Explore the Wild Beauty of the Basque Coast by Boat
Description
Set off on a unique experience in the heart of the Basque Country. Departing from Saint-Jean-de-Luz, this small-group coastal escape takes you to Hondarribia (Fontarabie) — the first Spanish port accessible by sea. As we cruise along the coast, you’ll be amazed by the stunning scenery of the Basque Corniche, the hidden bay of Loya, and the iconic Deux Jumeaux rocks, watched over by the Château d’Abbadia. Aboard our boat, you’ll explore preserved natural sites steeped in history — off the beaten path. Hondarribia welcomes you with its authentic charm, colorful houses, and picturesque fishing port. We'll also sail along the Cape Higuer and Los Frailes Bay, where, on sunny days, a swimming stop lets you enjoy the crystal-clear waters in a breathtaking natural setting. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and seaside pleasure, this outing promises a journey full of discovery and emotion. Experience the Basque Country differently — book your escape now!
Tour Options
Itinerary
Departure: Port of Saint-Jean-de-Luz A legendary port of the Basque Country, where fishing remains the main activity to this day.
We will follow the Basque Corniche, a protected natural area located between Hendaye and Ciboure. Today, the hiking trail that winds along these cliffs is closed to the public due to its fragility — but from the sea, we’ll have the unique opportunity to admire the impressive Flysch cliffs from a privileged perspective.
You’ll discover the Bay of Loya, a hidden gem of the Basque coast, nestled between the cliffs of the Corniche and Hendaye, and overlooked by the majestic Château d’Abbadia.
Below the château, we’ll admire the “Deux Jumeaux” — two iconic sea stacks standing like sentinels facing the ocean. These natural formations have withstood the relentless force of the sea over time.
Hondarribia is home to a small fishing port that remains one of the most important in the Basque Country.
This is also where the Jaizkibel mountain range begins, home to the “Bay of Pigs” and Amuitz Island, a stunning area where the water is often crystal clear and calm. We'll make a short swimming stop here for those who wish to take a dip. (Snorkeling equipment available on board.)
We’ll make a short detour to the port of Socoa, overlooked by its historic fort — a true treasure of the Basque Country and a witness to its rich and captivating history.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please arrive 20 minutes before the departure time.
- Please do not go down onto the pontoon and wait on the quay; a member of our team will come to pick you up.
- Please bring: sunglasses, sunscreen, a windbreaker, a swimsuit and towel if you’d like to swim, and a bottle of water.
- Plan to arrive early in Saint-Jean-de-Luz to allow time for parking.
Reviews(94)
We had an excellent time on the boat this morning with Hugo, who kindly, professionally, and humorously shared all his knowledge about the Basque coast during our ride. The sun was out, the boat was comfortable, and we were able to enjoy a swim halfway through the trip (with fins and masks available) Thank you! We recommend Oceanboat64 100% 😊
Nice narrated boat trip, beautiful panoramas, friendly skipper (Antoine), swimming spot in a clear-water cove. No more than 12 people on the boat and that is very good. A bit expensive, but I recommend it
Magnificent ride with Antoine, who was lovely and helped us have a very beautiful morning with my 2 daughters and my mother. On crutches, he took care to be very attentive so that I was well positioned Everything was perfect, so much so with Delphine the dolphin who came to visit us 🩵 that I am certain I will return. Fanny
It was a wonderful ride along the coast. We really enjoyed the view of the landscape from the water and the children thought the swimming stops were great. The boat captain was absolutely confident, handles his boat perfectly, and made the trip a real experience.
Beautiful ride despite the weather, Antoine showed us the coast with brilliance.
It was just right !! And there was the deer surprise when we stopped and everyone could jump in the water and swim and snorkel! Loved it !! Didn’t realize that was part of the tour:)
Great boat ride, very nice guide, magnificent place, I recommend it
Great guide who waited for us despite our delay…. Thanks again! Super nice excursion with beautiful scenery. Even if the weather wasn't really with us, we had a great time! Be careful to allow time to find a parking spot (we had to park in the port parking lot and it was marked full…. We had a lot of trouble finding one and the parking meters are very temperamental)
What an incredible experience! Paul is the best <3
Interesting information about the coast and the Basque Country. Snorkeling and swimming were not missing.
