Galicia Cruises: Experience Galicia’s Coastal Beauty with Our Tour Galicia Cruises
Galicia cruises are among the most enjoyable activities you can do in this part of Spain. They not only let you glimpse the magnificent blue coastline but also invite you to adventure and fun under the warm sun and in the company of many marine species.
Where are Galicia cruises held?
Most tourist cruises take place at sea and cross several countries or the most attractive coastal areas of a single country. The voyage can last a full day, several days or even weeks, but in those cases the vessel is large.
Galicia is a privileged region in Europe, with a beautiful coast, beaches of soft sand, cliffs and small mountain ranges. That is why cruises are run in many ways — on large ships, on small boats, for several days or for just a few hours.
The possibilities are many and will depend on where you want to go, how long you want to enjoy the trip and the season. Remember that tourism in this region is growing, so it is best to book with a tour agency.
A cruise along the Rías of Galicia
The Lower Rías, better known in Galician as Rías Baixas, are an extension of Galicia's coast. They cover from Finisterre to the Vigo estuary. The ría is an arm of the sea that pushes inland when the tide rises, leaving the river mouths submerged.
For that reason, at some times of the year the flow of cruises and boats is greater. However, Galicia cruises run all year round, and you can even sail on large ships in any month.
In total, there are seven Rías in Galicia, each with a fishing port, marinas, architectural remains and beautiful tourist beaches. Each town also has its own attractions, so tours give travellers several hours to explore on land.
Whale and dolphin watching in the Rías Baixas
One of the natural wonders of the Galician coast is that every year it welcomes hundreds of dolphins and whales. This happens almost all year, but most frequently during the low season.
Most often the playful dolphins put on a show for tourists with impressive leaps and graceful swimming between the waves. Whales are a little shyer and breach over the blue water further out.
Even so, it is a sight worth photographing, and there are several kinds of whales you can spot, including the legendary blue whale. For years, due to relentless hunting, this species imposed its own exile, which it broke on its own in 2017.
On any of the Galicia cruises you may be lucky enough to see these magnificent animals, especially out at sea. Just watch the movement of the waves: when you least expect it, they will come out to greet you.
A cruise on the Ría of Ferrol
On the north coast of Galicia you will also find many activities on the water, cruises included. In fact, in Ferrol, during the summer, tour companies offer day-long cruises.
It is a pleasant, calm and history-rich route. While you are at sea you can glimpse two military forts, shipyards and Mugardos, one of the most popular fishing villages thanks to the octopus served in its dishes.
Sailing to Cape Ortegal: a day of adventure
If you love sailing but want a faster experience than a cruise, you can step aboard a sailboat at Cape Ortegal. This is one of the most adventurous experiences, not only because of the kind of navigation, but also because you cross two seas.
In Galicia the waters of the Cantabrian Sea and the Atlantic Ocean both wash the coast — these two bodies of water meet on land. In the north of the region, by taking a sailboat, you can cross from one to the other and see the difference in the water.
But the trip does not end there. It carries on to Estaca de Bares, the northernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. In other words, you reach very close to the northern edge of the region with its beautiful view of the coast in Coruña.
Galicia cruises are a luxury trip everyone can afford. This magnificent experience is, in fact, within reach of every budget, taste and preference. You just need to hire a good travel agency to help you choose the plan that fits you best.
