2025 Season: A Milestone in Northern Growth
The 2025 season has clearly marked the growth and consolidation of Santander as a cruise destination. After the pause in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID, the figures show solid progress.
The forecast for 2025 is 20 calls and 29,862 cruise passengers, aiming for the ambitious goal of reaching 30 calls and 50,000 cruise passengers in 2026.
The highlight of the 2025 season occurred on Wednesday, October 29, when the British ship Ventura, operated by P&O Cruises, made its sixth and final call of the year at the Maritime Station. Other notable ships, such as the Spirit of Discovery, which called with nearly 1,000 passengers on board, also marked the season. The continuous transit of ships like the Ventura has reinforced Santander’s reputation as an attractive and welcoming destination on Spain’s northern coast.
Investment in Infrastructure and Environmental Commitment
The growth strategy is accompanied by significant improvements to accommodate an ever-larger fleet. The maximum length of cruise ships that can dock at the Maritime Station pier has been increased from 290 meters to 330 meters. Furthermore, the commitment to more sustainable tourism is embodied in the shore power supply project (OPS), scheduled to be operational in the port by 2028.
Active Promotion: Santander Cruise Deluxe in the Industry
The brand has played a very active role in international promotion, bringing the name of Cantabria to the most important industry forums. Santander Cruise Deluxe has consolidated its presence by sponsoring the International Cruise Summit 2025, the main industry event in Europe, and also participated in the Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 fair held in Miami in April.
Representatives of Santander Cruise Deluxe also took the opportunity to invite several cruise lines to visit Cantabria through a familiarization trip, designed so they could experience the region firsthand. According to Sophie Lanos, cruise director of APS, “the goal is to show cruise lines and itinerary planners the advantages of calling at Santander. We have a magnificent port entrance through the bay and a maritime terminal right in the city center, but we also offer exclusive experiences just a short distance from the dock, allowing visitors to make the most of their time at the destination.”
These actions are complemented by the inter-institutional roadmap, which includes not only Fam trips but also the creation of a promotional catalog, merchandising, and the presentation of commemorative plaques.
Cantabria: The Cruise Traveler’s Experience
From the pier, travelers venture into Cantabria, a region that is the perfect welcome to a land that has it all: wild beaches, majestic mountains, charming villages, top-notch gastronomy, and vibrant cultural heritage. It is the ideal starting point to discover a destination that surprises at every turn.
Culture, Art, and Citizenship
Santander is established as a modern and cosmopolitan destination. It is part of the Association of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World, being a founding member of this entity, which has 44 members globally.
Soon, new cultural spaces are expected to open, such as Espacio Faro and the Reina Sofía Associated Center – Archivo Lafuente. Additionally, the city will launch the new 2026 map in English and Spanish, with updates from 2025, including an increase in bicycle rental points. In an effort to boost French tourism, a new edition of the map will be released in French.
Unique Excursions in Green Spain
Cantabria offers quick access to tourist gems that delight cruise passengers. Santander Cruise Deluxe has cataloged these experiences based on travel time. Within a 30-minute radius, you can visit the Cabárceno Nature Park, a place where more than 120 animal species live in large habitats that can be toured by car or cable car. Also near Santander, you can enjoy the UNESCO Global Geopark of Costa Quebrada, the famous medieval town of Santillana del Mar, and the Altamira Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town of Comillas surprises with El Capricho de Gaudí, a vibrant villa with unique shapes and colors showcasing the early genius of the Catalan architect. Right next door stands the majestic Sobrellano Palace, in neo-Gothic style, alongside its impressive Chapel-Pantheon, a testament to the wealth and influence of the era. Completing this monumental triangle is the imposing Old Pontifical University, which dominates the town from above.
Within a 60-minute radius, there are very special towns and landscapes, such as Laredo and Castro Urdiales on the coast, and the Pasiegos Valleys, Cabezón de la Sal, and the sequoia forest inland.
Also, the Soplao Cave, a spectacular natural cavity of karstic origin, is considered one of the world’s great geological wonders due to the immense quantity and quality of its eccentric formations.
Within a 90-minute radius, for those seeking mountain adventures, the Picos de Europa offer hiking, wildlife observation, and stunning landscapes. With the Fuente Dé Cable Car, you ascend 800 meters with incredible panoramic views. You can also explore the charming town of Potes and its important Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana.
Gastronomy: A Luxury for the Palate
The region is a gastronomic paradise. Cruise passengers seeking authentic flavors can enjoy star products such as fish and seafood. Given its location on the Cantabrian Sea, fresh seafood and fish are fundamental. The anchovies from Santoña are a world-famous delicacy.
Inland, dishes like Cocido Montañés represent the robustness and tradition of Cantabrian cuisine. The region is also known for its high-quality cheeses, such as Queso de Nata de Cantabria (D.O.P.) or Picón Bejes-Tresviso (blue cheese), and Pasiego pastries. Sweets are an essential souvenir: Sobaos Pasiegos and Corbatas de Unquera are two iconic traditional pastries.
For a “Deluxe” culinary experience, Cantabria hosts several Michelin-starred restaurants, where the best local ingredients are transformed into gourmet masterpieces. The region’s gastronomic highlights include Cenador de Amós, which boasts no less than 3 Michelin stars and a Michelin Green Star for sustainability, and Casona del Judío with one Michelin star and also a Michelin Green Star.
Santander Cruise Deluxe positions itself as a quality brand and a model of successful collaboration, guaranteeing not only an efficient and sustainable port but also offering cruise passengers the key to a complete destination, where every call becomes an unforgettable journey to the cultural and natural heart of Green Spain.
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