Report by Lucy Peters. “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever”– once said the legendary French seaman Jacques Yves Cousteau. Sailing onboard Goleta Karya in Barcelona and taking in breathtaking views of the city’s blue side, one is reinforced with the same feelings of wonder sailing across the Mediterranean Sea. After wandering around the historic streets of Barcelona and visiting endless architectural sights and museums, it’s time to immerse into a relaxing Mediterranean boat trip. Board the traditionally built luxurious Turkish boat, Goleta Karya, and enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona coast sailing past its historic and contemporary architectural landmarks.
What to expect?
If your vacation doesn’t allow enough time to soak in the pleasures of camping out beneath the stars of the dreamy Mediterranean seaside then, let yourself 60 minutes of indulgence on the Mediterranean seascape. It is a one-of-a-kind sightseeing cruise with the prime attraction of this Barcelonan outdoor adventure being Goleta Karya. It is a traditional Turkish sailing boat built in Bodrum, a coastal city in Turkey historically famous for its beautiful wooden schooners called Gulets. Goleta Karya built in 2008 is an engineering marvel combining classic design with modern luxuries and advanced facilities. Just sit back comfortably on your cushioned seat and admire the city’s beautiful skyline as you sip wine and dig into mouthwatering delicacies. The short cruise is a mini-gastronomic adventure in itself offering wine tasting and the opportunity to indulge in a rich assortment of Mediterranean delights. Onboard the Goleta Karya, get ready to tap your feet to live music to make your cruise all the more worthwhile and energized. Just remember to take your camera, the precious-most outdoor equipment when you set out in a place like Barcelona, which is filled with works of awe-inspiring art and architecture everywhere you look.
What to see?
Lasting for an hour or so, the boat trip begins at Port Vell, navigating across some of the city’s best known historic and contemporary attractions. Cruising past Barcelona’s coast, you get a beautiful view of the Barceloneta beaches bustling with sea bathers and sun loungers. Jutting out at some distance along the Olympic port, there is the unmissable giant golden fish structure, a splendid work of art by Fanck Gehry. The tallest peak of Serra de Collserola, Tibidabo, silhouettes at the backdrop overlooking the city and greeting you all the way. You also catch a glimpse of Agbar Tower, Barcelona’s contemporary architectural wonder, a glass-walled bullet-shaped cylindrical building reflecting the Mediterranean in its multiple shades of blue and green. While many such memorable sights await this relaxing sightseeing cruise, it is especially rewarding to witness the imposing structure of La Sagrada Família in its entirety, standing tall with its sheer verticality and twisting spires. Known to be Spain’s most famous monument, the magnificent structure and architecture of this medieval cathedral still remain under construction since 1882.
Witnessing Barcelona’ stunning skyline and catching a glimpse of its several old and new landmarks on a sailboat makes for a rare experience. It is undoubtedly the best way of witnessing a fair share of the vibrant city’s most-reckoned attractions, a small escapade from the hectic tour schedule. Just sit back and soak in the culture-steeped scenic views while indulging in delicious food and drinks and unwinding in the breezy Mediterranean Sea.