Portsmouth to Santander: My Epic, 2 Night, 30+ hour Voyage on Brittany Ferries MV Galicia!

[@Oldladysgin]

The best thing about Brittany is that they register their ships in France and have properly employed crews. A lot of other ferry lines sub this out to flags of other countries whilst Brittany sticks to it roots. Well done and yes I understand the ships hull is made in China but having travelled on the Salamanca many of the other fittings, important ones, were also European.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, BF do things properly 👍

[@JoshuaLescarretSailing]

do you know if engines are european ?

[@guzgrant]

Brilliant .I’m a married man of six kids . This looks like the perfect procrastination type trip to make alone and get some calm , quiet and respite .

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Oh it certainly is! Get yourself the lounge access and just relax all the way down. Bliss!

[@guzgrant]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I’m in for beginning of May l the post Easter factor appeared to make it cheaper and quieter . I can’t wait .

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

@@guzgrant enjoy it mate. Hope the sea stays calm 😊👍

[@roquedsa9125]

Remember to take your wife as SHE TOO needs that calm and more than you as she carried thise six for nine months each and bringing them up with their (time and energy) necessities as a baby

[@guzgrant]

@@roquedsa9125 Thanks for your thoughts , I have total respect for motherhoodit has been my life’s mission to support her role as Anesidora and I take every opportunity to put her and our children’s needs first . For the first time in many years we are in the position again to get small moments of repose both together and alone . Its healthy for a continuum for one to have time alone and meditate upon their own thoughts as it adds gravitas and clarity to those which concern others in daily situations .

[@maxpom68]

I've done this trip before with my late husband and 3 young kids. We all enjoyed the crossing. My kids saw dolphins and a low flying military plane. The sea was a bit rough in places though.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I haven’t seen Dolphins yet Maxine. I reckon I’ve done this trip about 10 times too. I’m very jealous!

[@rogerandroid2186]

Lovely calm weather for December

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was perfect (and makes a change for me on the Bay of Biscay!).

[@Markmeister1989]

Keep these ferry videos coming, yours are by far the most entertaining and educational! :)

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks a lot Markus, appreciate the kind words 😊👍

[@steve-marsh]

So true, totally agree

[@andyreynolds6194]

Just to say that I really enjoyed this vid- very informative and well narrated. I’m planning a trip on the ferry to Santander and back up through Spain and France on the motorbike, and this has been perfect for seeing what you get for your money on the Galicia. Thanks again.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Andy and thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. Much appreciated and I’m glad you found it useful 😊👍

[@helencadwallader3796]

Done this crossing a bit. Santander has some beautiful scenery. We travelled on a Royal Enfield motor bike down Santander coast. We were heading to tour Portugal. Motorways were not built then. a fantastic trip & every body we met were great.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Sounds fantastic. I’ve driven off the ship and it’s not long before you’re out into Northern Spain is it and some fantastic scenery. Cheers 😊👍

[@chrisbranchett4586]

We travelled to Santander from Plymouth a few years ago , also with Brittany Ferries . Thank goodness we had a cabin , as about 20 minutes out of port it was really rough for the entire 22 hours ! We just stayed in the cabin, hanging on to the side of the beds so as not to fall out ! However sailing home was lovely, like a mini cruise ! Cantabria and Galicia are so beautiful though !

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Confined to the cabin sounds pretty bad Chris. Rather you than me! Personally, I would have a cabin very time now - even a long crossing in the day. Glad the return leg was better!

[@jackirichards8789]

I have found that all the staff on Brittany Ferries are really lovely! X

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I agree Jack, always very helpful .

