Pregnancy, children and ferry travel in Spain

Pregnant travelers and families with babies and young children can safely travel by ferry in Spain. Learn what to expect when catching a ferry in Spain during your pregnancy or when traveling with kids. Discover vacation suggestions for families and book cheap ferry tickets with confidence on Ferryhopper.

Pregnant traveler at a sunny seaside village in Lanzarote

Traveling by ferry in Spain during pregnancy

Ferry travel is one of the best ways to get around during your pregnancy. The comfortable seats, private accommodation options and open-air space make up an ideal way to explore your favorite vacation destinations in Spain.

Getting around Spain by ferry is a safe and smooth experience. The islands and mainland of Spain are well connected with frequent ferry crossings, and you can find peaceful resorts and secluded bays, as well as interesting towns and quaint little villages to visit.

Can you travel on a ferry in Spain when pregnant?

Yes, pregnant persons can travel by ferry in Spain, provided that they are not over 36 weeks of pregnancy at the time of boarding. Some ferry companies may implement slightly different regulations regarding pregnant passengers on board, so we recommend that you check with your ferry company before purchasing a ferry ticket.

Good to know: There may be different regulations for pregnant passengers who are having a multiple pregnancy. In some cases, you need to be less than 32 weeks pregnant at the time of boarding.

Do I need any documents to travel by ferry when pregnant?

Some ferry companies require that pregnant passengers sign a form prior to boarding. The form can indicate any medical needs or possible complications, personal information and contact details, so that you have a safe ferry trip.

Waiting to catch the ferry at the port terminal

Useful tips for pregnant ferry passengers in Spain

Have a look at the tips below to plan the perfect ferry trip if you're expecting:

• If you’re on a longer crossing, consider booking a cabin for maximum privacy and comfort during the journey.
• Take frequent walks at the outdoor deck area to get fresh air; it also helps with blood circulation.
• Avoid raw food items at the ferry cafes and restaurants, and either bring your own snacks or purchase prepacked meals onboard.
• Bring an up-to-date medical and pregnancy record. It may come in handy in case you require medical attention.
• Ask the ferry crew to help with your luggage and guide you to your seat or cabin.

Ferry travel in Spain with babies and young children

Spain is a great vacation destination for families with children. The on-board ferry services and vacation amenities you can find in the Spanish coast and islands make up the trip of a lifetime. Kids and grown-ups can enjoy amazing beaches, awe-inspiring landscapes, traditional markets, and delicious dishes.

Can I travel by ferry in Spain with my children?

Ferry companies in Spain cater to children of all ages, to offer a safe and memorable journey. On board ferries in Spain, children can attend workshops, access digital entertainment platforms, play board games, enjoy tailor-made kid meals, and watch interactive shows. 

What is more, getting around by ferry means you can book a family-sized cabin to relax and take a nice long nap en route to your destination. Particularly if you're traveling to the Canary Islands from Andalusia, a cabin is the best option for family trips.

Tip: On board selected ferries, you can find breast-feeding and baby-changing rooms.

Are there any ticket discounts for kids in Spain?

Yes, you can find different discounts for babies, young children and teenagers when traveling by ferry in Spain. Normally, babies up to 2 years old travel for free, provided that they do not occupy an additional seat. There are also 25-50% ticket discounts for young children, depending on the ferry company.

Bear in mind that age-related discounts are applicable based on the age of passengers on the day of traveling.

Tip: For the cheapest ferry tickets in Spain, see the latest 2023 ferry deals for the Spanish islands.

The Siam Water Park of Tenerife: one of the greatest attractions for kids in the Spanish archipelago

Useful tips for child-friendly ferry travel in Spain

Here are some useful tips to have a hassle-free ferry crossing with your kids and keep them happy:

• Make sure you bring ID and travel documents for your kids, indicating their age and personal details to benefit from the special rates.
• Book a family-sized cabin to sleep comfortably and put your baby to sleep in peace.
• Ask the ferry crew for a travel cot or highchair to be placed in your cabin.
• Make sure that kids are not unattended throughout the ferry crossing.
• If you’re traveling with a baby, it is necessary to indicate it during your booking regardless of rate and fare type.

Having family fun in the southern coast of Spain

Vacation in Spain for families and pregnant travelers

You can have a great vacation experience in Spain either you’re visiting with your kids or you’re getting there while pregnant. Spain has excellent port infrastructure and an extended ferry route network that makes getting around simple.

Where in Spain is good for families?

Spain has many destinations that are perfect for laid-back vacation, either you’re traveling with your baby and younger children or you’re visiting while pregnant. You can find large all-inclusive resorts, quiet local rooms and 5-star beach hotels for your accommodation. 

Either you’re staying in the mainland or catching the ferry to the Spanish islands, there are many family-friendly options to choose from. The Balearic Islands and the Canaries are among the top family holiday destinations. 

Here are 2 suggestions for family-friendly holidays in Spain:

Formentera

The island of Formentera is the smallest of the Balearic Islands, and it is located really close to Ibiza. Formentera is popular for its untouched beaches, amazing nature, local markets and delicious food. You can walk around quaint villages, visit impressive monuments and swim in clear blue waters. The beach of Ses Illetes is one of the prettiest in the world!

A relaxing walk to the lighthouses of Formentera is a great holiday activity for families with kids

Fuerteventura - Lanzarote

Who says you can’t go island hopping when traveling with kids? Either you’re visiting the Canary Islands with your littles ones or you’re making the trip while pregnant, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are two of the best islands to visit. The two islands are just 30 minutes away from each other and regularly connected. In Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, you can enjoy the tremendous natural beauty and volcanic terrain, experience the local culture and swim in secluded and crowd-free beaches all year long! Popcorn beach in Fuerteventura is one of the must-visit coasts and kids will love it!

Tip: Find more info about the Lanzarote - Fuerteventura ferry crossing, including ferry schedules, ticket prices and ferry companies.

Enjoying the view to the Tindaya Mountain in Fuerteventura

Where to book ferry tickets for a family trip in Spain?

On Ferryhopper, you can book cheap ferry tickets for your family trip in Spain. Compare ferry routes, ferry companies and schedules on Ferryhopper’s Map of ferries, and book your family trip in just a few clicks!

Don't forget to download the Ferryhopper App to easily check in for your ferry crossing and have all your trip details at your fingertips!