Discover Bilbao’s stunning coastline on a 1.5-hour boat tour with El Bote Tours—perfect for pet lovers and adventurers alike. Enjoy panoramic views and the lively port scene in this memorable maritime experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required, suitable for most ages and fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Bilbao’s port has been a vital trade hub since the 14th century, shaping the city’s growth and culture.
Conservation
El Bote Tours practices eco-friendly operations to minimize environmental impact and preserve the coastal waters.
El Bote Tours
Discover Bilbao’s stunning coastline on a 1.5-hour boat tour with El Bote Tours—perfect for pet lovers and adventurers alike. Enjoy panoramic views and the lively port scene in this memorable maritime experience.
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 sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear hats to stay comfortable during the sunny boat ride.
Leash your pet
Ensure your dog is leashed and muzzled if necessary to keep everyone safe and happy.
Arrive early
Get to the departure point 15 minutes early to settle in and avoid missing the trip.
Bring water for your pet
Carry water to keep your furry friend hydrated during the trip.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from the sun during open-air boat tours.
summer
Hat or cap
Shade your face and neck from direct sunlight.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated on the boat, especially on sunny days.
summer
Pet leash and muzzle
Ensure your dog’s safety and compliance with tour policies.