[@Timstravels01]

Fab video. Certainly a lot calmer than the ferry from the IOM and those sunsets were stunning. As always after watching one of your uploads, I think…”I want to try that.” Brilliant work mate.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Tim, you should do it mate. I did it over a long weekend and just flew back. Great trip 😊👍

[@colinh4553]

It's a mini-break in itself, a very pleasant looking wee cruise. Great video, thanks for posting!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Colin and thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@Nordkapp65]

Similar experience for me on the sister ship the Salamanca in September to - from Bilbao , great ship and helpful staff. Beats flying any day

[@Banditmanuk]

Wife and I did this journey on this ship last year. Took our motorcycles in the hold. Overall a good experience. We did find with the ferry being a two nighter, the bar was busy all of the first day. Liked the selection of films available on the TV in the cabin. Great food. Nicely made vid.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Banditmanuk, I never really used the bar tbh because, with the lounge access, it was kind of isolating in a way in that I just stayed in there and drank/ate all the free stuff (well it cost me £30 for the access but that was soon forgotten about I can tell you!). I’d do it again but yep, with the lounge access definitely 👍

[@Banditmanuk]

@@LetsMakeaTrip We would try the lounge next time.

[@aureliacornelia79adgracchu29]

It must have been near Christmas, cos they had a tree! But I've never seen the Bay of Biscay that calm! Looked like a great trip!And

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Me neither and yep, about two weeks before Xmas I think it was 👍

[@jimcrawford5039]

Funny about the bay, I went to sea for 7 years and never saw it rough after many crossings, same with Cape Horn!

[@ssdon929]

That window got me haha! 😂👍🏼 might think about doing this! Great vid bud.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Nice touch isn’t it. Definitely recommend this route if you’re not in a rush. Thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@vanessaschofield7927]

i loved the picured window in the room. psycologiacally its less clautrophobic a cabin without a window. i say brilliant brittany ferries for this touch

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I agree Vanessa, just a nice little touch and helps passengers in the inside cabins 😊👍

[@danielrawlings8090]

Claustrophobic?

[@kellybrown8638]

I love the background music for the video. It is soothing and lovely

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Kelly, thanks for noticing 😊👍

[@simonwhitlock9189]

A really nice trip you had there, love sea travel and did quite a lot when I was in my teens.Thanks for taking me along it was most enjoyable, as always stay safe and cheers.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Simon, yep I really enjoy the ferry trips, I’m going to do more as I think people enjoy watching them too. They won’t all be as long as this one!! I had to edit this down to a third of its original size! Thanks as always for your support 😊

[@simonwhitlock9189]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I would certainly like to see more ferry trips, all the best.

[@rezaalan3991]

Great trip, and yeah pleasant journey between UK and Spain. That fake window is mind-blowing

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, yep was a pleasant surprise that window 😊👍

[@blinard1]

I have been sober now for nearly 7 years, but of course, i have bad days. Any time i am feeling down or lonely i put one of your videos on, even if its just on in the background. It always makes me feel like i have a friend. So, if you ever think of giving up or doubt what youre doing, please remember that you, in a very real way, save peoples lives. Keep up the vlogs!!!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate for the lovely comment. Means a lot 😊

[@DarrenMatthews-d9k]

They certainly have changed the Portsmouth terminal. I remember the previous incarnation when I once got the ferry to Jersey. Not the best idea of arriving at 0330 in the morning on the coach and having to wait until embarkation at just after 0800 but at least it was sheltered

[@Luton-Mick]

Reminds me of the old P&O mini-cruises I used to take on the MV Pride of Bilbao...the Biscay was very unforgiving on many trips though.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I never did the Pride of Bilbao - probably the only ship I regret not sailing on when I had the chance. It was good to see a bit of competition on the UK - Spain routes at the time too.

[@Oldladysgin]

That ship was good for a laugh, if nothing else!

[@raymondfunnel6856]

I have done this twice from Plymouth to Santander and enjoyed it the staff where very friendly and helpfull and the food and entertainment was good and also the bar area

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Raymond. Yep, my experience of BF staff have always been pretty good. Entertainment-wise, I’m assuming you were on the Pont Aven if you sailed from Plymouth which is much better for that type of thing. Cheers 😊👍

[@6panel300]

We done this trip there and back a few years ago, never again. I was sea sick the whole 3 day trip. Good luck to those that can handle it. It has put me off ever going on any sort of cruise again.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I get that. I’ve had one or two rough trips on the Bay of Biscay but never sick. I think I can just about handle it but yep, not great if you’re suffering constantly.

