The traditional Regata del Gallo will once again fill the waters of the Abra with sails

The Regata del Gallo will return on 19 December 2026 to bring the sailing season in the Abra Marina to a close. This traditional event on the Biscayan sailing calendar will, once again, offer one of the most iconic sights of this time of year: the boats passing under the Bizkaia Bridge, their sails unfurled on the waters of the Abra.

The start is scheduled for 12:00pm from the Benedicta Harbour in Sestao. From there, the boats will sail through the estuary and the Abra Marina until they pass under the iconic Bizkaia Bridge – one of the most eagerly awaited and photographed moments of the day.

The competition will feature boats from the Crucero I, Crucero II and J80 classes, which will once again transform the area around the Bizkaia Bridge and the Getxo coastline into the setting for this traditional end-of-season sailing event.

A Christmas scene on the Abra

The Regata del Gallo has become one of the regular autumn events in the Abra area. The contrast between the boats sailing by and the structure of the Bizkaia Bridge – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – makes their passage under the bridge a particularly striking sight for those who come to enjoy the day. 

More information

More information

If you're visiting Bizkaia during those dates, we recommend staying in Getxo, just 20 minutes from downtown Bilbao. It's the perfect setting to combine culture, gastronomy, and relaxation by the sea.

Where to sleep in Getxo

Where to eat in Getxo

Pintxos in Getxo

Plans to enjoy Getxo

Plans

Find out about public transport, 24-hour underground car parks and other ways of getting around Getxo here.

Metro Areeta