Plan Your Barcelona port & boat tour

Barcelona cruises | Visitor information at a glance

Catamaran sailing on the Mediterranean Sea with Barcelona skyline in the background.

What are the Barcelona cruise operating hours?

Cruises usually depart at 10am and continue till 5pm. Sunset cruises start at 5pm onwards and continue till 7pm.

What are the top Barcelona cruise options?

There are lots of Barcelona cruises to choose from, including sunset cruises, catamaran cruises and sailing cruises.

What are the ways I can get to my Barcelona cruise pier?

If you're planning to take a boat tour, you can choose from various transportation options to reach the Barcelona port, including a bus, taxi or metro, depending on your preference and convenience.

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Barcelona cruise timings

tourist boarding Las Golondrinas Boat Trip

Barcelona boat tours have two sets of timings, depending on which cruise you want to take-

Either the day cruises or sunset cruises. Keep in mind that you should reach the Barcelona port 1.5 to 2 hours before departure and 1 hour before boarding, so that you can find the Barcelona port, and get the best seats before the cruise begins.

General timings of day cruises: From 10am to 5pm (approximately)

General timings of sunset cruises: Most sunset cruises depart at 6pm

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What is the best time to go on a Barcelona cruise?

Spring (March to May): Fewer tourists and pleasant weather. It's ideal if you want to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying sunny days.
Summer (June to August): This is the peak season for boat tours. The Mediterranean is at its warmest, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Sunset cruises are especially beautiful during summer because of the longer daylight hours.
.Fall (September to November): Ideal for those looking for fewer tourists and still-warm weather. The water remains comfortable for swimming. Early fall (September) is especially great for enjoying the sea with a little more privacy.
Winter (December to February): It's a good option if you prefer a quieter, more laid-back experience, though swimming is not recommended.

Where are the Barcelona ports located?

Address: Pg. de Joan de Borbó, 103, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona, Spain.

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Next to Barceloneta beach, Port Marina Vela is a modern marina. It, it offers scenic yacht cruises and beautiful views of the Mediterranean, away from the busy city center.

Closest Landmark: W Barcelona Hotel

Address: City Sailing Barcelona Tickets Office, Moll de les Drassanes, 08039 Barcelona.

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Located at Moll de les Drassanes, near Port Olimpic., t This ticket office offers access to eco-friendly sailing experiences and other scenic boat tours.
Closest Landmark: Port Olimpic

Address: Moll de les Drassanes, s/n, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona, Spain.

Situated at Moll de les Drassanes, close to the iconic Columbus Monument, this pier is the starting point for popular sightseeing boat tours like Las Golondrinas.

Find on Map

Closest Landmark: Columbus Monument

How to get to my Barcelona port

By public transportation

By Metro: Barcelona’s main ports, including Moll de les Drassanes and Port Marina Vela, are easily accessible via Line L3 (Green Line) to Drassanes Station or Line L4 (Yellow Line) to Barceloneta Station.
By Bus: Several buses, including 59, D20, 120, and V15, connect key areas of Barcelona to the ports, with stops near the Columbus Monument and Port Olimpic.
By Taxi: Taxis are a fast and convenient option to reach Barcelona’s ports, providing door-to-door service from anywhere in the city with no need for transfers.

Directions to Barcelona cruises

By car

By Car: Driving to Barcelona’s ports is straightforward, with major routes like the Ronda Litoral (B-10) offering direct access to Moll de les Drassanes and Port Marina Vela.

Parking:

Port de Barcelona: The best option for this is the World Trade Center parking, 300 meters away, it features secure parking with options for both short and long-term stays.
City Sailing Barcelona Tickets Office: The Marina Port Olímpic Parking, 300 meters away offers both covered and open-air parking options and is a two minute walk from the office.
Port Marina Vela Barcelona: Marina Vela Parking is the most convenient parking facility for Port Marina Vela, located directly within the marina. It offers secure parking for both short and long stays.

Know before you go on a Barcelona cruise

Tourists enjoying a Catamaran Cruise in Barcelona with a view of the city skyline

Open decks: Outdoor decks are a popular feature on Barcelona boat tours, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the Mediterranean breeze while cruising along the coast.
Live commentary: Some tours offer live commentary or audio guides, giving passengers interesting insights into Barcelona’s history, architecture, and notable sites along the coastline.
Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available on most boat tours for passenger convenience.
Entertainment and music: All tours include onboard entertainment, such as ambient or live music, especially during evening or sunset cruises.
Bars: All Barcelona boat tours have onboard bars selling drinks and snacks.

