Barcelona: Sailing Trip with Drinks and Snacks

If you’re looking for a way to see Barcelona from a fresh angle, this sailing trip offers a breezy, picturesque experience along the city’s coastline. We’ve reviewed it to help you decide if this 1.5-hour boat journey is worth your time—and your euros. It’s a popular choice, with a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 180 travelers, which suggests most people find it a worthwhile addition to their Barcelona itinerary.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular views of key landmarks—like the Sagrada Familia and Montjuïc—with a relaxed, social atmosphere on the water. Plus, the inclusion of local snacks and drinks makes it feel like part of the city’s genuine hospitality. One potential consideration is that the trip is only 1.5 hours long, so if you’re craving a longer cruise or more extensive sightseeing, you might find this brief window somewhat limiting. Still, for most visitors, this is an ideal way to unwind and see the city from an entirely different perspective—especially if you enjoy small group settings and authentic experiences.

This trip will suit travelers who want a relaxed, scenic escape from the busy streets, those interested in stunning coastal views and local hospitality, or anyone seeking a fun, social way to spend an afternoon. It’s also perfect if you value sailing on boats made in Barcelona and want to support local craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: The boats are exclusively crafted in Barcelona, adding a local touch to your sailing adventure.
• Stunning Views: See iconic landmarks from the water, including Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, the Columbus Monument, and the Agbar Tower.
• Relaxation & Refreshment: Enjoy swimming in crystal waters, plus a selection of drinks and tasty snacks served onboard.
• Expert Local Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable crew members share insider stories and help you capture memorable photos.
• Value for Money: At $50, this tour offers a well-rounded experience with drinks, snacks, and swimming included.
• Small-Group Atmosphere: The limited group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Cool Sailing BCN, situated conveniently in Port Olimpic, near the Casino and in front of the parking kiosk. Arriving 10 minutes early helps dodge potential delays, especially since check-in involves a quick safety briefing—important for your peace of mind and safety.

Once aboard the Barcelona-made sailing vessels, your journey kicks off with a gentle sail that lasts about 20 minutes. During this time, your crew—composed of local guides—is busy pointing out landmarks and sharing stories that bring the city’s history and highlights to life. Sailing along Barcelona’s coast provides a perspective you won’t get from land—a sweeping view of the skyline and iconic structures.

Landmarks from the Sea

From the water, you’ll see the Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s most famous masterpiece, and the towering Columbus Monument, which celebrates the explorer’s return from the Americas. The Agbar Tower, with its modern, luminous design, adds an unexpected contrast to the historic cityscape. The views of the Tibidabo and Montjuïc Hills offer a panoramic sweep of the city’s surrounding hills and the historic Montjuïc Castle.

Swimming Break & Refreshments

Midway through, the boat anchors at a tranquil spot for roughly 30 minutes, giving you the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or prefer to float lazily, this is a prime moment to connect with the sea. Several reviews praise the swimming as a highlight, with travelers citing it as a restorative and fun experience. One reviewer noted, “If you want to get fresh air and even swim in the middle of the sea after your visit of crowded Barcelona city, there is no other best thing to do!”

While enjoying the water, you can indulge in refreshing drinks—including champagne, white wine, beer, sangria, or mineral water—and local snacks such as Fuet (Catalan salami), tender cheese, and crackers. The crew’s attentiveness means you can relax knowing your needs are covered.

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An Additional Sail & Return

The final segment involves a second sail, giving you one last chance to soak in the sights from the water. After about 15 minutes, the boat heads back to Cool Sailing BCN, completing a well-paced trip filled with highlights and leisure.

The Value Proposition

For $50, this tour provides an impressive mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor. The inclusion of snacks and drinks—plus snorkeling gear—means you’re not just paying for a boat ride but for a memorable, multi-sensory experience. Several reviews highlight the quality of service, with guests praising knowledgeable guides and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere. One traveler remarked, “Miguel was such a great guide! the snacks and sangria was fire, got the sunset time and worth every cent!”

It’s important to note that this trip only lasts 1.5 hours, making it a short but sweet escape. If you’re after a leisurely break with excellent views and social time, this is perfect. But if you’re craving a longer excursion or want to see more of the coastline, you might consider combining this with other activities.

Boats & Local Hosts

The vessels are proudly built in Barcelona, adding authenticity and a sense of local pride to your voyage. The crew, often praised for their friendly attitude and storytelling, makes the experience more engaging. Whether listening to stories of the city’s landmarks or taking photos, travelers consistently mention how approachable and well-informed the guides are.

Practicalities & Logistics

The meeting point is easy to find, situated halfway between the port entrance and the nearby restaurants—ideal for those arriving from the city center or nearby hotels. Arriving 10 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth start, especially since safety instructions are brief but necessary.

Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen—especially if you plan to swim or stay on deck longer. The tour does not allow intoxication, which makes sense for safety reasons, especially on a moving boat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing trip is particularly suited for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic, and social experience. It’s ideal if you love stunning coastal views, good drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s popular with couples, small groups, and solo travelers alike, especially those looking for a bit of adventure without a full-day commitment. The emphasis on local craftsmanship and authentic hospitality makes it a great choice for those who value genuine experiences over touristy clichés.

The Sum Up

This Barcelona sailing experience offers a lovely blend of sightseeing, leisure, and authentic local hospitality. For just $50, you get to view the city from a different angle, enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks, and take a refreshing swim—all within 1.5 hours. The knowledgeable, friendly guides truly elevate the trip, making it feel more like a relaxing gathering than a touristy hustle.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic views, small-group interactions, and a taste of the local maritime craft, this tour stands out as a value-packed, memorable addition to your Barcelona trip. It’s best suited for those who want a short, relaxing escape on the water—without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

FAQs

How long is the sailing trip?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with the main sailing segments totaling about 35 minutes, plus time for swimming and socializing.

Where do I meet the boat?
You should meet at the port’s access point in front of the Casino of Barcelona, in front of the parking kiosk. Arrive 10 minutes early to avoid delays.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat, skipper, open bar with champagne, white wine, beer, sangria, or mineral water, snacks like Fuet and cheese, safety equipment, and snorkeling gear.

Are drinks and snacks free?
Yes, a selection of drinks and snacks are included. You can also buy additional drinks if desired.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The tour stops at a peaceful spot for roughly 30 minutes, giving you a chance to swim in the clear waters. Many reviews highlight this as a favorite part.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is family-friendly for those who are comfortable in the water, but it’s not designed for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sandals, and sunscreen. It’s always good to be prepared for the sun and water.

In essence, this sailing tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and authentic way to see Barcelona’s coastline. With friendly guides, great views, and a casual atmosphere, it’s a smart pick for travelers seeking a short maritime escape from the city’s hustle.

You can check availability for your dates here: