If you’re looking for a way to see Barcelona’s iconic skyline without the hustle of busy streets, this shared catamaran cruise might just be what you need. Designed to give visitors a new perspective on the city, this 1.5-hour adventure sails from the Olympic Port, offering a relaxed and scenic way to take in some of Barcelona’s most famous sights.
What really stands out about this experience are two things: first, the amazing views of landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Hotel W from the water, and second, the friendly, helpful crew that makes sure everyone feels comfortable and well-cared-for. But, as with any water-based activity, you’ll want to consider the weather and your tolerance for seasickness if that’s an issue.
One potential downside is the short duration—at just 90 minutes, it’s a quick trip. If you’re craving a full-day adventure or a more in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit limited. That said, if your schedule is tight or you prefer a laid-back, scenic outing, this cruise fits nicely into a busy itinerary.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle boat rides, want some great photo opportunities, and appreciate a relaxed vibe. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in a social experience, with drinks and local tapas included, making it a friendly environment for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.
Key Points

- Stunning skyline views of Barcelona from the water
- Includes drinks and local tapas for a relaxed social experience
- Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the trip
- Short but sweet at 1.5 hours, ideal for busy schedules
- Perfect for those who enjoy scenic, leisurely boat rides
- Not suitable for non-swimmers or seasick-prone travelers
The Experience: What to Expect on the Cruise

This cruise departs from the Olympic Port, an area revamped for the 1992 Olympics, giving it a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. The boat itself is a catamaran, offering stability and plenty of space for relaxing while enjoying the views. The trip is created specifically for sightseeing, and the crew makes sure everyone is comfortable with safety briefings before setting out.
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Starting Out at Port Olímpic
Your journey begins at the Turtur Experience mooring, where the crew greets you and provides some safety instructions. Once onboard, you’ll head out from the Olympic Port, sailing along the coast of Barcelona. The initial part of the cruise typically lasts about 15 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
Snapshots at La Barceloneta
One of the highlights is the photo stop at La Barceloneta, a lively beachfront neighborhood famous for its seafood and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you’ll get around 15 minutes to take pictures and soak in the lively seaside vibe, which makes for some memorable shots.
Seeing the City’s Icons from the Water
As you cruise through the bay, you’ll get an up-close view of Barcelona’s most recognizable landmarks. The crew points out sights such as the Sagrada Familia, which is truly striking from the water, and the Hotel W, known for its sail-shaped silhouette. You’ll also pass by the Montjuic Castle and the Forum area, with its modern skyscrapers and solar panels.
A highlight cited by many is the view of Tibidabo mountain, which at 453 meters offers a stunning backdrop to the city. The Collserola Telecommunications Tower and Hotel Florida also make appearances on the route, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
More Great Tours NearbyMidway Photo Stop and Relaxation
The cruise typically makes a second photo stop near Barcelona’s coast, giving you a chance to capture the city’s skyline from different angles. According to reviews, the friendly crew often offers to help take pictures — something appreciated by travelers who want to remember the trip.
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Wrapping Up at Port Olímpic
The return leg offers a relaxed sail back to the starting point, with the crew sharing interesting snippets about the city and its sights. The entire experience wraps up in about 90 minutes, leaving plenty of time for other activities or exploring the city further.
What Makes This Cruise Stand Out
The excellent reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the crew’s friendly attitude, with many travelers mentioning how helpful and accommodating they are. One reviewer said, “Staff are very friendly and helpful. Plenty of snacks and drinks are provided,” which adds to the overall relaxed vibe.
The scenic views are consistently praised. Multiple reviews mention how the views of Barcelona’s skyline from the water are “breathtaking,” especially with landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Hotel W providing impressive photo backdrops.
Drinks and Local Tapas
For just $65 per person, this cruise offers more than just sightseeing. The inclusion of drinks and local Tapas elevates the experience into a social occasion, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing or as a special treat. Many travelers appreciated the generous snacks and drinks, which made the trip feel more like an informal gathering than a crowded tour.
Flexibility and Convenience
The cruise operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving potential travelers peace of mind. Meeting at the Port Olímpic is straightforward, and the crew is attentive about making sure guests arrive 15 minutes early.
Analyzing the Value
At $65, this cruise offers good value considering the included drinks, tapas, and the impressive views. It’s a short, cost-effective way to get a taste of Barcelona from the water without committing to a longer or more expensive boat trip. For travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic escape with friendly service, this experience hits the mark.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise is well-suited for solo travelers wanting to meet others in a relaxed setting, couples looking for a romantic, scenic outing, or small groups who want a low-key social activity. If you’re after a quick but memorable way to enjoy Barcelona’s skyline, this tour fits nicely. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or non-swimmers, you might want to carefully consider the conditions.
Final Thoughts

This shared catamaran cruise offers a delightful way to see Barcelona from a different perspective. The combination of spectacular views, friendly staff, and included drinks and tapas makes it a popular choice among visitors. Although it’s a brief outing, many reviewers say the experience feels well-organized and relaxing, making it a worthwhile add-on to your Barcelona itinerary.
For those who enjoy gentle boat rides, love taking photos of city skylines, or simply want a relaxing break from busy streets, this trip delivers. It’s not a day-long adventure, but for its price and duration, it offers a nice balance of scenery, social atmosphere, and convenience.
Barcelona: Shared cruise on a catamaran Drink+Local Tapa
FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but keep in mind this is a boat ride, not swimming. If you’re comfortable on water and not prone to seasickness, you’ll be fine.
How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience takes about 1.5 hours, with the boat spending roughly 15 minutes at each stop and some time sailing in between.
What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see the Sagrada Familia, Hotel W, Montjuic Castle, Forum area, and Tibidabo mountain, among others.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, a charged smartphone for photos, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours before the tour.
Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s appropriate for anyone comfortable on a boat and not seasick-prone.
Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the tour provides drinks and local tapas, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
What’s the meeting point?
At Port Olímpic, look for the Turtur mooring (mooring 1540, CATAMARAN TURTUR).
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot.
If you’re after a straightforward, scenic experience that combines great views with friendly service, this cruise could be just the ticket for your Barcelona trip. It’s a laid-back way to enjoy the city’s skyline while sipping on drinks and sharing a few laughs with fellow travelers.
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