2 hour private sailing tour with Skipper up to 11 people

Exploring Barcelona from the Water: A 2-Hour Private Sailing Tour Review

When it comes to viewing Barcelona’s iconic skyline and stunning beaches, there’s no better way than from the deck of a well-equipped sailboat. This 2-hour private sailing trip with a skilled skipper offers a fantastic perspective of the city’s famous sights, all while enjoying the tranquility of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re celebrating a special event, seeking a unique date idea, or simply want a peaceful escape from the bustling streets, this tour could be just what you need.

What attracted us most about this experience was the personalized nature of the tour, the local expertise of the captain, and the value for money considering it’s a private boat for up to 11 people. The boat itself, a sleek Dufour 44 Performance, immediately promises a comfortable, sporty, and safe sailing experience. One thing to consider is the weather, as this activity is weather-dependent, but with Barcelona’s generally mild climate, that shouldn’t be a big concern.

This tour is ideal for small groups, couples, families, or friends wanting a more intimate experience. It also welcomes pets and members of the LGTBIQ+ community, making it inclusive and accessible. If you’re looking to add a touch of adventure to your Barcelona trip or want a memorable way to see the city’s coastline, this sailing tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Private & Intimate: Up to 11 people ensures a personalized experience.
• Experienced Local Skipper: Knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share stories.
• Stunning Views & Unique Perspective: See Barcelona’s beaches, skyline, and port from the water.
• Flexible & Inclusive: Pet-friendly, perfect for celebrations, and welcoming to LGTBIQ+ groups.
• Value for Money: Cost covers the boat, skipper, fuel, and insurance; extras like snacks or drinks are not included.
• Weather Dependent: Great weather makes all the difference for a smooth, enjoyable sail.

The Boat and Its Comforts

The Dufour 44 Performance is a modern, sporty vessel that exudes style and safety. Its flat deck allows for unobstructed lounging and sunbathing, making it an ideal platform for relaxing or catching some rays. Reviewers have highlighted how spacious and obstacle-free the boat feels, with one mentioning it’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean breeze.

The boat includes a restroom onboard, which is a practical touch on a two-hour trip. Life jackets are available for children, and the entire craft is designed for comfort and safety. The boat’s sleek design and modern features mean that you’ll be sailing in style, feeling confident and relaxed throughout.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Port Olímpic

Your adventure begins at Port Olímpic, a lively and central starting point in Barcelona. The location is easily accessible by public transport, ensuring quick and hassle-free boarding. Once on board, you can start soaking in the views immediately.

Sailing Along the Beaches and Skyline

The main route heads south, passing in front of Barcelona’s most famous beaches like Barceloneta, offering excellent photo opportunities. You’ll be able to admire the iconic skyline, with landmarks like the W Hotel and the Columbus monument, as you glide smoothly on the water. Several reviews mention the stunning views of the city’s limits and iconic buildings, which truly come alive from this perspective.

Entering Port Vell

Next, the boat enters Port Vell, giving you an inside look at Barcelona’s bustling marina. Here, you’ll see luxury megayachts, the Maremagnum shopping complex, and the ferry terminal. The cruise ships docked nearby add a dramatic touch to the scene, perfect for those who love watching ships come and go.

Refreshing Swim at the W Hotel

One of the highlights is a stop in front of the W Hotel, where guests can take a quick dip in the Mediterranean waters. Several reviewers highlighted this as a refreshing break, especially on warmer days. Remember, bringing your swimsuit and towel is not included but highly recommended if you want to take a swim.

Sharing Stories and Local Insights

Throughout the trip, your captain—a local born and raised in Barcelona—will share anecdotes, stories about the city’s architecture, and insights into the landmarks you’re passing. Many reviewers appreciated this personal touch, with one noting that Didac, the skipper, was very knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience both fun and educational.

What to Expect on Board

While the tour is only two hours, it’s packed with photo-worthy moments, interesting stories, and relaxing sailing. You can expect a welcome aboard experience that feels personalized, especially since it’s a private tour. Some reviews mention that the skipper went above and beyond, including offers to meet guests at their hotel or even help organize special celebrations like birthdays or proposals.

