The 12 Best Sailing Experiences in Barcelona
Barcelona’s coastline is one of the city’s best assets. With its Mediterranean charm, lively marina, and stunning skyline, it’s no wonder many travelers want to see the city from the water. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise or a lively daytime sail, Barcelona offers options that suit all tastes and budgets. We particularly like the Barcelona: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Live Music for its relaxed vibe and jazz tunes, and the Barcelona Private Sailing Tour with Drinks for Family and Friends if you want a more exclusive experience. To help you navigate these choices, we’ve compiled the top 12 sailing experiences, each with its unique appeal and standout features.
1. Barcelona: Midday or Sunset Sailing with Open Bar and Snacks
This popular tour offers a luxury yacht cruise departing from Marina Vela, where you get a privileged view of Barcelona’s skyline. For about $52, you’ll spend 2 hours cruising along the seafront, with the option to choose between a midday sail or a sunset private tour. It’s a great way to relax with cold drinks, snacks, and spectacular views of landmarks like the W Hotel and the Columbus Monument. If the weather’s warm, you can even take a dip in the Mediterranean. Reviewers praise the service and the “privileged view” of the city, making this a dependable choice for a quick, enjoyable escape on the water. Its balance of comfort, scenery, and inclusions makes it excellent for couples or small groups wanting a taste of luxury without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, straightforward cruise perfect for quick breaks, offering open bar and snacks with a scenic backdrop.
2. Barcelona: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Live Music
At number 2, this sunset catamaran cruise is a favorite for its relaxed atmosphere, live jazz, and panoramic views. For only about $30, you’ll sail on a 78-foot catamaran, lying on the netting area while enjoying drinks at the onboard bar. The reviews highlight the “fantastic tunes” and “stunning sunset,” with many mentioning it as the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Guests rave about the “cool vibes,” and several mention this cruise as a “must-do” for a romantic or chill evening. The combination of live music, beautiful scenery, and a friendly crew makes this a top pick for those looking for a laid-back experience.
Bottom Line: An affordable, music-filled sunset cruise that’s ideal for couples and groups seeking a relaxed vibe with excellent views.
3. Barcelona Sailing Cruise with Light Snacks and Open Bar
This 2-hour luxury yacht cruise offers a serene way to see Barcelona’s landmarks. It departs from Marina Port Vell, with crew serving tapas and drinks while providing commentary on sights like the Sagrada Familia and the coastline. What sets this tour apart is its focus on comfort and personalized service, with a perfect balance of sightseeing and leisure. Reviews are glowing—“the crew was friendly,” and “gorgeous views of the city” are common praises. The opportunity to swim, weather permitting, adds an adventurous touch. With an ideal duration for fitting into a busy schedule, it suits travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic experience with good value.
Bottom Line: A highly-rated, peaceful cruise that combines city views, light snacks, and the chance to cool off in the sea.
4. Barcelona: Catamaran Cruise with optional Live Jazz Music
For around $20, this 1.5-hour catamaran ride offers casual sailing along the coast with panoramic views and optional live jazz. This tour is perfect for those wanting a quick, fun experience. The reviews are full of praise for the “wonderful views,” “friendly staff,” and the “great music” that makes the trip special. The boat features comfortable seating and space to relax under the sun or shade, with drinks available for purchase. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy Barcelona’s coastal beauty with some good tunes.
Bottom Line: An affordable, short cruise with a lively atmosphere and optional live jazz, great for a quick seaside escape.
5. Barcelona Small Group Sailing with Snacks and Cava
This small-group tour emphasizes intimacy, with a maximum group size and a 2-hour cruise along Barcelona’s coast. For $52, you’ll enjoy sweeping views, a glass of cava, snacks, and the chance to swim if weather allows. It’s especially suited for families or first-time visitors who prefer a more personal experience. Reviewers comment on the “fantastic views of landmarks like Sagrada Familia,” and the “friendly, attentive crew.” The relaxed pace and small size allow for more interaction and customization, making it a good choice for those wanting a quieter, more exclusive outing.
Bottom Line: An intimate sailing experience with personalized touches, perfect for relaxing with loved ones and discovering Barcelona from the water.
6. Barcelona: Sunset or Day Catamaran Cruise with Tapa & Drink
This spacious catamaran offers either daytime or sunset departures, with a focus on fun and comfort. For about $31, you can take a dip in the sea, enjoy inflatable toys, and appreciate the skyline views. The tour includes a local tapa and a free drink—making it a fantastic value. Reviewers mention the “great activity for hens and stags” or couples just looking for a different way to see Barcelona. The large netting area is perfect for sunbathing or relaxing with a drink, while the friendly crew ensures a smooth trip.
