Are you looking for a cruise from Barcelona for your next holiday? Then you’re in luck, there are many cruise options available from Barcelona to suit all budgets. Fly over Northern Europe, cruise the Mediterranean, dive into the Black Sea, cross the North Atlantic, experience the nightlife of the Amalfi Coast, discover the ancient charm of the Great Barrier Reef or explore the lighthouses and warmth of the Caribbean Sea.
The number of cruise ships arriving in Barcelona changes every year, with the highest figure ever recorded being 824 in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this number has dropped significantly, with only 71 cruise ships arriving in 2020. Barcelona remains Spain’s most popular destination for cruises, due to its long history with the sector and its privileged location as the main port of call in the Mediterranean.
Not only do many cruise passengers arrive in Barcelona each year, but it is also important to consider the economic impact of these numbers. According to a study by the Port of Barcelona, the arrival of cruise passengers generates almost 800 million euros a year, mostly from direct and indirect spending by visitors when they call at the city.
In addition to its economic benefits, Barcelona also has a considerable cultural impact on cruise passengers arriving in the city. This is largely due to the variety of activities and destinations available, from the popular beaches of Barceloneta and La Rambla to the wide variety of historical monuments and natural attractions.
Which cruise companies have departures from Barcelona?
There are many cruise companies with departures from Barcelona offering chill out cruises, all-inclusive cruises, family holidays, luxury, honeymoon, adventure, exploration cruises, canal cruises, island cruises, sun cruises, open sea cruises, Greek Islands, among others. Among them we can highlight: Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Marseille Cruises, Costa Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and many more.
What else should I know before travelling from Barcelona by cruise?
Weather and seasons
The best time to cruise from Barcelona is from spring to autumn. During this time the weather in the region is mild with warm days. If you opt for a winter cruise, you should be aware that the weather can be cold and wet.
Cruise ship races
Cruise lines have scheduled itineraries between Spanish ports each year, starting with short 3-4 night cruises from Barcelona departing on Fridays, as well as longer cruises of 7-14 nights.
Onboard activities
On board a cruise departing from Barcelona, you will find almost everything you are looking for to enjoy your holiday. Most ships have restaurants, bars, shopping malls, hairdressing salons, SPAs, fitness centres, recreational areas, spas, discotheques, entertainment, casinos and much more.
What fares and offers are available for cruises departing from Barcelona?
If you want to save money on your holiday from Barcelona, always look at the first offers in the low season. If you have some flexibility, check out last minute deals. If you are travelling with children, many companies offer special fares such as; children free, up to €300 off flights, preferential fares for over 55s and all-inclusive fares for university students.
What ports are available from Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of the largest ports in Spain and the Mediterranean and is home to numerous cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, Princess, Costa Cruises, Carnival and Pullmantour. The main ports of departure from Barcelona are: Calvià, Benalmádena, Valencia, Málaga, Cartagena, Palamós, Módena and Palma de Mallorca.
