Portonovo, the gateway to the stunning Cíes Islands, offers an unforgettable day trip to the breathtaking Rodas Beach. For just $34.95 per person, visitors can enjoy the Atlantic Islands National Park‘s natural beauty. With a comfortable water taxi ride and ample opportunities for hiking, swimming, and birdwatching, this Spanish-language excursion promises an immersive escape for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. But the true allure lies in what awaits those who venture beyond the ferry’s deck.
Key Points
- Portonovo offers a non-refundable day-long excursion via water taxi to explore the Cíes Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands National Park.
- The tour includes hiking, swimming, and birdwatching opportunities on the islands, as well as visiting the stunning Rodas Beach.
- Guests can enjoy the comfortable ship with covered seating and panoramic views of the coastline during the cruise.
- The overall experience is rated 4.2 out of 5, with positive reviews for transportation and the opportunity to explore the pristine Cíes Islands.
- Potential limitations include some discomfort during choppy weather conditions and not being recommended for children under 5 or pregnant women.
Activity Overview
The activity, named "Portonovo: Ferry to Cies Islands & Rodas Beach," offers a day-long excursion priced from $34.95 per person.
Lasting 8 hours, the trip is conducted in Spanish. Though non-refundable, the experience promises to explore the Cíes Islands via water taxi from Portonovo and visit Rodas Beach with its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters.
Guests can enjoy views of the shore while cruising in a spacious, comfortable ship with covered seating. They may also relax on Ons beaches or sample local gastronomy at traditional restaurants.
Exploring the Cíes Islands
One of the main highlights of the ferry tour is the opportunity to explore the Cíes Islands. These stunning islands, part of the Atlantic Islands National Park, offer visitors a chance to experience their unspoiled natural beauty. The ferry takes passengers from Portonovo directly to the islands, where they can wander the coastal trails, relax on the pristine Rodas Beach, and sample local cuisine at traditional restaurants.
| Island Activities | Duration | Cost |
| — | — | — |
| Hiking | 2-3 hours | Included |
| Swimming | 1-2 hours | Included |
| Birdwatching | 1-2 hours | Included |
The ferry tour provides a convenient and efficient way to discover the Cíes Islands, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquil island atmosphere.
Visiting Rodas Beach
Though the Cíes Islands offer many natural wonders, a key highlight of the ferry tour is the opportunity to visit the stunning Rodas Beach.
With its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Rodas Beach is a true paradise for beach-goers. Visitors can relax on the soft sand, swim in the refreshing waters, or stroll along the coastal paths.
The ferry provides comfortable seating and coverage, allowing guests to enjoy the views of the shore as they cruise to the beach.
Local restaurants like Bar Serafín, Bar Begoña, and Restaurante Rodas offer a chance to sample the region’s delectable gastronomy.
Cruise Amenities and Comfort
While the ferry to the Cíes Islands offers a comfortable and spacious ride, it features several amenities to enhance the overall experience.
The ship boasts covered seating areas, providing protection from the elements. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the stunning coastline as they cruise to the islands.
The vessel is designed with safety in mind, ensuring a smooth and stable journey, even in slightly rougher sea conditions. Though some customers have reported discomfort during choppier weather, the operator recommends a catamaran for a more comfortable ride.
More Great Tours NearbyCoastal Strolls and Local Fare
Upon arrival at the Cíes Islands, visitors can enjoy leisurely coastal strolls along the picturesque trails. These tranquil pathways offer stunning vistas of the surrounding waters and coastline. For those seeking a taste of local cuisine, there are several traditional restaurants nearby that come highly recommended.
| Restaurant | Specialty Dish | Price Range |
| — | — | — |
| Bar Serafín | Pulpo á Feira (Galician-style octopus) | $$ |
| Bar Begoña | Empanada Gallega (Galician meat pie) | $ |
| Restaurante Rodas | Zamburiñas (Galician scallops) | $$$ |
These local eateries provide the perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of the region and take in the island’s coastal culture.
Access and Permissions
To access the Cíes Islands, the necessary authorization is arranged prior to the trip.
The meeting point is the Cruceros do Ulla ticket office next to the taxi stop. From there, visitors embark on the water taxi to explore the stunning Cíes Islands.
The ferry service provides comfortable, covered seating, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic coastal views during the journey.
Whether seeking to relax on the beaches or stroll the coastal paths, the Cíes Islands offer a captivating natural escape, accessible through the well-organized logistics of this tour.
Return Schedule
The return trips from the Cíes Islands are scheduled based on the time of year.
The return trips from the Cíes Islands are scheduled based on the time of year.
From June 14 to June 22, the ferry departs at 5:30 p.m.
From June 23 to August 10, the return trip is at 6:50 p.m.
And from August 11 to September 7, the ferry leaves at 5:30 p.m.
These schedules are in place to accommodate the varying daylight hours and visitor demand throughout the season.
Travelers should plan their day accordingly and arrive at the Cruceros do Ulla ticket office next to the taxi stop to catch their return ferry.
Customer Feedback and Considerations
While the overall rating for the ferry to the Cíes Islands and Rodas Beach is a respectable 4.2 out of 5 based on 32 reviews, some customers have reported experiencing discomfort during rough sea conditions.
The transportation rating is 4.1/5, while the value for money rating is 3.8/5. The activity isn’t recommended for children under 5 or pregnant women.
Some feedback suggests that a catamaran may provide a smoother ride, which could enhance the overall experience.
The opportunity to explore the pristine Cíes Islands and enjoy the stunning Rodas Beach continues to attract visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Ferry?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the ferry. However, they should check with the ferry operator for any restrictions or policies regarding outside food and beverages prior to the trip.
Is There a Fee to Access the Cíes Islands?
Yes, there is a fee to access the Cíes Islands. The necessary authorization to access the islands is arranged prior to the trip, which allows visitors to reach the protected natural reserve.
Do the Ferries Have Restrooms on Board?
The ferries typically have restrooms on board to accommodate passengers during the ferry ride. This provides a convenient option for passengers to use the facilities as needed during the journey.
Can I Book the Trip in Advance Online?
Yes, you can book the Portonovo ferry trip to the Cíes Islands and Rodas Beach online in advance. The activity provider offers an online booking option on their website to secure your spot before the trip.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activity?
There are age restrictions for this activity. It’s not suitable for children under 5 years old or pregnant women. The ferry operator likely enforces these restrictions to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
The Sum Up
The Portonovo ferry to the Cíes Islands and Rodas Beach offers an unbeatable day trip. With an 8-hour excursion, travelers can enjoy the stunning Atlantic Islands National Park, hike, swim, and birdwatch before relaxing on the soft sandy shores. At just $34.95 per person, it’s a perfect escape for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.
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