[@allisterjones922]

Thanks, Mark, My type of trip I loved to see the water flowing past the ferry.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi Alli and cheers for the comment. I’m glad you managed to squeeze the word ‘flowing’ into it too 😉

[@alanwheeler3696]

Great vlog, probably the best BR vlog I’ve watched. I’ve been on the Galicia on an overnight to Cherbourg and thought the ship is good. But those food queues are it’s Achilles heel. I knew it was an issue so we got up early for breakfast and had no trouble but they quickly got extremely long. Indeed these problems have (according to BF) led to them now not including meals with the ticket on the Spain crossings. Only those booked before the change keep them. Thx for posting the vlog

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Alan, yes that does make sense to me about meals. When I emerged from the restaurant honestly there was a massive queue and a lot of people would’ve missed out on the start of the football that was showing on the night in question. So I bet that didn’t go down too well! And tbh, if it hadn’t been included for me, I would’ve just eaten the food in the lounge. Whilst that wouldn’t have been a proper meal, it would’ve been enough for me (and my budget).

[@Ste12D]

Oooh looking forward to watching this one. It’s a trip I want to take…

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Ste, yes I would definitely recommend it though check on the BF website as I think things have changed a bit since last year. Dinner is not included for example.

[@jayr4857]

New subscriber, your channel popped up on yt. Glad it did. Very interesting, 👍 looking forward to watching your past videos. Gee ferry's have come a long way since I was on one in the 80s. I live in Australia now. Great content mate. Love it.👍🇦🇺🇬🇧👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers James, appreciate the support and kind words. There are some pretty good ferries now operating out of the UK yes. Mind you, I still like some of the older, traditional ships like Brittany Ferries ‘Bretagne’. Hope Australia’s working out well, I’d love to get there one day soon myself! Cheers 😊👍

[@lhvent]

Free Tai Chi. Cool. Interesting

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes - an unexpected workout!!

[@jackbaldwin3649]

Great tour!! Thank you! Very nice ferry.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Jack, thanks for watching 😊

[@garymorgan9977]

Another great video, full of information and good advice. Keep them coming Mark. 👏👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, glad you enjoyed it 😊👍

[@DJGeeks]

I did this crossing end of November 2022 from Santander to Portsmouth and it was rough. Paid for the upgraded suite which is worth it as well as the c lounge. Unfortunately The dinner event did not state It had nuts on the menu and well being allergic to nuts meant I spent a good few hours with the French medical staff. Luckily after reporting this issue to Brittany they acknowledge the issue and gave me a large discount on a future booking with them To Note on rough crossings they close the outside upper decks probably for safety reasons.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers DJG, not great about the nuts though, sorry to hear that! At least they gave you some compensation I guess! I think that closing of the decks is a safety thing yes. I’ve had that on one or two crossings which is always a sign it’s going to be rough isn’t it!

[@geoffpoole483]

That was very informative. If one has the time to spare then it's a trip well worth making.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Geoff. For me, the holiday starts once I get on the boat so I’m not too bothered how long it takes to get there so long as the sea’s not too rough and there are decent facilities on board.

[@Lightescape1]

We do this every year - usually on the much larger Pont Aven from Plymouth - but last year went on the brand new Salamanca... its nice.. I like the exclusive lounge and the cabins were nice, but this year we are back on the Pont Aven. I much prefer Santander to Bilbao port and the bigger ship. The new ones running on LPG are great - but I couldn't get away from the fumes while on deck... Not tried the Galacia yet, maybe next year.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Nigel, I agree Santander is a much nicer port to arrive into than Bilbao. I love the Pont Aven btw, probably equal to Bretagne of my favourite BF ships.

[@simonf8902]

We went Plymouth to Santander on Ponte Averne. Lovely ship. Great food.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Pont Aven & Bretagne are both lovely ships I hope to get round to reviewing myself at some point 😊👍

[@tsr207]

An exceptionally good video - start, middle,end & well structured- enjoyable throughout !

