Sailing experience on a 4-hour sailboat in Girona

A detailed look at a 4-hour sailing adventure in Girona that combines authentic Mediterranean navigation with fun stops for swimming and paddling. This tour, offered by SET SAIL COSTA BRAVA, takes you aboard a well-maintained 35-foot Jeanneau Sun Odyssey, built in 2005, with room for up to nine guests plus the skipper. It’s a private experience that promises a relaxing, hands-on sailing trip with scenic views and plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy the water.

What immediately appeals to me about this trip are two things: First, it’s an authentic sailing experience, where you’ll learn basic maneuvers and help steer the boat — not just sit back and watch. Second, the flexibility to choose your schedule (morning or afternoon) and the small group size makes it intimate and tailored, perfect for families, friends, or couples looking for a personalized adventure.

One possible consideration is the price point — at about $404.75 per group, it’s not the cheapest way to see Costa Brava, but when you consider that up to nine people can share this cost and the inclusions like snorkeling gear, paddle boards, drinks, and a dedicated skipper, it offers good value for a private, quality experience. Remember, it’s a 4-hour trip, so you’ll want to be prepared for an active and relaxing mix of sailing, swimming, and socializing.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic sailing experience with hands-on participation in maneuvers.
• Small group size (up to 9 people) ensures a personal, relaxed vibe.
• Flexible scheduling with morning or afternoon options to fit your plans.
• Inclusive water activities like snorkeling and paddle surfing make the trip versatile.
• Scenic stops for swimming and relaxing in protected coves, away from the wind and waves.
• Skipper-led adventure with knowledgeable guides, often praised for their engaging manner and language skills.

The Journey Begins: Starting at the Beach in Platja d’Aro

Your adventure kicks off at the sailing school facilities right on the beach, conveniently close to the port. The meeting point at Avinguda de Verona Terol, 25 is straightforward to find, and parking is available nearby during the summer season — a small but notable detail if you’re driving.

Once you meet your skipper — typically a friendly professional who speaks English well — you’ll walk to the “Havana” sailboat. This vessel, with its classic design and ample deck space, hints at the comfort and ease that await you during the voyage. The boat’s size, at 10.5 meters, allows for a balanced experience: spacious enough for groups, yet intimate enough for everyone to feel involved.

What to Expect: A Classic Mediterranean Sail with Modern Comforts

The trip begins by setting sail from the Port of Playa de Aro, heading either north or south depending on the weather. This flexibility is key to ensuring you’ll always find the best protected spot, whether near the rocky coastlines or in quieter coves. As you weigh anchor in a secluded cove, you’ll have plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and paddle surfing.

One of the highlights is the chance to participate in sailing maneuvers. Guides encourage you to help with basic tasks like adjusting sails or steering, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise. This hands-on approach seems to be a hit with many reviewers, who appreciate the engaging guides like Edu, who is recognized for his excellent English and storytelling skills.

Throughout your trip, you can enjoy music, a fresh water shower, and cold drinks stored in the boat’s fridge — small touches that elevate the experience from simple to memorable. The boat’s modern amenities and relaxed pace ensure you’ll leave feeling refreshed and enriched.

Water Activities and Scenic Stops: Making the Most of Costa Brava

The trip emphasizes enjoying the natural beauty of Costa Brava. Expect to navigate along rugged coastlines, with rocky shores and hidden coves that are perfect for a swim or snorkeling. Many reviews emphasize how beautiful and peaceful these spots are, with one reviewer describing the boat as “very luxurious” and the experience “a wonderful way to see the coast.”

The paddle surf board adds a playful element, especially appreciated by families and active travelers. The guides are happy to teach and assist, making water activities accessible even for beginners. Stops in protected coves shield you from wind and waves, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone, regardless of swimming ability.

The Skipper and Guide Experience

The success of the trip hinges on the skipper’s knowledge and friendliness. Based on reviews, guides like Edu and Santi are praised for sharing stories, teaching sailing techniques, and keeping the mood lively. Their English fluency and engaging personalities help create a welcoming atmosphere, especially for those new to sailing.

Having an experienced skipper also means that safety and navigation are well-managed, giving you peace of mind as you focus on the scenery and water fun. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to learn the basics of sailing, which adds an educational twist to the outing.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $404.75 per group, this experience might seem steep for some, but remember it includes all water gear, the skipper, and four hours on the water. With up to nine guests, this works out to roughly $45 per person, a reasonable rate considering the private setting and personalized service. For a special occasion or a small group of friends, it offers excellent value compared to larger, more generic boat trips.

The reviews consistently highlight how well-maintained and clean the boat is, along with the attentive service. Plus, the flexibility to choose between morning and afternoon schedules allows you to plan your day around other activities.

Who Would Love This?

This trip is ideal for families, friends, couples, or anyone seeking a hands-on sailing adventure. If you enjoy being active, learning new skills, and exploring scenic coastlines from the water, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also suitable for those who want a private, relaxed alternative to crowded group tours.

Travelers with kids or those who appreciate water-based activities will especially enjoy the snorkeling and paddle surfing options. But even if you’re not a seasoned sailor, the guides are friendly and patient, making this accessible for beginners.

Practical Tips for Your Sailing Day

• Arrive early and plan for parking nearby during high season.
• Bring sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
• Prepare a small bag with personal items, since there’s a fridge for drinks.
• Book in advance, as many trips are booked 27 days ahead.
• If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, note that lunch and snacks are not included.
• Consider bringing your own bottled water if you want extra hydration.
• Remember that the trip is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

If you’re after an authentic sailing experience with a personable skipper, scenic views, and water activities, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups wanting a private, flexible outing that balances sailing with fun stops. The knowledgeable guides and stunning coastlines make it a memorable way to experience Costa Brava from the water.

While the price might be a consideration, the inclusiveness, personalized touch, and opportunity to learn sailing skills mean you’re paying for quality and intimacy rather than just scenery. It’s an excellent choice if you want to combine relaxation with engaging activities in a beautiful setting.

FAQ

How long is the sailing trip?
The trip lasts approximately 4 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and paddle surfing.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins at the sailing school facilities on the beach next to the port in Platja d’Aro and returns to the same meeting point at the end.

Can I choose the time of day?
Yes, you can select either a morning or an afternoon schedule, depending on your preference and availability.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and water activities like snorkeling and paddle surfing are family-friendly. The relaxed pace makes it suitable for kids, especially with attentive guides.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a swimsuit, a towel, and perhaps some personal water. The boat has a fridge for drinks and water showers, but snacks and lunch are not included.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, you’ll need to bring your own bottled water or beverages, as snacks and lunch are not included in the package.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In essence, this sailing trip along Costa Brava offers a wonderful balance of authentic navigation, water fun, and scenic beauty. It’s a private, engaging way to see the coast and learn a new skill, suited for travelers who love active, personalized experiences in a stunning Mediterranean setting.