EXPLORA
Viana do Castelo: The Heart of the Atlantic
At the mouth of the Lima River, where the fresh waters meet the ocean, the Marinas of Viana do Castelo open up as a natural harbor of refuge on the Iberian Atlantic coast: between Porto and Vigo, at the crossroads of the North Atlantic routes. Three basins integrated into the historic center of a lively city, offering full services and capacity for any vessel. A city with a heart, and a port to match. The ideal place for those who sail, whether just passing through or staying for good.
Las marinas
Come to Viana Rio
APPROACH
Viana do Castelo is located on the Iberian Atlantic coast, between Porto and Vigo, at the mouth of the Lima River. Access is direct from the ocean through a well-buoyed and dredged channel that offers natural shelter in all seasons.
From November to March, consult the weather forecast prior to approach in the presence of westerly or south-westerly systems. In summer, northerly winds predominate. Cabedelo beach —to starboard upon entry— provides a useful visual reference. Fog is possible between May and September. Anchoring in the river is not permitted.
APPROACH CHANNEL
Dredged to 8 meters up to the commercial quay. Marked by light buoys. Marina dredged to 3.5 meters, before the Eiffel Bridge. Predictable currents: south-to-north during flood tide, and north-to-south during ebb tide. Up to 0.8 knots with strong northerly winds (nortadas).
Reception is located to starboard at the quay entrance. Standard identification and vessel documents are required. Outside office hours, the GNR (National Republican Guard) may inspect newly arrived yachts.
APPROACH ROUTE
| Waypoint | Coordinates | Instructions |
| WP1 | 41°40’7.68″N · 8°54’59.46″W | Breakwater light bearing 054° · 0.57 NM |
| WP2 | – | Alter course to port · Heading 086° · 0.57 NM · pass 530m south of the breakwater |
| WP3 | 41°40’9.78″N · 8°50’29.7″W | Dredged channel leading line · Senhora da Agonia sector light |
| WP4 | 41°40’52.88″N · 8°50’16.51″W | Buoyed channel → waiting pontoon |