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers John, thanks for the kind words - really appreciated 😊

[@broomybank]

Very much enjoy your videos, looks like a good standard of catering and accommodation on board, sea club sounds a must. Good preparation if you’re planning to enjoy the food of northern Spain

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate, appreciate the comment. Yep, the C-Club I would say is like an airport-style lounge but it’s basically open all the time so you’re going to be in there whenever you feel like something to eat or drink (I know I was). Great value for money 👍

[@TheVeggieBiker]

@@LetsMakeaTrip This is now 83 per person so don't know if that is now a good value for money, what you think?

[@paulwheeler4283]

Definitely a crossing I would enjoy and thank you

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Paul, I definitely recommend it😊👍

[@martinduffy6679]

Great video! Me, my partner and our one year old are booked to travel on board the Galicia in June for our first family holiday abroad. I was a Brittany Ferries obsessive as a kid and we used to travel the Portsmouth-St Malo route on board Bretagne and it was always my favourite part of the holiday. It's been nearly 20 years since my last sailing with them so to say I'm excited is an understatement! I might need some persuading on the Tai Chi though.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Martin! I was the same as you, loved the BF trips, must’ve been on all their ships more than once and before I started doing this KZbin thing! Start of the holiday for me. Have a great trip 😊

[@all-that-floats-and-wheels]

Thanks a great video this one is on my lists of trips 😊

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers mate, thanks for watching I definitely recommend trying this one 😊👍

[@davesdaze]

Hi. Loved the video on the isle wight ferry. Lovely weather. Very informative video. Hope u are well. Best wishes David and Beverley Norfolk

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers both. I’m running on low battery atm tbh 😂 but lots of stuff booked for next week. Hope you’re good, thanks for commenting 😊👍

[@davetoday2]

Have watched a couple of your videos, very good. Keep up the good work.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Dave, appreciate the comment 😊👍

[@davidoliver1169]

Hello Mark. Another highly entertaining video. Great fun.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi David, thanks for the comment and the kind words mate, really appreciate the support 😊

[@davidoliver1169]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I particularly loved the 'Ambulance' taking passengers to the ferry. A sense of humour has kept me sane travelling these past decades. All the best.

[@MH_1-9-9-6]

Good to see you in my home city ( Portsmouth , not Santander !) all the best Mark

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was warmer in Santander MH, I must admit 😂 Enjoyed Portsmouth though, I had a couple of hours round the dockyard before heading out to the ferry terminal and it looked really interesting. Hoping to get back in the summer and try out the hovercraft 👍

[@dgattenb]

used to lve in Portsmouth, always see those ships going out... always wondered what they would be like ....

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Pretty good overall David. You should give it a go! 😊👍

[@steve-marsh]

I was watching this again and really fancied giving it a shot, but I see foot passengers are not permitted at the moment, hope they let us back soon!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Is that right. Didn’t know Steve tbh and I wonder why? I hope it’s a seasonal thing but even then - not good and just kind of re-affirms the opinion that foot passengers are bottom of the list. I will investigate…..

[@nblair787]

Great trip. Very informative. Thanks for posting 👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Nicholas, appreciate the comment 😊👍

[@criticalcuda]

Very informative , booked on this ferry with the food drink package , didn’t realise the evening meal was included which is great , thankyou

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Brian. Some bad news for you though mate: since I made this video, it appears that the inclusion of the 3-course meal has been stopped. Not sure why 🤷‍♂️

[@criticalcuda]

@@LetsMakeaTrip oh well , shame

[@sammyhawkins5590]

I used to work on this route, it was two weeks of the hardest work I've ever done, it was no cruise for me.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

No I bet it wasn’t Sammy. Not something I’d fancy doing tbh, especially in rough conditions!

