Looking for a way to combine the sea, wine, and a touch of local charm outside Barcelona? This Barcelona Sailing Adventure and Winery Tour offers exactly that—an intimate, well-paced journey that blends the thrill of sailing along the Mediterranean coast with the serenity of tasting Alella’s finest wines. For $132.93 per person, you’ll spend roughly four hours in a small group, making it easy to savor each moment without feeling rushed. We particularly love the personalized experience that small group sizes allow, and the chance to enjoy stunning coastal views while sipping wine.
One of the standout features is the combination of sailing and wine tasting, which adds a memorable dimension to your day. The luxury sailboat offers a comfortable, scenic ride that’s far more relaxing than a crowded cruise, and the visit to the highest-rated winery in Alella is genuinely intimate, with expert guides and local wines that make you appreciate the regional winemaking traditions. However, a quick heads-up: weather conditions can influence the sailing, so it’s worth being flexible.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love authentic experiences—whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a fan of sailing, or simply someone craving a peaceful escape from city life. It also suits those who enjoy small-group adventures with a personal touch and a dash of adventure on the water.
Key Points
- Unique combination of sailing and wine tasting offers an engaging way to explore the region
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere
- Beautiful coastal views and a visit to a top-rated, family-run winery in Alella
- Comfortable sailing with drinks and snacks, plus a Catalan brunch at the winery
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance
- Weather-dependent activity; sailing may be affected by conditions
A Detailed Look at the Experience
Our journey begins at Port Olimpic, a lively hub with plenty of nautical charm. Meeting your skipper, you immediately sense the exclusivity—this isn’t a crowded boat trip but a sleek, luxury sailboat that promises comfort and style. The first delight? The scenic ride along the Barcelona coast, where you’ll pass Playa de la Mar Bella, Port Masnou, and enjoy sweeping views of the Barcelona skyline. The breeze is invigorating, and with drinks and snacks in hand—olives, chips, crackers, and soft drinks—you begin to unwind from the city’s hustle.
The sailing experience itself receives high praise. Many reviews mention the beautiful views and the calm, friendly atmosphere created by the captain, Hunter, who is described as a great host. One traveler notes, “The sailing was fantastic, and the vineyard was outstanding.” Even if you’re not a seasoned sailor, the gentle ride, combined with the informative narration about Barcelona’s coastline, makes for a memorable start.
The boat ride lasts about two hours, with the group size capped at 11 per boat—meaning plenty of space to spread out or chat with fellow travelers. You might find, as some reviewers did, that the seating arrangements can vary, with some guests at the back of the boat while others are at the front. It’s worth arriving early to ensure a good spot, especially if views or a particular side of the boat are important to you.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Barcelona
Transition to Alella: The Vineyards and Winery
After sailing, you’ll hop into a luxury mini-bus that takes you to Alella, a quaint wine region just outside Barcelona. The drive itself is brief but scenic, giving you a peek at the vineyards and Mediterranean landscape. Once at the family-run winery, you’re greeted by an expert sommelier in a 14th-century house surrounded by vineyards cultivated for over 25 years. You’ll explore the organic and modern techniques used in this small but highly rated winery.
The guided tour of the vineyards and cellar is both informative and personal, often led by a family member, which adds authenticity. Reviewers repeatedly mention the charming, well-done experience, with one saying, “The winery was beautiful, and the tour guide was charming and informative.” The wine tasting that follows is another highlight—sampling four different local wines, each paired with traditional Catalan delicacies.
Many guests comment positively on the quality of wines and the tapas-style pairing. Tasting wines overlooking the vines and the Mediterranean makes the experience feel special and authentic. One traveler even mentioned, “The wines were very good, and we brought a small batch home,” highlighting the memorable flavors.
The Brunch and Return Trip
The small group then enjoys a Catalan brunch—a thoughtfully paired selection of local bites—before heading back to Barcelona. The return journey in the luxurious minibus is a chance to reflect on the morning, with most reviews emphasizing the relaxing vibe and delicious flavors.
A few reviews point out minor issues, such as confusing meeting instructions or rough waters during the boat ride, but overall, the experience’s value and charm shine through. One reviewer praised it as “the best day of their Barcelona vacation,” capturing the essence of what makes this tour special.
