Bay of Biscay

[Billyp53]

Any comments on the crossing of the bay around about April/May?

[screwy]

Never had a bad crossing in May,but like everything else, you pay your money etc.

[Onelife]

Hi Billy,

A bible and a few sick bags

It’s a case of takes your chance, I’ve crossed the bay when it’s been as flat as a skating rink, I’ve also experienced a ride on the big dipper when crossing the Bay.

Enjoy!

[Ray B]

Biscay is like any other sea area and, depending on the weather conditions at the time of sailing will dictate the conditions. I have sailed over Biscay when it has been so smooth you could use it as a mirror to shave, but I have also crossed it in a storm 10 /11 which gets exciting.
Billy, no need to worry, just face it as to what it will be and do not be put off by any bad stories. Happy Cruising.

[barney]

It is what it is !
Mother Nature will dictate.
I can’t remember how many times we’ve crossed the Bay but generally it’s been ok.
One Arcadia cruise in November was ‘interesting’
Huge swells and pea soup fog.
Captain Sarah Breton coped admirably.

[CaroleF]

As has been said, it all depends on the winds at the time, no telling. I would take some Stugeron tablets with you, have always worked well for me, and you'll find the Captain will give warning if choppy seas are expected. A couple of years ago I went across the Atlantic on the South American cruise, first stop from Southampton was Madeira. As we left Southampton the Captain warned us that things might get a bit rough - they certainly did, so we took some Stugeron the night we left. They worked well and although we were holding on when walking round the ship all the way to Madeira we were never ill. We have also done that journey when things have been incredibly smooth so there's no telling. Just be prepared.

Carole

[Stephen]

Try and keep yourself mid-ships lower decks if it gets rough during the day.

[Manoverboard]

I would suggest an aft cabin for the potential ' big dipper ' experience ... like wot we had

[Onelife]

And as a backup be sure to make friends with the lifeboat crew

The worst experience we encountered was when just leaving the Strait of Gibraltar on our way to the Med…. Our daughter slept straight through what the captain said was a force 11 storm, he did however downgrade it to a force 9 storm in the ships leaving magazine. It was a case of hold onto your bed for the best part of two hours and come to think of it, your bladder as well if you wanted to avoid accidents if you get while in the bathroom.

Looking back on it, its one of those experiences I wouldn’t have wanted to miss…but only once.

Hope I’ve put your mind at rest and don’t take any notice of those who come on this forum trying to put you off cruising across the bay in April/ May... you’ll enjoy it whatever the weather, with I hope experiences you’ll never forget