Set sail from Vigo for a scenic boat trip to San Simón Island, unveiling its rich history and vibrant mussel farms on a guided walking tour. This unique maritime journey highlights Galicia’s coastal heritage unlike any other.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for steady walking on uneven ground is recommended; no special fitness required.
Wildlife
History
San Simón Island served as a quarantine station and prison, deeply entwined with 20th-century Spanish history, which the guided tour thoughtfully reveals.
Conservation
The island's ecosystem is protected to balance tourism and traditional aquaculture, with guided visits minimizing environmental impact.
Bluscus Turismo Marinero
Set sail from Vigo for a scenic boat trip to San Simón Island, unveiling its rich history and vibrant mussel farms on a guided walking tour. This unique maritime journey highlights Galicia’s coastal heritage unlike any other.
Bluscus Turismo Marinero is a maritime tour operator based in Vigo, Galicia. Specializing in experiential sea tours, the company offers a range of guided and private excursions across the Ría de Vigo, Ría de Arousa and nearby Atlantic Islands. Activities include mussel farm visits aboard traditional bateas, sunset cruises on historic vessels, scientific boat trips with live plankton analysis, island visits to San Simón, Sálvora and the Cíes Islands, boat rentals and bespoke sailing charters.
Several experiences combine culinary tasting with local albariño wine, boat-based brunches and visits to conserveras and seafood canneries in Cambados. Guides and crew are local mariners and experts familiar with regional maritime traditions, aquaculture practices and conservation areas. Boats range from historic goletas to comfortable private motorboats, with flexible itineraries that adapt to weather and group needs. Bluscus emphasizes hands-on learning, safety at sea and authentic connections to Galician seafood culture, offering opportunities for clam digging, marisqueo workshops and team-building on the batea.
The operator departs from ports including Vigo, Baiona and Redondela, and runs trips that showcase both natural landscapes and the working coastal economy. Reviews and local partnerships with seafood producers underscore its regional reputation. Whether booking a scientific tour, a private charter to Cíes or a guided route through mussel farms, visitors can expect knowledgeable guides, historically informed vessels and experiences rooted in local maritime culture. Trips include brunches, tastings, and educational activities for families, food lovers, and scientific groups, with safety briefings and licensed crew on each voyage during all seasons.
Base Location
Vigo, Galicia
Operating from Vigo and nearby ports
Tours Offered
26
Mussel routes, island trips, rentals
Local Crew
Local guides & crew
Experienced mariners and guides
Flexible Trips
Private & scheduled
Itineraries adapt to weather
Check availability and reserve a seat on a mussel farm tour, sunset sail, or private charter departing from Vigo, Baiona or Redondela.
Book Ahead for Best Availability
Reservations are recommended as tours have limited capacity to maintain an intimate experience.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
The 90-minute walk on varied terrain requires sturdy shoes for rocky paths and some uneven ground.
Bring a Light Jacket
Coastal winds can be strong, even on sunny days, so a breathable layer helps keep you comfortable.
Pack a Camera
The juxtaposition of historic ruins and active mussel farms offers dramatic photo opportunities.
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating rocky and uneven island terrain during the walking tour.
Windbreaker or light jacket
Protects against coastal winds and changing weather conditions on the boat and island.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Sunscreen
Provides skin protection during sunny boat rides and exposed walking routes.
summer|spring|fall
Camera or smartphone
Capture the island’s historic landmarks and scenic mussel farms.