What is it?
The Camino de Santiago by the sea is the route that comes closest to the original path taken to transfer the body of the Apostle James the Greater to the Galician lands after his death in Jerusalem between 41 and 44 AD. Recognized since 2016 by the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela, the Sea Route is already one of the official modes that offers pilgrims the Compostela, the official certificate granted to those who meet the requirements of the journey.
How?
To complete the maritime route, it is necessary to travel a minimum of 90 nautical miles (about 170 km) by sea and then walk at least 5 km to the Cathedral of Santiago. Sought after by sea lovers, this route also provides an opportunity for beginners in this type of adventure. The overwhelming landscape, a peaceful crossing, the company of nature and marine life make this mode not only a leisure option but a true experience of introspection and reflection. It is a unique occasion to experience the routine of collaboration and camaraderie on board, embracing the beauty and tranquility of the coastal sea of the Galician Rias Baixas and the Maritime-Terrestrial National Park of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia.
Important information for a good experience:
Just like when walking the Camino de Santiago, your navigation also requires austerity and a spirit of community. Those who choose to do the Camino by the Sea, unlike in the walking mode, will necessarily be in close contact with other pilgrims. Therefore, it is important to consider some information for everyone to have a good experience.
The skipper on board is responsible for the safety of navigation and the crew, not for cleaning the boat. Pilgrims are responsible for keeping the boat clean and organized for the good coexistence of all.
Pilgrims should be mindful of the amount of luggage. In addition to there not being enough space for a large amount of luggage on the boats, it should be taken into account that the final part of the crossing requires a walk to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Note: It is possible to hire extra cleaning and daily organization services for the boat, as well as baggage storage and transportation services for those who plan segments of their trips before and/or after the maritime crossing.
what else do i need to know?
- Weather Conditions: As this is a sailing boat journey, the duration and schedule of the crossing may be subject to changes depending on weather conditions.
- Time of Year: The journey can be done throughout the year, but the period with the best weather conditions is between April and October.
- Accompanying Guide: The guide is an optional service, which can be cultural, providing guidance at the ports of stopover and overnight stays, as well as proposing activities and tours, and/or spiritual, offering dynamics to deepen and enliven the broad and specific meaning of the maritime crossing, always seeking to achieve the pilgrim’s personal goal in undertaking the Camino. This service is available in Portuguese, Spanish, English, and Italian.
- Boats: Accommodate 6 or 8 people, housed in double cabins.
- Duration: It can also be done in 6 days, accessing the Ria de Muros-Nóia.
- Flexibility: The program and duration of the crossing are flexible for closed groups.
- Additional Tours: Additional tours can be arranged before or after the crossing.
- Elderly Participants: Whenever there are elderly people on board, it is possible to request the service of a specialized nurse to accompany the Crossing.
Discover The Landscapes!