Bring your own snacks, drinks, and sunscreen as these are not included, but the crew’s focus is on providing a smooth and safe sail. The boat’s size and layout facilitate plenty of opportunities for lounging, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the scenery.

The Experience and Its Highlights

Personalized & Flexible

One of the most praised aspects is the personalized attention. Being a private tour, the whole experience can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you want a relaxing sail, a quick swim, or a photo session in front of the city’s landmarks, your skipper can adapt.

Expert Guidance & Engaging Stories

Reviewers consistently mention Didac’s friendly and knowledgeable approach, sharing stories about the city, its buildings, and nautical tips. His enthusiasm is infectious, making the trip more memorable. This local insight adds a layer of authenticity to the experience, turning a simple boat ride into a small adventure.

Stunning Views & Photo Opportunities

As you pass by Barcelona’s beaches and port, you’ll be treated to beautiful vistas that are impossible to capture from land. Several guests mentioned how the views of the skyline at sunset were particularly breathtaking. The boat’s position in front of the W Hotel or near Port Vell provides perfect angles for social media shots.

The Refreshing Dip

Stopping in front of the W Hotel allows guests to take a quick swim in the Mediterranean, a refreshing break during the cruise. Reviewers have said that this adds a fun and relaxing element to an otherwise sightseeing-focused trip.

Ease & Accessibility

The meeting point at Port Olímpic is convenient, near public transportation, and easy to find. The private nature of the trip means you won’t have to share the boat with strangers, creating an intimate and comfortable environment.

Analyzing the Value

At approximately $269.37 per group, this sailing tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes a professional skipper, fuel, and insurance. For up to 11 people, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a luxurious experience without the cost of booking multiple tickets or a larger group tour. Several reviews emphasized how worth the price was, describing it as great value for money.

While snacks and drinks aren’t included, the opportunity to bring your own makes it flexible. Plus, the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide who can share insights about the city and nautical tips adds to the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Your Sailing Adventure

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked 49 days ahead, so plan early if you want a specific date.
• Weather considerations: Since the activity is weather-dependent, check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, a towel, swimsuit, and sunglasses are recommended. Snacks and drinks are optional but can enhance your experience.
• Arrive prepared for comfort: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sailing and sunbathing.
• Celebrate or surprise: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, let the team know — they’re happy to help with organizing surprises or decorations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private sailing tour is perfect for small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic break from typical land-based sightseeing. It’s an excellent choice for couples looking for a romantic outing, families wanting a fun aquatic adventure, or friends celebrating birthdays or special milestones. Its inclusive attitude makes it suitable for pet owners and the LGBTQ+ community. If you enjoy being on the water, love spectacular views, and appreciate knowledgeable hosts, this experience will likely be a highlight of your Barcelona visit.

Final Thoughts

A two-hour private sailing tour with Blue Med Charter offers an intimate, scenic, and flexible way to see Barcelona’s coastline. The combination of a modern sailboat, a passionate local skipper, and breathtaking views makes it a fantastic addition to any trip. While weather can be a factor, your captain’s expertise and the boat’s comfort ensure a memorable experience when conditions are right.

If you’re after a unique perspective of Barcelona—away from the crowded streets and tour buses—this sailing experience is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those celebrating, seeking relaxation, or simply wanting a special way to enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, life jackets are available for children, making it suitable for families.

Can I bring my pet?
Absolutely, pets are welcome onboard, so your furry friend can enjoy the ride too.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, and insurance. Snacks, drinks, and towels are not included, so bring your own if desired.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is easy online, and most travelers tend to reserve around 49 days in advance for guaranteed availability.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper is open to suggestions like stopping for a swim or adjusting the route, making it flexible to your preferences.

Is the meeting point easy to find?
Yes, the meeting point at Port Olímpic is accessible by public transport, and detailed instructions are provided upon booking.

To sum it up, this private sailing experience in Barcelona offers an authentic, scenic, and flexible way to enjoy the city’s coastline. It combines expert guidance, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for those wanting to make their trip truly memorable.