Cruise - Northern Spain with Darren & Debbie

 Cruise - Northern Spain

Boarding the Borealis was seamless, and stepping into our cabins felt like unlocking a tiny home at sea. Exploring the ship revealed grand lounges, cosy corners, and sweeping decks, culminating in the Sail Away Serenade as Southampton faded behind us.
 

One of the highlights of our cruise was the much-anticipated Captain’s Dinner, a night of elegance, sparkle, and a little friendly showmanship. Suits, bow ties, and glamorous dresses set the tone—James Bond would have approved! We gathered for a formal dinner, with laughter and chatter echoing across the tables, while the spectacular sea views added a golden glow to the evening.

Santillana del Mar was our first proper taste of Spanish charm. Nicknamed “the village of the three lies” (not flat, not by the sea, and not particularly saintly), it felt like stepping into a storybook. Cobbled streets wound past medieval stone buildings, quaint squares, and centuries-old churches. The shops offered treasures for everyone—hats, mugs, dolls, and more—and ice cream was a welcome treat in the summer heat. Walking here, every corner felt photogenic, every doorway whispered history, and the charm of its cobblestones and balconies made it impossible not to linger. In Santander, we glimpsed local life and learned about Spanish customs—like late dinners that start at 10 or 11 p.m.! The waterfront promenade and elegant streets offered a contrast of bustling city life and relaxed seaside charm.

Evenings on the Borealis were never dull, with entertainment that kept the group laughing, singing, and dancing long into the night. Highlights included the sparkling Legends of Las Vegas show, where we belted out classics from Tina Turner to the haunting Titanic theme, and Ed Clarke’s magical illusions in the Neptune Lounge that left us amazed and chuckling in equal measure. Live music featured throughout the week, from the high-energy Ministry of Rock performance in Santander to late-night West End classics by singer Anya. Comedian Paul Boardman had us roaring with laughter, while Club Capone transported us to 1930s glamour on our final evening.

There were serene jacuzzi session and, as if scripted, dolphins appeared beside the ship, leaping effortlessly as if escorting us home—a breathtaking highlight of the trip.

        

Bilbao was a feast for the senses. The striking Guggenheim Museum, with its iconic titanium curves and contemporary art, gleamed in the sun. Sitting riverside with drinks and live music drifting across the water felt like a perfect postcard moment.  The shops were closed for the festival, but that only made ice cream tastings—Oreo, Kinder, toffee, chocolate—feel more indulgent. Every alley, every square had a story, and it was impossible not to get swept up in the colours, music, and movement.

In Getxo, the journey to Bilbao offered scenic views of elegant houses lining the hillsides—grand, stylish, and the perfect backdrop for our playful “which would you choose?” game. The blend of coastal charm and city sophistication made it a delightful prelude to our Bilbao adventure.

Casco Viejo, the old town, pulsed with energy during Semana Grande, the city’s biggest festival. Streets filled with parade floats, marching bands, and crowds in celebration. 

For those who preferred a more interactive experience, games like charades, silent discos, and line dancing kept everyone involved, while late-night drinks and dancing in the Ocean Bar added the perfect relaxed close to each day.

There were relaxed mornings in the Bookmark Café over coffee and games, followed by lively competitions like line dancing and Name That Tune—where Niamh led the group to an impressive third-place finish. Jason also showed off his dancing skills at the poolside disco!