This is the kind of outing that turns the coast into a private playground. You’ll sail from the Port of Playa de Aro on the 10.5-meter boat Havana, with time for a swim cove, snorkel gear, and paddleboard fun—plus you can get involved in the sailing basics. The vibe is easy and personal, led by the skipper Santi, who also owns the boat.

I especially like that it’s private for up to 9 people plus the skipper, so your group stays together and you can move at your pace. I also like the practical comfort touches: a fridge onboard for drinks, a fresh water shower, and music if you want it.

One thing to consider: this experience depends on good weather, and the plan (going north or south) shifts based on conditions. If you’re sensitive to choppy water, bring the right mindset—and plan for the day to be slightly weather-driven.

Key Things I’d Pay Attention To

• Private 4-person feel (up to 9): calmer, more personal time on the water.
• Skipper-led sailing basics: you’ll learn terms and take part in maneuvers if you want.
• Swim cove + snorkel + paddleboard: active fun built into the 4 hours.
• Direction changes with weather: Santi aims for the best corner sheltered from wind and sea.
• Comfort extras onboard: fridge, music options, and a fresh water shower.
• Bring your own water/food plan: bottled water, lunch, and snacks are not included.

Meeting at Platja d’Aro: where the day actually starts

You’ll meet at Avinguda de Verona Terol, 25, 17250 Platja d’Aro, Girona, Spain, where the sailing school is on the beach next to the port. From there, you walk over to the boat and meet the skipper. The meeting point matters because it keeps the whole start simple: you’re not hunting around the harbor while the crew waits.

In practical terms, arrive a bit early so you can get comfortable with the setting—sun, wind, and getting your swim gear ready. Since this runs about 4 hours and there’s no lunch or snacks included, I recommend eating a proper meal before you go, or plan on bringing something for after the sail.

You’ll have a mobile ticket, and it’s offered in English. If you’re traveling with a service animal, it’s allowed, and the site is near public transportation—both are good signs for a day that’s easy to fit into a Girona and Costa Brava itinerary.

Getting on Havana: what a 10.5-meter private sail feels like

The boat is the Havana, a 10.5-meter sailboat that carries up to 9 passengers plus the skipper. That size is a sweet spot. It’s big enough to feel stable and properly set up for a group sail, but small enough that you don’t feel like you’re part of a crowd.

I like that the plan includes real sailing time, not just “look at the sea from a chair.” During the navigation you’ll get a chance to introduce yourself to the basic concepts of sailing and collaborate in the maneuvers. If you’re the curious type, this is where the day turns memorable, because you’re learning how the boat moves and why.

Santi runs the day with a hospitality-first approach. One review highlights seamless, professional communication when booking and emphasizes how the boat felt pristine and cared for. You can use that as a signal: the day is meant to feel smooth from the first handshake to the last step back onto the dock.

The route: why you go north or south (and what that means for you)

Instead of locking you into one fixed coastline path, the skipper heads north or south depending on the weather. The goal is to find the best spot protected from the sea and wind. That’s smart, because on the Costa Brava, conditions can change quickly, and a sheltered corner can mean a calmer ride and a nicer swim.

For you, the benefit is simple: you get a day shaped around comfort and good conditions, not just a printed schedule. If it’s breezy in one direction, the plan adjusts, which can make the difference between a relaxing sail and a tense ride.

It also keeps the experience feeling alive. You’re not repeating the same stop in the same way as everyone else. You’re trusting the skipper’s call on where the water will be best.

The heart of the 4 hours: the swim cove and snorkel setup

The highlight is the cove stop where you can take a bath, snorkel, and row using the paddle surf board. You’re not left to figure it out on your own—snorkeling equipment is included, and the paddleboard is included too.

Here’s what that combination does for your day:

• You get a swim that fits the scale of a private sail (not a long boat-to-beach transfer).
• Snorkeling equipment is already there, so you just bring yourself.
• The paddleboard adds a different kind of fun after you’ve chilled in the water.

There are a couple of realistic considerations. First, snorkel time works best if you’re comfortable with basic water conditions and can follow simple safety directions from the crew. Second, if you’re not into active water time, you may wish you could just relax—though the plan does give you space between activities during the sailing and the row/paddle time.

Also, don’t expect bottled water onboard to be included. You’ll have a fridge for drinks, but bottled water, lunch, and snacks aren’t part of the package. I’d plan to bring water or buy it ahead if you like having it within reach.

Along the way: hands-on sailing moments (even if you’re a first-timer)

During the navigation, you’ll have opportunities to get involved in sailing maneuvers. The day is built so you can participate without needing prior experience. Think of it as learning while moving—small steps, guided by the skipper.

This is one of the reasons I think the private format works so well. With fewer people onboard, it’s easier for the crew to explain things clearly and for you to ask questions. You’re more likely to actually understand what you’re seeing: sail angle, boat movement, and how wind affects the course.

