Granada might be famous for its stunning Alhambra Palace, but the nearby coast offers some truly memorable sailing experiences that are worth a detour. Whether you’re after the thrill of spotting dolphins, a romantic sunset, or a luxurious day on the water, Granada’s coastline serves it all. We particularly love the shared sailboat trip to see dolphins because it combines natural beauty with a sense of adventure — plus, the reviews rave about the boat’s cleanliness and the captain’s friendly approach. If you’re looking for a private, romantic outing, the Sunset sailing along the cliffs of Maro promises a breathtaking view just for your group. For those who want a full day at sea, the Costa Tropical luxury catamaran with lunch offers a taste of indulgence and relaxation. Below, you’ll find our detailed breakdown of each experience to help you pick your perfect trip.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a variety of sailing options in Granada: from shared dolphin-watching trips to private sunset sails and luxury catamaran excursions. Each offers a different way to enjoy the coast, catering to different budgets and interests. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or seeking a romantic outing, there’s something here for everyone. Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. La Herradura: Sailboat with a view of dolphins – Shared
At number one, this shared sailboat trip stands out for its combination of marine wildlife encounters and scenic beauty. For about $83 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours on a 12-meter sailboat exploring the Maro-Cerro Gordo natural park — a protected area known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise coves. The boat cruises along the coast, where dolphins and other marine creatures are often sighted, giving you a chance to see these intelligent animals in the wild.
One of the highlights is the opportunity to anchor in summer, where swimmers can enjoy snorkeling, paddle surfing, or just cooling off in the clear waters. The reviews highlight how clean, well-maintained the boat is, and the captain’s friendly demeanor makes the trip more enjoyable. Passengers appreciated the relaxed pace and the chance to see dolphins, with one reviewer remarking, “The experience was better than anticipated, and we loved the swimming stops.” The trip’s inclusion of snacks and beverages adds value, making it a well-rounded, affordable outing for nature lovers and families alike.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for those who want a mix of wildlife viewing, water activities, and coastal scenery without breaking the bank.
2. Sunset sailing along the cliffs of Maro – Private
For around $613 per group, the private sunset cruise provides an intimate experience tailored for your small group of up to nine people. This 2-hour sail along the coast of La Herradura-Maro-nerja** is perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends seeking a romantic or celebratory outing. The experienced captain ensures a smooth ride, while the timing guarantees stunning views as the sun dips behind the coastal cliffs.
What makes this tour stand out is its exclusivity — you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, allowing for a more personalized experience. The views during sunset are described as breathtaking, with the coastline’s jagged cliffs and golden light creating picture-perfect moments. Reviews mention the professionalism of the captain and the peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty in a quiet setting.
Important note: When booking, select only “1” passenger in the quantity box to avoid availability errors, as the ship’s capacity is just nine. Bottom line: this trip is best suited for romantic couples or small groups wanting a memorable, private experience of the coast at sunset.
3. Sailing at sunset along the cliffs of Maro – Compartida
At number three, this shared sunset sailing offers a similar experience to the private cruise but at a more accessible price — about $81 per person for two hours. It’s ideal for travelers who want the magic of a sunset sail without the exclusivity surcharge. The small group setting makes for a cozy, relaxed trip with plenty of opportunities for conversation and taking photos.
The captain’s professionalism is frequently praised, and during sunset, the coast’s dramatic cliffs turn a warm, golden hue. Guests report that the experience is unforgettable, sharing that it’s a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a peaceful evening on the water. The trip’s shorter duration makes it convenient for an after-dinner activity or a quick escape from the hustle of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a budget-friendly sunset cruise that still offers intimacy and stunning views, this tour delivers.
4. La Herradura: Sailboat with a view of Dolphins – Private
Next, for those who prefer exclusivity, this private dolphin-watching sail costs roughly $689 per group (up to nine people). Similar to the shared trip, it features a 12-meter sailboat exploring the Maro-Cerro Gordo natural park, but with the added benefit of privacy and tailored attention from the captain.
This tour is perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a personalized experience. The boat’s capacity allows for a quiet day of swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the turquoise coves. The reviews are limited but highly positive, emphasizing the comfortable setting and the captain’s local expertise. When summer arrives, the boat anchors in coves for swimming and paddling, making the most of the warm weather.
Important: The same booking note applies — select only “1” passenger when booking to avoid errors. Bottom Line: This trip is ideal for those valuing privacy and a tailored experience, especially if dolphins are your main goal.
$689.37 per group (up to 9)
5. Costa Tropical: Luxury Catamaran Trip with Lunch
Finally, for a luxurious day at sea, this 7-hour catamaran trip combines comfort, adventure, and gourmet food. Priced at $136 per person, it includes unlimited drinks, a sumptuous onboard lunch, and the use of paddles, masks, and snorkels. The trip departs from the Costa Tropical, offering a more relaxed pace with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the deck.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on luxury and convenience — the spacious catamaran offers ample space to unwind, with free drinks and a quality meal included. Guests have a strong chance to spot Bottlenose and Common Dolphins in their natural habitat, making it not just relaxing but also a bit adventurous. The reviews note the high level of comfort and the chance to enjoy the scenic coastline in style.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a day of luxury, good food, and dolphin sightings — great for celebrating special occasions or just indulging.
How to Choose
When selecting your ideal sailing experience in Granada, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and whether you prefer a private or shared experience. If dolphins are a top priority, the La Herradura dolphin trip offers excellent value with opportunities for water activities. For romantic sunset views, the private sunset cruise is unbeatable, while the luxury catamaran suits those wanting a full, indulgent day.
Booking early is advisable, especially for private trips, to secure your preferred date and time. Think about the type of experience you want — adventurous, romantic, or luxurious — and choose accordingly. The coast’s best natural beauty is accessible through these tours, so pick what suits your style and enjoy a memorable day on the water.
In summary, Granada’s coastline offers a variety of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. The shared dolphin trip delivers great value and a chance to see marine wildlife, while the private sunset sail provides intimacy and stunning views. For those who want to combine comfort with adventure, the luxury catamaran cruise with lunch is a perfect indulgence. No matter your choice, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences.