Sailing Boat-always private-always by sail-search for dolphins

Introduction

Imagine gliding along the coast of Marbella on a private sailing boat, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. This review explores a sailing experience that promises both adventure and relaxation—perfect for those who love the sea and want a personalized day on the water. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this is an appealing option for a laid-back yet active day at sea.

What we love about this trip? First, the private setting ensures exclusivity—no crowded group here, just your party. Second, the chance to search for dolphins and other wildlife adds an element of authentic nature watching that many boat trips miss. One potential consideration? The success of dolphin sightings can depend on factors like wind and season, so it’s a bit of a gamble. This tour is best suited for travelers craving a flexible, intimate day on the water with good food, drinks, and the possibility of wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Exclusively for your group, offering a tailored sailing adventure.
• Wildlife & Nature: Chances to see dolphins, turtles, sunfish, and other marine life.
• Flexible Activities: Options to swim, paddle surf, sunbathe, or just relax on the boat.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks, snacks, and equipment like diving goggles and fins included.
• Authentic Sailing: The captain actively sails when conditions allow, not just motoring.
• Great Value: At around $349 for a group of two, the experience balances cost with personalized luxury.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour departs from Estepona port, specifically from Navegando El Estrecho, located at Av. Virgen del Puerto, Pantalan 4. It’s a convenient spot easily reachable via public transportation, which is a plus for travelers not renting a car. The trip lasts about 4 hours, giving ample time for sailing, wildlife spotting, and relaxing on the water without feeling rushed.

The Private Sailing Boat

The boat itself is designed for comfort and versatility. It’s described as a big, well-equipped vessel—ideal for a small group of up to two people for the listed price, making it an intimate experience. The boat features a platform with a ladder for easy access to the water, a fresh water shower, and a refrigerator to keep drinks cold during the trip. There’s also a barbecue onboard, which hints at the possibility of a snack or meal if you choose to extend your experience or have special arrangements.

Sailing and Wildlife Watching

Our sense is that the boat’s course is primarily dictated by wind and waves, but the goal is always to sail whenever possible—no dull motoring here. The captain is eager to involve guests, allowing you to take the helm if you’re up for it, and maneuver the boat when conditions permit.

A major highlight is the search for dolphins—common and bottlenose dolphins are typical sights, along with turtles and sunfish. As one reviewer noted, sightings are more likely on calmer days with less wind, because the sea is “flat,” making animals easier to spot. The captain actively networks with other boats and uses a WhatsApp group to track dolphin locations, increasing the chances of wildlife encounters.

Food and Drinks

A big selling point is the all-inclusive drinks and snacks, which include soft drinks, beers, wines, and cava—a delightful touch for a boat trip. The variety of appetizers like cheeses, pates, ham, and potato omelette make for a tasty accompaniment, turning the trip into a relaxed foodie experience. The boat also has diving goggles, fins, and tubes for those wanting to snorkel, and a floating mat for sunbathing, swimming, or just lounging.

Optional Activities

Most of the day’s fun revolves around being in or on the water. You can choose to swim from the boat’s platform or paddle surf with the provided board. If the captain drops anchor, you can enjoy some quiet time, taking in the scenery or just soaking up the sun. A fresh water shower and the ladder make getting back onboard after a swim easy and safe.

Customization and Flexibility

While the trip’s course depends on natural factors, the captain is willing to tailor the experience to your preferences—whether you want to follow the coast toward Marbella or head toward Gibraltar while searching for dolphins. One reviewer appreciated the freedom to set the day’s pace, though another suggested that having a suggested itinerary might enhance planning.

What the Reviews Say

Both reviews emphasize the quality of the sailing experience and the friendly, engaging captain. One reviewer, Steve, raved about Roberto’s authentic sailing skills—not just motoring with sails down but truly sailing, which adds to the genuine feel of the trip. They also praised the food and wine, calling it a highlight.

Melissa noted that dolphins weren’t spotted during her trip, but she appreciated the laid-back approach and the big, comfortable boat. She suggested that a more structured itinerary or options for customization could improve the experience, especially for those hoping to see wildlife.

The Cost and Value

At $349.07 per group (up to two), this experience is affordable for a private day on the water. When you consider the included amenities—nature watching, snorkeling gear, drinks, snacks, and a personalized experience—the value adds up quickly. Compared to larger group tours, this private trip offers a level of comfort, flexibility, and intimacy that many travelers seek.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is ideal for couples, friends, or small families seeking a relaxed, private day out. It’s perfect for those interested in wildlife watching but also wants the freedom to swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy the scenery. If you’re a sailing enthusiast eager to take the helm or experience authentic sailing, you’ll particularly enjoy the captain’s approach.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book in advance—most travelers book about 48 days ahead to secure their spot.
• Keep in mind that dolphin sightings depend on weather conditions and season, so patience and luck are involved.
• Arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes early.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the sun can be intense even on cloudy days.
• If you’re planning to snorkel, bring your own gear if you have specific preferences; otherwise, the boat provides what’s needed.

The Sum Up

This private sailing trip from Estepona offers a combination of authentic sailing, wildlife watching, and leisure—all in a cozy, tailored setting. You’ll love the way the captain actively sails the boat, making you feel involved, and the chance to see dolphins in their natural environment. The inclusive drinks and snacks, along with the opportunity to swim or paddle surf, make it a well-rounded day on the water.

While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the experience’s flexibility and the quality of the boat, food, and drinks make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking intimacy and adventure. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic sailing, personalized service, and a relaxed, scenic day in Spain’s beautiful coastline.

This trip balances fun, comfort, and authenticity, delivering a memorable day that combines nature, culture, and the simple pleasure of being at sea.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the private boat rental, soft drinks, beer, wine, cava, a variety of appetizers, snorkeling gear, fins, diving goggles, and a floating mat.

How long does the trip last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours from the meeting point and back.

Can I take the helm?
Yes, guests are encouraged to take control of the boat whenever they want, adding an interactive element to the trip.

Is wildlife guaranteed?
No, dolphin sightings depend on the weather, wind, and season. The captain actively searches for them, but sightings are not guaranteed.

What activities are available onboard?
You can swim, paddle surf, sunbathe, or just relax on the boat’s platform. The boat also has a ladder and shower for convenience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and possibly your own snorkel gear if preferred. The boat provides most snorkeling equipment.

Is the trip suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and life jackets are provided. However, always assess safety based on your children’s swimming ability.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are not refunded.

How do I book?
Booking is straightforward online; most trips are booked about 48 days in advance and require confirmation.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Sailing The Strait, a local operator specializing in private sailing excursions around Marbella and Estepona.

This private sailing experience offers a wonderful balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic connection with the sea. Whether you’re seeking wildlife sightings, a peaceful escape, or a chance to learn about sailing, this trip promises a memorable day on Spain’s stunning coast.