More about: 9 Best Cruises and Boat Tours in Barcelona
The Mediterranean is a fundamental part of Barcelona. Maritime trade brought wealth to the city and helped shape the city we know today. If you're travelling in spring or summer and looking for things to see and do in the Catalan capital, a boat trip is highly recommended.
The Catalan coastline is a must-see attraction and there are various excursions that allow you to sail its waters, from short trips to more comprehensive cruises. Read on to discover the best options.
1. Sunset cruise with jazz music
After a day of visiting the old town, the interior of the Sagrada Familia or Gaudí's modernist residences, there is nothing better than ending the day at sea. With this sunset jazz cruise in Barcelona, you will enjoy a pleasant evening with a chill-out atmosphere while a live saxophone player performs. It's an ideal plan for you and your partner.
At sunset, the sun hides behind the Collserola massif, painting the Mediterranean and the city's buildings red. It's a romantic scene that will leave you speechless.
If you're travelling by catamaran, once you're away from the coast, the engines are turned off and the boat is left to be rocked by the waves. Don't worry, the boats are stable and don't usually rock too much. During the trip, an aperitif accompanied by a drink is also served.
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- Boat: catamaran or sailing boat
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Price: £24
2. Catamaran party
Much of Barcelona's appeal lies in its nightlife, but you don't have to wait until dusk to satisfy your party cravings. Party boats are an option worth considering, as they offer something different at an affordable price. These party boats usually depart from Port Olímpic and sail for around an hour until they reach the open sea.
You can swim, have fun on the inflatables, dance or simply sunbathe. The price includes a lunch of roast meat, cold meats, pasta salads and fresh fruit. As for drinks, two alcoholic beverages (beer and sangria) and an open bar with non-alcoholic drinks are usually included.
If you are travelling to Barcelona in August, July or other peak seasons, you should book well in advance. Tickets sell out fast!
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- Boat: catamaran
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: £45
3. Eco-friendly catamaran trip
Another highly recommended boat trip to do on your trip to Barcelona is the one that allows you to sail comfortably on a catamaran while enjoying the best views of Barcelona. You can spend an hour exploring the coast of the Catalan capital on board an eco-friendly boat with guaranteed fast access, so you don't have to wait in line.
What's more, choosing this type of boat is no small matter for those who suffer from vertigo, as the wider structure of catamarans makes it much more comfortable to sail on deck without getting seasick.
The eco-friendly catamaran trip, which costs around £12, gives you the option of purchasing an audio guide on board so you don't miss out on any of the monuments you'll see around you.
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- Boat: catamaran
- Duration:
- Price: £13
4. Boat trip "Las Golondrinas"
A Barcelona institution. They have been sailing along the coast since 1888, the year of the Universal Exposition. Las Golondrinas has its pier near the Mirador de Colón, at Portal de la Pau s/n. You can buy tickets on the Hellotickets website. There are different morning and afternoon schedules to choose from.
The boats make short trips along the coast, approximately 15 km, and are perfect for families to enjoy together and take in the unbeatable panoramic views of the city. What's more, the price is unbeatable.
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- Boat: the traditional boats are wooden, two-storey and open-top. There are also more modern versions such as the Antina G monohull and the Trimar and Ómnibus catamarans.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Price: £11 (You can also take the shorter version of the "Las Golondrinas" boat trip, which lasts 40 minutes, for only £7).
5. Sailboat trip along the coast of Barcelona
Sailing trips around Barcelona are one of the most special ways to discover the city from the sea. These excursions offer a different perspective of the Barcelona skyline, far from the hustle and bustle, sailing through the calm waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you want to enjoy an unforgettable sunset, have a private experience with friends or combine sailing with wine tourism, there are options for all tastes.
On board a sailboat, you can admire iconic monuments such as the Olympic Port, the W Hotel and Barceloneta beach while relaxing with drinks, snacks or even a champagne toast. These trips also offer the chance to swim in the open sea, try paddle surfing or taste local wines in traditional wineries. Here are three options for enjoying this nautical experience:
- Sunset sailing trip in Barcelona - from £46
- Private sailing trip along the coast of Barcelona - from £105
- Sailboat trip and visit to a local winery - from £112
Which one will you choose?
