“2 bays, mornings, afternoons, sunset with a glass of cava

If you’re seeking a different perspective on San Sebastián, this boat tour offers just that—a relaxing cruise along the coastline, taking in the city’s scenic beauty, charming bays, and notable landmarks. Led by a friendly, family-run team, this semi-private experience combines sightseeing, local stories, and a touch of elegance with a sunset glass of cava. With glowing reviews and a reputation for personalized service, it’s clear this tour hits the right notes for many travelers.

What stands out most for us is the intimate size of the boat, which allows for close-up views and a more relaxed vibe, and the knowledgeable hosts who blend storytelling with local insights. However, it’s worth noting that because the boat is small, the ride can be a bit choppy if the sea gets rough, so those prone to seasickness might want to plan accordingly. This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic, leisurely outings with a personal touch—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a peaceful, informative escape on the water.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Small boat with a maximum of 12 travelers creates an intimate atmosphere.
• Stunning views: Close-up perspectives of San Sebastián’s bays, cliffs, and landmarks make for memorable photo opportunities.
• Expert hosts: Guides Ruth and Asier share detailed historical and local insights, making the trip both fun and educational.
• Flexible timings: Morning, afternoon, and sunset options suit different schedules, with the sunset tour including a glass of cava.
• Value for money: At around $75, the tour offers a thorough exploration with beverages, photos, and multilingual commentary.
• Weather dependence: The tour is weather-sensitive; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

An Authentic San Sebastián Coastline Experience

This boat tour is a wonderful way to get to know San Sebastián beyond its famous pintxos bars and sandy beaches. Instead, you’ll see the city’s coast, bays, and cliffs from the water, gaining a fresh appreciation for its natural beauty and maritime history. The fact that it’s family-owned adds an authentic warmth and personalized touch that many travelers find memorable.

The tour lasts a little over two hours, which is a perfect length to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s priced at $75.47 per person, and considering what’s included—beverages, a souvenir polaroid, multilingual audio guide, Wi-Fi, and restroom access—there’s good value here. The small group size, capped at 12, ensures everyone can comfortably enjoy the ride and engage with the hosts.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: San Sebastián Port

The cruise kicks off from the Mollaberria Kalea port, a convenient spot near the city center, accessible by public transportation. From there, the boat heads eastward along the coast. Expect to see San Sebastian Bay, with its calm waters and picturesque surroundings, and get an up-close view of Mount Urgull, crowned with a historic fortress.

Coastal Landmarks and Scenery

As the boat moves along, you’ll pass by notable sites like Zurriola Beach, known for its surfers and lively atmosphere, and the cliffs of Mount Urgull—a stunning natural formation that provides a dramatic backdrop. The Urumea river mouth is another highlight, where the river meets the sea, offering a glimpse into the city’s geographic and maritime layout.

Monte Ulia and Cala Illurrita

Next, the tour stops near Monte Ulia, offering views of the cliffs and the chance to snap photos of Cala Illurrita. Here, the boat slows or pauses, giving everyone a chance to gaze at the rugged coastline and enjoy the serenity of the spot. The lighthouse at Punta de la Plata overlooks these waters, adding to the maritime charm.

Pasaia and San Pedro & San Juan Passages

A key part of the cruise is passing through Pasaia Bay, a quaint fishing port with a lively maritime history. The boat glides past Passages of San Pedro and San Juan, providing perspective on the area’s historical and cultural significance. Reviewers particularly appreciated the detailed commentary, with one mentioning how the guides shared fascinating stories about the local landscape and maritime past.

Landmarks from the High Seas

The boat’s vantage point allows an expansive view of Donostia from the water, including Mount Igueldo, famous for its amusement park and panoramic vistas, and the iconic Peine del Viento (Comb of the Wind) sculpture by Eduardo Chillida, perched dramatically on the rocks. Passing Santa Clara Island offers a glimpse of the protected wildlife and lush scenery.

Bathing and Relaxation

One of the most appreciated aspects, as mentioned in reviews, is the opportunity to swim in the bay—a rare chance to cool off in the crystal waters while surrounded by stunning cliffs and natural beauty. The boat’s small size allows it to get close to the coast, creating an immersive experience that larger ships can’t provide.

