The presence of whales in the Cíes Islands is becoming more common and many visitors are excited to see these majestic ocean animals. The feeling of seeing one of the largest animals in the world up close is an experience that many nature lovers and adventurers actively seek out. Whale watching is an activity that has become increasingly popular in places like California and Columbia, but there is one place which, although not as busy, offers an experience which is equally as wonderful as those mentioned above: the Cíes Islands.
In this article, we tell you why the Cíes Islands are an ideal place for whale watching and how you can experience this wonderful adventure on board one of our Mar de Ons boats, which travel to the Cíes Islands from the ports of Baiona, Cangas, Portonovo, Sanxenxo and Vigo.
Why are there sightings of whales in the Cíes Islands?
A protected natural environment
The Cíes Islands are an archipelago situated on the coast of Galicia, Spain, which form part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia Maritime – Terrestrial National Park. This protected natural environment is home to rich biodiversity, with outstandingly beautiful native flora and fauna of environmental importance. The coasts of these islands offer the ideal conditions for whales and other cetaceans to approach their waters.
Specifically, near the waters of Rodas beach, in July 2023, we had several sightings of whales from our Mar de Ons boats. This underwater area forms one of the richest and most beautiful ecosystems on the Galician coast. In fact, The Guardian newspaper described Rodas Beach as “a perfect crescent of soft, pale sand, surrounded by small dunes sheltering a calm lagoon of crystal-clear sea”. The newspaper also named Rodas as “the best beach in the world”, beating others from the Philippines, Columbia, Brazil and the Cook Islands.
Variety of whale species in the Cíes Islands
At certain times of year, in the waters surrounding the Cíes Islands, it is possible to sight different species of whales, including the blue whale, humpback whale and the fin whale. You can also see dolphins and other marine mammals that add extra value to the whale watching experience.
During the summer season, when our ferry company does daily trips to the Cíes Islands archipelago, our crew and travellers have sometimes been able to spot pilot whales in the waters of Rodas beach. On some trips, they were also able to observe humpback whales enjoying a feast of sardines opposite the islands of Vigo’s archipelago.
The Cíes Islands: peaceful and natural surroundings
Despite the Cíes Islands being placed in the spotlight and being world-renowned, this is a very peaceful natural treasure: the ideal surroundings for marine animals like whales. This also enables visitors to enjoy a more personalised and peaceful whale watching experience, in which our crew and guides will notify you of the sightings and will even tell you stories about these impressive marine animals.
Since the waters are calm and crystal clear, capturing the magnificence of a whale with your camera is easier, although it does require patience and being ready to capture the perfect photo at any moment. In addition, a zoom lens will help you to take excellent photos without needing to be up close. A tip: try to capture iconic moments of whale watching, such as tail slapping or jumping.
When can you see whales in the Cíes Islands?
Although it is possible to spot whales in the Cíes Islands at different times of year, there are specific times where the likelihood of sighting them increases. In general, the whale watching season in the Cíes Islands lasts from the end of spring until October. During these months, the climate conditions are more favourable and the migratory movement of the whales brings them nearer to the coast.
In fact, in July 2023, there were several sightings of whales from our boats. For example, our crew spotted two cetaceans on Costa da Vela, in O Morrazo, a point that these boats cross when travelling to the Cíes Islands from Sanxenxo or Portonovo and on the route that joins Vigo to the Island of Ons.
How can you see whales in the Cíes Islands?
Nothing compares to the thrill of seeing a whale emerging from the water. The first sighting is often the most exciting and is a moment that many people remember for the rest of their lives. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for the occasion. Here are some tips:
It is important to bear in mind that you must respect the environment and not make excessive noise. Our ferry company is firmly committed to the fauna and flora of the islands, so we always guarantee an experience which is respectful to both the environment and the animals. Whale watching isn’t just a tourist activity; it also plays a vital role in raising awareness and the conservation of these marine animals.
Our team of professional guides always provide valuable information about these species on whale watching trips. That’s why we recommend also paying attention during the crossing so you understand the importance of protecting the marine environment.
One last tip! Bear in mind that temperatures can drop at sea, so it is advisable to wear warm clothing, even during the warmer months, as well as bring sun protection, binoculars and a camera with a good zoom capacity for potential whale sightings.
Visit the Cíes Islands with Mar de Ons
In the summer months, our ferry company, Mar de Ons, offers regular trips to the Cíes Islands and the Island of Ons, from various ports of the Rías Baixas: Baiona, Bueu, Cangas, Combarro, Pontevedra, Portonovo, Sanxenxo and Vigo. Check the dates available and ports you can depart from on our website. www.mardeons.es
Remember that from May 15th to September 15th, you will need authorisation from the Government of Galicia in order to visit the Cíes Islands and the Island of Ons. You will be able to book up to a total of 10 places per application and you should state the details of each visitor who is going to travel to the island, specifying whether they are campers, visitors or local residents. You will need to register the names, surnames, ID document numbers, gender and date of birth of each passenger.
This authorisation is personal and non-transferable, since it has a control code, a QR, an authorisation number, the date and the name and surname(s) of the visitor.
Once you have obtained the authorisation code on the Galician Government’s website, called pre-booking, you will be provided with a provisional code that is valid for two hours. You will need this code to buy your boat ticket on our website for the date on which you want to visit the Cíes Islands or the Island of Ons.
See you on board!
