Yachting France & Spain's Coastline

Ports

• Bordeaux
  

  Bordeaux is a port city on the Garonne River in the Gironde department in southwestern France. The city of Bordeaux, with a population of 239,157 inhabitants in 2010, is the ninth largest city in France; its metropolitan area is the sixth largest in France, with a population of 1,127,776. It is the capital of the Aquitaine region, as well as the prefecture of the Gironde department. Its inhabitants are called "Bordelais" (for men) or "Bordelaises" (women). The term "Bordelais" may also refer to the city and its surrounding region. Bordeaux is the world's major wine industry capital. It is home to the world's main wine fair, Vinexpo (fr), while the wine economy in the metro area takes in 14.5 billion euros each year. Bordeaux wine has been produced in the region since the 8th century. The historic part of the city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List as "an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble" of the 18th century.

• San Sebastian
  

  The Kursaal Convention Center’s glowing cubes and Basque Culinary Center’s elongated terraces have become symbols of contemporary San Sebastian, but traditional Belle Époch and Baroque were certainly never abandoned. Begin your San Sebastian journey in the atmospheric Old City – the capital of Pais Vasco’s Gipuzkoa Province, it is a vibrant center of Basque culture and history. The French frontier is just a few kilometers down the road, and perhaps San Sebastian shares more with Biarritz and Bayonne than it does with Madrid.

• Bilbao
  

  The unparalleled architecture and remarkable landscapes are just the beginning of Bilbao. Known as one of the greatest treasures of Spain, Bilbao comes with a cultural allure that only a few can resist. Bask in the rolling green hills and the breathtaking coastline that will sweep you off your feet. Enjoy Michelin-inspired eateries and take a walk around the endless cobblestone streets filled with light-dimmed wine bars and social hotspots.

• At Sea
  

• A Coruna
  

  On the northwesternmost corner of Spain lies La Coruña, a distinguished city favored by history for its strategically important placement. Its most prized landmark is the 2nd-century Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest Roman lighthouse still in use, a colossal structure that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through graceful María Pita Square, named for the revered 16th-century Coruñan woman who inspired a successful counterattack on Sir Francis Drake’s intimidating English Armada. At the spectacular Aquarium Finisterre, gaze at myriad undersea creatures through massive glass panes, perhaps continuing your exploration of the city’s striking shoreline at the formidable San Antón Castle, a terrifically preserved 16th century fortification. Should you strike out to the lovely countryside, quaint villages such as Betanzos will delight you with houses that showcase the region’s distinctive glass-paned balconies. Don’t forget to visit one of La Coruña’s inviting tabernas, where excellent seafood is complemented by the lively conversation of friendly locals.

• Vigo (Bayona), Galicia
  

  The port of Vigo, with its strategic location in the northwest corner of Spain was constantly fought over during the many periods of war between Spain, Britain and France. Nearby Baiona is a town with a medieval historical center situated by the outlet of the Vigo Bay. On March 1, 1493, the Pinta, one of the ships from Columbus' voyage to discover the New World returned to Europe and arrived in Baiona, making the town's port the first to receive news of the discovery of America. A replica of the ship can be visited, and the event is celebrated each and every year. SeaDreamers have two land adventure options that include the sights and tastes of Bayona as well as the Unesco Awarded town of Santiago de Compostela.

• Porto
  

  Straddling the mouth of the Douro River, the splendid city of Oporto holds such architectural importance that the entire historic center has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. A great place to begin your exploration is Praça da Liberdade, a lengthy public esplanade lined with graceful 19th-century buildings. You’ll find the city has no shortage of marvelous churches, from the imposingly fortified Porto Cathedral to the graciously appointed Clérigos Church, whose soaring bell tower offers panoramic vistas over the city’s picturesque red-tile roofs. In the 1906 Lello Bookstore, prepare to be swept away by elaborate art nouveau features including a sinuous double staircase and a luminous stained-glass skylight. But what’s a visit to Oporto without sampling its signature export, the fortified wine that shares the city’s name. Tour one of the illustrious cellars dotting the Douro’s southern bank, where port is crafted just as it has been for centuries, and savor exquisite samples of the sweet libation. When evening comes, take advantage of Oporto’s reputation as the best place to eat in Portugal, perhaps choosing among the delectable cod dishes for which the city is renowned.

• Portimao, Algarve
  

  Portimao, Portugal is located in the District of Faro in the Region of Algarve. Portimao is the host venue for many prestigious sailing events including the annual Portimao, Portugal Match Cup event which is a part of the World Match Racing Tour. The Lisbon to Dakar Rally passes through, and there is also surfing and kitesurfing. This is a great place for seafood restaurants with grilled sardines being the specialty. The beaches are very nice around Portimao, one of interest is ("Praia da Rocha"), meaning "Rocky Beach" . SeaDream docks at the cruise terminal and a shuttle bus is organized to take guests to the town. SeaDream has two very nice land adventure options as well as private services. Please check the Land Adventures tab for more information.

• Seville
  

  The Unesco Awarded Seville is capital of Andalusia and is located between the Sierra Morena mountains and the Atlantic Ocean (60 miles away). Enjoying culture from the Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, Jews and Christians throughout the ages, and serving as the focal point of the Spanish Renaissance, Seville is rich in history and tradition. Your SeaDream yacht navigates 60 miles up the Guadalquivir River which is the only great navigable river in Spain, and docks in the heart of the city. When visiting Seville one can experience the city as it was centuries ago. The lovely winding streets and active public squares of the Barrio Santa Cruz allow the visitor insight into the oldest portion of the city, and the list of monuments and historic sites is seemingly endless. The Unesco Awarded highlights include the Alcázar palace complex, the Cathedral and the General Archive of the Indies. Whether you are embarking in beautiful Seville or enjoying it as a port of call, SeaDream has several options for you – check out the Land Adventures tab and prepare yourself for the famous Flamenco – The soul of Espana!