On-board ferry services for your trip in Spain

Catching a ferry in Spain is a great transport option, as there are many onboard ferry services and amenities to make your ferry trip special. Find out more about accommodation, entertainment, family-friendly activities, car deck options, disabled access, dining, and traveling with pets.

Ferry arriving at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife

What services are there on board ferries in Spain?

There are many different onboard ferry services for your trip to Spain. From entertainment and meal options for different tastes to family-friendly vacation and luxury accommodation, you can take advantage of the plethora of choices available. 

Large and smaller vessels traveling to the Spanish archipelagos are equipped with all necessary visitor amenities to guarantee an enjoyable and safe trip.

From the moment you start boarding the ferry, the crew will welcome you and show you to your seat or cabin. If you want to find more details about the services and the facilities for the ferry routes in Spain, then keep reading.

Accommodation

For your accommodation on board the ferry in Spain, there are different options. Depending on the journey duration, the type of vessel, and your budget, you can choose to stay in a standard or premium cabin, book an airplane-type seat in the communal area, or purchase premium lounge access.

Many travelers choose to spend their time in the outdoor areas, to enjoy the fresh air and the magnificent landscape of the sea. There are also family-friendly and pet-friendly cabins, as well as spacious rooms with wheelchair access and other accessibility features.

Tip: on selected ferries in Spain, you also find onboard prayer rooms.

Enjoying the breeze on the deck of a ferry to the Balearics

Entertainment and WiFi

On board the ferry in Spain, you can browse the web, catch up with your favorite series, watch a film, read the ferry company magazine, or simply chat with your friends back home. Most ferry companies offer free Wi-Fi services or data bundles to choose from.

There are entertainment platforms with games, films, and many more options. Cabins and communal lounges also come with TVs to watch a film in peace and enjoy the crossing.

Tip: visit the onboard shops to get a book, purchase duty-free cosmetics during trips to North Africa, or get a unique gift for your loved ones.

Families and kids

Traveling by ferry in Spain is one of the best transport options for families with kids. You can book a family cabin with extra space for luggage, baby carriers, cribs, and more. Some ferry companies provide passengers with highchairs and have designated baby changing and breastfeeding rooms.

As for fun on board, you can take advantage of the child-friendly entertainment options, such as gaming and cartoon shows. There are also kids' workshops and shows, as well as playgrounds on selected vessels.

Kids gazing at the sea on board the ferry to Barcelona

Vehicles and parking

Bringing your own vehicle on board the ferry in Spain is the perfect way to explore your destination. Ferries in Spain have large car decks that can accommodate cars, motorcycles, bicycles, as well as larger vehicles such as caravans.

Tip: book your vehicle slot the soonest, as parking spots are limited and tend to sell out fast.

Luggage

Getting by ferry to the Spanish islands is great, as you are entitled to bring at least 1 piece of luggage for free, depending on the ferry company. Whether you’re traveling solo in Spain or in a large group, you can safely store your luggage in the designated areas, in your cabin, or in your vehicle.

Apart from your backpacks and suitcases, you can also carry surf equipment, musical instruments, fishing gear, and more.

Pets

There are also many options for pets on board, depending on the ferry company. You can book a pet-friendly cabin to nap with your furry friends, bring your own carrier, or use the ferry kennels.

Each ferry company has its own pet policy. Therefore, on some ferries pets are allowed in specially designated areas on the ferry deck or should be carried within a pet carrier. 

Tip: remember to bring an up-to-date pet health card or certificate, and make sure you inform the ferry company about your pet at the time of booking. You can also find more information on how to travel with your pet in Spain by ferry in our blog. 

Luggage waiting for boarding on the ferry

Fitness and wellness

Some ferries in Spain have luxury amenities such as spas, fitness rooms, and massage parlors, where you can spoil yourself. During longer trips, you can access premium services and enjoy a mini vacation on board.

If you’re in the mood for luxury and fun, you can also choose a vessel with an outdoor swimming pool or a jacuzzi. Book a wellness treatment or a tanning session, and arrive at your destination in style!

Gastronomy

Ferries in Spain have many options when it comes to dining. You can find snack bars, cafes, and restaurants with a full meal and light snack options, as well as cocktails, drinks, and fresh juices.

For a premium dining experience, you can pre-book a meal at one of the premium access restaurants and taste delicious Mediterranean dishes on board.

Tip: depending on the company serving the ferry route, there are also low-sodium meals, gluten-free options, vegetarian dishes, as well as food items for people with lactose intolerance.

Dining and restaurant area on a ferry in Spain

Safety

Ferries traveling in Spain are equipped with lifebuoys, lifeboats, and lifejackets. There is useful emergency equipment at designated spots in all ferry areas and you can see signs for emergency meeting points.

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, ferry companies have implemented enhanced cleaning protocols and introduced new hygiene regulations both for passengers and crew.

Tip: have a look at our blog, to find out the latest Covid-19 ferry travel measures for Spain.

A doggo wearing a lifejacket at sea

Useful tips for your ferry trip in Spain

• Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents before getting to the ferry terminal. Bring your boarding pass, e-ticket, passport, Covid-19 certificates, or any other useful documents for a seamless boarding experience.
• If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s a good idea to arrive at the port at least 1 hour before departure. In case you’re bringing your vehicle on board, you may want to get there even earlier.
• You can store your luggage in your vehicle and freely enjoy the onboard ferry experience. It’s a great idea particularly if you’re carrying watersports and hiking gear or music equipment.
• Make sure you get acquainted with all ferry safety regulations before traveling in Spain. Movement restrictions, mask-wearing regulations, and COVID-19 testing procedures may change depending on the situation.
• Some ferry companies offer free shuttle service from the city center to the port area. Have a look at the ferry company shuttle bus services to plan your trip.
• Have a look at all 2022 ferry deals for the Spanish islands to book tickets at the best prices.

The beautiful port of Palma de Mallorca on a sunny summer day

Where to book ferry tickets for Spain?

On Ferryhopper, you can easily book cheap ferry tickets for Spain in just a few clicks! Check our Map of ferries, compare ferry companies, routes, and schedules, and plan your trip with confidence.