If you’re traveling with kids or a mixed-age group, this can keep attention on the water rather than phones. Even if only a couple people want to participate, the rest can still watch, learn, and enjoy the motion of sailing.

Onboard comfort: music, shower, and small details that matter

Santi’s boat includes a few conveniences that turn a “nice idea” into a smooth experience. There’s a fresh water shower, which is huge after swimming and snorkeling. There’s also a fridge so you can keep drinks cold during the sail.

You can listen to your favorite music onboard. That’s not just fun—it helps you shape the atmosphere. A gentle playlist makes the boat feel like a floating living room, and it’s an easy way to make the day feel personal to your group.

One more detail: since the trip is only around 4 hours, the onboard setup matters. If you’re too hot or you feel sticky after water time, the shower helps you go from sandy and salty to comfortable quickly. That’s especially useful if you’re heading out for dinner in Girona or along the coast afterward.

The schedule choice: morning vs afternoon

You can choose between a morning or afternoon session. That matters for a few reasons: light for views, how the wind feels during the day, and how you want to pace your travel day.

If you’re the type who likes a later start and a longer morning, an afternoon sail can be a calm way to avoid rushing. If you like crisp light and earlier plans, the morning option is a clean fit. Since direction depends on weather, the schedule choice won’t control everything—but it can still shape how the day feels.

Because the experience is weather-dependent, I’d treat the plan as flexible in your mind. The best day on the water usually comes from going when conditions allow.

Value check: what you’re really paying for

At $541.32 per group (up to 9 people), this isn’t a budget casual activity—but it’s also not priced like a private yacht. The value comes from the private skipper-led sailing, the included snorkeling gear, the included paddleboard, and the fact that you’re buying about 4 hours of dedicated time with one boat and one crew for your group.

Let’s translate that into plain language. If you split the cost across a full group, the per-person price drops a lot compared with typical per-person tours. And since it’s private, you’re not dealing with strangers crowding your space or taking over the experience.

The “Havana” boat is also described as pristine, and the communication around booking was praised as seamless. Those two things matter because they often correlate with how smoothly the day runs—less waiting, fewer surprises, better care on the water.

This is also the kind of experience you can treat as a highlight day. With the included swim/snorkel/paddleboard, you’re not paying just to sail past views—you’re getting active time.

Practical tips so you enjoy every part

If you want this to go smoothly, plan like a sailor for one day:

• Bring swimwear and a towel you don’t mind getting sandy.
• Expect saltwater and wind—pack a basic cover-up for the boat ride.
• Since bottled water and snacks aren’t included, decide how you’ll handle hydration and energy.
• Use the fridge onboard for drinks if you bring them.

Also, consider timing your meal. Since lunch isn’t included, a solid breakfast or early lunch helps. Then you can enjoy the water stop without feeling hungry or fading.

For the water time, go in with a relaxed attitude. Snorkeling and paddleboard time feel best when you’re not rushing. Let yourself enjoy the stop, then go back to the sailing ride with fresh energy.

Who should book this sail, and who might not love it

This is a great fit if you want:

• A private Costa Brava experience without a big tour group.
• Included water activities: snorkel gear, paddleboard, and a swim cove stop.
• A hands-on sailing moment, even if you’re new to sailing.
• A skipper who communicates well and treats the day like a real experience, not just a schedule.

It may not be the best match if you only want passive sightseeing and prefer a totally hands-off day. The plan includes active water time, and while you can likely take breaks, it’s built around swimming and snorkeling.

If you’re sensitive to weather changes, remember that the route can change based on wind and sea conditions. The good news is the skipper chooses sheltered areas when possible.

Should you book this 4-hour Costa Brava sail?

I’d book it if you’re trying to get the best mix of comfort + privacy + real time on the water. For the price, you’re not just buying views—you’re buying a private sailing session with included snorkeling equipment and paddleboard time, led by Santi on a boat guests describe as pristine.

If you’re flexible about weather and you’re excited to spend part of your day in the water, this is a strong choice. If you hate activity at sea or you need a guaranteed fixed itinerary no matter what, you may feel more comfortable with a different style of tour.

Either way, it’s the kind of outing that tends to feel special because it’s designed for your group, not the masses.

FAQ

What’s the duration of the sailing experience?

It runs for about 4 hours.

How many people can be on the boat?

The 10.5-meter sailboat can host up to 9 people plus the skipper.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Is the paddleboard included?

Yes. The paddle surf board is included.

Where do we meet?

You meet at Avinguda de Verona Terol, 25, 17250 Platja d’Aro, Girona, Spain. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s not included in the price?

Bottled water, lunch, and snacks are not included.

What happens if the weather is poor?

If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.