Discovering the port of San Sebastian: maritime adventures and culture

26 April 2024 | DONOSTIA

The old town of San Sebastián is a treasure of cobblestone streets and historic buildings, where every corner tells a story and every view is a postcard. Join us on this tour of the port, where tradition and innovation sail together.

Boat Route in Donostia

Photo: Brai.eus

MARITIME ADVENTURES IN THE PORT OF SAN SEBASTIÁN

Here, at Lasala Plaza Hotel, located in the heart of the old town of San Sebastián and facing the Donostia port, you can start your day with a boat trip that will take you to explore the beauty of the Basque coast.

As you depart from the Donostia port, you will be greeted by the sea breeze and the sway of the boats as they glide over the waters of the Cantabrian Sea. The Bay of La Concha, with its iconic half-moon shape, is just the beginning of a journey that promises stunning panoramic views. During the tour, you can enjoy the views of coastal towns that border the coast, such as Pasajes, Hondarribia, and Getaria. The steep cliffs and golden beaches add a dimension of natural beauty to the experience, while local guides share fascinating stories about the rich maritime history of our region.

For these outings we recommend:

BRAI

Sailing aboard the Brai Kantauri (a gem!) is much more than a simple boat trip. Its routes aboard this exclusive boat allow you to discover the most beautiful corners of the Cantabrian coast with the comfort you need. Brai offers exclusive routes with all the luxury of detail and tailored to your needs for groups of up to 12 people.

NAVEGAVELA

Navegavela is a nautical school with more than 15 years of experience that offers the possibility of renting sailboats with and without a skipper, outings and sailing excursions along the Basque coast. Being able to set sail from one of the most famous bays in the world is a unique and wonderful experience.

DSS SAILING

DSS Sailing offers private and exclusive tourist tours with a crewed boat to get to know the Basque coast in a different way. With them, you can get to know Pasajes San Juan, Getaria, Hondarribia, the Flysh of Zumaia, San Juan de Luz, and much more from the passion for the sea, nature, and navigation.

CATAMARÁN CIUDAD SAN SEBASTIÁN

If you are looking for a adventurous experience, the Catamaran Ciudad San Sebastián offers the “Travesía Donostia”, a fixed route that departs every hour from the Donostia pier to enjoy a ride around the Bay of La Concha in an approximate journey of 40 minutes.

GASTRONOMY IN THE PORT OF SAN SEBASTIÁN

The old town of San Sebastián is full of well-rated bars and restaurants where you can taste Basque cuisine. However, we recommend you to finish the boat trip enjoying one of the bars and restaurants in the port of San Sebastián, while you watch how the boats return to the port at sunset.

LA RAMPA: A GASTRONOMIC TREASURE IN THE HEART OF THE PORT OF DONOSTIA 

To start, you could try the fish soup, a traditional Basque dish that will warm your heart. As a starter, the anchovies are an excellent option, known for their intense flavor and soft texture. As for the main courses, La Rampa offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood options. The hook-caught hake on the grill is a popular choice, known for its delicate flavor and soft texture. If you prefer something a little more substantial, the hake neck for two people is an excellent choice.

For seafood lovers, the grilled prawns and sailor clams are a must. And if you feel like indulging, the crayfish are a delight.

Finally, don’t forget to leave room for dessert. The mamia (curd) is a traditional Basque dessert that will leave you with a sweet memory of your dinner at La Rampa. Enjoy your meal!

Euskal Itsas Museoa San Sebastián

Basque Maritime Museum - Euskal Itsas Museoa

EUSKAL ITSAS MUSEOA: A JOURNEY THROUGH BASQUE MARITIME HISTORY

If you are looking to immerse yourself even more in the maritime history of the region, a visit to the Euskal Itsas Museoa (Basque Maritime Museum) is a must. This museum, located in the same port, offers a deep look at the relationship between the Basques and the sea over the centuries. From traditional fishing to modern navigation, the exhibitions will captivate you.

Currently, the museum houses several interesting exhibitions. “Itsas-geruzak” is a photographic series that offers a unique and abstract visual experience of the port. “Moilak. Traditionally Innovators” illustrates the important function that Basque ports have exercised over the last two centuries: to be focuses of continuous economic, social and technological innovation with direct influence on the historical evolution of the Basque Country.

EXPLORING MARINE LIFE IN THE AQUARIUM

In addition, if you are a lover of marine life, you can continue your adventure in the Aquarium; a must-visit if you visit Donostia. Located a few steps from the port and the Lasala Plaza Hotel, this space is the ideal place to get to know marine creatures. From sharks to jellyfish, each tank offers a unique view of the diversity of aquatic life.

Get inspired for your next trip

Get the latest news about Lasala Plaza Hotel

LASALA