[@sarahstrong7174]

The food looked very nice.Thankyou for sharing.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Pleasure Sarah. Thanks for watching 😊

[@simonh6371]

Nice and relaxing to watch, thanks for the vlog. If you look at it as a ''mini cruise'' prior to continuing on holiday it's not bad value for the price considering the price of hotels and eating out nowadays.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, thought the price (inc 2 night’s accommodation and a 3 course meal at the time) was decent value for money. I flew back for £10 but yes could easily carry on through Spain by car or train 👍

[@simonh6371]

@@LetsMakeaTrip The north of Spain is beautiful and there's lots of good food, prices are still pretty reasonable. You shouldn't pay more than 1 Euro 50 for a coffee anywhere in Spain. Also in the north you don't get drunk tourists from UK, Germany etc. like in the med resorts.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

@@simonh6371 I must try the FEVE properly next time 👍

[@simonh6371]

@@LetsMakeaTrip Oh yes I'd forgotten about that, it's amazing. I went on it in Summer 2000 with a group of Spanish friends, we were cheapskates so we were drinking calimocho on the FEVE, that's the cheapest red wine you can get your hands on (Don Simon in 1 litre tetrapacks is the preferred choice) mixed 1:1 with Coca Cola. Fun times.

[@watou8]

It’s a SHIP!!!!

[@EForchetto]

Top quality video, thanks. Good to see the French always proudly fly their tricolour from their ships rather than some flag of convenience to save a few bob. Didn't do P & O ferries much good, even though such ships as the Pride of Bilbao were great fun to travel in, great bars, brilliant shows, etc. In the Summer, specially, it was one long party and, in rough seas, wall to wall vomit...:-). We suspected they turned the stabilisers off to save fuel or something.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Ernesto. I’ve heard this about the stabilisers before - there must be some truth in it. No comparison between BF and P&O really. One is a class act, the other, well, recent history says it all!

[@glenlockyer775]

If the sea was too rough with the bilbao they wouldn't use them as they would be coming out of the water!

[@wavecreatures]

Truly an epic voyage. One I’d like to do with a motorcycle.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

There’s quite a few bikes I’ve seen on these ferries in the Summer Phil. Always been quite jealous of them tbh 👍

[@JonathanH658]

One of the best meals I ever had was on Brittany Portsmouth to St Malo

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

I’ve had some decent meals with BF Jonathan and I must say I’ve had some bad ones too! Can be a bit hit and miss in my experience 👍

[@glenlockyer775]

The restaurant on the bretagne is nothing short of fantastic for a ferry (the self service is pretty good too!)

[@lordbisnick3932]

As a regular on the Pont Aven from Plymouth to Santander that extra time is a huge extra time aboard for us. H ad to use it Nov 2021 as Plymouth is closed then. Just for your info anyone booking a ticket now don't get the free meal unfortunately. Great video.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers LB! Shame about the meal then, I thought that was a good idea, if a little unusual tbh. That would just make me stay in the C-Club lounge even more now I think!

[@pujapete3665]

took my bike over to santander by ferry.could not wait for the voyage to end

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Rough crossing Pete?

[@jamestravels24]

Really useful and informative video! I’ve always fancied doing this crossing, taking my car to Spain for a couple of weeks, but the fares have always been unrealistic when I have checked.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers James, yep car prices (especially in the summer) are seriously high. That’s why I thought I’d try the foot passenger option and it definitely paid off. Thing is, once you get off in Santander it’s five minutes max to the railway station and from there, well, you can go anywhere really. Try it 👍

[@dieselfan7406]

It's worth going for just the a la carte restaurant, fabulous!

[@tonyhollis1506]

Really good video, first one of yours I’ve seen and will be checking out the others.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Tony, appreciate the support mate 😊👍

[@derin111]

I did this trip a few years ago as the prelude to a driving holiday around northern Spain and then back through France. The ferry trip was ok and I would do it again. The only thing I would do next time is make sure I took more of my own entertainment (download some films for the trip etc.) as I remember it did get a bit boring.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers derin111. Driving around north Spain sounds good. Downloads are a good idea because WIFI does cost money after the initial free period.

