Barcelona: Sailing tour with open bar and aperitive

Imagine gliding through the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean, with Barcelona’s skyline gracefully looming in the background. This sailing experience promises a relaxed, luxurious escape where you can unwind with drinks, snacks, and unbeatable views. Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing, a fun group activity, or just a different way to see the city, this tour offers a delightful blend of comfort and scenic beauty.

One of the things we love about this experience is the casual, no-pressure vibe — you don’t need sailing experience to enjoy it. The skilled skipper takes care of everything, allowing you to kick back and soak in the scenery. Also, the open bar, featuring wine, cava, beer, soft drinks, and water, means you’ll never be short of a refreshing beverage while cruising.

A potential consideration is the limited duration — just two hours. While perfect for a quick escape, those seeking a longer or more in-depth sailing adventure might want to explore other options. Nonetheless, this trip suits travelers wanting a balance of comfort, scenic coastal views, and social relaxation, especially if you prefer a more intimate experience with smaller groups or private bookings.

In summary, this sailing tour is best for visitors who want a laid-back, stylish way to experience Barcelona from the water, enjoy quality drinks, and get a taste of the city’s iconic skyline. It’s suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates effortless luxury paired with authentic seaside views.

Key Points

• Relaxed, luxury sailing experience without previous sailing skills needed
• Scenic views of Barcelona’s skyline from the Mediterranean coast
• Open bar with drinks and snacks included, perfect for socializing
• Short but sweet: 2-hour tour with sightseeing, swimming, and sailing
• Family-friendly and suitable for small private groups
• Convenient meeting point at Bda Let’s Sea, easy to find and access

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This two-hour sailing tour offers a well-rounded taste of Barcelona’s coastal charm. From the moment you arrive at the designated meeting point—marked by the recognizable blue and orange tent of BDA Sailing Experience—you’re greeted with a warm welcome. The staff, including knowledgeable guides, will provide a brief safety rundown and some sailing basics, which makes the experience feel approachable even for first-timers.

Sailing along Barcelona’s coastline is the heart of this trip. The boat, a luxurious sailboat designed for comfort and style, glides smoothly over the waters. The skipper’s expert handling means you can relax without worry, and with the boat’s open layout, everyone gets a chance to enjoy the panoramic views. As you cruise, you’ll be able to admire the impressive city skyline—famous landmarks like Sagrada Família and the modernist architecture scattered along the coast—while feeling the gentle sea breeze.

One of the most appreciated aspects, based on reviews, is the quality of the drinks and snacks. The courtesy bar offers a good selection: beers, soft drinks, water, and a glass of wine or cava. The snack platter, with salty biscuits, grapes, raisins, dried apricot, nuts, pork loin, sausage, and cheese, complements the relaxed vibe perfectly. Guests have commented on the “great snacks and drinks,” noting how they added to the experience without feeling overly commercialized or excessive.

The itinerary includes two sailing segments and a swimming break. The first sailing stretch lasts about 45 minutes, giving you time to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, and take in the views. The swimming stop, lasting around 30 minutes, is a highlight for many—it’s a chance to dip into the clear waters, especially appealing on warmer days. The second sailing segment allows you to unwind again, perhaps with a glass of wine in hand, as you slowly make your way back to the starting point.

What truly elevates this experience is the authentic, intimate feeling. Unlike large party cruises, this trip often feels like a small gathering, especially if you opt for a private group. The reviews mention the “great captain,” with some travelers remarking on how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, adding a layer of personal touch that makes the tour memorable.

The Practicalities

The tour operates from a centrally located meeting point, BDA Sailing Experience, which is easy to find. It lasts exactly two hours, with start times that can be checked in advance. Since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, you’ll need to plan to arrive at the meeting point on time. Bringing a passport or ID is necessary, especially if you plan to take photos or if the boat has specific requirements.

Luggage or large bags aren’t permitted, which is typical for small boat trips, so travel light. The price point, at $52 per person, offers good value considering what’s included—the boat, skipper, drinks, snacks, insurance, and fuel. For the quality of the experience—sailing on a luxury vessel with open bar and scenic views—it’s a reasonable cost.

The tour’s flexibility with cancellations (up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund) adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly. For those seeking a more tailored experience, private groups are available, making it a versatile option for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This sailing trip is perfect for travelers who want to combine comfort with the chance to see Barcelona from a different angle. The stunning skyline views are a highlight, especially as you glide past iconic landmarks and the shimmering coastline. The casual, social atmosphere—enhanced by the open bar and snacks—makes it ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing or as a special occasion.

People appreciate the knowledgeable guides who make safety simple and elevate the experience with local insights. The swimming stop is a bonus, giving a refreshing break, especially on warm days. Plus, the small group size or private options** ensure you won’t feel lost in a crowd, fostering a friendly, intimate vibe.

That said, the two-hour duration is relatively short for those looking for an in-depth sailing adventure. It’s best viewed as a luxurious taste of the sea, rather than a full-day excursion. If you’re seeking a longer, more involved experience, you might want to consider other options, but for a quick, stylish escape, this tour hits the right notes.

The Bottom Line

This sailing tour offers a blend of relaxed luxury and scenic charm that’s hard to beat in Barcelona. The stunning views of the city skyline, combined with the open bar and good-quality snacks, create a memorable experience that feels both indulgent and authentic. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a different perspective of Barcelona from the water.

The skilled skipper and attentive crew make safety and comfort a priority, while the intimate setting encourages socializing and relaxation. Many guests mention the excellent wine selection and the “great captain,” which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the trip.

While the tour is brief, it packs in enough sightseeing, swimming, and lounging to justify the cost. It’s a fantastic way to unwind, soak in beautiful views, and enjoy a taste of Barcelona’s seaside lifestyle. If your goal is to combine leisure with a touch of luxury, this sailing experience will serve you well.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the rental of a sailboat, a skilled skipper, drinks (water, soft drinks, beers, cava, or wine), snacks (salty biscuits, grapes, raisins, nuts, pork loin, sausage, and cheese), final cleaning, insurance, and fuel.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts 2 hours in total, with a mix of sailing, swimming, and relaxing.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the blue and orange tent of BDA Sailing Experience, a convenient and easy-to-find location.

Are there private group options?
Yes, private groups are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is there any age restriction?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is suitable for most adults. Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so pack light.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

Do I need sailing experience?
No, this tour is designed to be accessible for everyone, regardless of sailing knowledge, as the skipper handles all the navigation.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card (a copy is acceptable). No luggage or large bags are permitted, and it’s advisable to wear sunscreen and suitable clothing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the relaxed, social atmosphere and swimming stop suggest it could be family-friendly, depending on children’s ages and swimming ability.

Whether you’re after a breezy, scenic voyage or simply a fun way to toast a sunny day in Barcelona, this sailing trip offers a well-balanced experience. It’s all about enjoying the city’s stunning coastline in style, with a glass of wine in hand and the sea breeze on your face.