The nautical route of the Camino de Santiago is a lesser known but equally impressive option that offers a unique perspective to pilgrims.
Commonly known as the “Ruta Marítima Jacobea” or “Camino Marítimo”, this journey allows us to discover the maritime-cultural heritage of Galicia and learn about the history of the sailors who centuries ago reached Compostela by sea.
To understand how this route came about, we must go back in history.
In the Middle Ages, pilgrims from the Nordic countries, Britain and the northwestern regions of France used the sea route to reach the Galician coast, and from there embarked on the land leg to Santiago.
The Jacobean Maritime Route generally begins in the port of Hondarribia, located on the border with France, and crosses the northern coast of Spain.
Making stops in ports such as Santander, Gijón, Ribadeo, until finally reaching the Galician coast.
Once arriving in the city of A Coruña, pilgrims must complete on foot the last 75 km to Santiago to obtain the “Compostela”, the certificate of having completed the Camino de Santiago.
Sailing the Camino de Santiago is a real challenge, but the rewards are enormous.
Pilgrims will be able to enjoy incredible views of the coastline, full of cliffs and breathtaking beaches, and to enter beautiful Galician estuaries.
In addition, each port is a world to discover, with its historical and cultural heritage and tasty local gastronomy.
Forget about blisters on your feet and swap the land trails for the sea breeze and endless horizons.
It must be taken into account that to make this voyage, it is necessary to have certain maritime and navigation knowledge, as well as a suitable and prepared boat for these voyages.
Therefore, those who have no sailing experience can choose to hire the services of specialized companies that organize this type of maritime pilgrimages.
But beyond the beauty of the crossing, what makes the Jacobean Maritime Route special is that it offers a journey of introspection and reflection, just like the land routes.
The solitude of the sea, the coexistence with other pilgrims and the overcoming of the challenges that arise during the journey, will help us to find ourselves again, to appreciate the beauty of the present moment and to reflect on the path of life.
In short, navigating the Camino de Santiago is an adventure that combines tradition, challenge and spirituality.
It is a different and exciting way to make this ancient pilgrimage that allows us to discover the richness of the Spanish coast and invites us to a deep reflection surrounded by the majesty of the sea.
Undoubtedly, an experience you can not miss if you have the opportunity.
Pack your bags, set sail and… Bon voyage, pilgrim!
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