9 days in Barcelona on a superyacht

Barcelona is known as one of the Mediterranean’s most lively, multicultural and vibrant superyacht destinations. The nearest international airport is just 18 kilometres away, the city is bathed in sunshine 320 days a year and the Balearic Islands right on its doorstep, making this the perfect spot for a European getaway.

Embark in the idyllic town of Port Vendres on the French-Spanish border and cruise along the Costa Brava towards Barcelona. Popular with nature-lovers, the coast boasts dramatic rock formations, rugged cliffs and protected anchorages.

Drop anchor in the Cap de Creus and tender to Cadaqués, a hub for artists of the 20th century — private visits can be arranged to Salvador Dali’s summerhouse. Find a table in the courtyard of Compartir for a lunch of Spanish sharing plates before taking a private car to the Celler Fartin Faixo, where you can take a tour of the vineyard and taste some truly fantastic wines.

Head back to your yacht for a cocktail on deck while your chef prepares a sumptuous meal paired with a bottle of local wine — relax and watch the sunset with your nearest and dearest.

Enjoy a languid breakfast on board before heading to Port Estartit for an afternoon of exploring around the Medes Islands. Set in a popular marina park, it’s a fantastic spot for diving and snorkelling.

If you have time, be sure to visit the Sant
 Sebastià Lighthouse for unrivalled ocean views and enjoy a drink on the beautiful terrace at Hotel el Far. Take a private car to Casa del Mar in a fishing village called Calella de Palafrugell, a Michelin starred restaurant located a few steps from the sea.

Back on board, continue on to the OneOcean Port Vell marina at the heart of Barcelona.

Head straight into the city to find a spot for a traditional Spanish omelette followed by churros and chocolate if you’re feeling particularly indulgent. Relax in the sun before taking a private tour of the city to visit some of it’s main attractions, such as the Montjuïc Park, Gaudí-designed church, the Gothic Quarter and the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, all of which make Barcelona one of the top art destinations to visit by superyacht.

Take at least one day to unwind by visiting Barcelona’s ancient baths, one of the most famous luxury spas in the Mediterranean, where your can relax with a massage, an aromatherapy soak and a good stint in the hammam. Take a car to the world-renowned Passeig de Gràcia for a light lunch and browse the row of luxury boutiques and antiques shops.

Spend the afternoon at the beach, just 500 metres from One Ocean Port Vell marina and perfect for snoozing in the sun. More active visitors can partake in windsurfing and kayaking lessons, while foodies can sample excellent tapas from one for the beachfront restaurants.

Arrange for OneOcean Port Vell marina’s personal trainer to come onboard for a private yoga lesson before you tuck into breakfast — enjoy a view over the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona from the aft deck.

Have your crew arrange a private tapas and wine tour, where an expect will treat you to the finest gastronomic offerings of the city. Sample delicious traditional Spanish cuisine and wines at the Boqueria food market, followed by a chocolate-making workshop at the Barcelona Chocolate Museum.

Cruise south of Barcelona to explore the Costa Dorada coastline and moor at the Vilanova Marina, a 10-minute car ride from Sitges, which is a favourite celebrity hang out.

Stroll around the narrow, picturesque streets and historical buildings before taking lunch at Café Bar Roy for traditional Spanish cuisine.

Afterwards, chose one of the stunning Mediterranean beaches to enjoy an afternoon relaxing in the sunshine before cruising back to Barcelona.

Take a helicopter from Barcelona to Girona — golf fans can enjoy a day at the PGA Catalunya Golf Resort while others can enjoy to medieval city of Girona.

Stroll around the porticoed town squares and explore the fortress before taking a private car to El Celler de Can Roca, which is considered to be one of the best restaurants in the world.

Take a private car or helicopter out to the Pyrénées where you can spend the day horse riding, cycling, hiking or rafting through the extraordinary mountain range.

In the afternoon, take a hot-air balloon ride the see the birds-eye view of the Pyrénées with a glass of bubbly and a light picnic.

Either continue to the Balearic Islands on your Mediterranean vacation for a spot of island hopping and partying, or head homewards.

You can either take a helicopter or limo from Port Vell to the airport or cruise to Gibraltar for alternative travel plans.