French & Spanish Coast – La Rochelle & Bilbao

About this cruise

Long enough to properly switch off but not so long you need to reorganise your entire life. This 7-night round-trip sailing from Southampton on October 24, 2026 visits La Rochelle, Bilbao, A Coruña and Le Havre (Paris). Expect a run of consecutive ports, 4 stops total, with the busiest days packed close together. The sea days around them feel earned. Stone-walled harbours, cream teas, and rain that clears just long enough for the view to be worth it. People come back from this cruise talking about A Coruña: Galicia's glass-towered city on the Atlantic. Roughly 11 hours ashore per stop. No need to rush. MSC Virtuosa keeps you well fed. 7 places to eat, with 1 included in the fare and a few specialty spots if you're in the mood. Families and groups will find plenty to do: waterslides, shows, multiple pools, and something for every age. If you can, add a night in Southampton before boarding. It's a good city to wander. And October is a good call. Still warm, less crowded, and usually cheaper too. 4 ports, 2 countries, one suitcase. That's the appeal.