Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
What to Do in Cartagena, Spain
History Cartagena is a gem steeped in history. The Roman Theatre Museum is a must-see, revealing how the ancients once entertained themselves. Also, take a stroll through the Castillo de la Concepción for panoramic views and a lesson in medieval defence strategies.
Culture From Flamenco performances to Semana Santa (Holy Week), Cartagena is a crucible of Spanish cultural traditions. The city is alive with art galleries and venues showcasing local talent. Festivals like La Mar de Músicas international music festival are fantastic opportunities to immerse yourself in local and global cultures.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor It’s a sailor’s delight, with various headlands and bays offering shelter and unique vantage points. Cabo de Palos is a striking headland known for its iconic lighthouse, while Calblanque Natural Park presents an array of stunning coastal views. Just don’t forget your spyglass.
Entertainment Cartagena is far from sleepy when the sun sets. Jazz clubs, tapas bars, and live music venues abound. Whether it’s a quiet evening enjoying a Spanish guitar performance or a night out dancing to more contemporary beats, the city has you covered.
Eating Out For foodies, Cartagena offers an array of culinary delights, from fresh seafood tapas to hearty paellas. Visit Plaza del Ayuntamiento for traditional dishes, or head to Barrio del Foro Romano for modern interpretations of classic Spanish cuisine.
Nature Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city, you’ll find yourself amidst rolling hills and secluded beaches. Calblanque Regional Park is a sanctuary of untouched natural beauty, perfect for hiking, cycling, or simply sitting back to admire the view.
Unique Features What sets Cartagena apart is its fusion of old-world charm and modern luxuries. An ancient amphitheatre sits beside 21st-century marinas, creating a fascinating juxtaposition that’s quite unique to this Spanish port.
Accommodation Well-known places to rest your sea legs include the Hotel NH Cartagena and the Hyatt Regency Cartagena. For those seeking a more indulgent experience, the Caleia Mar Menor Golf & Spa Resort is a luxurious option.
Official Tourist Website The best official tourist information can be found at the Murcia Tourist Board’s website: Cartagena Official Tourism
Weather Cartagena Summer in Cartagena is hot and dry, perfect for enjoying the beaches. Spring and autumn are milder but still warm, offering a more comfortable climate for outdoor exploration. Winter is mild compared to the UK but can get chilly, so pack some warm layers.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
How to Get There
From the UK Fly directly to Alicante or Murcia airports and then take a train or coach to Cartagena. Alternatively, if you fancy a bit of a road trip, ferries from Plymouth, Portsmouth, or Southampton to Santander or Bilbao are available, followed by a drive down the coast.
From Europe Trains from Madrid and Barcelona make getting to Cartagena straightforward. There are also bus routes connecting Cartagena to various Spanish cities.
From North America Fly into Madrid or Barcelona, then catch a connecting flight to Murcia or Alicante. Trains and coaches are available from these airports to Cartagena.
From Australia Flights commonly connect through Asian or Middle Eastern hubs before landing in Madrid or Barcelona. From there, proceed as mentioned above.