[@carine4318]

Hello from Australia 🇦🇺 so enjoy your videos

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thank you Carine, glad you enjoy them 😊👍

[@23rdjune]

3:20 "Ship". I think the old saying "You can put a boat on a ship, but not a ship on a boat" is a good one. Nice video again though. Haven't done the Santander route for about 45 years. Would love to explore Northern Spain again.

[@jonathanm2690]

Time to make a cuppa, a couple of biscuits and settle in to watch your journey, looking forward to this :) congrats on the 10k subs :) I'm delighted for you

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Jonathan, hope you’re enjoying it - it’s a bit of a long one for me but there was so much stuff to try and cram in! Many thanks for the support and encouragement - really appreciated 😊

[@shanewaterman4125]

This is kind of a bucket list trip to do ever since I learned about it many, many years ago but kids etc got in the way. Now I have time, however..... 😉 The Galicia looked much better than a few people I know who've done the crossing have led me to understand. Okay, it's not got the glitz of a cruise ship... but it's a ferry ffs! That meal you had was on a par with what we had recently on a Caribbean cruise. Don't think the price is too bad, especially considering what is included, specially if you pay for the Sea Club lounge. Would love to see a video of what you found as a foot passenger to do in Santander?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It was a pretty decent ferry. Some people have commented that the price of the lounge has increased quite a bit. Depends when you go to a certain extent (I was out of season on my trip). You cannot go wrong though for the money, I just never needed to buy any food and drink on board at all. What I would also recommend is the Pont Aven, that is a great ship I’m definitely going to try again soon.

[@jamesdoyle8442]

Love your video 👍👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers James, thanks for the kind words 😊👍

[@sarahillingworth2718]

When I saw the title first thought you were going to the Santander bank lol.. looks lovely 👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Haha, thanks Sarah. I prefer the city in Spain tbh 😊

[@sarahillingworth2718]

@@LetsMakeaTrip 👍😃

[@missmerrily4830]

You made this look interesting and fun and nearly tempted me to take the same trip. Unfortunately at one time I had to do a lot of ferry travelling and now hate the very thought. I even struggle with cruises. But it's so good to see someone actually enjoying the experience and promoting it too!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks MM, appreciate the kind words and yep I guess if I had to do it all the time it wouldn’t be such fun though I must’ve done all these BF routes now several times and I always look forward to the journey. For me, the holiday starts when I get onboard 😊👍

[@richardmarshall8916]

We have been on this ferry, as you say modern and very pleasant, worth noting it’s a pet friendly ship however the dog walking area is tiny especially when you could have around 40 dogs on board with their owners, we have suggested opening a upper deck area which would not impede on the other guests...... 30 hours in a small space is not great but with little effort could be solved.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Richard, yes I’ll be interested to see what happens about that. I did see the dog walking area which I guess is there because it has direct access from the pet-friendly cabins. So whether they can change that I’m not sure. I’m not a dog owner so don’t have much experience of these issues tbh but yep, there does need to be adequate provision on a journey of this length.

[@patriciafuchs5970]

Really fun and interesting

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Patricia 😊

[@unionjakjakson]

I have done that crossing twice ( both in January ). The first one was great, nice smooth crossing. The second one, on the return leg, was absolutely horrendous. The sea was so rough that no one made it out of their cabins for 24hrs. Scary rough and sick as a dog. Vowed never again & never have. My advice would be to watch the forecast and book at the last min, certainly in the winter months. Don't get me wrong, it can be a lovely experience. But it can also be very very bad!.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes Andy, I’ve had a rough crossing myself - on the Baie de Seine down to Bilbao, it actually diverted to Santander which must be a better port to arrive at in stormy weather. They actually got in touch with everyone on the sailing as they brought it forward several hours and we were the last boat to leave Portsmouth before everything stopped due to the weather.

[@unionjakjakson]

@@LetsMakeaTrip I will watch that, I will try not to chuckle!. I know how awful it can be at the time!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

@@unionjakjakson not on video unfortunately it was a few years before I did this KZbin thing. There’s just a small clip on my Twitter page.

