The Balmoral sailing in as I captured this view of the terminal.
We arrived today under the warm and welcoming skies of Bilbao, Spain. The weather was perfect as our ship entered the port—sunny, calm, and simply beautiful. From Southampton, through the English Channel, and across the Bay of Biscay, we enjoyed smooth sailing the entire way. It was one of those journeys where the sea was gentle and the horizon peaceful.
A Warm Welcome at Sea
As we approached port of Getxo, we were guided by one of the nicest harbour pilots we’ve ever met. That’s saying something, because not all pilot experiences are great—some can be quite grumpy! But today’s pilot was different. From the moment he boarded and spoke with our captain, it was clear he genuinely wanted us to enjoy our stay.
Knowing that our ship, Balmoral, would be staying overnight, he even encouraged us to explore Bilbao and take in everything the city has to offer. His friendly attitude made a great first impression.
Docking at Getxo Cruise Terminal 3
We docked at the brand new Getxo Cruise Terminal 3—a modern, clean, and well-designed terminal just outside the city. It felt extra special because there were no other cruise ships in port today, giving us the sense that Bilbao was all ours to enjoy.
The quietness, the smooth docking, and the clear skies all made for a perfect start. I’m already loving the peaceful charm and welcoming vibe of Bilbao, Spain.
Tonight, I’ve chosen to stay on board rather than go ashore. I’m content just relaxing on the ship and taking in the view of Bilbao from a distance. It’s quiet and calm, and after a day of travel, it feels good to simply unwind. From the deck, I can see the city lights and the outline of the buildings, which gives me a sense of the place without needing to leave the ship. While others are out exploring, I’m happy to have a low-key evening and enjoy some downtime onboard.
Seafarer and Family Man
I'm Dexter— a seafarer by profession, a traveler by passion, and a homebody by choice.
