Barcelona: Sailing Trip with Drinks and Snacks

Barcelona: Sailing Trip with Drinks and Snacks
Location: Catalonia, Spain
Country: Spain
Rating: 4.8/5 (178 reviews)
Price: $50 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
Supplier: Cool Sailing BCN

A quick glimpse at this sailing experience reveals a solid value for those wanting a fresh perspective on Barcelona’s most iconic sights. For just $50, you’ll spend about an hour and a half on a Barcelona-made boat, cruising the coast with a knowledgeable local skipper. You’ll get close-up views of the Sagrada Familia, Columbus Monument, Agbar Tower, and the surrounding hills, all from the water. Plus, there’s the chance to swim in the clear Mediterranean waters, enjoy champagne and local snacks on board, and listen to stories that bring the city to life from a nautical vantage point.

What we really love about this tour is its mix of relaxation and sightseeing. The small-group setting ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of time for photos, swimming, and enjoying quality drinks like champagne, wine, or sangria. And because the boats are built locally—only boats in the port crafted in Barcelona—there’s a heartfelt authenticity to the whole experience.

The only potential downside? The activity is weather-dependent. Bad weather could mean rescheduling or cancellations, although the company is clear about full refunds if needed. If you’re eager for a scenic, laid-back way to see Barcelona’s coastline and don’t mind a small boat ride, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a casual, social escape with spectacular views—perfect for couples, friends, or solo adventurers who want a relaxed, insider-style outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Boats crafted in Barcelona ensure genuine craftsmanship and local pride.
• Stunning Views: See iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Montjuïc from a unique perspective.
• Relaxation & Fun: Swim in the Mediterranean, sip champagne, and snack while enjoying the breeze.
• Expert Guides: Local crew share insider stories and help capture memorable photos.
• Small-Group Atmosphere: Uncrowded experience that feels personal rather than commercial.
• Good Value: At $50, this tour offers a lot of memorable moments with included drinks and snacks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Sailing Trip Experience

Starting Point & First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Cool Sailing BCN, conveniently located at the Port Olimpic area. You’ll want to arrive about 10 minutes early, as instructions are clear—meet in front of the kiosk where the parking machine is, right between the port entrance and some popular restaurants. The boats, named Farah or Bonic, are easily recognizable, and the setup feels welcoming and professional.

The Vessels & Crew

What sets this experience apart for many travelers is the fact that the boats are built in Barcelona. This local craftsmanship adds a touch of authenticity. The crew, headed by skipper Miquel (who gets glowing reviews), is friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Many reviews highlight how personable Miquel and his team are—”Miguel was such a great guide” and “charming and funny” are common praises.

The Itinerary & Highlights

The tour has a simple but well-thought-out flow, emphasizing sightseeing, swimming, and socializing:

• Safety briefing (5 minutes): Before setting sail, the crew provides quick safety instructions, making sure everyone understands how to enjoy the trip without worries.
• Sailing (20 minutes): The boat glides along the coast, giving you a fresh view of Barcelona’s skyline—from the futuristic Agbar Tower to the historic Montjuïc—all from the water. This segment feels like a peaceful cruise, with the breeze filling the sails and the city unfolding around you.
• Photo stop, Aperitif, Swimming (30 minutes): The highlight for many is this relaxing break. You can dive into the crystal-clear waters or just float and take photos with the stunning backdrop of the city and hills. The crew serves local snacks like Fuet (Catalan salami), cheese, and crackers, along with an open bar featuring champagne, wine, beer, or sangria.
• Final sail (15 minutes): The last leg of the trip offers a leisurely return, soaking in the twilight views if you’re lucky with timing.

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What’s Included & What to Bring

For $50, the value is clear: a boat, skipper, drinks, snacks, snorkeling equipment, and safety gear are all included. The drinks selection, especially the champagne and sangria, garners rave reviews. Many reviewers mention how friendly the crew is, often sharing stories about Barcelona’s landmarks and history—adding a layer of local insight to an already scenic experience.

Travelers should bring sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, sandals, and sunscreen. Notably, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchairs, given the boat’s design.

The Experience in Context

Many reviews from past travelers emphasize that this trip is more than just a boat ride; it’s a relaxing social outing. People appreciate the small-group size, which fosters a cozy, intimate feeling. The local guides’ knowledge, paired with the authentic Barcelona-made boats, creates a memorable, genuine experience. Reviewers also love that the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included drinks and snacks.

The Not-So-Perfect Aspects

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers note the activity’s weather dependence. If conditions aren’t ideal, the trip might be rescheduled or canceled—so it’s wise to plan flexible dates or check the forecast. Also, if you’re expecting a full meal onboard, you should know that snacks are light, and catering is an extra option, not included in the base price.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This sailing trip is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing—especially if you enjoy waterside views, swimming, and socializing over drinks. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting an authentic, intimate experience with local guides. If you’re a fan of gorgeous city vistas from the water and want something more personal than a large cruise, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Barcelona sailing tour offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, leisure, and local hospitality. At just $50, it provides a great value for travelers eager to see the city’s landmarks from a fresh angle, while also enjoying light snacks, drinks, and swimming in the Mediterranean. The highlight for many is the personal touch of the local crew and the authentic Barcelona-made boats, which add genuine charm to the experience.

If you’re after a relaxed boat ride with stunning visuals and a chance to unwind away from the crowds, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small-group adventures and want to capture memorable photos of Barcelona’s skyline and coastline. Just remember, weather may influence your plans, so a flexible schedule and clear expectations will make your outing even better.

This sailing trip is a fantastic way to combine sightseeing, swimming, and socializing in one affordable, authentic package. It’s a perfect addition to your Barcelona itinerary—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip looking for a different view of the city.

FAQ

How long is the sailing trip?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including all stops and sailing time, providing a relaxed yet comprehensive experience.

What landmarks will I see from the boat?
You’ll get views of the Sagrada Familia, Columbus Monument, Agbar Tower, and the hills of Tibidabo and Montjuïc.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the open bar features champagne, white wine, beer, sangria, and mineral water. Light snacks like Catalan salami, cheese, and crackers are also provided.

Can I swim during the trip?
Absolutely. There’s a dedicated swimming stop in the crystal waters where you can cool off and enjoy the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for most able-bodied adults but not for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towels, sandals, and perhaps a camera for photos.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet at the Port Olimpic, in front of the kiosk near the entrance, roughly halfway between the port entry and local restaurants.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The activity will be rescheduled if possible, or canceled with a full refund if conditions are unsuitable on the day.

This sailing trip in Barcelona strikes a great balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and fun. If you’re eager to see Barcelona from the water, enjoy light drinks and snacks, and want a personalized experience with local guides, it’s a choice worth considering. Just plan for the weather, arrive early, and prepare to enjoy a memorable hour and a half on the Mediterranean.

You can check availability for your dates here: