Sailing pilgrimage on a Spanish coastline

How do you eat an elephant? The answer: ‘One bite at a time’, could be applied to passage planning a cruise along Spain’s vast northern coast that borders the four regions of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country.

 

But help is at hand from Asnauga, the Galician Nautical Association established to promote tourism and nautical sports, and representing the largest network of sailing clubs and marinas in the region.

And for anyone who would like to combine sailing with walking some of the Camino de Santiago, then the Xacobea Maritime Pilgrame is a good place to start.

First undertaken in 2014 comprising 45 boats and 275 pilgrims, the objective is to unite ports and towns and to develop strong nautical bonds along the route, regardless of social and cultural classes.

 

 

The maritime pilgrimage follows in the footsteps of the early travellers who were attracted to the ‘Jacobean Way’ from all over Europe and ‘Distant Europe’ – the countries of Scandinavia, Great Britain and Ireland.

The route commemorates the pilgrimage of St Francis of Assisi and comprises two routes: ‘North Journey’ from Ribadeo by sea to Portosín and land route to Santiago de Compostela, and ‘South Journey’ from Baiona, Vigo or Portosín to Santiago de Compostela.

Each journey must be carried out within six months, during which time the stamp of each port or Club of the Asnauga network is validated in a ‘pilgrim’s passport’, ending with official certification at the Cathedral of Santiago.  Pilgrims must complete 100 km on foot or horseback, or the last 200 km by bicycle.

And of course, the mariner is free to choose their own ports of call. But to achieve the Pilgrim’s Credentials, certain rules apply, approved by the Cabildo of the Cathedral of Santiago.

This pilgrim loosely followed ‘The English Way’ from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela, stopping at Ares, Sada, Camariñas, Vigo, Cies, Bouzas, Canido, Moaña, Boiro, Portnovo, Ons, and finally Santiago.

The ports and clubs in the Asnaga network are of the highest standard, offering first-class facilities and services to meet the needs of today’s sailor. Bare-boat charter is available along the route, as well as cruise-in-company charters such as that offered by Sailway in Vigo who have created a three-day package: Xacobea Nautical Crossing of the Riá de Arousa.

No matter what way you choose to you sail this coastline, solo or in company, a visit to the islands of Cies and Ons should not be missed, each offering a unique experience of tranquil beauty and excellent food. And whatever you do and wherever you go, sailing this beautiful coastline should not be rushed.

Further information: https://www.turismo.gal/inicio