[@neilcoram3495]

Another really good video Mark. Im tempted to give it a shot myself next year.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

It’s definitely worth a go Neil in my opinion. I think they’ve changed the compulsory meal thing now so it’s probably worth checking what you get for your money 👍

[@Fcutdlady]

If you go on a ferry in bad weather, how do you avoid being sea sick? I just have to look at a ferry, and i begin to go green around the gills ! Love watching your brilliant videos though . Stupid to travel with a knife and not expect intrest from security !

[@David-bl1bt]

an interesting vlog, thanks for sharing. it would have been useful to have shown the food options available and a sample menu of the evening meal.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi David, thanks for the comment. With regard to the food options, I’ve uploaded the pics onto my Ko-fi page so you can view them on there: ko-fi.com/letsmakeatrip

[@jimcrawford5039]

Great vid. Cheers from Australia.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Jim 😊👍

[@barnbersonol]

I've been on that ferry a few times. If you're a young man and too cheapskate for a cabin, hence trying to get some sleep in the lounge, don't be surprised if a friendly gentleman appears from from nowhere and tells you that he has a cabin to himself and welcome to join him. It's never happened to me though. Dunno whether to be relieved or offended!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Relieved I would say!

[@jamessmith6402]

Excellent video very entertaining 👍 thanks

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers James, glad you enjoyed it 😊👍

[@peterdnreynolds777]

Great video!! Hope all is well, take care

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Peter, yep good ta, hope you are too 👍

[@BibtheBoulder]

I got seasick on a canal barge as a 17 year old. Never been on a boat/ship since. Shame, because they always look a fun way to get to Spain...

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

The weather can be unpredictable. I’d love to say give it a go but if it was rough, you’d never forgive me for it!

[@BibtheBoulder]

@@LetsMakeaTrip Trust me, I wouldn't....lo

[@billyshearer117]

Have always wanted to try Brittany Ferries

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

You should Billy. I’ve probably been on them more than the others combined and overall they’re pretty decent. Do have a monopoly on the western routes though tbh.

[@TheFragmentor]

I really enjoyed that, one or two moments when your voice was completely muffled outside but apart from that a very interesting vlog. I've subscribed! Cheers from the Isle of Wight.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers for the sub much appreciated. I’m down on the IoW next week actually. Looking forward to good weather!?!

[@markedwards6147]

Inside cabin was very basic, I would always expect a proper dressing table with.a mirror, too. No complimentary tea and coffee making in there, either. If I ever considered taking this trip, I would enquire if they did upgraded Executive/Club Class outside cabins. The food and dining areas look nice. But I don't like being handed a card and told WHEN I have to eat! Like a flipping 1970s Butlins holiday camp! At least you had a calm crossing, though 😊👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

You can get better cabins than this Mark tbf. Personally, I preferred to spend a bit extra on the lounge access where you can have as much food and drink as you want.

[@jeanlowe8879]

Hi thank you great information very helpful 👏🤙🏻

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

No problem Jean, thanks for the comment 😊

[@TOMS-ux4zp]

I went on the pont Avion both ways and it only took us 23 hrs 24 at the most that was 8 yrs ago

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yes it is much quicker on the Pont Aven. This is more of a leisurely, economical way to do it I believe.

[@jediknight2350]

that sea looked super flat earthy lol

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Unusual for the Bay of Biscay I agree!

[@msjacksshipsadventures8382]

Really nice staff they have i was on brittany ferries few weeks ago.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Agree, very welcoming, totally happy with the camera thing and all the staff I met were superb (as is usually the case with BF tbh). Always been my favourite ferry company 😊👍

[@msjacksshipsadventures8382]

@@LetsMakeaTrip yep

[@killerqueen9298]

The unknown outlet looks like an RJ45 ethernet port for a wired connection.

[@yabbadabbadoo8225]

Entertainment for me are usually the bars that are trading on any ship. Long past the days of watching Can can girls and pretty lads performing shows on stage. ps looking at this ships decor I thought it was a hack from the 70's!!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Something like the Pont Aven in the summer is pretty good for entertainment. Part of the holiday really!

