Vigo: Cíes Islands Sailboat Excursion with Skipper

Vigo: Cíes Islands Sailboat Excursion with Skipper — A Practical Look

If you’re eyeing a day out on the water to explore the Cíes Islands from Vigo, this sailing tour might just be the experience you’re looking for. It’s not a laid-back cruise with endless lounging — it’s an active, immersive day of sailing, exploring, and enjoying nature’s beauty. What makes this trip particularly appealing are the spectacular views of the islands and estuary and the chance to try activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding. On the flip side, it’s not suited for everyone—especially if seasickness or non-swimmers are concerns. This tour is best for those who want a genuine, hands-on day on the water with a small group for a more intimate experience.

We love that this trip combines the thrill of sailing with the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of a picnic lunch on board and water activities makes it more than just a boat ride—it’s a full mini adventure. However, a potential snag to consider is the weather dependency; windy days may impact your comfort or the schedule. If you’re looking for a lively, scenic outing and enjoy being on the water, this excursion is a strong contender—especially if you value small-group intimacy and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Small group size (limited to 7 participants) ensures a more personal experience.
• Includes snorkeling and paddleboarding for active, fun moments in the water.
• Flexible exploration options on the islands — self-guided or with a guide to the lighthouse.
• Weather-dependent; wind and sea conditions can affect the day.
• Great for those who enjoy sailing and want to experience Galicia’s coast authentically.
• Price reflects a full day of activities plus all gear, snacks, and a picnic.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Cíes Islands Sailboat Experience

Thinking about taking a boat trip from Vigo to the Cíes Islands? We’ve looked into the details of this tour to see if it offers true value for your time and money. It’s priced at $147 per person, which sounds steep at first glance, but when you weigh in the full-day experience, all gear, and the personalized service of a skipper, it can be quite worthwhile—especially for those craving an active, scenic day.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The adventure begins at the Real Club Nautico de Vigo, a well-known starting point for maritime excursions. From there, the sailboat departs, showcasing the impressive views of the estuary and the southern island, San Martiño beach, which is only accessible by private boat. The journey itself sets the tone — feeling the wind in your hair as you glide across the water, passing by stunning landscapes.

After a couple of hours sailing, you’ll arrive at the Cíes Islands, a cluster of three main islands renowned for their crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. The tour offers roughly two hours on the islands, which you can choose to explore on your own or with a guide. A highlight is a hike to the lighthouses, offering spectacular panoramic views that are perfect for photos and memorable moments.

The boat anchors at Rhodes Beach, one of the most beautiful spots on the islands. Here, you can jump into the water for a swim or simply relax on the beach. For those feeling adventurous, an auxiliary dinghy is available to descend and explore the shoreline more closely. The islands are a protected area, so you’ll find that there are hiking trails leading to scenic outlooks, making for a varied experience whether you prefer beach lounging or walking.

Back on the boat, a picnic lunch awaits — a welcome break to refuel. Plus, water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are included, adding an active element that many travelers appreciate. These moments offer a chance to see underwater life or just enjoy floating in the Atlantic’s clear waters.

The return journey offers breathtaking sunset views, with the boat sailing back to Vigo. The overall experience lasts about eight hours, with the timing flexible depending on the available start times, which are generally scheduled during the day.

The Value of the Experience

One of the main selling points here is the small group setting, limited to just 7 people. This means more tailored attention from the skipper, a chance to ask questions, and a more relaxed vibe overall. The boat itself is equipped with a WC and offers the comfort of a private, personal sail — a big plus over larger, more crowded tours.

The all-inclusive price covers the boat, skipper, entrance to the Cíes Islands, picnic, and water gear like snorkels and paddleboards. This transparency helps you plan your day without worrying about hidden costs, though you’ll need to arrange your transportation to Vigo’s meeting point and manage your personal expenses.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys sailing and being on the water, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to experience the islands from a unique perspective, rather than just taking a ferry or visiting on a guided tour. It’s perfect for those comfortable with water activities; non-swimmers or people prone to seasickness might find this less suitable.

This experience also suits those looking for a more intimate, personalized day rather than a large-group tour. The flexible exploration options, the chance to hike or relax on the beach, and the inclusion of water activities make it a versatile outing.

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The Bottom Line

This sailing trip offers an engaging, scenic, and active way to explore Galicia’s famed Cíes Islands. The combination of beautiful views, water activities, and a small-group environment makes it stand out. The price might seem high, but considering the full-day itinerary, gear, and personalized service, many will find it well worth the investment.

It’s best suited for travelers who love being on the water, want to escape the crowds, and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re after a straightforward boat ride or aren’t comfortable with water activities, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those craving an immersive, memorable day at sea, this tour checks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Since swimming is not a mandatory part of the tour, non-swimmers can enjoy the boat and explore the islands, but they should be cautious around water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack a windbreaker, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, comfortable clothes, flip-flops, and a raincoat or jacket just in case. Shoes with light-colored rubber soles are recommended.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, including sailing, exploring, and returning to Vigo. The actual sailing segments are around 2 hours each way, with time spent on the islands.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, windy or bad weather could impact the sailing and overall experience. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and be prepared for possible changes.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a complete day of sailing, the boat with WC, the skipper, entrance to the islands, picnic lunch, snorkeling and paddleboarding gear, and insurance.

Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve without paying upfront and pay later, which offers flexibility if your plans aren’t final.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, at least 4 participants are needed to run the tour.

How do I get to the starting point?
Several private parking options are available near the Real Club Nautico de Vigo, making it convenient to start your day.

In summary, this sailing tour is a well-rounded option for those who want an active, scenic, and personal experience at the Cíes Islands. It’s a bit of a splurge, but for the right traveler, the combination of stunning views, water activities, and small-group intimacy makes it a trip worth considering. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just someone looking to spend a memorable day on Galicia’s beautiful coast, this adventure could be a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: