Located on the southern Spanish coast, west of Gibraltar, Cadiz hugs the sea and is ringed almost entirely by water. It is famed for being one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements and was once one of Spain’s primary ports.

Now, it is a water lover and architecture enthusiast’s dream, where watersports meet sightseeings of traditional Spanish 16th-century architecture.

On a boat trip in Cadiz, expect to dive head first into calm crystalline waters, marvel at the ancient center, and enjoy plenty of golden sanded beaches.

You will find below all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Cadiz.

What are the most popular boat tours and cruises in Cadiz?

Cadiz sunset catamaran cruise

This is a popular way to end the day in Cadiz because the sunset is truly phenomenal. On this 1- to 3-hour tour, you’ll marvel at blazing hues of pink and orange onboard a catamaran with knowledgeable guides who speak either English, German or Spanish.

You’ll discover the Bay of Cadiz from the water while sipping a glass of cava, a typical Spanish sparkling wine, or a soft drink. If you’re looking for a memorable boat tour that doesn’t take too much time out of your vacation, this is the perfect choice.

Scuba diving boat tour from Cadiz

If it’s your first time scuba diving, then this tour offers the perfect introduction. You’ll be accompanied by an expert instructor at all times who will make your first diving experience truly memorable.

You’ll take a boat tour to the cliffs of Torre del Tajo, where your half an hour long theoretical diving class will begin. You will then proceed to the dive itself in some of the clearest waters of the Mediterranean, where you’ll be amazed by the underwater life and its breathtaking colors. All diving equipment is included in this tour.

Boat rental in Cadiz

If you’re seeking an exciting and intimate experience with friends and family, then you might consider renting a boat. This offers the most freedom and will earn you some adventure points.

Cadiz private boat trip

Private boat tours from Cadiz are a popular choice and promise to take the hassle out of having to navigate the waters. You’ll have a skipper onboard who will take the ropes while you sit back and enjoy the ride.

This is a great option for friends, family and couples since the maximum capacity on a private boat tour is typically seven people.

How much do boat tours in Cadiz cost?

Boat excursions in Cadiz vary widely depending on what type of tour you decide to book:

Sunset catamaran cruises cost between €20 and €85 per person, depending on the duration of your trip and the size of your party.
Diving boat tours cost €65 per person and include a professional instructor, complete diving equipment and a theoretical class.
Boat rentals start at €180 for a small group of up to five people, but can cost up to €650 for full-day cruises. It’s best to check the duration of your cruise beforehand.
Private boat trips start at €300 per group of up to seven people and include an English-speaking skipper, aqua sports equipment, snacks and beverages.

Which places are seen with a boat tour in Cadiz?

The bay of Cadiz National Park

Located northeast of the capital, the bay of Cadiz promises charming coastlines and heaps of marine life to discover on your tour. In this reserve, you’ll find rugged cliffs that offer a perfect photo op, as well as inviting lagoons and plenty of fauna and flora. On some tours, you will have the possibility of having lunch at one of the several fresh seafood restaurants dotted along the coastline.

Santa Catalina castle

This star-shaped centuries-old fortress is a popular attraction on a boat tour in Cadiz. It was built after the Anglo-Dutch ravaged the city in the 1500s, was once a military prison and has now been converted into an exhibition center. It stands atop the city of Jaen and its enclosure is defended by six towers. Most boat tours will pass this cultural site of great importance.

La Caleta beach

The golden sands of this beach that hugs the western edge of Bairro de la Vina are highly sought-after for boat tours in Cadiz. La Caleta beach is flanked by two imposing forts — the Santa Catalina castle and the San Sebastian castle.

One of the most beautiful hiking tours in Cadiz is along the powdery sands of this urban beach which offers a stunning sunset come evening time.

Sherry triangle

A trio of districts north of Cadiz is known as the sherry triangle, thanks to the fact that virtually all of the world’s sherry is produced here. Jerez de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlucar de Barrameda are easily visited on a boat trip from Cadiz and can make for a boozy and entertaining pit-stop on your tour.

How long does a boat trip last?

A boat trip may last an hour to a full day depending on the itinerary that best suits you and how far you wish to venture out. It’s common for half-day tours to feature a number of pit stops at some of Cadiz’s most idyllic beaches, but if you’re renting a boat for a full day, you can expect to cover a lot more terrain.

Where do boat tours leave from?

There are a number of meeting points for a boat trip in Cadiz. Many boats depart from Avenida de Libertad or Puerto Sherry, which both lie northeast of the city center. Hence, you have to make your way to these locations either by public transport, car or taxi, which is about a 35-minute drive.

The cruise passenger terminal is another popular departure point which is located by the Bay of Cadiz, where your cruise will begin. Alternatively, there are a number of tours that collect you directly from your accommodation in Cadiz.

When is the best time for a boat trip from Cadiz?

Consider booking the peak summer season, between July and August, which are the hottest months of the year in Cadiz if you fancy getting a suntan on your boat tour. Many people, however, enjoy visiting during spring and the end of summer (September to October) when temperatures are still pleasant and when the rainy season has yet to begin.

Many excursions offer sunset tours, allowing you to see beautiful views of Cadiz and have the perfect photo opportunity.

Which other water activities can be done in Cadiz?

Travel tips

Bring a swimsuit, as there are plenty of opportunities to take a splash in the water or simply just to tan at the beach.
Bring a light rain jacket if you visit from October to the end of the year – Cadiz is known for its tropical rain during this period.
Make sure to bring some comfortable footwear suited for beach exploration.

Boat Tours in Cádiz