Cies Islands Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

The Cies Islands can only be reached by ferry services that operate from several coastal towns in Galicia, with Vigo being the primary departure point just 40 minutes away by boat. Regular ferry connections also run from Baiona and Cangas during the tourist season, usually between Easter and September. Visitors must obtain a permit before traveling, as daily visitor numbers are strictly limited to preserve the islands' natural environment. If coming from further afield, Vigo is well connected by rail to major Spanish cities, with the ferry terminal easily accessible from the train station by local bus or a short taxi ride. For those driving, ample parking facilities are available near the ferry terminals, though booking in advance during peak season is highly recommended.

The Cies Islands stand as a pristine archipelago off Spain's Galician coast, often called the 'Islands of the Gods' for their breathtaking natural beauty. These three islands, Monteagudo, Faro, and San Martiño, form part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, boasting some of Europe's most unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by ferry, this protected natural haven offers visitors a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, ecological diversity, and tranquil seclusion just minutes from mainland Spain.

The prime time to visit the Cies Islands falls between June and September when warm temperatures (averaging 20-25°C) and sunny days create ideal conditions for swimming and hiking. July and August bring the most reliable weather but also the largest crowds, making advance ferry ticket booking essential. The shoulder months of May and early October offer milder temperatures perfect for hiking and bird watching, with fewer visitors and a more peaceful atmosphere. Ferry services are most frequent during summer, with reduced schedules or no service during winter months. For wildlife enthusiasts, spring brings nesting seabirds while autumn offers spectacular sunsets across the Atlantic horizon.

The Cies Islands serve as an excellent starting point to explore other treasures within the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. From here, travelers can take connecting ferries to visit Ons Island, about an hour away, known for its traditional fishing communities and excellent seafood restaurants. The nearby Sálvora Island, reachable in under two hours, offers fascinating abandoned villages and a historic lighthouse with panoramic views. For those interested in venturing further, regular ferry connections to Arousa Island provide access to Galicia's renowned mussel farms and wine country. The entire archipelago creates a unique island-hopping experience, with each destination offering its own distinct character while sharing the remarkable natural beauty of Spain's Atlantic coast.

The Cies Islands offer visitors a wealth of natural experiences, starting with Rodas Beach, a crescent of pristine white sand connecting two islands that The Guardian once named 'the best beach in the world.' Hiking enthusiasts can follow well-marked trails to the lighthouse on Faro Island for spectacular panoramic views across the archipelago and Atlantic Ocean. Snorkeling in the clear protected waters reveals vibrant marine life in the islands' status as a marine reserve. The islands' restaurants serve exceptional Galician seafood, particularly octopus and mussels, paired with local Albariño wines. For nature lovers, the western cliffs host one of Europe's largest yellow-legged gull colonies, alongside other protected bird species that can be observed from designated viewing points.

The Cies Islands harbor fascinating stories beneath their natural beauty, including their notorious past as a hideout for pirates who would ambush merchant ships navigating Galicia's treacherous coastline. Despite their pristine appearance today, the islands were home to several small villages and even a sardine canning factory until the 1970s before being declared a nature reserve. The archipelago features a unique ecosystem where northern European and Mediterranean species coexist, creating one of the most biodiverse areas in the Atlantic. Perhaps most surprising to visitors is that the islands generate their own electricity through solar power and have strict environmental regulations, including no hotels, limited camping, and a complete ban on disposable containers to maintain their ecological integrity.