Vigo offers a surprising variety of cruises and boat tours that showcase its stunning coastline, islands, and local flavors. Whether you’re keen on sampling Albariño wine, exploring historic sites, or simply enjoying a day on the water, Vigo’s maritime offerings won’t disappoint. Our top pick? The Rías Baixas Private Tour with Wine Tasting, Food, Mussels Boat and Pickup. It combines the region’s best wine, food, and scenic boat rides into one seamless experience, perfect for those who want a personalized day.
If you’re arriving on a cruise and want a taste of the city’s highlights, the Excursion from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela offers a cultural deep dive with guided visits to the cathedral and historic streets. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the Discovering Vigo ria and mussels in the traditional boat delivers a short, lively boat ride with fresh mussel tasting. And if sailing is your thing, the Vigo: Cies Islands Sailboat Excursion with Skipper is a fantastic way to explore the islands in style, with options for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing on the beach.
Below, we’ll walk you through each experience, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which one fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Rías Baixas Private Tour with Wine Tasting, Food, Mussels Boat and Pickup
Starting with a full-day adventure, this private tour of Rías Baixas is perfect if you want an immersive experience. After a convenient pickup, you’ll visit a local bodega where a complimentary wine tasting introduces you to Albariño, the region’s signature grape. Then, hop on a boat for a scenic ride along Ria de Arousa, where you’ll see mussel beds and farms up close — a hallmark of Galicia’s coast.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on regional cuisine and culture. The all-you-can-eat mussel meal paired with local wines offers a delicious taste of Galicia’s seafood traditions. You’ll also visit charming spots like Cambados, Villagarcía de Arosa, Padrón, Carril, and La Toja, each offering their own local flavors and sights. The tour’s reviews reflect its popularity, with 10 perfect ratings praising the knowledgeable guide, Juanjo, and the well-organized schedule.
This tour’s value lies in its personalized approach, including hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to explore the wine country without rushing. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, culinary-focused day with plenty of scenic beauty. The approximate 8-9 hour duration is just right for a full taste of Rías Baixas.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for wine lovers and seafood fans wanting an all-in-one day experience in Galicia’s famous Rías.
2. Excursion from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela – Cruise-ship passengers only
For cruise travelers wanting a taste of Galicia’s cultural treasures, this guided day trip takes you to Santiago de Compostela, home to one of Spain’s most majestic cathedrals. The tour begins at Vigo’s cruise terminal, with a comfortable bus ride through the countryside. The highlight is a guided walk through the historic old town, with a focus on the Santiago Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tour includes a visit to the inside of the cathedral, where you can admire its Gothic and Baroque architecture, and a stop at the Museo da Catedral. Afterward, you’ll have free time to wander the charming streets, sample local Galician cuisine, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The return journey is smooth, with guaranteed transportation and a 1.5-hour walk that balances sightseeing with leisure.
Based on reviews, this tour scores an impressive 4.9 out of 5, with travelers praising its well-organized itinerary and expert guides. It’s best suited for cruise passengers who want a meaningful, relaxed introduction to Galicia’s spiritual and historical heart.
Bottom Line: A solid, culturally enriching option for cruise passengers eager to explore one of Spain’s most iconic pilgrimage cities.
3. Discovering Vigo ria and Mussels in the Traditional Boat
This short, lively tour offers a taste of Galicia’s maritime lifestyle. You’ll board a traditional boat in Vigo, sailing out to explore the Vigo bay and its mussel farms. The highlight is the tasting — a fresh handful of mussels paired with Albariño wine — a simple but authentic experience.
What makes this experience unique is its focus on local mussel farming and the chance to see the waters where Galicia’s famous shellfish is cultivated. The boat ride lasts about two hours, making it perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful maritime adventure. The guide, Pablo, is praised for making the experience fun and informative, adding that it’s “super interesting and very enjoyable.”
This tour is best suited for travelers interested in local food, traditional boats, and the Galician coast. It’s a great introduction to Galicia’s seafood scene without the commitment of a full-day tour. The price, around $566 per group up to 10, makes it an intimate, affordable outing for friends or families.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a quick, authentic taste of Galicia’s seafood farming in a picturesque setting.
4. Guided Walking Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers
This two-hour walking tour is designed specifically for cruise travelers who want a concise introduction to Vigo. Starting from a central meeting point, you’ll stroll past notable sights such as the Co-Cathedral of Santa María, Praza Porta do Sol, and the Castelo de San Sebastián. The guide shares insights into Vigo’s history and culture, making the short walk both educational and enjoyable.
The route covers key spots like Mercado da Pedra and El Olivo, giving you a real sense of the city’s local life and architecture. The tour’s reviews highlight its friendly guides and engaging storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a curiosity to understand Vigo’s historic soul.
While this tour doesn’t go into deep detail, it provides a lively overview suited for first-time visitors who want to explore comfortably and efficiently. It’s best for those who value guided context combined with a quick exploration.
Bottom Line: An efficient, engaging way for cruise passengers to familiarize themselves with Vigo’s historic center in a short time.
5. Vigo: Cies Islands Sailboat Excursion with Skipper
If you’re dreaming of a day on the water, this sailboat trip to the Cíes Islands is hard to beat. Led by an experienced skipper, you’ll set out from the Real Club Nautico de Vigo and cruise along the estuary, enjoying breathtaking views of the islands and coastline.
Once at the Cíes Islands, you can explore independently or join a guided hike to the lighthouse. The tour allows plenty of time to snorkel, paddleboard, or simply lounge on the beaches with a picnic lunch on board. The clear waters and unspoiled scenery make this a perfect escape for those who love sailing and nature.
Reviewers mention the experience as “feeling the wind in your hair,” and many rave about the relaxed pace and beauty of the islands. The approximately 8-hour duration makes it a full day, ideal for active travelers eager to combine adventure with relaxation.
This tour offers great value for its price, especially since it includes everything needed for a memorable day on the Atlantic. Perfect for sailing enthusiasts or anyone wanting a scenic maritime adventure.
Bottom Line: A top pick for those who want to sail to Galicia’s most famous islands and enjoy the ocean in style.
$147 per person
How to Choose the Best Vigo Boat Tour for You
When selecting your ideal cruise or boat experience in Vigo, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a full, personalized day immersed in wine, seafood, and scenic boat rides, the Rías Baixas Private Tour offers excellent value. If your focus is cultural exploration and quick sightseeing, the Santiago de Compostela excursion is perfect for a cultural fix.
For shorter, food-focused experiences, the Discovering Vigo ria and mussels in the traditional boat provides a tasty introduction, while sailing enthusiasts should consider the Cies Islands sailboat trip for a full day of ocean adventure.
Keep in mind booking early is advised, especially in high season. Each offers a unique way to experience Vigo from the water, so pick the one that best matches your interests and schedule.
Vigo’s boat tours make the most of Galicia’s coast—whether you’re after wine, seafood, history, or just the simple joy of sailing. With options for every taste and itinerary, now’s the perfect time to secure your spot and enjoy this Atlantic gem.