🌊 Overview — The Traslatio Boat Experience
The Camino Portugués Variante Espiritual from Vigo to Santiago is a breathtaking 100 km journey officially recognised by Santiago Cathedral.
This unique itinerary combines quiet coastal paths, vineyard valleys, and a boat trip across the Arousa Estuary, retracing the legendary Traslatio route of Saint James.
You’ll begin in the lively seaside city of Vigo, walk through Combarro, Armenteira Monastery, and the tranquil Ruta da Pedra e da Auga, before reaching Vilanova de Arousa.
Here, pilgrims sail the River Ulla to Padrón, following the mythical route of the Apostle’s remains.
This is the only Camino that blends land and sea pilgrimage – a truly unforgettable experience.
✨ Highlights
- Explore Pontevedra’s elegant old town and riverside cafés.
- Discover the granaries of Combarro – a UNESCO-listed fishing village.
- Visit Armenteira Monastery, where resident nuns still sing pilgrim Mass daily.
- Walk the serene Ruta da Pedra e da Auga forest trail.
- Sail the legendary Traslatio Boat from Vilanova de Arousa to Padrón.
- Taste fresh seafood and Albariño wine in coastal Galicia.
👉 Starting in Vigo qualifies you for the official Compostela certificate when you arrive in Santiago.
⛵ About the Traslatio Boat Experience
Boats depart from Vilanova de Arousa each morning (approx. 7 – 8 am; summer = two sailings).
Schedules depend on tides – confirm locally the day before.
- Journey time: ≈ 1 h 30 min
- Price: €30 per person
- Operators: La Barca del Peregrino (big boat) and A Mare Turismo Náutico (speed boats)
- Season: March – October (occasional sailings off-season if demand exists)
The river is dotted with stone crosses and mussel farms, marking the Route of the Sea of Arousa.
Pilgrims receive a Traslatio stamp, proving this segment counts toward your Compostela.