Barcelona: Shared cruise on a catamaran Drink+Local Tapa

If you’re visiting Barcelona and want a different perspective of the city’s famously photogenic skyline, this shared catamaran cruise offers a relaxed, scenic escape from the busy streets. Created especially for the 1992 Olympics, this 1.5-hour journey from the Olympic Port promises a blend of stunning views, local tapas, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

One of the things we love about this experience is how accessible it is — no need for a full-day commitment, but enough time to soak in major sights from a unique vantage point. The combination of a sightseeing cruise with drinks and tapas really elevates the trip from a simple boat ride to a mini culinary and visual adventure.

However, a potential consideration is the weather — since it’s an outdoor experience, windy or rainy days could impact your enjoyment. It’s ideal for those who are comfortable around water and looking for an authentic, relaxed way to see Barcelona. This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic views, casual social atmospheres, and a touch of local flavor without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Stunning skyline views: The cruise offers a fresh perspective of Barcelona’s iconic landmarks.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable staff enhance the experience with interesting facts and friendly service.
• Inclusive snacks and drinks: Enjoy local tapas and beverages while sailing the coast.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops include La Barceloneta, Montjuic, and the Forum area, giving varied scenic viewpoints.
• Good value: At $65 per person, it provides a memorable experience with a mix of sightseeing and cultural bites.
• Ideal for social travelers: The shared setting fosters a relaxed, fun environment perfect for meeting new people.

An Honest Look at the Experience

This cruise begins at the Turtur Experience mooring in Port Olímpic, an area well-known for its lively marina and boat tour hubs. After a quick safety briefing, which takes about 15 minutes, you’re underway — the perfect way to start your Barcelona adventure from the water.

The boat itself is a comfortable catamaran, created to give passengers a smooth ride along the coast. The crew, including guides like Fiona and the friendly captain David, are praised repeatedly for their helpfulness and warmth. Their knowledge about the city’s landmarks adds a layer of context that makes the views even more meaningful.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise’s route is carefully designed for maximum scenic impact within a short time:

• Start at Olympic Port: This lively hub is the departure point, built for the 1992 Olympics, and offers a vibrant backdrop for photos as you set sail.
• La Barceloneta: Your first stop, around 15 minutes into the cruise, is a great photo opportunity. La Barceloneta’s beach and promenade are iconic, and many reviewers rave about the chance to snap some memorable shots during this stop.
• Sailing along the coast: As you cruise past the Hotel W, the Sagrada Familia, and Montjuic Castle, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city’s skyline. Several guests mention how the sight of the Sagrada Familia from the water is a highlight, offering a different perspective on Gaudí’s masterpiece.
• Montjuic and Forum area: You’ll see the historic Montjuic Castle and the modern Forum with its towering skyscrapers and solar panels, giving you a snapshot of how Barcelona combines history and innovation.
• Tibidabo Mountain and Collserola Tower: The views of the city’s high points remind you how expansive and diverse Barcelona truly is.
• Return to Olympic Port: After about 1.5 hours, the boat gently glides back, leaving you with plenty of photos and memories.

What Sets This Apart?

Unlike larger, more commercial tours, this cruise emphasizes intimacy and authentic sightseeing. The live guides — who communicate in English, French, Spanish, and Catalan — are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One guest mentioned how Fiona made the experience especially enjoyable, offering tips and even taking photos for travelers.

The Food and Drinks

Included on board are local tapas and drinks, which many reviewers find to be a delightful touch. The snacks are described as plentiful, and the drinks are perfect for relaxing while watching the cityscape unfold. This casual approach means you’re not just looking at Barcelona — you’re tasting a bit of it too.

Practical Details and Value

At $65 per person, this tour is a pretty good deal considering the quality of experience. It combines spectacular views, friendly service, and local snacks into a short but memorable outing. The tour’s duration of 1.5 hours means you have enough time to unwind without feeling rushed or losing half a day.

Booking is straightforward, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The meeting point at Port Olímpic is easy to find, just search for TurTur Experience mooring 1540, and the crew will be ready to welcome you.

What to Keep in Mind

• Weather: As an outdoor activity, it’s best on days with clear skies and calm seas. Check the forecast before heading out.
• Comfort: Dress comfortably and bring a charged smartphone for photos. The boat can sway slightly, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Seasickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions since the experience involves gentle sailing on open water.
• Non-swimmers: While swimming isn’t involved, the open water setting might be daunting for some non-swimmers.

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a big difference. Guests consistently mention how friendly and helpful the staff are, with some going out of their way to take photos or share local insights. For instance, one reviewer noted how even on a day with less-than-ideal weather, the crew’s positive attitude made the experience memorable.

The views are often described as “stunning” and “unique,” especially seeing landmarks like the Sagrada Familia from the water. The general consensus is that the combination of sight, sound, and taste makes this a well-rounded mini-adventure.

The relaxed pace, the opportunity to capture gorgeous photos, and the opportunity to socialize make this cruise ideal for those wanting a low-pressure, authentic look at Barcelona’s coastline and skyline.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an easy, scenic escape without committing to a long boat trip. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere. If you’re a fan of picturesque views, local food, and friendly guides, you’ll find lots to love here.

People looking for a family-friendly activity will find it suitable, given the short duration and gentle sailing. However, those concerned about seasickness or not comfortable on open water may want to consider weather conditions and personal comfort levels.

The Sum Up

This shared catamaran cruise in Barcelona offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, local flavor, and friendly service at a reasonable price. The views of landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, Montjuic, and the Hotel W from the water are genuinely spectacular and provide a fresh perspective that photos from land simply can’t match.

The inclusion of local tapas and drinks elevates the experience from just sightseeing to a relaxed, social event — perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the city’s streets. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge add an authentic touch, making it more than just a boat ride.

While weather can influence how much you enjoy it, most reviews agree that the experience is well-organized and worthwhile. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking an authentic, laid-back way to see Barcelona’s coastline and skyline without a hefty time commitment or price tag.

If you love scenic views, engaging guides, and a taste of local culture, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s a simple but memorable way to see the city from a different angle — ideal for those wanting a gentle, enjoyable adventure on the water.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity that doesn’t take up your entire day.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Port Olímpic, specifically from the TurTur Experience mooring 1540.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the tour includes a live guide who speaks English, French, Spanish, and Catalan and is known for being friendly and helpful.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, the cruise features local tapas and beverages, which are well-reviewed and add to the relaxed vibe.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get views of the Sagrada Familia, Hotel W, Montjuic Castle, Forum area, Tibidabo Mountain, Collserola Tower, and more.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this activity suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, though because it’s an open water experience, it may be less suitable for those uncomfortable around water or prone to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, shoes, a charged smartphone for photos, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather.

Can I book for a group?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a social, scenic outing.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable for families, especially since it’s short and gentle, but always check weather conditions beforehand.