TEARS OF SAINT LAWRENCE – PERSEIDS

Naviera Mar de Ons offers you the chance to enjoy one of the most spectacular astronomical phenomena of the year, the Tears of Saint Lawrence or, for lovers of astronomy, the Perseids. This spectacular event is an unmissable appointment for our clients every summer. For a few days the sky is flooded with shooting stars and Naviera Mar de Ons heads towards the waters of the National Park, specifically towards the Cíes Islands. These islands represent a privileged place from which to contemplate this astronomical phenomenon, far from the light pollution of the city and in absolute comfort on board one of our boats. Indeed, the Cíes Islands boast the “Starlight Tourist Destination” certificate, and therefore you can be certain that enjoying the most important star showers of the year there will be a unique and magical experience.

» The Perseids or Tears of Saint Lawrence

The Tears of Saint Lawrence is the popular name by which the Perseids are known, as they fall close to the Saint Lawrence festival (10th August). The particles that give rise to the Perseids are produced each year by the Swift-Tuttle comet, and are mostly dust grains, the same size as grains of sand. These particles enter the atmosphere at extremely high speeds: between 10 to 50 kilometres per second. Friction with the gas in the atmosphere heats and disintegrates them, resulting in them shining brightly. This occurs at an altitude of between 80 and 100 kilometres, near the Kármán line, which is the limit beyond which the atmosphere becomes denser. Therefore, although the trails can seem small from where we observe them, they can actually reach great lengths.

So, why are they called “Perseids“? Because they take their name from the constellation Perseus, as this shower of stars comes from that constellation. This shower occurs on the same dates every year, because the Earth comes round to meet this accumulation of particles again each year in its annual movement around the Sun.

» When are the Tears of Saint Lawrence?

The Perseids or ‘Tears of Saint Lawrence’ reach their maximum intensity between 11th – 13th August. That is why during those days the Naviera Mar de Ons  runs a special night service so that you can contemplate this astronomical phenomenon from the sea.

The passengers who join this expedition every year enjoy the explanations of an on-board guide, an expert in the field, who accompanies them throughout the trip, teaching a great deal about the stars, the sky, the constellations…

» Where does the boat leave from to see the Tears of Saint Lawrence?

• From Cangas at 22:30
• From Vigo at 23:00

» How much does it cost to see the Tears of Saint Lawrence from a boat?

The adult fare is 24 euros and the fare for children up to 12 years old is 10 euros. Children under 3 years old will travel free of charge.

» How do I get a ticket for the Tears of Saint Lawrence?

Ticket reservations must be made from our website because places are limited and often run out days before.

So add shooting stars to your list of things to do this summer with Naviera Mar de Ons.

Remember that if you have already travelled with us this year or you are going to do so, you can enjoy a discount on your second purchases, and advantages only for our clients, so when you make a reservation, use its booking reference to get discounts on following trips. Consult our promotions, valid only for clients of Naviera Mar de Ons, and find out all about this impressive astronomical phenomenon with us.

This experience certainly won’t leave you indifferent!