San Sebastian: 2 Bays Evening or Sunset Boat Tour with Cava

If you’re looking to see San Sebastian’s spectacular coastline in a relaxed, intimate way, this 2 Bays Evening or Sunset Boat Tour might just be the experience you’re after. It’s a chance to cruise along the eastern coast, soaking in dazzling views, learning about local secrets, and unwinding with a glass of sparkling wine. While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, it offers a peaceful and beautifully curated way to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines personalized storytelling with a laid-back vibe—it’s small-group, friendly, and very much designed to make you feel at home. Plus, the sunset version promises a particularly memorable ending, with the coast bathed in warm, golden light. On the downside, it’s worth bearing in mind that boat tours can be weather-dependent, so if the sea is choppy or rain is forecast, your experience might be less smooth than expected.

This experience feels best suited for travelers who appreciate quiet scenic cruising, love a good story (with audio guides available), and want to enjoy a glass of bubbly with fantastic views. If you’re after an active adventure or a bustling boat full of noise, this might not hit the mark. But if a serene, picturesque outing sounds appealing, it’s a highly recommended way to see San Sebastian from a new angle.

Key Points

• Small group setting means a more personalized, relaxed experience.
• Expert local guides share stories, history, and mythology of the coast.
• Spectacular views of San Sebastian’s hills, cliffs, and bays.
• Comfortable, fast boat with obstacle-free design and plenty of space.
• Audio guide available in multiple languages enhances the experience.
• Includes drinks—soft drinks and sparkling wine for sunset tours—and a souvenir Polaroid.
• Weather can impact experience — be prepared for outdoor conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the San Sebastian Boat Tour

If you’re considering this tour, you’re in for a beautifully curated experience that offers much more than just a boat ride. It’s a two-hour journey that combines stunning scenery with engaging storytelling, all in a small, friendly group. The boat departs from the Mollaberria Kalea pier, where Ruth, a cheerful local, waits to welcome you aboard. The vessel itself is a spacious, obstacle-free, fast boat that keeps things comfortable even if the sea gets a little lively.

Why You’ll Love the Experience

One of the highlights is how this tour offers intimate access to San Sebastian’s coastline. You’ll glide past notable landmarks like Mount Urgull, Zurriola Beach, and the mouth of the Uremia River, all while enjoying unobstructed views from the water. The boat’s open design and the lack of crowds mean you can really take your time soaking in the scenery. Several reviews mention how the guides—Ruth and Asier—are very friendly and knowledgeable, adding depth with their stories about the coast’s history, local legends, and geography.

Another aspect that travelers rave about is the attention to comfort and detail. For instance, when the boat speeds up or the weather turns cooler, blankets are provided to keep you cozy. During the sunset cruise, a glass of sparkling wine enhances the peaceful atmosphere—nothing like sipping bubbly while watching the coast glow in warm hues. Some reviews also highlight the inclusion of audio guides, which enrich the experience without disrupting the relaxed vibe.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The itinerary is packed with interesting points of interest, many of which are best appreciated from the water. Starting at Mollaberria Kalea, the boat first sails along La Concha Bay, giving you a chance to see the famous beach from a different perspective. You’ll pass by Mount Urgull, a prominent hill with historical significance, and Zurriola Beach, a popular surf spot.

The journey continues along the various bays and cliffs that define San Sebastian’s eastern coast. You’ll see landmarks like Pikachilla, Uliako Harria (the Piedra de Ulia), and Illurguita, each offering a different glimpse into the area’s rugged beauty. As you approach Pasaia, a charming Basque fishing town, the boat enters its bay, where you can admire the traditional harbors and colorful houses of Pasai San Juan and San Pedro.

The boat then cruises past San Juan Bay, Kalaburtza Beach, and Tximistarri fishing port, providing excellent photo opportunities. The trip culminates with a visit to Igueldo Mountain and the Peine del Viento sculpture, both iconic sights that lend themselves well to picturesque moments. The final stop is Santa Clara Island, where you can enjoy a brief narrated overview of its significance before returning to the starting point.

The Pasaia Connection

One of the main highlights is the extended 20-minute stop in Pasaia, a town famed for its maritime history and lively traditions. As some reviews mention, this adds a cultural flavor to the trip, giving you both scenic views and local insights. It’s a relaxed walk through a village that still feels very connected to its fishing roots, and the boat’s proximity allows for a good view of the harbor.

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Sunset and Evening Variations

The sunset tour is especially popular, and for good reason. When the sun dips lower, the coast is bathed in soft, amber light, creating a truly magical backdrop. Many guests mention how the experience feels both peaceful and special, perfect for couples or anyone wanting a slower-paced escape from busy city streets. The inclusion of a glass of sparkling wine during this part of the cruise heightens the sense of celebration and relaxation.

Value for Money

At $74 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the small group size, personalized storytelling, and included drinks. The reviews emphasize that it’s worth every euro, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip to San Sebastian. The Polaroid souvenir is an adorable touch that adds a lasting memory, and the audio guide ensures you gain insights regardless of your language preference.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is generally very positive, it’s good to keep in mind that boat cruises are weather-dependent. If the sea is rough or rain is forecast, the experience might not be as smooth, and the guides will reschedule if necessary. Travelers on the boat should wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and a jacket—especially for the evening or if the weather turns cooler.

The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it an option for some travelers with mobility needs. Since the group is limited to 12 participants, it feels quite personal, avoiding the overcrowded feeling of larger tours. You’ll want to arrive a little early to meet Ruth and settle in comfortably.

The Overall Experience

From the reviews, it’s clear that this boat tour offers more than just sights—it’s an experience rooted in local hospitality and scenic beauty. Guests consistently mention how the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the tour memorable, and the small group setting fosters an intimate atmosphere. Whether it’s witnessing dolphins swimming nearby or watching the sunset with a glass of cava, there’s a genuine magic to this outing.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who appreciate relaxed, scenic outings with a touch of storytelling. It suits those who enjoy stunning coastal views, want a break from busy city touring, and don’t mind being outdoors on a boat. It’s particularly well-suited to couples, small groups of friends, or anyone celebrating a special moment. If you’re into wine, good stories, and peaceful vistas, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding.

It’s less suitable for those seeking an active, high-energy adventure or travelers with significant mobility issues, although the boat is wheelchair accessible. Also, keep in mind that weather can influence the experience—so it’s best to be flexible and keep an eye on the forecast.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. Check the schedule when booking.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get the boat cruise, soft drinks, sparkling wine during the sunset tour, an audio guide in multiple languages, and a Polaroid souvenir photo.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the focus on relaxation, scenery, and storytelling, it should be suitable for older children and families comfortable on a boat.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a jacket, and headphones if you want to listen to the audio guide. It can get cooler in the evening.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible—pay later option available.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.

What’s the best time of day to take the tour?
The sunset tour is highly recommended for a magical experience, but times vary; check availability for your preferred slot.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting San Sebastian and want a peaceful, scenic way to explore its coast, this 2 Bays Evening or Sunset Boat Tour offers a memorable, intimate experience. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and thoughtful touches like blankets and sparkling wine, it’s a small investment for a big payoff. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a relaxing escape, you’ll enjoy the tranquil beauty and local charm this tour showcases.

While it’s weather-dependent and best suited for those who enjoy gentle cruising, it’s a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective. If a cozy, story-filled boat ride sounds appealing, this could easily be one of your favorite moments in San Sebastian.

You can check availability for your dates here: