For Brits moving to and from Spain, the P&O Ferries Portsmouth-Bilbao ferry service has always been a popular option – instead of a long slog driving through France, you can enjoy a mini-cruise down the coast of France with two night’s rest in a proper cabin. Once you reach Bilbao, many popular Spanish destinations can be reached within a day’s driving.

However, that’s all set to change. The 27th September 2010 will be the last day that the P&O Portsmouth-Bilbao service runs – it is being stopped. (You can read the official P&O news release here.)

Luckily, there is an alternative and more attractive option for ferries from UK-Spain. Brittany Ferries runs a service to Santander, which sails from both Portsmouth and Plymouth (alternately). This service is actually faster – only taking around 24 hours – and uses newer ships than the P&O service.

Click here for a quote from Brittany Ferries if you’re planning a trip to or from Spain.