Barcelona: Sailing Tour with Spanish Tapas and Drinks

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy Barcelona’s stunning coastline, this sailing tour might just fit the bill. It promises a relaxing two-hour cruise with delicious Spanish tapas, refreshing drinks, and the chance to dip into the Mediterranean Sea. Though I haven’t done this exact experience myself, reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic outing.

One of the things I love about this tour is how it combines sailing with local cuisine and drinks. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from the water while indulging in authentic flavors—tapas paired with sangria or cava really adds a special touch. Plus, the opportunity to capture photos of Barcelona from the sea makes it great for those wanting memorable images of the city skyline.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which could be a consideration if you’re traveling with someone with mobility challenges. Also, since the sailing length is only about two hours, it’s more of a quick, leisurely excursion rather than a lengthy cruise.

This experience tends to suit travelers who enjoy good food, scenic views, and a relaxed vibe. If you’re visiting Barcelona and want a taste of the sea, local cuisine, and some fun stories from the captain, it’s likely worth a try. It’s especially appealing if you’re craving a break from busy city sightseeing with a more chill, social outing.

Key Points

• Relaxed two-hour cruise with scenic views of Barcelona’s coast
• Includes local Spanish tapas and drinks like Sangria and Cava
• Opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean when conditions allow
• Great value for the price, with plenty of reviews praising the experience
• Knowledgeable captains who share stories about Barcelona
• Family-friendly discounts for children, but not suitable for wheelchair users

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love the Experience

The first thing that stands out about this sailing tour is the combination of scenic beauty and good food. As you glide along the coast from Port Olímpic, the views are nothing short of stunning. You’ll see Barcelona’s skyline, beaches, and the rugged coastline, all while enjoying the gentle sway of the boat. The reviews repeatedly mention how easy it is to access the marina and how smooth the sailing is—a stress-free way to see the city from a different perspective.

One reviewer, Kelsey, shared how their guide was “really friendly and chatted with us,” making the whole experience feel warm and welcoming, even for solo travelers. That personal touch can turn a simple cruise into a memorable social outing. The fact that the guides are multilingual (Spanish, English, French, German) adds to the accessibility, allowing travelers from different countries to connect and learn about the city.

Another aspect we appreciate is the quality of the drinks and snacks. Most reviews highlight the wine and tapas as a delicious addition to the cruise, with people commenting on how these simple yet flavorful offerings enhanced their experience. One reviewer, Annabell, describes it as “beautiful 2-hour ride along the coast, sparkling wine and tapas to nibble on, and awesome conversation with the captain.” That combination of scenery, food, and good company makes for a truly enjoyable outing.

The Food and Drinks

The included Spanish tapas—olives, cheese, salami, crackers—are straightforward but flavorful, providing a taste of Spain’s culinary simplicity. The pairing with sangria or cava elevates the experience, giving you a true flavor of local culture. When you’re out on the water, sipping bubbly or wine while gazing at the city’s lights or basking in the sun creates a relaxed, vacation vibe.

For those who prefer other drinks, beer, white wine, or soft drinks are available, so there’s a good variety. Plus, if you’re on the morning tour, you can enjoy a light brunch that includes a sandwich, fresh fruit, orange juice, and a croissant—perfect for starting your day with a bit of indulgence.

The Swim Stop

One of the highlights is the chance to swim in the Mediterranean. When weather and sea conditions permit, the captain will stop the boat so you can take a dip in the clear waters. This is a nice break from just sitting and looking, and many reviews mention how refreshing and fun it is to jump into the sea. It adds a little adventure to an otherwise relaxing cruise.

What the Tour Looks Like in Practice

Starting point: The meet-up is at Sailing Experience Barcelona in Port Olímpic. The check-in process is straightforward—just arrive 10 minutes early with your confirmation. Look for boats with red and blue flags, so you can easily spot where to go.

Duration and timing: The cruise lasts about 2 hours, with check-in times varying. It’s a flexible experience, and availability will determine your specific start time. The tour can be tailored to small groups or private bookings, which is ideal if you want a more personalized experience.

Onboard experience: Once onboard, the captain takes the helm, guiding you along the coast while sharing stories about Barcelona’s landmarks. When the conditions are right, they’ll stop for a swim, giving everyone a chance to cool off and enjoy the Mediterranean’s inviting waters.

Group size: Most reviews mention small or private groups, which enhances the intimacy and friendliness of the outing. The group size, combined with friendly guides, makes it easy to chat and feel comfortable.

Price and value: At $53 per person, this experience is quite reasonable, especially considering the included drinks, snacks, and the personal attention from the crew. Compared to other activities in Barcelona, it’s a laid-back, enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours without breaking the bank.

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The Real-World Feedback

From the many reviews, it’s clear that most travelers are very satisfied. Comments like “our skipper was very friendly and personable,” and “access was easy,” point to well-organized logistics and friendly staff. Many mention how the guides are knowledgeable and willing to share insights about the city, which enriches the experience beyond just the boat ride.

One reviewer, William, shared how they were even given the chance to steer the boat—adding a fun, interactive element. Another, Peter, praised skipper Nora for being “wonderful, friendly, easy-going,” which seems to be a common sentiment among passengers.

While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some caution that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and that the tour lasts only a couple of hours, so it’s best suited for those looking for a quick, scenic escape rather than a long day on the water.

Final thoughts: Who should consider this tour?

This sailing experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxing, scenic outing with good food and drinks, especially if you want to see Barcelona from the sea. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy social settings and light adventure. If you love wine, tapas, and a bit of sea breeze, you’ll probably find this a delightful addition to your Barcelona trip.

However, if you need wheelchair accessibility or a longer cruise, you might want to explore other options. For families traveling with young children, the discount for kids is available, but the tour’s focus on relaxation and small boat movement might not suit very young kids whose patience is limited.

All in all, it offers excellent value and a memorable way to enjoy Barcelona’s coastline—whether it’s your first or tenth visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3-12 enjoy a 30% discount, and those up to 2 years old can join for free. Just keep in mind that the experience is about relaxing on a boat, so it’s best suited for kids who are comfortable with being on the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your trip without stress.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific start times based on availability.

Does the tour include transportation to the meeting point?
No, you need to make your own way to Port Olímpic for check-in. The meeting point is easy to find, and arriving 10 minutes early is recommended.

What should I bring?
Just bring your camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel if you plan to swim. Drinks and snacks are provided onboard, so no need to pack extra food.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
No, unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
While the tour is available at different times, many enjoy the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and cooler temperatures, but availability might vary.

To sum it up, this sailing tour offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, tasty food, and relaxing fun. It’s perfect for travelers who want a gentle escape from city sightseeing and enjoy a taste of local culture from the water. If you’re after a laid-back, social experience with friendly guides, beautiful views, and delicious bites, this could be just what you’re looking for during your Barcelona visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: