We are considering using the ferry from Plymouth to Santander, for the last 8 years we have travelled from Stoke on trent to Salou or Benidorm and have tried various routes through France and Spain and stopped off in some lovely places.
But in 2016 I am thinking about trying the Brittany Ferry to avoid 3 or 4 days driving in each direction as we travel with 2 young children also, and I was wondering if anyone uses this route option and has any tips or suggestions regarding using the ferry and what is the best option to keep price to a minimum for our first try of this service. We are going to be travelling next August.
Thanks for any help and advice
Tony and Katy
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I would plan a holiday around the north coast .... it's a fabulous area with decent weather in August ... we go there regularly and love the variety ... from the extraordinary Picos de Europa to the superb coastline.
It'll save a lot of driving, too!
Tony and Katy, If as you say you want to keep price to a minimum then the cheaper Economie ferry goes from Portsmouth, not from Plymouth. You can save even more if you take packed food, thermos flasks, travel kettle and whatever drinks your children want. But do have a cabin, not reclining seats overnight. And avoid the one sailing which requires two nights on board.
But I do have to admit we would use the flagship of the fleet on the Sunday afternoon departure from Plymouth - the timings are good, the journey is shorter, and we would always say hang the cost, and choose to wine and dine our way across. It's a holiday.
On the Pont Aven out of Plymouth there is a self service canteen serving steak and chips, stew, sausages, lasagne and so on. There is also a smart restaurant where you can graze a buffet spread with two dozen starters - salmon, ham, prawns, salads, cold meats, pates, etc. - as much as you like and go back for more. Main courses from an adult menu and a children's menu are served at your table, and then another buffet with at least a dozen desserts spread out. I once managed nine.
Come to think of it I think they have sample menus for each ship on their website.
Its worth shopping around for fares and seeing if joining Club Voyage would save enough to cover the membership - you get free breakfasts and 10% off meals too.
Quote: Originally posted by alan29 on 02/11/2015
Its worth shopping around for fares and seeing if joining Club Voyage would save enough to cover the membership - you get free breakfasts and 10% off meals too.
Hi Alan29 do you know of any websites that offer cheaper fares before I book the crossing. Thanks again for everyone's help
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
Hi Katy. The AA website says 10% off ferry fares, the two big Caravan Clubs might have offers. Ask Brittany Ferries for prices with and without Club Voyage membership. Ask them all whether juggling your dates helps. Time to start phoning round. Let us all know who does the best deal for you. Or someone on here might let you use their Club Voyage code. Good luck.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: First time ferry to Spain
