Sailing experience on a 4-hour sailboat in Girona

A 4-hour sailing trip along the Costa Brava offers a refreshing way to see the Mediterranean’s rugged coastline. The journey starts from Platja d’Aro, with a beautiful 35-foot Jeanneau Sun Odyssey sailboat named Havana, built in 2005, capable of comfortably accommodating up to 9 guests plus the skipper. Priced at $404.75 per group, this private experience promises intimate, personalized sailing, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking a taste of the sea without a full day at sea.

What makes this trip stand out? First, we love how easy it is to hop aboard in a relaxed setting, with the chance to learn basic sailing skills and actively participate in maneuvering the boat. Second, the variety of activities—swimming in secluded coves, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even relaxing to your favorite tunes—adds a layer of flexibility and fun that appeals to all ages.

A potential consideration? While the trip’s duration is perfect for a half-day escape, it might leave thrill-seekers wanting a longer, more adventurous outing. Also, since the trip is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

This sailing experience is best suited for those who appreciate stunning coastal views, enjoy water activities, or simply want a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of adventure. It appeals equally to families with kids, couples, or small groups of friends looking for an authentic Mediterranean experience.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience: Only your group plus the skipper, ensuring personalized attention.
• Active participation: Opportunities to learn sailing basics and assist with maneuvers.
• Variety of activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing onboard.
• Flexible scheduling: Choose between morning or afternoon slots.
• Comfortable boat: A well-maintained Jeanneau Sun Odyssey, capacity for up to 9 guests.
• Inclusive equipment: Snorkeling gear, paddleboard, music, and fresh water shower included.

Exploring the 4-Hour Sailing Experience in Girona

The Location and Meeting Point

The adventure starts at the sailing school facilities located on the beach next to the port of Platja d’Aro. It’s easy to reach by car, with parking available next to the facilities, especially during the summer season when a fee might apply. For those relying on public transportation, the location is near accessible transit options, making it convenient for most travelers.

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your skipper, who is eager to introduce your group to the boat and share a bit of sailing knowledge before setting sail. The meeting point at Avinguda de Verona Terol is straightforward, and the process of getting onboard is quick and informal.

The Boat and Its Capabilities

Your vessel, the Havana, is a beautiful 35-foot Jeanneau Sun Odyssey built in 2005. It features a mainsail and a Genoa foresail, which allows for smooth and pleasant sailing conditions. With a capacity for up to 9 guests plus the skipper, it guarantees a cozy yet comfortable environment, perfect for small groups seeking exclusivity.

Inside, the boat is well-maintained, offering a clean and inviting space. There’s a fridge onboard for drinks, a fresh water shower, and a sound system to enjoy your favorite tunes while cruising. These little comforts add a touch of luxury to what is primarily an active, outdoor experience.

The Sailing Itinerary and Experience

Once aboard, the journey is tailored to the weather conditions, typically heading north or south to find the most protected, scenic spots along the Costa Brava. The goal? To enjoy the best views of rocky coastlines and hidden coves that are often inaccessible by land.

The sailing itself is a leisurely affair, with the opportunity to learn sailing basics—such as how to handle the mainsail or assist with maneuvers—making the trip interactive and engaging. You might find yourself adjusting the sails or steering the boat, which adds a sense of accomplishment and connection to the sea.

Water Activities and Breaks

One of the trip’s highlights is stopping at a secluded cove where you can swim, snorkel, and paddleboard. The snorkeling gear and paddleboards are provided, giving you the chance to explore underwater life or simply float in calm waters. The reviews highlight how much guests enjoyed these stops: “Our family of 4 enjoyed a sailing trip along Costa Brava, seeing beautiful rocky coastlines, stopping for a cove swim and SUP, and drifting our way back.”

During these breaks, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to relax, take photos, or listen to music while gazing at the coastline. The boat’s onboard fridge lets you keep drinks cold, and a freshwater shower helps rinse off saltwater after swimming.

The Crew and Personal Touches

Guests consistently praise the skippers’ friendliness and knowledge. One review mentions Captain Edu, who spoke excellent English and was very engaging with children, sharing stories and even teaching them to steer the boat. This personal touch makes the experience feel special and tailored.

The boat’s small size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, where everyone can participate, ask questions, or just soak up the scenery in peace. The reviews reflect appreciation for the skippers’ attentiveness and enthusiasm, making the trip both fun and informative.

The Practical Details

The tour offers two schedules—morning or afternoon—giving flexibility to fit into your wider itinerary. The total duration of about four hours strikes a good balance, allowing enough time to enjoy multiple stops and activities without feeling rushed.

Included in the price are snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, music, and a fresh water shower. However, you’ll need to bring your own bottled water, snacks, or lunch if you want a full meal onboard. This keeps the experience flexible and allows you to tailor it to your preferences.

The Value Proposition

While $404.75 for a private group might seem steep at first glance, it’s important to consider the level of exclusivity, the variety of activities, and the personalized service. For small groups, this trip offers excellent value, transforming a simple boat ride into a memorable mini-vacation.

The Reviews in Context

Guests have rated this experience near-perfect, praising the sailing trip’s scenic beauty, the friendly guides, and the boat’s comfort. Comments like “The boat was very nice and clean,” and “The captain was so nice and very helpful,” underscore the high standards maintained.

Many mention the “wonderful” feeling of being on such a luxurious and well-kept vessel while participating actively in the sailing. The opportunity to swim in coves, snorkel, and paddleboard adds to the appeal, making this more than a typical boat tour.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sailing adventure suits travelers who enjoy outdoor water activities, scenic coastlines, and a relaxed yet engaging environment. It’s ideal for families wanting a safe, fun experience with kids learning about sailing, or small groups of friends looking for a scenic getaway with a bit of hands-on fun.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, intimate, and flexible way to explore the Costa Brava’s coastline, this trip hits the mark. Conversely, those craving a longer or more adventurous day might want to consider extending their sea time or choosing other options.

Final Thoughts

This 4-hour sailboat trip offers a genuine and engaging way to see the Costa Brava from the water. It combines scenic beauty, water activities, and the chance to learn sailing in a relaxed environment. The boat’s well-maintained condition, friendly crew, and flexible itinerary make it a standout for small groups wanting both adventure and comfort.

If you value authentic experiences, personalized attention, and stunning coastal views, this trip will likely meet your expectations. It’s a perfect escape for those who want a taste of the sea without committing to a full-day or high-cost private charter.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, ensuring a personalized and intimate outing.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The Havana sailboat can accommodate up to 9 guests plus the skipper, ideal for small groups or families.

What should I bring?
Bring your bottled water, snacks, or lunch if desired. The boat provides snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and music, but personal items are up to you.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention engaging with kids, and the small group size makes it suitable for families.

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

Can I participate actively in sailing?
Absolutely. The skipper encourages guests to help with maneuvers and learn sailing basics during the trip.

How long in advance should I book?
On average, trips are booked about 27 days ahead, so it’s best to reserve early, especially in peak summer months.

Are there options for morning or afternoon trips?
Yes, you can choose between two schedules, depending on your plans and preferences.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there is parking next to the sailing facilities, with fees applicable in summer.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, paddleboard, music, fridge, and freshwater shower are included. Extras like drinks or snacks are not.

This sailing adventure along the Costa Brava offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, active participation, and relaxed fun—perfect for those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean in a truly authentic way.