Valencia: Port Saplaya Boat Tour with Free Drink & Swimming

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to see Valencia from the water, this Port Saplaya boat tour could be just what you need. Priced at around $57, it offers 1.5 hours of cruising along the coast, with stops at the picture-perfect Port Saplaya, known locally as Valencia’s “Little Venice,” and a chance to splash in the Mediterranean Sea. The tour includes a free drink—sangria, beer, or soft drink—and a scenic swim, making it a lovely break from city sightseeing.

What we really like about this experience is its balance between comfort and authenticity, with knowledgeable guides and stunning views that don’t break the bank. However, if you’re very eager to swim, timing is key—some reviews mention that booking a morning slot increases your chances of getting in the water. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic water outing with a touch of local charm, especially those who appreciate good company, a drink, and a splash in the sea.

Key Points

• Relaxed and scenic: A gentle 1.5-hour boat cruise along Valencia’s coast, perfect for unwinding.
• Charming Port Saplaya: Known as Little Venice, with colorful homes and tranquil canals.
• Swim opportunity: A chance to jump into the Mediterranean, though timing affects availability.
• Drinks included: Enjoy a complimentary sangria, beer, or soft drink onboard—more drinks available if you wish.
• Expert guides: Friendly and informative skippers, with reviews highlighting their helpfulness.
• Great value: For just over $50, it offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with good reviews backing its worth.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Wavepol office, a distinctive orange-colored spot at Valencia Marina. Here, you’ll sign a simple contract and receive your included drink—easy and straightforward. From there, you’ll board a boat with a skipper who guides you through the highlights, making sure you’re comfortable and well-informed throughout.

The duration is about 1.5 hours, with checkable starting times, so you can pick a slot that fits your schedule. The tour is wheelchair accessible and features live guides speaking English, French, and Spanish, which means you’ll have no trouble understanding the commentary regardless of your language preference.

The Coastal Cruise and Beaches

Once onboard, the boat sets off along the coast, passing Las Arenas, Malvarrosa, and Patacona beaches. These beaches are some of Valencia’s most popular, and the views from the water are spectacular—endless stretches of golden sand and lively beach scenes. The boat cruise provides a different perspective, showcasing the city’s vibrant coastline without the hustle of the crowds.

Discovering Port Saplaya (“Little Venice”)

The highlight for many travelers is the visit to Port Saplaya, an old fishing village that’s become a favorite local spot. Known as “Little Venice” because of its canals and colorful houses, this area is a picture-perfect scene you might recognize from postcards. As you navigate through its waterways, you’ll see charming homes, elegant boats, and quaint pedestrian streets. Several reviewers mention how lovely it is to see the vibrant facades and water streets—something that feels very authentic and photogenic.

Swimming and Refreshments

An aspect that many travelers appreciate is the opportunity to swim in the open sea. According to reviews, the timing of your booking can influence your chance—morning tours tend to have better odds of swimming, as some later slots reported no swim stop. Still, even if you don’t get to jump in, the experience of being on the water and seeing the coast from this vantage point is memorable.

Onboard, you’ll be offered a complimentary drink—most often sangria or beer, but soft drinks are also available. Guests can purchase more if they wish, allowing for a relaxed social atmosphere. Several reviews highlight the quality of the drinks and the friendly staff, with guides like Ramon and Robert earning praise for their accommodating, cheerful attitude.

Returning to Valencia

The boat heads back along the coast, giving you a last look at the beaches and waterfront before arriving back at the starting point at Valencia Marina. Many travelers say that this brief, scenic trip is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the city or to start an evening on a relaxing note.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic water experience without the need for a full-day commitment. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a taste of Valencia’s seaside charm. Kids and families might enjoy the relaxed pace and the chance to swim if timing works out. It also suits those looking for good value, as the experience includes drinks and sightseeing at a reasonable price.

If you’re particularly eager to swim, consider booking a morning slot, as some reviews suggest this enhances your chances. It’s also a good choice for travelers wanting a local, authentic look at Valencia’s waterfront, away from the more commercial excursions.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Book early and choose a morning tour if swimming is a priority.
• Arrive at the Wavepol office a little before your scheduled time to sign in comfortably.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat—it’s sunny out on the water.
• Wear comfortable clothes and bring a towel if you plan to swim.
• Enjoy the drinks onboard but consider bringing extra water if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Check the weather forecast—the experience is best on clear, calm days.
• Be aware that the tour is about 1.5 hours, so it fits well into a larger sightseeing schedule.
• Don’t forget your camera—the views, colorful houses, and coastal scenery are very photogenic.
• If you have mobility concerns, confirm accessibility with Wavepol beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing onboard.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Wavepol office at Valencia Marina and concludes back there after the cruise.

What drinks are included?
You’ll receive one free drink—either sangria, beer, or soft drink. More drinks can be purchased onboard if desired.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers a swimming stop in the open sea. However, reviewers note that timing influences availability—morning tours are more likely to include swimming.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for various travelers.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most visitors.

How much does it cost?
The experience is priced at around $57 per person, offering good value considering the scenic views and included drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, a towel if swimming, and a camera. Comfortable clothing is recommended for the duration.

Final Thoughts

This Port Saplaya boat tour in Valencia balances scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed fun at a reasonable price. Its highlight is undoubtedly the visit to Little Venice, with colorful houses and peaceful canals that offer a different perspective of the city. The opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean and enjoy a complimentary drink onboard adds a layer of enjoyment that makes this a worthwhile escape from the busy city streets.

While the experience is relatively short—about 1.5 hours—it packs in plenty of visual delight and a taste of local life. The guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, helping create a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re after a leisurely, authentic water-based activity that gives you a sense of Valencia’s coastline and its charming port, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

In short, this tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of local flavor, good drinks, and the chance to cool off in the sea. It’s perfect as a standalone activity or as a relaxing interlude amid a busy sightseeing schedule.

This boat tour offers excellent value and an authentic, tranquil experience of Valencia’s waterfront. It’s a smart pick for travelers craving a gentle adventure, especially if you enjoy good company, scenic views, and a splash of the Mediterranean.