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tourists aboard catamaran cruise with kids

Shorter cruise options: Opt for shorter cruises (1-2 hours) to accommodate kids' attention spans and avoid long stretches of time on the water
Snacks and refreshments: Onboard cafés or snack bars offer food and drinks throughout the cruise to keep kids happy.
Combine with other attractions: Consider combining your boat tour with visits to nearby attractions like the Barcelona Aquarium or the Tibidabo Amusement Park.
Post-tour activities: Plan for post-tour activities, such as exploring the Gothic Quarter or enjoying ice cream at Barceloneta Beach.
Departure times: Consider the departure times that align with your children's energy levels and nap schedules.

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tourist applying sunscreen for Barcelona cruise tour

Opt for comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement.
Pack layers to adjust to changing temperatures, especially during spring and fall.
Avoid wearing shoes with slippery soles to prevent accidents.
Protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays.
Wear a hat to shield your face and head from the sun.
Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.

tourists enjoying yachting with friends - Life Jacket

All passengers are required to wear life jackets provided by the boat operator.
Familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures outlined by the crew.
Smoking is prohibited on boats.
Keep the boat and Mediterranean sea clean and free of litter.
Adhere to the instructions given by the crew.
Consume alcohol responsibly and avoid excessive drinking.

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wheelchair accessibility at eco catamaran cruise

Barcelona Sailing ticket: Note that the Barcelona Sightseeing Cruise on a Sailing Yacht is not accessible for wheelchairs, please check your ticket before booking.
Wheelchair access: Most larger boats are equipped with ramps or lifts, allowing easy access for passengers using wheelchairs or mobility aids.
Assistance services: Crew members are often trained to assist passengers with special needs, providing support when boarding, disembarking, or navigating the vessel.
Personal assistance: If you require personal assistance, be sure to arrange it in advance.
Contact the tour operator: Reach out to the tour operator directly to discuss your specific accessibility needs.

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tourist carrying identity card for safety

Bring your identification documents, especially if you're planning to visit other attractions.
Don't hesitate to ask the crew about the sights and landmarks you see.
Enjoy your experience! Boat tours are a unique way to see the city, so make the most of your time on the water.
If you plan to swim, don’t forget your swimsuit and towel.
Arrive at the port at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately; layering is a good idea, as it can get cooler on the water, especially in the evenings.
If you encounter marine life, observe them from a distance and avoid disturbing them.

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Columbus Monument (Mirador de Colom)

Imagine standing on a towering column and seeing the city of Barcelona. That's the experience you'll have at the Columbus Monument, a landmark that commemorates Christopher Columbus's voyage to the Americas. It's the perfect spot to capture breathtaking photos and create lasting memories.

Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic)

Step back in time as you wander through the maze-like streets of the Gothic Quarter. This historic district has medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets! Don't miss the chance to visit the Picasso Museum in a beautiful Renaissance palace.

W Barcelona (Hotel Vela)

Prepare to be wowed by the beautiful architecture of the W Barcelona, affectionately known as the "Sail Hotel." This beachfront hotel is a sight to behold, with its sleek, modern design resembling a sailboat! Relax on the hotel's sandy beach, sip a cocktail at the rooftop bar, or simply admire the hotel's striking silhouette against the Barcelona skyline.

Barceloneta Beach

Feel the sand between your toes and soak up the sun at Barceloneta Beach, one of the most popular seaside destinations here. Barceloneta is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. Don't forget to try some drinks at one of the beachfront chiringuitos (beach bars) such as El Chiringuito de la Barceloneta or Barceloneta Beach Bar!

Frequently asked questions while planning a Barcelona cruise

What is the best time of year to take a Barcelona cruise?

The best time to visit Barcelona and do a boat tour is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

How long do the cruises typically last?

Cruise durations can vary, with options ranging from 40 minutes to one-hour sightseeing tours to cruises with flexible durations.

What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?

Most cruises operate rain or shine, but if weather conditions are severe, tours may be canceled or rescheduled. Don’t worry In the event of cancellation due to weather conditions or special events, you will be offered a change of day or a full refund!

Are boat tours suitable for children?

Yes! Many boat tours are family-friendly and offer activities such as swimming and music for children.

Is there parking available near Barcelona ports?

Yes! There are parking facilities near the major ports in Barcelona, including secure parking garages and surface lots. It’s advisable to check availability and rates in advance.

Will there be entertainment on board?

Yes! Many cruises offer ambient or live music as part of the experience, especially for sunset cruises. Check your ticket before booking for further details!