Boat trip along the mussel bateas of the Ría de Arousa
Highlights
- Sail in a private boat along the Ría de Arousa on a one-hour route.
- Discover how the delicious mussels of the Rías Baixas are cultivated
- Feel like a real shellfisherman sailing among the rafts.
Why Freedome
Free of charge cancellation
Okay we'll reimburse you, but you don't know what you're missing
Best price guaranteed
The same as the guide: we do not charge fees
Assistance 7 days a week
Contact us anytime. We do not do ghosting
Full description
Did you know that some of the best mussels in the world are cultivated in the Rías Baixas? This route takes you to the heart of their origin.
For an hour you will sail on a private boat along the estuary to get a close look at the rafts, the floating platforms where these delicacies are farmed. The skipper will explain all about the process, the seafaring life of the Illa de Arousa and, if you're lucky, you'll be able to see a boat at work.
An authentic experience to discover one of the most deeply-rooted traditions of the Arousa estuary, with views of the Areoso islet as a backdrop.
What we will do
The appointment will be at the meeting point, next to the beach of Espiñeiro de la Illa de Arousa, 15 minutes before the booked departure. There you will be met by the skipper who will accompany you on this activity.
You will board a glider boat like the ones used by many of the sailors in the area, so that the experience will be truly authentic.
For approximately one hour, you will sail along the Arousa estuary among the rafts. The skipper will stop the boat next to some of them to observe them closely and to be able to lift some of the ropes where the mussels grow. Meanwhile, he will tell us curiosities about the seafaring tradition of the Rías Baixas and explain how this method of cultivation works, its origins and anecdotes about shellfishing on the island of Arousa.
If there are boats working, we will be able to get closer to see how the shellfish is extracted. We will also pass in front of Areoso islet, visible from the boat.
A relaxed, educational activity, perfect for small groups. The experience will last approximately 1 hour.
Who it is aimed at
The activity is suitable for all ages.
Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
The boat is not adapted, so it is not possible to board in a wheelchair and access for people with motor disabilities is limited. If you need assistance to board the boat, you will need to contact the skipper beforehand. You will receive the contact details in the booking confirmation email.
Other information
The experience is available from Easter to October.
The boat is pet-friedly, so you can participate with your dog.
It is not guaranteed that you will be able to see the whole mussel harvesting process, as it depends on the boats that are fishing at the time.
You will sail aboard a glider like the one used by the local sailors. It is 5. 60 metres long and has an 80 hp engine. The boat has no seats.
Recommended clothing
- Comfortable clothing
- Jacket or sweatshirt
Don't forget to bring
- Sunscreen
- Cap or hat and sunglasses
What is included
How it works
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1
Send a booking request
We will only pre-authorise the payment
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2
Receive confirmation within 48 hours
In case of confirmation, you will be charged the cost of the activity
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3
Live your experience
Enjoy the activity and let us know how it was!
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1
Buy a gift voucher
Valid for 12 months from the date of issue. You will receive it by email, in pdf format.
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2
Choose your preferred date
Contact the guide at the contact details on the voucher and arrange a day for the activity.
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3
Live your experience
Enjoy the activity and let us know how it was!
Meeting point
A Illa de Arousa, Pontevedra
Frequently asked questions
What happens in case of bad weather?
If you have made a fixed date reservation and the weather conditions are not suitable for carrying out the activity safely (according to the expert opinion of the guide), you will be refunded the full amount paid. The guide may suggest an alternative date or time for the activity. You are free to choose whether or not to accept these suggestions. If you are unable to reschedule, we will proceed with a full refund! If you have set the date of your Gift Voucher and bad weather has prevented the activity from taking place, the Voucher remains valid until the expiry date indicated on it.
If I cancel the reservation, can I get a full refund?
For this activity, the cancellation policy is very flexible. You get a full refund if you cancel within 48 hours from the activity start. You can find the full policies in the Cancellation Policy section.
What payment methods do you accept?
On Freedome, you can pay with any rechargeable credit card or prepaid card (including Postepay) from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB networks. We also accept debit cards enabled for online payments. You can also use the digital wallets Apple Pay and Google Pay.