Bottom Line: A lively, affordable cruise with snacks, drinks, and the option to swim, suitable for groups celebrating or just relaxing.
7. Barcelona: Daytime or Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Music
This mid-range option offers 1 to 1.5 hours of sailing, with live music from July to September. At roughly $15 per person, it’s an economical way to enjoy the city’s skyline from the water. Reviews praise the “helpful staff” and “beautiful views,” with some noting the “nice atmosphere” created by the live music. The boat is comfortable and designed for photo opportunities, making it ideal for those seeking a casual yet scenic experience.
Bottom Line: An affordable, musical cruise that offers great views and a friendly vibe, best for budget-conscious travelers.
8. Barcelona: Sunset or Afternoon Yacht Cruise with Drinks
This luxury yacht stands out with its 52-foot size and all-inclusive drinks, including cava, beer, and snacks. For about $243 per group (up to 9 people), it’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or small groups wanting privacy. The reviews highlight “stylish, comfortable boats” and “friendly hosts” who keep the drinks flowing. The sunset views are especially praised. With flexible durations and private options, it’s ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity.
Bottom Line: An upscale, private experience with all drinks included, great for special days or intimate groups.
9. Barcelona Private Sailing Tour with Drinks for Family and Friends
This private tour costs about $145 per person, tailored for families or groups of friends who want exclusivity. It includes Champagne, beer, snacks, and inflatable water toys, all aboard a boat that departs from Port Olímpic. The reviews are glowing—customers mention the “fun, personable captain,” “beautiful sunset,” and “fantastic experience.” The flexibility to choose your duration up to 4 hours makes this ideal for those wanting a more leisurely or customizable outing.
Bottom Line: A high-end, private sailing cruise perfect for special celebrations or family gatherings with all amenities included.
10. Barcelona: Private Sailing with Open Bar & Snacks (max 9)
This tour is similar to the last but more flexible in length, from 1 to 4 hours, with a maximum of 9 people. For around $243, you get a personal skipper, snacks, drinks, and the chance to see the Barcelona skyline from the water. Reviewers mention the helpful crew and the “beautiful boat,” making it a top pick for those wanting privacy and a relaxed pace. It’s especially good for groups celebrating or looking for a tranquil day on the sea.
Bottom Line: A customizable private sailing experience with drinks and snacks for small groups or families.
11. Barcelona: Sunset Sailing Tour with Tapas and Open Bar
This 2-hour evening cruise combines gourmet Spanish tapas, an open bar, and stunning sunset views. For $75, it’s ideal for couples or friends wanting a romantic or lively evening. Reviewers praise the “friendly crew,” “delicious tapas,” and “beautiful sunset,” making it a popular choice for special nights out. The boat’s size and the focus on relaxation make it great for those wanting a more gourmet experience at sea.
Bottom Line: A leisurely sunset cruise with local food and drinks, perfect for a romantic or celebratory outing.
12. Barcelona: 2-Hour Sailboat Tour with Snacks and Drinks
Our final pick offers a comfortable sail with generous snacks and wine. Priced at about $51, it’s a balanced option for those wanting a classic city cruise with some culinary treats. The reviews highlight the “professional skipper” and “beautiful views of Barcelona’s skyline,” with many mentioning how relaxing the trip was. The itinerary includes a sunset option, making it versatile for different schedules.
Bottom Line: A dependable, well-rated sailboat tour that combines sightseeing with light bites and drinks.
How to Choose Your Perfect Barcelona Sailing Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and what kind of atmosphere you prefer. For a quick, scenic escape, the Barcelona: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Live Music offers great value and a relaxed vibe. If intimacy and celebration are your priorities, the Barcelona Private Sailing Tour with Drinks fits the bill. Budget travelers may prefer the Barcelona: Daytime or Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Music, which combines affordability with scenic views.
For those celebrating a special event or seeking privacy, the Luxury Yacht Cruise with Drinks offers a premium experience, while more casual day trips like the Barcelona: Midday or Sunset Sailing give you a taste of Barcelona’s coast with comfort.
To sum it up, Barcelona’s sailing options are diverse, from lively daytime adventures to romantic sunset cruises. If you’re looking for a quick, affordable trip, the catamaran with live jazz won’t disappoint. For a more private celebration, the private sailing tours offer everything you need. No matter your choice, booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences — the sea awaits.