Sunset Celebration

The highlight for many travelers is the sunset cruise, when the sky turns beautiful shades of orange and pink. During this time, passengers are served a glass of sparkling wine (Cava), making the moment even more special. As one reviewer put it, “the sunset from the water was worth it,” and sharing it with a drink adds a touch of luxury to the experience. The timing varies depending on the season, but this always results in a longer ride with more relaxed vibes and stunning views.

Included & Not Included

The tour covers a lot for the price:
– Beverages—soda and a glass of sparkling wine on the sunset tour
– A souvenir Polaroid photo, which many reviewers cherish as a special memento
– An audioguide accessible via mobile phone (remember your headphones), providing multilingual commentary in Spanish, English, French, and Basque
– Wi-Fi on board, so you can share your photos instantly
– A restroom for comfort during the journey

What’s not included? Simply, hotel pickup—the start point is easy to reach by public transit or walkable from many accommodations, making it convenient for most travelers.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a clear picture of how well this tour is received. Many emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of Ruth and Asier, the guiding couple, who go out of their way to create a welcoming atmosphere. Their enthusiasm and local insights turn a simple boat ride into an engaging story session.

Numerous travelers comment on the stunning coastline views, with some lucky enough to spot dolphins, which adds a magical touch. One reviewer even described the boat as “beautiful and immaculate,” highlighting how cared-for and cozy the vessel feels—important for those who prefer smaller, more intimate tours.

Others appreciated the personalized experience, with one reviewer mentioning it felt like being on a friend’s boat, and the hosts’ enthusiasm about sharing their local knowledge. The audio guide’s quality and the Basque music soundtrack also set a relaxing, culturally immersive tone.

Practical Aspects

The tour is highly accessible, close to public transport, and suitable for most travelers, including service animals. Arriving early to secure a good seat—particularly on the right side if you want to capture photos—is advised. The tour’s maximum of 12 participants ensures a relaxed environment, and the small boat feels less like a crowd and more like a friendly outing.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the tour is weather-dependent, cancellations are possible if conditions are poor. The good news? They offer free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and will reschedule or refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate, a considerate policy for any outdoor activity.

This San Sebastián boat trip is a delightful way to see the city’s coastline from a different angle. It offers a peaceful, scenic escape with knowledgeable hosts who genuinely enjoy sharing their local environment. The inclusion of beverages, photos, and multilingual commentary makes it feel like good value, especially considering the small group setting that fosters a cozy, personalized experience.

If you love stunning views, want to learn about local landmarks, or simply enjoy relaxing on the water with a glass of cava at sunset, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s also perfect for those looking for a unique experience beyond the usual city tours—something quiet, scenic, and intimate.

However, if seasickness is a concern or you prefer larger boats with more amenities, this might not be the ideal choice. Also, if you’re particularly keen on visiting beaches or urban sights, this experience complements but doesn’t replace land-based activities.

This boat tour is a fantastic addition to any San Sebastián itinerary, especially for travelers wanting to savor the city’s coastal charm while enjoying a touch of sophistication and storytelling.

What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, providing a relaxed but comprehensive view of the coast and bays.

Can I book the sunset tour?
Yes, the sunset tour is available and offers a longer schedule, including a glass of cava, with the timing adjusted based on the sunset.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the experience is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring headphones for the audio guide, and if going on the sunset tour, consider a jacket or blanket for comfort as it can get chilly.

Are there options for swimming?
Yes, there’s a possibility of bathing in the bay, which many reviewers found enjoyable and refreshing.

What’s included in the price?
Beverages (soda and sparkling wine on the sunset tour), a souvenir Polaroid, multilingual audio guide, Wi-Fi, and restroom access. Hotel pickup is not included.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, local insights, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a highly recommended activity for those visiting San Sebastián. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate quiet, scenic outings and want to see the city’s coast from a different perspective—plus, it leaves you with wonderful photos and memories of the sea and sky.