Discover Bilbao from the water with a scenic 60-minute boat tour by El Bote Tours. Perfect for families and furry friends, this trip offers stunning views and a unique perspective on the city's port and bridges.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
60 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; comfortable seating and gentle cruise.
Wildlife
History
The Vizcaya Bridge, visible from the tour, was built in 1893 and is a pioneering transporter bridge showcasing Basque engineering heritage.
Conservation
El Bote Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices by maintaining boat cleanliness and minimizing engine emissions to protect the waterway health.
El Bote Tours
Discover Bilbao from the water with a scenic 60-minute boat tour by El Bote Tours. Perfect for families and furry friends, this trip offers stunning views and a unique perspective on the city's port and bridges.
El Bote Tours is a Bilbo-based boat operator offering short scheduled crossings and sightseeing trips across the Ría de Bilbao and the Bay of Abra. The company operates routes linking Bilbao, Portugalete, Getxo, Santurtzi and Bahía del Abra, providing frequent daytime services suited to commuters, visitors and local sightseers. Trips range from 45 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, with clear timetables for each route.
El Bote Tours accepts small to medium-sized dogs on board for a nominal fee when animals are leashed and muzzled, making excursions accessible to pet owners. Vessels follow local maritime safety regulations and crew members maintain standard boarding procedures and lifejacket availability.
The operator focuses on short, reliable crossings rather than long cruises; many departures connect city waterfronts and ports, offering scenic views of the estuary and urban coastline. Ticketing is straightforward for single crossings between two stops, and routes are scheduled to serve both short trips and slightly longer scenic journeys.
As a local service based in Euskadi, El Bote Tours is familiar with regional waters and typical weather patterns, which helps maintain on-time departures and safe passage. The company’s routes and policies are transparent about pet rules, trip durations and pickup/drop-off stops.
Visitors planning to travel with dogs should arrive early, bring a leash and muzzle, and confirm any nominal pet fees. For those seeking quick sightseeing on the Ría de Bilbao or convenient inter-port connections, El Bote Tours provides practical, pet-friendly options in and around Bilbo. Schedules and policies are updated seasonally.
Service Area
Bilbo & Ría de Bilbao
Routes across the estuary and Bay of Abra
Pet Policy
Small–Medium Dogs
Allowed leashed and muzzled on board
Duration Range
45–105 min
Short scheduled crossings and trips
Tours Offered
11 routes
Connections between nearby ports
Select a route, confirm pet rules, and book a short ferry trip for reliable transport and memorable views on the Ría de Bilbao.
Bring Leashed Dogs
Ensure your dog is leashed and muzzled for everyone's safety and comfort.
Arrive Early
Arrive a few minutes before departure to secure seating and settle in.
Bring a Camera
Capture scenic views of Bilbao’s skyline, bridges, and waterfront.
Dress for the Weather
Wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during the outdoor boat trip from overhead sun.
summer
Waterproof Jacket
Stay dry and comfortable if the weather turns rainy.
spring|fall|winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the scenic views and memorable moments.
Hat and Sunglasses
Shield yourself from the sun during your outdoor voyage.
summer