O Grove is a lively fishing town on Spain’s Galicia coast, famous for its mussels, oysters, and scallops. It’s a spot where seafood is more than just dinner — it’s part of the local culture. The best way to get a real taste of this area is by hopping on one of its boat tours, which combine scenic views with delicious food experiences. Our favorite? The Ría de Arousa: Boat Ride to Mussel Farm with Tasting. It offers an engaging mix of learning about shellfish cultivation and enjoying fresh seafood right on the boat. Plus, it has a high rating of 4.7/5 from over 600 reviews, making it a solid choice for those wanting a fun, authentic experience.
In addition, the O Grove: Boat Tour at the Arousa estuary with mussel tasting provides a relaxed, family-friendly cruise with unlimited mussels and drinks, perfect for those who want a casual but tasty outing. Both tours showcase the region’s mariculture, but each has its own appeal depending on your interests and how much time you want to spend on the water.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of these top tours, helping you decide which one fits your trip best — whether you’re after a quick taste or a more comprehensive cruise.
1. Ría de Arousa: Boat Ride to Mussel Farm with Tasting
This 75-minute guided boat trip takes you along the Arousa estuary, where you’ll learn how local farmers cultivate mussels, oysters, and scallops. The main highlight is the visit to an oyster farm, where a guide explains the process from seed to harvest. A unique feature is the boat’s underwater vision — you can see the sea bed and the shellfish beds below, adding a literal depth to your knowledge.
After the tour, enjoy a generous serving of steamed mussels paired with local wine. Many reviewers praise how informative and fun the experience is, especially noting how the guides share their passion for shellfish farming. The tour is priced at just $23 per person, making it a good value considering the quality of the experience.
While most travelers rave about the informative aspect and the fresh seafood, some note that the tour is only in Spanish, which might limit understanding if you don’t speak the language. Still, the lively atmosphere and the chance to taste fresh mussels make this a top choice for seafood lovers and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: An engaging and affordable way to learn about shellfish cultivation while enjoying a tasty seafood tasting. Perfect for those interested in local food and marine culture.
2. O Grove: Boat Tour at the Arousa estuary with mussel tasting
This 1-hour cruise offers a laid-back experience with plenty of fresh mussels and drinks included. The tour rides around La Toja, one of the most scenic parts of the Arousa estuary, giving you a chance to see the landscape and learn about mussel farming from the crew. The highlight is the unlimited mussel tasting, which is a dream for seafood fans eager to sample the region’s famous shellfish.
The open bar includes wine and soft drinks, and at the end, everyone gets a taste of liqueur tourón. The relaxed pace and friendly service are what travelers love most, with many reviews praising the staff’s hospitality and the opportunity to indulge in as many mussels as they like. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its 4.8/5 rating from nearly 100 reviews, and it costs the same as the previous tour — $23.
A key benefit of this cruise is its free cancellation policy, offering peace of mind if plans change. It’s ideal for casual visitors who want a fun, informal experience with plenty of seafood and scenic views.
Bottom Line: A perfect tour for seafood enthusiasts who want an easy, social outing with unlimited mussels and drinks in a relaxed setting.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you’re interested in learning about shellfish cultivation and want a more educational experience, the Ría de Arousa boat ride is ideal. Its underwater views and guided explanations make it a richer experience, especially if you appreciate hearing about the process from local experts.
On the other hand, if your goal is to indulge in unlimited mussels while enjoying beautiful scenery and a relaxed atmosphere, the O Grove boat tour offers great value. Its open bar and casual vibe make it a good choice for families or groups of friends.
Budget-conscious travelers might also appreciate that both tours are similarly priced, but consider the length and content of each. The shorter, more informal cruise might suit those with limited time, while the longer, educational boat ride is better for those wanting a deeper dive into local marine culture.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and enjoy the best availability.
Final Thoughts
O Grove offers a handful of excellent boat tours that showcase the region’s mariculture and provide authentic dining experiences. The Ría de Arousa: Boat Ride to Mussel Farm with Tasting stands out for its mix of education and tasting, perfect for curious travelers eager to understand how local shellfish is grown. Meanwhile, the O Grove: Boat Tour at the Arousa estuary with mussel tasting offers a laid-back, all-you-can-eat mussel feast with drinks and fun.
For seafood lovers seeking a lively, social outing, either tour will satisfy the craving for fresh shellfish and stunning estuary views. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick taste of local culture, the shorter cruise is a perfect choice. If you want a more immersive experience, the longer guided tour delivers more background on how Galicia’s famous mussels are farmed.
Remember to book early, especially in summer, to secure your spot. Whichever you choose, O Grove’s boat tours promise a genuine taste of Galicia’s culinary and maritime charm.
