Camino Santiago Rowing

In the Middle Ages, Pontevedra was one of the main ports of Galicia thanks to its strategic location in the estuary that bears its name. This natural harbor facilitated maritime trade and the transit of pilgrims arriving from the British Isles, France, Flanders, and Scandinavia.

Pontevedra was especially important as a redistribution point: pilgrims disembarked here to continue overland to Santiago, following the so-called Portuguese Way or local variants leading to Compostela. From its port, boats and caravans were organized for the final stretch of the pilgrimage.

Maritime pilgrimage had a dual character: spiritual and adventurous. For the devout, facing the perils of the ocean—from storms to pirates—was part of their penance and their path to redemption.

The rise of the maritime Camino also fostered cultural and economic exchange. Pilgrims brought with them customs, ideas, and goods that enriched local communities, promoting the development of arts and crafts. In the 16th century, the decline of this route coincided with political and technological changes, such as the rise of new transatlantic routes and the consolidation of the overland Camino.

Today, the Maritime Route of the Camino de Santiago is a tradition we aim to revive, promoting the collective effort required for the maritime journey.

Participants can also enjoy the spirit of the Camino, as the route runs parallel to the Coastal Camino, following the same itinerary as that described by Father Sarmiento.

For rowers accompanied by companions who wish to walk the Camino, we will coordinate activities so they can complete it simultaneously.

TRAVEL DATES 2025

1 -7 June

31 August - 7 September