Ensenada de Aldán Anchorage Guide

The Anchorage

Anchor in 3–7m on mud and sand in the wide sheltered bay. The bay is deeply recessed into the S side of the Morrazo peninsula and offers excellent all-round protection except from the S. Mussel farming bateas occupy the E and N parts of the bay — anchor in the clear area in the centre or W of the bay. Mud holds very well in the inner anchorage — one of the most reliable holdings on the Rías Baixas.

Setting Your Anchor

The bottom at Ensenada de Aldán is primarily mud and sand with reliable holding when properly set. Note: depths given are above chart datum — always calculate tidal heights before entry.

1. Approach in daylight — mussel bateas (unlit mussel farming rafts) may be present in the approaches. Do not approach unfamiliar rías at night.
2. Check tidal height — at 3–8m, deploy minimum 7:1 scope accounting for tidal range. With 4m spring tide, plan scope for maximum expected depth.
3. Drop into the current and pay out chain steadily. In tidal waters, the boat swings on the current not the wind — account for this in your swinging circle.
4. Set firmly in reverse — 30–60 seconds moderate throttle astern.
5. Take a GPS bearing — note position once set and check the swinging circle allows for tidal direction changes.

Recommended anchor types: SPADE, Rocna, CQR, Delta.

Overnight Anchoring & Anchor Alarm

Overnight stays at Ensenada de Aldán are feasible but require monitoring — exposed to S and SW winds and swell.

Set your GPS anchor alarm to 90m radius before going below. 90m for 3–8m on excellent mud. Outstanding holding. S swell monitor — rare from S but penetrates the bay on Atlantic low pressure.

Tidal note: In Galicia's 4m tidal waters, your boat will swing significantly as the tide reverses — check the anchor alarm is set generously enough to account for the swing, and do not anchor too close to other boats or the shore.

June–September ideal. Outside season: fully viable but Atlantic gales increase — good shelter in the inner bay.

Navigation Hazards

• Mussel bateas: unlit at night — approach in daylight only
• Open to S Atlantic swell
• Tidal range up to 3.5m — set alarm on tidal reduction

Rules & Regulations

• Anchoring fee: Free
• Key restrictions: Navigate carefully around mussel bateas — unlit at night. Maintain 50m clearance from bateas. Speed limit 3 kt.

Facilities

• Fresh water: Not available on site
• Fuel: Not available — nearest: Cangas (6nm)
• Restaurant: Two seafood restaurants in the village, open year-round. Excellent mussels and percebes (barnacles).
• Provisions: Available

Skipper's Tips

1. One of the best free anchorages in Galicia — no permit, excellent holding, authentic village.
2. The small shipyard on the W side of the bay has a skilled welder if you need repairs.
3. Percebes (goose barnacles) from the beach restaurants here are some of the best in Galicia.