2-Hour Sailing Tour in Barcelona with Open Bar & Snacks

If you’re looking for a way to see Barcelona from a different perspective, a small-group sailing tour might just be your ticket. This 2-hour trip, offered by Barcelona Sailing Day, is designed to deliver a relaxed yet memorable experience, combining scenic views, good company, and a little liquid refreshment. Priced at just over $55 per person, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the Mediterranean without the expense or crowds of larger cruise ships. The boat is limited to nine guests, which means you get more personal attention from your skipper and a more intimate feel than typical group tours.

What I particularly like about this experience is how flexible it is. With multiple time slots available, you can choose when suits your schedule, making it easier to fit into your Barcelona itinerary. Plus, the inclusion of beverages, snacks, and soft cushions means you can sit back and soak in the sights comfortably. Another highlight is the chance to see Barcelona’s skyline from the water, which transforms the city into a shimmering silhouette, especially at sunset or under the Mediterranean sun. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins—a lovely bonus that reviews frequently mention.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather—the trip is weather-dependent, and if the sea gets choppy, the tour could be less comfortable, especially for those prone to seasickness. Several reviews mention that the captain, whether Marie, Carlos, or Luigi, makes a real effort to create an enjoyable experience, but the sea conditions can influence the overall enjoyment. While the tour is mostly about soaking in the views and relaxing, some travelers might wish for a bit more storytelling or local insight, as noted in one review that described the trip as “very lacking” in historical commentary.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limiting the tour to nine guests ensures a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Beautiful Views & Potential Wildlife: Sail past Barcelona’s famous landmarks like El Peix and enjoy unique perspectives of the cityscape.
• Flexible Schedule & Easy Location: Multiple start times and a meeting point near public transportation make it convenient.
• Inclusion of Snacks & Drinks: Soft drinks, wine, cava, and snacks boost the relaxing vibe.
• Stops for Swimming: Weather permitting, you can take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean—reviewers rave about this aspect.
• Skilled Guides & Captains: Guides like Captain Marie, Carlos, and Luigi are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

The Itinerary & Stops
This tour begins at the Puerto Olímpico marina, a lively area easy to reach by public transit and close to many Barcelona attractions. After boarding your yacht—often a Beneteau 38—the first thing you’ll notice is the stunning view of the city skyline from the water. One notable landmark is El Peix, the gold-colored stainless steel fish sculpture that shimmers under the sun and makes for a great photo backdrop.

The trip includes a couple of stops, usually for swimming if the weather allows. These are highlighted as one of the most enjoyable parts by many reviewers, providing a chance to cool off, float in the calm waters, and take a break from sightseeing on land. One reviewer mentioned, “We had about 30 minutes to swim and jump into the Mediterranean,” describing it as “incredible.”

The Atmosphere & Crew
Expect a laid-back atmosphere with soft cushions on the boat’s bow and cockpit, making it perfect for lounging. The guides—like Marie, Carlos, Pau, and Luigi—are consistently praised for their expertise and friendly approach. One reviewer said, “Our skipper, Marie, was very skilled, knowledgeable, and personable,” which really speaks to the quality of the service.

For many, this trip is about relaxing with a drink in hand, often wine, cava, or soft drinks, while enjoying the breathtaking views. Several reviews highlight the quality of the snacks, which include crackers, cheese, and chips—ideal for snacking in the sun. One mention that “Snacks and drinks were ample,” emphasizing the value.

The Guides & Personal Touch
While the tour is mainly about the scenery and leisure, many reviews praise guides like Captain Daniel, Pau, and Oscar for making the experience special. Emma noted that Captain Oscar was very knowledgeable about the city, and others shared that their captains made conversation engaging and fun.

Price & Value
At around $55.61 per person, this tour is considered very good value. You’re paying for a private yacht experience with open bar, rather than a crowded cruise. The reviews frequently mention how much they enjoyed the personalized nature, the stunning views, and the relaxed vibe. The all-inclusive drinks and snacks elevate the experience, making it feel like a true treat.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
Some reviews mention the weather can negatively impact the trip—choppy seas or bad weather can make the experience uncomfortable. One reviewer even described it as a “terrible experience” due to sea sickness and poor communication in Spanish, which reminds us that weather and language barriers are worth considering. If you’re susceptible to seasickness, bring precautions like medication. Also, if you’re expecting detailed historical narration about Barcelona’s shoreline, you might find the tour a bit light on storytelling, as one reviewer put it as “very lacking” in that respect.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is most suited for travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic escape with a small group, rather than a historical or educational tour. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or families who enjoy being on the water, with the bonus of snacks and drinks included. If you’re after a romantic sunset sail or just a fun break from land-based sightseeing, this experience fits the bill.

It’s also great for those who want flexibility—multiple start times help you fit this into your itinerary easily. However, if you’re looking for a guided tour with historical commentary or are highly sensitive to choppy seas, this might not meet all your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This sailing experience in Barcelona offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and personal service. The limited number of guests ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the skilled guides make the trip engaging and comfortable. It’s an especially good choice if you value stunning water views and a relaxing atmosphere over a detailed history lesson.

While weather remains a wildcard—something to watch for when booking—you’ll leave with photos, relaxing memories, and maybe even a dolphin or two if you’re lucky. The value for money is high considering the inclusions of snacks, drinks, and a professional skipper.

If you’re visiting Barcelona and want a peaceful, scenic break on the water, this small-group sailing tour is a memorable way to see the city from a fresh perspective, all without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes it suitable for most ages.

How long is the sailing tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the views, have a swim if weather permits, and relax without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Puerto Olímpico, amarre 1416 in Barcelona, near public transportation for easy access.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides beverages (including wine, cava, and soft drinks) and snacks like chips, crackers, and cheese.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance, and the trip can be rescheduled if the weather is poor.

Is there a minimum number of people needed to go?
Yes, a minimum of 2 people is required. The tour can run with up to 9 guests, ensuring a cozy, personal experience.

This sailing trip in Barcelona stands out as a relaxing, scenic escape that combines stunning views, good company, and high value. It’s a fine choice for those wanting a low-key, memorable experience away from the hustle, with the added bonus of sun, sea, and snacks to make the most of the Mediterranean charm.