What to Expect on the Day
Start at Port Olimpic, where you’ll meet your skipper for the sailing adventure. Expect to set sail by luxury sailboat, enjoying snacks and drinks as you cruise along the coast. The scenic ride gives you great views of Barcelona’s landmarks and a chance to relax or chat.
After about two hours, you’ll transfer via luxury mini-bus to Alella. The vineyard tour lasts about an hour and a half, giving you time to walk through the vineyards, learn about regional winemaking, and sample local wines paired with Catalan bites.
Finally, you’ll return to Port Olimpic aboard the mini-bus, ending your tour with a sense of accomplishment, refreshed by sea air and good wine.
The Pros and Cons
Pros
– The combination of sailing and wine tasting adds a memorable touch to your Barcelona experience.
– Small groups mean more personalized attention, better views, and a relaxed pace.
– The scenic coastal ride offers stunning views of the city skyline and Mediterranean coastline.
– Visiting a top-rated, family-run winery means authentic, high-quality wine and a chance to learn the regional traditions firsthand.
– The brunch pairing complements the tasting, showcasing regional flavors.
Cons
– The activity depends on weather conditions; rough seas can make the sailing less enjoyable or even unsafe.
– Some travelers found instructions to meet the boat confusing, so arriving early is advisable.
– The seating arrangement on the boat can vary, which might affect views or comfort.
– Limited to 22 travelers, so it fills up quickly—book well in advance.
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Barcelona
- Montserrat Half-Day Tour with Tapas and Gourmet Wines
- Montserrat & Medieval Winery with Tapas/Lunch
- Montserrat Lunch & Wine at Farmhouse Small Group from Barcelona
- Montserrat & Cogwheel Train, Gourmet Wine Tasting & Tapas/Lunch
- Barcelona Food and Wine Small Group Tour with a Sommelier
- Barcelona E-Bike Small Group Tour with Tapas & Wine Tasting
Is This Tour Right for You?
If you enjoy small-group experiences with a personal touch, you’ll love the intimacy of this tour. It’s excellent for wine lovers wanting a taste of the Alella region, especially paired with the sailing adventure. The combination of relaxing coastlines, authentic wines, and a beautiful vineyard setting makes it ideal for couples, friends, or even solo travelers who want an authentic experience outside the city.
However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or traveling during unpredictable weather, you might want to consider the potential for a choppy ride. Also, those looking for a more extensive winery tour or foodie experience might find this tour more focused on the highlights rather than deep, immersive tasting.
FAQ
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about four hours, including sailing, vineyard visit, and return transportation.
What is included in the tour?
You get a sailing trip along Barcelona’s coast, snacks and drinks on board, a guided vineyard visit, wine tasting with Catalan delicacies, and round-trip transportation.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour accommodates most travelers, and reviews mention that it allows young infants. The maximum group size is 22 travelers, split if necessary.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking in the vineyard. Dress in layers, as it can be breezy on the water.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
Is the sailing suitable for everyone?
Most reviews say yes, but some mention the sailing can be rocky and the ride might be choppy if seas are rough.
Do I need to bring anything?
All snacks, drinks, and the vineyard tour are provided. Just bring your ID or passport for check-in and your camera to capture the views.
Final Thoughts
This Barcelona Sailing Adventure and Winery Tour combines the best of what the region has to offer—coastal scenery, authentic wines, and a personal touch. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances relaxation and learning, making it perfect for travelers seeking something a little different from the usual city tour.
The small group setting, coupled with excellent guides and a beautiful vineyard, ensures you’ll leave with not just photos but genuine memories. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy savoring local flavors and want to escape the city’s bustle for a few hours.
While weather can be unpredictable, the overall experience delivers a beautiful blend of sea, wine, and scenery that makes for a delightful day out. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful, authentic escape, this tour offers a charming taste of Catalonia’s coastal character.
To sum it up, if you value personalized service, scenic beauty, and authentic regional wines, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a great way to indulge in Barcelona’s surrounding countryside and coast, all while enjoying the relaxing rhythm of sailing and the flavors of Alella. Perfect for those who appreciate small, intimate experiences and want to combine adventure with a bit of cultural discovery.
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