Camino de Santiago by sail from Vilamoura

The Camino de Santiago by Sail 2026 set off on May 22 from Vilamoura towards Galicia. This contemporary maritime pilgrimage, covering around 500 nautical miles, runs until June 14 and brings together between 80 and 85 pilgrims across 20 sailboats, including three vessels from Andalusia.

Symbolically recreating Translatio Jacobeo (legend according to which the body of the Apostle James was transported by sea to Galicia), the journey takes place entirely under sail and aims to combine the Jacobean tradition with the maritime culture of Atlantic communities, including several awareness activities related to the protection of the oceans and maritime communities.

Along the route, pilgrims will be welcomed at several Portos de Santiago (Santiago Harbors) with programs organized by the host Estações Náuticas (Nautical Stations), involving local authorities, cultural associations, marinas, yacht clubs, tourism organizations, and local communities, reinforcing Atlantic cooperation between Portugal and Spain. The program also includes initiatives with schools, meetings with fishermen, and public maritime safety and rescue demonstrations.

Several dates will be observed during the journey, including National Fisherman’s Day (May 31), International Children’s Day (June 1), World Environment Day (June 5), World Oceans Day (June 8), and Portugal Day, Camões Day and Portuguese Communities Day (June 10). After the maritime journey, the pilgrims will complete the final stretch on foot to Santiago de Compostela to obtain the traditional Compostela granted by the Cathedral.

The initiative is organized by the Associação Nacional de Cruzeiros (National Cruising Association) and Fórum Oceano (Ocean Forum) as part of the Rede das Estações Náuticas de Portugal (Network of Nautical Stations of Portugal). This year’s edition has the High Patronage of the president of the Portuguese Republic and institutional support from the Portuguese Navy and the National Maritime Authority.