Barcelona: Sunset Sailing Tour with Open Bar & Swim Stop

Summary

Barcelona’s skyline glows as you sail at dusk with drinks flowing

You’ll watch Barcelona turn red-gold from a small sailing boat with an open bar and snacks as your skipper shares local stories. Take a swim if you feel brave, relax on soft cushions, and see iconic landmarks like Port Olímpic and Gehry’s shimmering fish sculpture from the water — all in good company as day slips quietly into night.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the boat at Port Olímpic just as the city was starting to soften — that hour when Barcelona’s edges get blurry and the sea smells sharper. Our skipper, Jordi, handed out cold drinks right away (he grinned when I picked vermouth — apparently very Catalan). There were only seven of us, so it felt more like joining friends than a tour group. The cushions in the cockpit were soft enough to sink into, and someone had already set out olives and those little crunchy chips you always find in Spain. I kept glancing back at Gehry’s goldfish sculpture — it really does catch the last light like it’s on fire.

As we left the marina, Jordi pointed out the twin towers — Mapfre and Hotel Arts — then let us take turns at the wheel for a bit. The water was calm, but you could feel that salty breeze picking up. Someone asked if we might see dolphins; Jordi shrugged (“Sometimes! Depends if they’re feeling social.”). We didn’t spot any this time, but honestly, I didn’t mind. The city looked different from out there — quieter somehow, even with music playing low and people laughing over clinking glasses. At one point we stopped for a swim; I hesitated (it was late September and not exactly warm), but ended up jumping in anyway. The water stung but woke me up in a good way.

I still think about that moment floating on my back, watching Barcelona’s skyline go from gold to red to almost violet. There was this hush after everyone climbed back aboard — just wind and Jordi quietly steering us home while someone passed around more snacks. It wasn’t perfect (my towel blew into the sea; Jordi fished it out with a boat hook), but maybe that’s why it felt real. If you’re looking for a sunset sailing tour in Barcelona that doesn’t feel staged or crowded, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sailing and sightseeing tour

• Meet at Port Olímpic marina
• Board modern sailing boat
• Enjoy sailing along Barcelona coast
• Admire Mapfre Tower and Hotel Arts
• See Frank Gehry's Fish sculpture
• Stop for short swim
• Spot dolphins and whales if lucky
• Enjoy free drinks and snacks onboard
• View Barcelona skyline at sunset
• Pass by Port Vell waterfront
• Disembark at marina after 2 hours

Top questions

What time does the Barcelona sunset sailing tour start?

The sunset tour usually starts at 19:00 (7pm) from April to October; outside these months it begins earlier depending on sunset time.

Is there an open bar on the Barcelona sunset sailing trip?

Yes, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are included throughout the 2-hour tour.

Can I swim during the Barcelona sunset sailing tour?

Yes, there is a short stop for swimming if conditions allow.

How many people are on board during the sunset cruise?

No more than 9 guests are allowed on board to keep groups small.

Are snacks provided during the Barcelona sailing trip?

Yes, light snacks such as olives and chips are included along with drinks.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

The boat is wheelchair accessible and infants can ride in prams or strollers.

Does the tour include a professional skipper?

Yes, every trip is led by an experienced local skipper who also shares stories about Barcelona.

Where does the sunset sailing tour depart from?

The tour departs from Port Olímpic marina in Barcelona.

What’s included

Your evening includes all drinks from an open bar (alcoholic or soft), light snacks like olives and chips, use of comfortable cushions both in the cockpit and bow of the yacht, fuel costs covered, plus guidance from your professional skipper throughout — all shared with no more than nine people on board before returning to shore as night falls.