offer TV and video on demand, twin beds, complimentary access to the Commodore C-Club Lounge plus tea & coffee making facilities *
Wheelchair accessible cabins benefit from having a larger footprint permitting easy access around the cabin plus wider doors, an alarm and telephone to contact the ships reception should you require assistance *.
(* please refer to Brittany Ferries website for further information)
Pet friendly cabins are positioned next to each other in a separate block and benefit from having secure doors at the end of the carpet free corridor giving access to the designated cabins to prevent your four legged fury friend from running off.
Upon boarding just follow the paw prints to find the pet friendly cabins.....
These pet friendly cabins are located close to the pet exercise area on the exterior deck.
The joy of travelling by ferry is being out on deck breathing in fresh sea air.
These super-ferries will not disappoint as the trio have a considerable amount of exterior deck space which I was particularly impressed with as they offered more than I had anticipated.
Let's go for a wonder
Starting on Deck 7, lengthy promenades flank the port and starboard sides between the reception and Azul Restaurant - the aforementioned pet friendly exercise area and kennels being located on the starboard side.
A series of terraced decks span the full width of the ship at the stern of Decks 7, 8 and 9 allowing views of the ships' wake disappearing into the horizon.
I spent many hours out here with a cold beer from the Plaza Maya Bar relaxing in the hot sun - absolute bliss! Again, why travel by aeroplane being confined to a seat in cramped surroundings?!
Finally up on Deck 10 one will find the main exterior deck which is accessible from the internal stairwells or from the terraced decks at the stern of decks 7, 8 and 9.
Below, the glazed roof of the Plaza Maya Bar on Deck 10.
Isn't this wonderful!
Rattan furniture, plastic cloud shaped seats and wooden benches are in good supply to relax and soak up the suns rays.
Large glazed panels prevent cross winds on the highest most deck.
Information boards are conveniently positioned on the bulkheads giving details of the species of whale and dolphin you may see whilst on passage.
The sun is more powerful at sea so Brittany Ferries have thoughtfully provided a cooling shelter to give some shade - note the art work from Spanish artist Ruben Sanchez.
Localised power sockets for the charging of electrical devices are available preventing the need of going inside and potentially missing seeing a dolphin.
Younger children will adore their own dedicated play area.
And there you have it, my blog of Galicia, Santoña and Salamanca.
For me travelling by ferry is THE way to travel from A to B - these ferries offer space & light, a selection of lounges, a bar, dining areas, vast exterior deck areas along with attentive, courteous and friendly members of crew.
Still not decided about taking the ferry to or from Spain?
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