Sailing trip in Spain: A guide for your boating holiday
Spain has several interesting sailing areas to offer with the long and varied coastline and different island groups. Discover the crystal clear bays of the Balearic Islands or take a sportive sailing trip between the volcanic islands of the Canary Islands. Each region is characterized by different landscapes and will surprise you with other highlights. We gathered everything you need to plan your next sailing trip in Spain.
Sailing trips in Spain with family, kids, and friends
A sailing trip in Spain guarantees adventure and fun for you and your family or friends. There is a coast or island to explore for every group! If you are looking for a fun atmosphere and people, the wildest island of the Balearic Islands is Ibiza. Known for its parties and glamour, this island has much more to offer with its neighboring islands being some of the most beautiful and natural destinations for a sailing trip.
Plan your private sailing trip in Spain with dreamy coves, beautiful coastlines of cities, and nature all at your fingertips. Swim in the crystal clear waters of the Balearic Islands or ride the waves in Galicia. From calm waters in the Mediterranean Sea to dolphin and whale watching in the Atlantic Ocean, there is plenty to do and see on your trip.
Cruise on a sailboat or catamaran in Spain with a captain & crew
You can choose to cruise on a sailboat or catamaran with a captain and crew, with just a captain or a bareboat charter. Find out more about the different options you have while planning your sailing trip in Spain.
At Click&Boat, we recommend cruising in a catamaran in Spain with a captain and crew so you can make the most out of your vacation. If you have no previous sailing experience, this is a great way to try something new and not worry about driving the boat. A captain is a great personal tour guide in the area, with knowledge of the best-hidden places or unique places to visit by boat. Then the crew will definitely take care of everything in terms of food and drinks.
You can also choose to cruise on a catamaran in Spain only with a captain or bareboat charter. If you want to navigate the boat yourself, you will need a valid boating license. Check with the boat owner of the respective boat to check if you are able to rent without a captain.
Sailing trip in Spain: Catamaran vs Sailboat
You can choose between a catamaran or sailboat for your sailing trip in Spain. What do you prefer, a spacious catamaran or a fast sailboat? Here are advantages and disadvantages to each of these options so you can decide what boat type suits you best.
Cruising in a sailboat in Spain is a great option if you enjoy the sensation of sailing. Sailboats are generally faster and more maneuverable compared to catamarans. The stronger breeze and whole horizon to explore makes this boat type more fun and exciting! Since this boat has only one hull, the living spaces are more narrow and you are more likely to feel seasick.
Cruising in a catamaran in Spain is great for the spaciousness which facilitates coexistence and comfort during your stay. The two hulls make the boat more stable when sailing and also make you less likely to feel seasickness. Cruising on a catamaran in Spain is highly recommended for large family groups with small children since it is easier to move around within the boat and carry out different tasks such as cooking. The draft of the boat is also smaller making it ideal to get closer to shallow coves. This also makes the boat slower and more difficult to maneuver along with the price being higher.
Beautiful areas for your sailing trip in Spain
The most beautiful sailing areas for your sailing trip in Spain. Where do you imagine yourself sailing in Spain? Here are some of our favorite island groups and coasts for you to explore.
The Balaeric Islands
The Balearic Islands are one of the best places for a sailing trip in Spain. You can choose to start your trip in places such as Barcelona and sail directly from there to the islands to start your adventure. Likewise, you can also arrive directly at Palma or Ibiza and pick up your private cruise. The beautiful natural landscapes and dreamlike bays are a great European escape. Located off of the coast of the Iberian Peninsula, the archipelago is perfect for a boating vacation. Each island is different so you will never feel bored exploring the Balearic Islands. You can sail through the four different islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera and even sail further to or from Costa Brava.
Barcelona and Costa Brava
Barcelona’s skylines and Costa Brava’s wild stretches until the French border are another great sailing experience. There are plenty of authentic coastal villages, hidden bays, and bathing spots that are almost unreachable by land. A cruise on a catamaran in Spain means you can find all of the hidden beaches and coves and sleep in your own private paradise. You can explore Costa Brava’s natural beauty from the water along with its heritage, history, and gastronomy.
Valencia and Costa Blanca
South of Barcelona, you will immerse yourself in the beautiful city of Valencia and Costa Blanca. Valencia is home to one of the largest marinas for yacht rentals in Spain! You can plan a sailing trip in Spain starting from Valencia and cruising to the Balearic islands by boat. Or similarly, you can choose to explore Costa Blanca’s long beaches and delicious food then move up towards Costa Brava. From delicious paellas, Spanish fiestas, and the Spanish sun, you are sure to enjoy a boating vacation exploring the area.
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, has 8 islands to explore including Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria. These islands are sunny all year round with temperatures ranging from 66℉ to 71℉. The volcanic landscape is astonishing with black sanded beaches and views that will make your jaw drop. The good sailing conditions make the Canary Islands especially popular for any sailing enthusiasts!
Other sailing areas
There are plenty of other places you can choose for your sailing trip in Spain. In regions in the North of Spain, you may find boat rentals for cheaper prices for your boating vacation. You can start from Galicia and sail in the Basque Country around San Sebastian, or even go further south in Murcia and Andalusia sailing around Malaga and Gibraltar. There is plenty for you to explore!
How much does it cost to go on a sailing trip in Spain?
There are several factors that determine the price of your sailing trip, such as the size and model of the vessel, the length of your trip, or whether you rent a skipper or crew. As a rough guide, a cruise on a catamaran in Spain is about $1320.51 in low season and $3301.28 in high season. If you dream of setting off on a sailboat it can cost you from between $319.12 and $473.18 depending on the season.