[@RobertMartin-rx8vw]

Great video!

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks mate 😊👍

[@TheCoopsvids]

Enjoyed this mate nice one …have yiu done a mini cruise from Newcastle ?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers OC, not yet. It’s on my todo list, just need to find the time 😊👍

[@steveobrien4141]

This is a mad route , the pont avon used to sail from plymouth to santander in 18 hours---sod a 30 hr slow voyage.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, done it many times and a much better ship. But I was in no rush on this trip, just wanted a nice time with a decent lounge and free food/wine. Loved it 👍

[@johnridpeath1728]

Very good job well done m8

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers John, thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@150rents]

a really enjoyable vid

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Laurance 😊

[@norm4260]

The comment about people not deactivating their car alarms, to my knowledge this isn't possible on the majority of cars unless they are left unlocked? Unless I'm mistaken?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

They used to tell you to lock the car with the key rather than press a button. Should work on all cars apart from those without a keyhole.

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

We have Portsmouth to Bibao crossing booked for the Spring on the same ship, so this was an interesting video. I like fake window in you cabin. BTW its a ship not a boat.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks for the comment. Hope you enjoy the boat, I think I’ve tried pretty much every ship in the BF fleet and I thought this one was comparatively good. Cheers 😊👍

[@spriggy40]

love to do this trip mark looked boss , only thing i wouldn't have enjoyed is going in an old ambulance as a shuttle bus bit rubbish that , but the rest boss stuff 👍👍👍👍

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers David. Yep I’d definitely recommend it. The shuttle bus’ yep I had to laugh really, I mean, it still had some of the ambulance fittings inside 😂 There’s always something odd going on in my videos these days for some reason!

[@Oldladysgin]

3 new ships built recenty Salamance Galicia and Santonya...the ships also do Ireland to Spain and France bypassing the Uk land bridge. A huge investment by the company.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Yep, I quite fancy trying the Cork or Rosslare routes. Ships quite similar though and I probably prefer the classic Bretagne or the Pont Aven tbh.

[@Oldladysgin]

My largest complaint is the terrible state of the coffee, on a French ship travelling to Spain! Really dire and I think at least the bar should have a proper coffee machine. I did send a polite comment about this to Brittany. It´s early days for these ships so let´s see.....really enjoy your videos, well done.@@LetsMakeaTrip

[@markcarson8]

I just discovered your channel Mark and I really enjoyed it, I had a terrible experience of sea sickness when I was younger and have never been on a boat since but your video makes me want to give it another go, cheers mate.

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Thanks Mark, glad you enjoyed it. I can’t guarantee the weather unfortunately and you probably don’t want to watch my recent video of the Isle of Man crossing! I wish you all the best though if you do give it another go. Cheers 😊👍

[@seanchris8290]

I really enjoyed your journey and the way you presented it. However I would have liked to have seen a bit more of Santander. Did you stay there for a while or did you come straight back? Did stay for a while? If so what Hotels were available if there are any near the port etc?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Hi, I didn’t stay there for long tbh. Had a quick look around the city then headed off for the airport to fly back. I have done one or two video tours of cities in the past but they don’t tend to do very well on the channel. What I normally do is post-up some photos on my other social media channels. My Ko-fi page has a selection of photos from the city in the gallery 😊 ko-fi.com/i/IN4N5H3E45

[@simondavey7787]

A wonderful review of a beautiful crossing. Did you get the ferry back?

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Simon. Nope, I flew back the same day I arrived. Had to get back to my proper job the next day!

[@mott2945]

I’m sorry I couldn’t bare an inside cabin no way not for two days anyway 👎 Great video mate thanks for sharing

[@LetsMakeaTrip]

Cheers Diamonds, It’s not everyone’s cup of tea the inside cabin I agree. It’s always going to be the cheapest option and because I was only really using it for sleeping I wasn’t too bothered this time. The commodore cabins with Brittany Ferries are nice but come at a price as you can imagine!