Northern Spain

Northern Spain's Atlantic coast runs from Basque Country in the east to the Portuguese border in the west. A Coruña, at the northwestern corner of the Iberian Peninsula, serves as the principal staging point for yachts preparing for or completing a Bay of Biscay crossing. South from there, the Rías Baixas, a series of large drowned river valleys on the Galician coast, form a significant cruising area.

On the north coast, erosion has carved arches and passages through the cliffs at As Catedrais beach, approximately 5 NM from Ribadeo. On the shores of A Coruña, the Tower of Hercules is a Roman-era lighthouse in continuous operation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Within the Rías Baixas, Playa de Nerga is a series of beaches set in a large bay in the Ría de Vigo, with woodland paths running behind the shoreline. In Vigo, Monte o Castro is a hilltop park on the site of the city's original settlement, with views across the estuary. The towns and villages of the rías are characterised by hórreos, traditional stone and wooden granaries raised on pillars capped with flat stones to keep out rodents.

Further west, Cape Fisterra marks the westernmost point of the Iberian mainland and is a recognised waypoint on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Look out for unlit mussel rafts (bateas) when sailing in the rías.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Enseada da Angostera ★ 5.0 A calm anchorage with excellent holding in sandy conditions is noted across multiple reviews. Visitors have enjoyed access to a beautiful beach and local amenities, such as bars and restaurants. The anchorage offers protection from varying wind directions.
	Ensenada de Bornalle ★ 5.0 This anchorage features excellent holding on sand with no swell. Visitors appreciate the peaceful environment, ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding, along with easy access to dinghy landings and local transportation options. Clear waters and beautiful scenery enhance the experience.
	Illa de Arousa ★ 5.0 This anchorage offers a visually stunning spot with very good holding in sandy conditions. It is well sheltered from the southwest and provides a scenic beach, hiking opportunities, and access to mussel farms. Approach should be made with caution in daylight due to limited access.
	Enseada de Ares ★ 5.0 The anchorage is well-protected with good holding in sand. Visitors report easy access via beach or ramp, along with essential supplies available from local stores. Tides can impact the shallow areas near the beach.
	Isla Cíes South ★ 5.0 The anchorage at Isla Cíes South features good holding in 15 knots of wind. Visitors appreciate its beauty and the glorious sunsets, but note it can become exposed to wind and waves through the gap between the islands.
	Enseada de Muros ★ 4.8 Dinghy access is available to slip with good holding in mud. The town offers a friendly atmosphere with bars and historical buildings. Experiencing dolphins in the anchorage adds to the appeal.
	Isla Arousa ★ 4.7 The anchorage features ample space and a calm environment, with clear visibility of the bottom at low tide. Visitors have noted its peacefulness and protection from prevailing winds. Some caution is advised due to the presence of rocks, particularly in certain conditions.
	ENSENADA DA MERA ★ 4.7 The anchorage features good holding and occasional swell, with a hard sand bottom. It lacks protection from S and SE winds. Locals frequent the nearby beach.
	Playa de Lingunde, Camariñas ★ 4.7 Anchorage is well protected with good holding and no swell reported. Visitors appreciated the proximity to beaches and shops. Multiple Reviews noted experiences with seaweed affecting anchors.
	Punta Soutelo ★ 4.7 Anchorage features shallow water with good protection. Holding in mud is effective, even during winds. Visitors can enjoy nearby Cesantes and its beach bar accessible via dinghy.

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Marinas

No image	MRCYB Baiona ★ 5.0 Staff interactions are frequently highlighted, with visitors appreciating their helpfulness. The location is popular, especially during the busy months of July and August. Access to the city centre is noted as a positive aspect.
	Ribadesella ★ 4.8 The marina features a limited number of berths in a beautiful setting. Approach must be timed around high tide and maintained close to the visitor pontoon to avoid shallow areas. Staff provides helpful assistance for docking and navigation.
	Marina Cabo de Cruz ★ 4.8 Calm and well-protected marina featuring helpful staff. Facilities are maintained, though temporary arrangements for showers and toilets exist. Free bicycle usage allows easy access to nearby Boiro, enhancing the experience during visits.
	Muros Marina ★ 4.7 Muros Marina is a well-sheltered facility with helpful staff. Several visitors highlighted the clean bathrooms and the nearby town's charm, which includes cafes, bars, and shops. Availability confirmations can be made via radio or telephone before arrival.
	Real Club Nautico Portosin ★ 4.7 The marina is well-maintained and has friendly staff. Sanitary facilities are clean, and a restaurant offers nice views. Reviews mention noise from large fishing boats and staff assistance for guarding boats while visitors are away.

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Moorings

Cudillero Mooring Buoys ★ 4.5 The mooring buoys are available, with visitors reporting a stable anchoring experience even in strong winds. The picturesque bay is tranquil, and while the town can be busy during peak season, there are dining options accessible by dinghy.

Harbours

	Santurzi ★ 4.6 Free docking is available for a maximum of 48 hours while staying in Santurzi. The location provides access to frequent train services to Bilbao, enhancing its appeal. Visitors should email to confirm reservations before arrival.
	LLANES ★ 3.7 The harbor features limited space for vessels and provides water and electricity access. It is inexpensive, but conditions require regular line adjustments for some moorings. Nearby amenities include restaurants and beautiful coastal trails.
	Puerto de Fisterra ★ 3.0 The harbor provides free access to a concrete jetty near town, although services like water are no longer functional due to leaks. Care is advised when anchoring behind the breakwater due to fouling potential. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

	Marina Coruña Varadero ★ 5.0 Professional services are available at this boat yard. Feedback highlights excellent care for boats by an experienced team, including specialists in various fields. The CEO's extensive sailing background and leadership contribute positively to the yard's reputation.
No image	Sadamar varadero (dry dock) ★ 4.5 The boat yard offers dry docking service and has friendly, competent staff. The facility is reasonably priced and is located near A Coruna Airport. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

Chandlers

	Nautic Norte ★ 5.0 Service capabilities include rapid ordering and fabrication of specific parts. The owner is noted for being helpful and friendly, with English-speaking skills. Satisfaction is expressed regarding both product availability and timeliness of service.
	Marina Coruna Varadero (ex Marina Seca) ★ 5.0 Service for engine spare parts is available at Marina Coruna Varadero. A visitor successfully procured diesel filter/water separators and impellers through efficient assistance from staff. The marina is accessible via a short dinghy ride from the city center.
	Efectos Navales Pombo ★ 5.0 Luis Pombo is helpful and honest. Interaction with visitors appears positive, reflecting support for service reliability. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
No image	Automar ★ 5.0 A small shop offers a well-stocked selection of items. The staff is reported to speak some English and provide friendly service. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
No image	Carpe Mare ★ 4.5 The chandler features a small but adequate selection of boating, diving, and fishing equipment. The owner is friendly and speaks English. Pricing is reasonable, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

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