Nestled along the picturesque Basque Coast, Donostia-San Sebastián beckons travelers to experience its vibrant port. This captivating 2-hour guided tour promises an immersive journey, where visitors can explore the iconic Isturiz I fishing boat and learn from skipper Borja Isturiz. With insights into the local fishing industry and maritime heritage, this intimate experience offers a delightful blend of education and culinary delights. As participants savor three delicious pintxos paired with a drink, showcasing seasonal inshore fish, they’ll uncover the rich tapestry that makes Donostia-San Sebastián’s port a true gem worth discovering.
Good To Know
- Immersive 2-hour guided tour of the Port of Donostia-San Sebastián, limited to 6 participants for an intimate setting.
- Tour led by a live guide fluent in Spanish and Basque, providing insights into the fishing industry and local maritime traditions.
- Opportunity to visit the Isturiz I fishing boat and learn from the skipper about fishing gear, technology, and daily life.
- Culinary experience featuring 3 pintxos (Basque-style tapas) and 1 drink, showcasing seasonal, locally-sourced inshore fish.
- Includes a visit to the Basque Maritime Museum, where interactive exhibits highlight the history and cultural significance of the sea for the Basque people.
Activity Overview
The Port of Donostia-San Sebastián offers visitors an immersive 2-hour experience for just $16.76 per person.
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Visitors will explore the port and learn from a live tour guide fluent in Spanish and Basque.
The highlight is a visit to the Isturiz I, an inshore fishing boat, where the skipper, Borja Isturiz, shares insights into fishing gear, technology, and the profession.
Plus, the culinary experience features 3 pintxos and 1 drink, showcasing seasonal dishes based on inshore fish.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gipuzkoa.
Booking Information
With the flexibility of Reserve now & pay later, visitors can book their spot without any upfront payment.
The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The cancellation policy is also flexible – a 100% refund for cancellations made at least 15 days in advance, 50% refund for 7-15 days, and no refund for less than 7 days.
Guests can even transfer their activity to another person with 24 hours’ notice.
This combination of booking options and cancellation terms ensures a stress-free planning experience for those interested in exploring the Port of Donostia-San Sebastián.
Experience Highlights
Visiting the Isturiz I ship, an inshore fishing boat, allows guests to learn about fishing gear, technology, and the profession from skipper Borja Isturiz himself.
This unique experience also includes:
- Discovering the secrets of the port with a guide from the Basque Maritime Museum.
- Gaining a deeper understanding of the local fishing industry and its traditions.
- Exploring the sights and sounds of the bustling port, providing a truly immersive experience.
The experience highlights the rich maritime heritage of Donostia-San Sebastián, offering visitors a chance to connect with the city’s seafaring roots.
Culinary Experience
Beyond exploring the maritime heritage, the experience also features a culinary component.
Visitors can expect a tasting of 3 pintxos, or Basque-style tapas, paired with 1 drink. The dishes highlight seasonal, locally-sourced inshore fish, offering a true taste of the region’s coastal cuisine.
This culinary interlude complements the guided tour, allowing participants to fully enjoy the flavors and traditions of the Port of Donostia-San Sebastián.
The carefully curated menu showcases the freshness and quality of the local seafood, providing a delightful sensory experience to complement the educational aspects of the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility and Important Notes
This experience isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. The boat is docked, so no sailing is involved.
However, participants should be aware that the tour is only available in Basque and Spanish.
Key things to know:
- The tour takes place on the Isturiz I, an inshore fishing boat.
- Visitors will learn about fishing gear, technology, and the profession from the skipper.
- The culinary experience includes 3 pintxos and 1 drink, featuring seasonal dishes based on inshore fish.
Guided Tour Details
The 2-hour guided tour of the Port of Donostia-San Sebastián invites visitors to enjoy the vibrant maritime heritage of the region.
Priced at just $16.76 per person, the tour is limited to groups of 6 and includes live commentary from a knowledgeable guide in Spanish and Basque.
Participants will explore the Isturiz I fishing boat, learning about the equipment, technology, and the daily life of a fisherman from skipper Borja Isturiz.
The experience also includes a tasting of 3 local pintxos and a drink, showcasing the port’s culinary delights.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to transfer the activity, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the secrets of the Port of Donostia-San Sebastián.
Basque Maritime Museum
Alongside the guided tour of the Isturiz I fishing boat, the experience also includes a visit to the Basque Maritime Museum.
This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the rich maritime heritage of the Basque region.
Visitors can:
- Explore interactive exhibits that showcase the history and traditions of Basque fishing communities.
- Learn about the innovative technologies and techniques used by Basque seafarers.
- Discover the cultural significance of the sea and its influence on Basque identity.
With the guidance of experienced museum staff, this part of the experience provides a comprehensive understanding of the port’s significance and the enduring maritime legacy of Donostia-San Sebastián.
Frequently Asked Questions
What COVID-19 Safety Measures Are in Place During the Tour?
The tour operator follows all current COVID-19 safety protocols, including limited group sizes, face mask requirements, and enhanced cleaning procedures. Participants are encouraged to practice social distancing during the experience.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the flexible cancellation policy and ability to transfer the activity to another person provide some options for those looking to adjust their booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tour?
No, bringing your own food and drinks is not permitted on the boat tour. The experience includes a tasting of 3 pintxos and 1 drink, so outside food and beverages are not allowed.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the sights and experiences as they learn about the port and fishing operations. However, participants should be mindful of not disrupting the guide or fellow guests.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
No, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The experience is a fixed 2-hour program. However, participants can explore the port on their own after the guided tour concludes if they wish to spend more time in the area.
The Sum Up
The Port of Donostia-San Sebastián offers a captivating 2-hour guided tour that lets visitors explore the iconic Isturiz I fishing boat, learn from the skipper, and savor delicious pintxos paired with a drink. This intimate experience, limited to six participants, provides insights into the local fishing industry and maritime heritage, blending education and culinary delights. It’s an enchanting journey that showcases the vibrant culture of this coastal city.
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