Vigo is a naturally sheltered port, operational year-round, strategically located in northwest Spain. It specializes in high-value general cargo, with highly specialized operations. Its main traffic includes fresh and frozen fish, automobiles and spare parts, granite, fruit, and metals. It also has a robust shipbuilding and repair sector.

The Cíes Islands National Park protects the entrance to its estuary, the Vigo Estuary, guaranteeing a stunningly beautiful environment and calm waters. This makes it a place of great tourist interest for the cruise industry and an ideal location for nautical and leisure activities. This is evidenced by the major international regattas and sailing events that have been held there, such as the start of the Volvo Ocean Race in 2005 and various tall ship races.