Anchoring
Good shelter can be found in most winds in Ria de Arousa. The initial shelter can be found from the Atlantic swell and W winds behind Isla de Salvora. Whilst there is an abundance of anchorages, many are only suitable for day stops. Also take care as many beaches are shallow shelving so when the tide goes out it goes out quickly! You may have to anchor some distancd offshore. Good anchorage near Punta Pineiro or Insula, 4 M west of Villagarcia and on the north shore west of Pobra de Caraminal. If anchoring just south of Pobra de Caraminal marina opposite the beach - beware of what appears to be an unmarked concrete column 100-200m SE of the marina entrance, barely sticking out of the water on springs. Anchoring mostly in sand and weed. Take care of unmarked rocks - this Ria has many!
Marinas
There are 8 marinas in the Ria: At Vilagarcia; Pobra de Caraminal; Cabo Cruz (new); Santa Uxia de Ribeira; Rianxo; Vilanova and Pedras Negras (adjoining San Vicente de Mar) and Escarabote. It is advisable to call by VHF on approach so that you can be directed to a berth on arrival.
Vilagarcia is the principal harbour/town and is situated in the NE corner of the Ria 12nm from the entrance. Pobra de Caraminal is one of the nicest small towns and offers probably the best shelter in the Ria. The marina is good with standard facilities, however, it is very popular in the summer and may well be full. A good nearby alternative is a new marina at Cabo Cruz on the opposite side of the bay to Pobra, although this is small.
The most straightforward harbours for a night-time entry are Santa Uxia de Riviera, Pobra does Caraminal and Vilagarcia. The main hazard at night here are unlit Viveros (mussel farms). This Ria has 50% of all mussel farms in Galicia.
Port Control for all harbours monitors VHF Ch. 09 or 16.
Last updated: July 2022
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