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- Boat: sailing boat
- Duration: between 2 and 4 hours
- Price: between £50 and £120
6. 360º Barcelona package: on foot, by boat and by helicopter
This package, which includes a boat trip, helicopter ride and walking tour of Barcelona, is one of the most comprehensive experiences for getting to know the city from all angles. It combines a guided walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, a 6-minute panoramic helicopter flight and a relaxing boat trip along the coast of Barcelona, allowing you to enjoy the Catalan capital from three unique perspectives: land, sea and air.
The maritime part of the experience takes place at the end of the tour and allows you to sail from Port Vell while admiring the Barcelona skyline from the sea. The view from the boat reveals some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as Barceloneta, the W Hotel and the Olympic Village, with the Sagrada Familia and Montjuïc in the background. It's the perfect way to end the day in peace, with a sea breeze and unforgettable views.
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- Boat: tourist boat along the coast from Port Vell
- Duration: 4 hours
- Price: £138
7. Sunset cruise
Who doesn't love a beautiful sunset? Barcelona has no shortage of options when it comes to sunset viewing; every neighbourhood has at least one vantage point overlooking the coast or the Collserrola mountains. Still, nothing can match the view from the sea.
It's a different perspective that takes in the entire urban stretch of coastline, from the W Hotel to the Three Chimneys of Badalona.
Unfortunately, twilight doesn't last long, but it's a magical moment that's even more enjoyable from the water. These excursions usually include a refreshment – a glass of cava or a beer, for example – and a small snack to tide you over. You can also take the opportunity to take a dip, so don't forget to bring a towel.
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- Boat: sailing boat
- Duration: between 2 and 3 hours
- Price: between £300 and £400
8. Boat trip around Port Vell
This is the most economical option, but it still has plenty of charm. You'll set sail from the old port (port vell) and head out to enjoy the Barcelona skyline from the Mediterranean.
Most excursions include breakfast or a snack, depending on the time of day. With a maximum of 11 people, this activity is recommended for children.
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- Boat: sailing boat
- Duration: between 1.5 and 2 hours
- Price: around €40
9. Sailing for small groups with SUP ride
Stand Up Paddle, SUP or paddle surfing is a sport that has gained a lot of popularity. If you've tried it, you know how addictive it is. And if you've never been on a board, don't worry: it's easy to learn and doesn't require too much effort. Paddling in an upright position helps tone your body, improve your reflexes and relax your nerves. There are plenty of reasons to give it a go!
The boats leave from a central point in the city such as Barceloneta or the Olympic Port. After a trip along the coast, the boat stops at a quiet spot and you start paddling. With a bit of luck, you'll see the dolphins that live in this stretch of sea.
The experience includes a glass of cava and a small snack. As you will be travelling in a small group (around 10 people), you can enjoy the cruise without the crowds. If you are travelling to Barcelona in summer, I recommend booking in advance.
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- Boat: sailing boat
- Duration: 2 hours
- Price: between £50 and £70
When is the best time to book a boat trip in Barcelona?
As these activities take place at sea, spring and summer are the most recommended times of year. However, winter in Barcelona is usually mild and , weather permitting, boat trips can take place without any problems.
Please note that if an activity is cancelled due to bad weather, you will be offered another date or a full refund. With a bit of luck, you'll be able to set sail the next day.
Can I visit the surroundings of Barcelona by boat?
Of course you can. Although the range of excursions is more limited, there is no shortage of options when it comes to sailing to nearby towns. For example, half-day tours to the Costa Brava are very popular. These routes usually reach the town of Tossa de Mar.
It is one of the most beautiful villages on this stretch of coastline and is known both for its crystal-clear coves and its medieval old town. Other day trips will take you to L'Escala (Girona), the Ebro Delta Natural Park (Tarragona), Cadaqués (Girona) and other destinations in the autonomous community.
Please note that in most cases, travel is by bus and the boat trip takes place once you arrive. As they are longer, these day trips are more expensive and less frequent than the boat trips along the Barcelona coast.