A Coruna stands out as a prime spot for boat tours and cruises—not just because of its picturesque coastline, but because it offers a variety of experiences that suit different interests and schedules. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful sunset sail, exploring historic landmarks from the water, or taking a quick city tour before heading back to your cruise, A Coruna makes it easy to enjoy the sea. One of our favorites is the Ría de Arousa: Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise with drinks, which combines gentle sailing with dolphin sightings and relaxing drinks, perfect for a laid-back afternoon or evening.
For travelers arriving on a cruise ship, the options are equally compelling. The Excursion from A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela offers a smooth, guided journey into Galicia’s famous cathedral city, while the La Coruña: Tour for Cruise Passengers from the Port of A Coruña provides a city highlights tour that hits the main sights in a comfortable, well-organized format. If you prefer exploring on foot, the A Coruña: Guided Walking Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers focuses on the charming old town and Maria Pita Square. Below, we’ll break down these options to help you decide which fits your trip best.
1. Ría de Arousa: Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise with drinks
This cruise offers an unmatched chance to enjoy Galicia’s coastline from the water, with the added bonus of dolphin sightings and drinks included. For around $51 per person, you get a 2-hour sailing adventure that can be enjoyed during the day or at sunset—whichever best suits your schedule. The cruise departs from Club Nàutico Boiro at Marina Cabo de Cruz, and the itinerary is flexible enough to include scenic walks, photo stops, and free time on Illa de Arousa.
What makes this experience stand out is its relaxing atmosphere. You’re guided by a professional captain and a local expert, making the journey informative as well as calming. The inclusion of complimentary drinks and snacks turns this into a leisurely escape from busy sightseeing. During the cruise, you’ll see pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and islands, all set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters. The highlight, of course, is dolphin watching—an experience that never gets old.
Guests consistently rate this cruise 5/5, praising its serenity and unique views. It’s especially ideal if you want a peaceful, scenic experience with a touch of wildlife. Bottom line: Perfect for those looking to relax, enjoy nature, and share a drink while soaking up Galicia’s coast.
2. Excursion from A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela – Cruise-ship passengers only
This full-day tour is designed exclusively for cruise passengers wanting to experience the highlights of Santiago de Compostela. For about 8 hours, you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic city center, with priority access to the famous Santiago Cathedral, which saves you precious time and avoids long lines. The tour begins at the Terminal de Cruceros de La Coruña, with a comfortable 40-minute bus trip taking you straight into Galicia’s most iconic city.
Once there, your bilingual guide (English and Spanish) will lead you through the cobbled streets and plazas, sharing stories about Santiago’s religious and cultural importance. You’ll explore the interior of the cathedral, marveling at its architecture and sacred relics. Afterward, there’s free time to sample local Galician cuisine—think fresh seafood, hearty empanadas, or a glass of albariño wine. You also get a bit of leisure before returning to your cruise ship.
Rated 4.4/5 with glowing reviews, this tour offers excellent value—combining culture with convenience. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want a timely, enriching experience without stressing about logistics. The tour’s well-organized nature means you’ll have enough time to enjoy the city and return comfortably to port.
Bottom line: An efficient, culturally rich option for cruise travelers eager to see Santiago without feeling rushed.
3. La Coruña: Tour for Cruise Passengers from the Port of La Coruña
This 6-hour city tour is ideal if your cruise schedule allows for a leisurely exploration of A Coruña’s main sights. Starting at the port, you’ll hop onto a comfortable bus that takes you to key landmarks like the Tower of Hercules, the Roman lighthouse that’s still in use today and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour blends transportation with walking, allowing you to see the city’s main neighborhoods at a relaxed pace.
The highlight is the visit to the Tower of Hercules, where your guide shares its fascinating history and engineering marvels. Afterward, a guided walk through the old town reveals charming streets, cozy cafes, and historic buildings like the Santa María do Campo church and the Igrexa de Santiago. Guests have praised the organization and the guide’s knowledge, rating it 4.5/5.
With two hours of free time for shopping or relaxing, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and downtime. It’s a solid choice for cruise passengers who want to familiarize themselves with A Coruña’s highlights efficiently.
Bottom line: A well-rounded city tour offering a taste of A Coruña’s history, architecture, and local life—perfect for a half-day adventure.
4. A Coruña: Guided Walking Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers
This 2-hour walking tour explores A Coruña’s old town, giving you an intimate look at the city’s streets, squares, and hidden corners. Starting from Palexco, your guide will lead you through María Pita Square, where history and modern life collide, and into the Colexiata de Santa María do Campo. Along the way, you’ll learn why locals call their city “the city where no one is a stranger,” thanks to its friendly atmosphere and open-minded residents.
The tour covers key sites like the Igrexa de Santiago and the historic architecture that defines A Coruña. It’s a relaxed, informative walk tailored for cruise passengers who want to experience the local character of the city without rushing. The guide’s engaging commentary makes history come alive through stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.
Rated on reviews for its informative nature, this tour is best suited for travelers with limited time who want a taste of A Coruña’s historic charm. It’s especially good if you prefer walking and exploring at a leisurely pace.
Bottom line: An accessible, enriching way to see A Coruña’s core in a short time, perfect for those who enjoy walking tours.
How to Choose Your Perfect A Coruña Boat & City Tour
When picking the right experience, consider your interest level and schedule. If you love wildlife and tranquil sailing, the Ría de Arousa cruise offers a peaceful, scenic escape. For those on a cruise, the Santiago de Compostela excursion is ideal if you want a deep cultural experience with minimal hassle. If your goal is to get a broad sense of A Coruña’s highlights, the city tour for cruise passengers or the guided walking tour are excellent choices.
Budget, time, and physical fitness also play a role. The sailing cruise is very relaxing, while city tours involve walking and standing but reward you with rich stories and sights. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak cruise season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
A Coruna offers a variety of boat and land-based tours that cater to different interests and schedules. For a peaceful, wildlife-focused experience, the Ría de Arousa cruise is hard to beat. If you’re arriving by cruise and want a quick culture, the Santiago tour or the city highlights tour are reliable, well-organized options.
Whatever your choice, booking in advance will help you make the most of your time in Galicia’s charming coastal city. Each experience offers a unique way to see, learn about, and enjoy A Coruna—and with a little planning, you’ll come away with stories to tell and memories to cherish.
