Vigo, on Spain’s northwestern coast, is a fantastic place for boat-based adventures. Its location on the Rías Baixas means you can enjoy everything from wine tastings in lush vineyards to sailing around the stunning Cíes Islands. We’ve picked out four top boat tours and cruises that showcase Vigo’s maritime charm, delicious food, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re into wine, history, or simply relaxing on the water, there’s something here for you.
Among our favorites is the Rías Baixas Private Tour with Wine Tasting, Food, Mussels Boat and Pickup — a full-day trip that combines the best of rural Galicia with a boat ride and plenty of local eats. We also like the Vigo: Cíes Islands Sailboat Excursion with Skipper for a leisurely day on the water exploring the famous Cíes Islands, often called the “Galician Caribbean.” For those arriving by cruise, the Excursion from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela offers a well-organized way to see the historic city, while the Guided Walking Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers provides a quick but rich taste of Vigo’s city center. Keep reading to find details on these tours and help decide which suits your travel style.
1. Rías Baixas Private Tour with Wine Tasting, Food, Mussels Boat and Pickup
This all-day private tour is a perfect combination of wine tasting, seafood, and scenic boat rides in the Rías Baixas. Starting with a pickup from your hotel or designated spot, you’ll head to a local bodega where a complimentary wine tasting awaits. Afterward, a boat trip along Ría de Arousa offers the chance to see mussel farms up close—plus, enjoy an all-you-can-eat mussel and wine meal. The tour then visits picturesque spots like La Toja Island, famed for its thermal springs, and Cambados, the heart of Albariño wine country.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach and comprehensive itinerary. The guide, Juanjo, is praised for his knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. Guests rave about the boat ride to see mussel beds and the opportunity to learn about local wine and mussel farming directly from producers. At roughly $345.73 per person for an 8 to 9-hour experience, it offers excellent value for a full day of indulgent sights, tastes, and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, immersive experience that combines gastronomy, wine, and maritime views, this tour is hard to beat. Ideal for food lovers and wine enthusiasts who appreciate the personal touch.
2. Excursion from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela – Cruise-ship passengers only
For cruise passengers eager to explore beyond Vigo’s port, this guided tour offers a seamless trip to the historic city of Santiago de Compostela. Starting from the cruise terminal, the coach ride takes about an hour, leading to a well-organized exploration of the city’s iconic sights. You’ll enjoy a guided walk through the heritage-rich streets, followed by interior visits to the Majestic Santiago Cathedral—a must-see—and the Museum of the Cathedral, which provides context about its stunning architecture and significance.
The tour also includes free time to sample local Galician cuisine, like octopus (“pulpo”) and empanadas, in the city’s lively eateries. The journey returns to Vigo with plenty of time left in your day to relax or explore further on your own.
What makes this tour appealing is its easy logistics and expert guidance—perfect for cruise travelers who want a stress-free visit to Santiago. The reviews are excellent, with an average rating of 4.9/5, praising the smooth transportation and insightful narration.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for cruise passengers who want a comfortable, informative day trip with a taste of Galicia’s most famous city, all without the hassle of independent planning.
3. Guided Walking Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers
A shorter, two-hour tour designed specifically for cruise visitors, this guided walk covers Vigo’s core sights and provides a snapshot of its history and culture. Meeting at the Man With Briefcase, your guide takes you past key landmarks like the Co-Cathedral of Santa María and the Castelo de San Sebastián, while sharing stories about Vigo’s maritime past and vibrant city life.
While brief, this tour offers a rich overview of the city’s character and is perfect if you’re limited on time. The route also includes passing by bustling squares like Praza Porta do Sol and the lively Mercado da Pedra, giving you a feel for local life. The guide’s friendly demeanor enhances the experience, making it engaging and easy to follow.
Rated 4.7/5, it’s a practical option for those who want to maximize their limited time ashore, especially if combined with free time to explore on your own afterward.
Bottom Line: For travelers with only a couple of hours, this walk is a solid introduction to Vigo’s core attractions, blending history and culture efficiently.
4. Vigo: Cíes Islands Sailboat Excursion with Skipper
If your idea of a perfect day involves sailing on the Atlantic, this Cíes Islands sailboat trip is a standout. Departing from the Real Club Nautico de Vigo, you’ll spend about four hours on the water exploring the islands on a private yacht with a skilled skipper. The experience includes sailing past the lush coastline, anchoring for swimming or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing on the beach with a picnic lunch on board.
What makes this tour special is its focus on independent exploration combined with the thrill of sailing. You can choose to hike to the lighthouse or simply lounge on the deck and take in the scenery. The Cíes Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, are famed for their white sandy beaches and protected natural beauty, making this a memorable escape from land-based sightseeing.
Rated 5/5, travelers love the relaxed pace and the chance to feel the wind in their hair while discovering one of Galicia’s most iconic sights. The $147 per person price offers good value for an all-day adventure, especially with options to snorkel or paddleboard.
Bottom Line: This trip is perfect for sailing enthusiasts or anyone seeking a laid-back day on the water with spectacular island scenery and optional water activities.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour for Your Vigo Visit
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For example, if you’re a foodie craving wine and seafood, the Rías Baixas Private Tour offers a comprehensive day with tastings and sightseeing. On the other hand, if you’re arriving by cruise and want a quick city overview, the Guided Walking Tour provides a brief yet informative experience.
For a leisurely day on the water exploring the Cíes Islands, the sailboat excursion with skipper is perfect—especially if you enjoy sailing or want to combine nature and water activities. The Santiago de Compostela day trip is best suited for history and architecture lovers who want a hassle-free excursion ashore.
Booking early is recommended for popular trips, especially in peak season. Think about your priorities—whether it’s tasting local wines, exploring islands, or city sightseeing—and pick the tour that best matches your style.
In summary, Vigo offers diverse boat-based experiences that showcase its coastal charm, culinary richness, and natural beauty. Whether you prefer a private wine tour, a sailing adventure in the Cíes Islands, or a city walk designed for cruise travelers, there’s a perfect match waiting. For a memorable trip, consider combining one of these tours with local dining and other explorations. Booking early is wise—Vigo’s waters are waiting.
