Boat Tours & Ocean Activities

Mussel and Wine Tours (Ruta del Mejillón)

O Grove in Galicia is world-famous for its mussel farming in the picturesque bay of Ría de Arousa. An absolute highlight for visitors here is a boat tour that perfectly combines culture, culinary delights, and maritime adventure.

The Mussel and Wine Tours (Ruta del Mejillón)

These tours usually last between 60 and 75 minutes and take you out to the so-called bateas—traditional, floating wooden rafts where mussels, oysters, and scallops are cultivated on long ropes suspended in the water.

These excursions are perfectly balanced between educational insights and social gathering:

• The Educational Side: The boats cruise very close to the breeding rafts. The crew provides clear and engaging explanations of the mussels' life cycle and how the ecosystem of the Ría works. Many of the modern catamarans also feature a glass-bottom underwater viewing area, allowing you to observe the mussel ropes, fish, and the seabed directly from aboard.

• The Fun Factor: As soon as the educational part concludes, the atmosphere turns lively and celebratory. There is an "all-you-can-eat" tasting of freshly steamed mussels straight from the bay. This is accompanied by unlimited local Galician white wine—usually crisp Albariño or Ribeiro (with water and soft drinks available for children and non-drinkers). As the journey continues, the vibe on board becomes incredibly cheerful, social, and festive, often enhanced by music.

Major Tour Operators in O Grove

The catamarans depart directly from the port of O Grove (usually at Pier/Dock No. 3) or from the resort island of La Toja, which is connected directly by a bridge. The most well-known shipping companies are:

• Cruceros do Ulla (Turimares): One of the largest operators, featuring modern vessels, top-notch explanations, and a departure point directly at the harbor.

• Cruceiros Rías Baixas: Well-known for their tours including underwater views and very generous servings of wine and mussels.

• Barco La Toja (Minicruceros Proba): Offers flexible departure locations from both O Grove and directly from La Toja Island. In addition to the classic 1-hour tour, they often feature extended lunch or dinner cruises with seafood platters and traditional Queimada "witch shows."

• Naviera Bahía Sub: Another traditional operator at the harbor, known for creating a very welcoming, family-like atmosphere on board and keeping the tours highly personal.

Tip: Prices are very family-friendly, at around €20–€24 for adults and approximately €10 for children. Booking online is highly recommended during the peak season.