Santiago de Compostela isn’t just about its stunning cathedral or lively old town—it’s also a fantastic hub for cruise and boat tour experiences that let you see Galicia from the water. Whether it’s enjoying a scenic boat ride along the Rías Baixas, tasting Albariño wine onboard charming vessels, or exploring the dramatic Sil River Canyon, these tours offer memorable ways to experience Galicia’s coast and countryside. We especially like the Excursion to Rías Baixas with Winery for its blend of land and sea, plus its opportunity for wine tasting and seafood feasts.
Galicia’s mix of rugged coastlines, tranquil estuaries, and historic villages makes it ideal for boat trips. These tours aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about tasting local flavors, understanding regional traditions, and enjoying a slower pace that’s perfect after busy city visits. So, whether you want a full day on the water or a guided trip through stunning landscapes, you’ll find options that suit your style.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three top boat experiences around Santiago de Compostela, each with its own unique appeal:
- A full-day Rías Baixas trip with winery and mussel boat here
- A Rías Baixas tour with boat and wine tasting with a more structured schedule here
- An adventure into Ribeira Sacra and Sil River Canyon with scenic boat cruising here
Let’s explore each in detail to help you decide which one matches your travel style.
1. Excursion to Rías Baixas with Winery – Optional mussel boat
At number one on our list, this 9.5-hour excursion offers a richly textured experience of Galicia’s most iconic coastal region. The tour takes you along the southern coast of Galicia, visiting charming towns like O Grove and Combarro, while giving you the chance to taste Albariño wine at a local winery. The highlight is the optional mussel boat tour, where you’ll cruise the estuaries, indulging in unlimited mussels and white wine—an authentic and delicious way to enjoy Galicia’s seafood bounty. The tour also includes a visit to the Capilla de Nuestra Señora de La Lanzada, an 9th-century shrine on a picturesque beach, famous for moonlight rituals.
What makes this tour special isn’t just the scenery—though the views of the coast and beaches are breathtaking—but the chance to sample Galicia’s famous Albariño in its native setting. The reviews speak to its popularity: “The scenery was beautiful, and the mussel boat was a highlight,” says one traveler. The guided commentary ensures you understand the region’s history and culture, making this a well-rounded day.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for seafood lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those wanting a full taste of Galicia’s coast with some interactive experiences. It’s a great value at around $48.66, given the inclusion of tastings, boat rides, and sightseeing.
2. From Santiago: Rías Baixas Tour with Boat & Albariño Wine
Second on our list, this full-day Rías Baixas tour focuses heavily on sailing through estuaries, visiting charming fishing villages like O Grove and Combarro, and enjoying a winery visit to taste Galicia’s celebrated Albariño. The tour also includes a visit to Illa da Toxa, known for its seashell-covered chapel, and an exploration of the A Lanzada Hermitage, famous for its mystical location and cultural significance.
This tour stands out because of its structured itinerary, combining scenic boat rides with guided tours and tastings. The reviews highlight how well-organized and informative this experience is, with one reviewer praising the “excellent organization” and “interesting visits.” At around 9 hours, it offers a thorough exploration of the region’s highlights without feeling rushed.
The boat component, paired with wine tasting, makes it perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day in Galicia with plenty of local flavor. The value for money is high, given the inclusion of multiple stops and experiences, especially for those keen on cultural and culinary immersion.
Bottom line: This tour suits curious travelers who want a mix of boat cruising, wine tasting, and scenic village visits, all with a reliable schedule and expert guidance.
3. From Santiago: Ribeira Sacra & Sil River Canyon Boat Tour
For those looking for something a little different, number three offers a 10-hour day exploring Galicia’s most dramatic river landscapes. The highlight is sailing on a catamaran through the Sil River Canyons, a spectacular setting with towering cliffs and lush vineyards clinging to the slopes. The tour also visits San Pedro de Rocas, Galicia’s oldest rock-cut monastery, and includes free time and guided visits in Allariz, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
This experience is perfect if you’re interested in nature and scenery over coastal towns. The boat cruise offers a peaceful, immersive way to appreciate Galicia’s rugged beauty, with the added thrill of discovering medieval monasteries and scenic viewpoints. Reviews note the “breathtaking views” and praise the smooth logistics of the day.
Because it focuses on rivers and canyon landscapes, it appeals especially to travelers who want a more contemplative experience or are interested in geology and ancient architecture. At about 10 hours, it’s a full, enriching day that combines boat cruising with cultural exploration.
Bottom line: Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking serenity and striking landscapes, this tour offers a quiet, contemplative alternative to coast-focused trips.
How to Choose
When selecting your ideal Galicia water adventure, consider your interests, budget, and available time. For seafood and wine lovers wanting a lively day on the coast, the Excursion to Rías Baixas with Winery is hard to beat. If you prefer a structured, all-included tour with a mix of village visits and tastings, the Rías Baixas Tour with Boat & Albariño offers great value and organization. For travelers interested in nature and scenic landscapes, the Ribeira Sacra boat tour provides a peaceful, visually stunning experience.
Think about whether you want a full day of coastal scenery and culinary experiences or a more contemplative river cruise. Also, check booking availability early—these tours are popular, especially in the warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Galicia’s boat tours offer a fantastic way to see the region from a different perspective. If you’re after lively seafood feasts and wine tastings, the Excursion to Rías Baixas with Winery is a top pick. For a well-organized, comprehensive experience with a good mix of culture, wine, and coastal charm, the Rías Baixas Tour with Boat & Albariño delivers excellent value. And for those who crave spectacular scenery and peaceful waterways, the Ribeira Sacra boat trip offers a quieter but equally memorable day.
Booking early is advised, as these tours tend to fill up, especially during peak season. Whatever your interests, these water-based adventures are a wonderful way to deepen your experience of Galicia’s stunning landscapes and delicious wines.