Barcelona launches “Nautical bus” to enjoy the city from the sea and ease traffic

A popular Spanish city has launched a new water transport system to transport tourists and locals through its ports: the Bus Nautic (Sea shipping bus).

From July 3, two emission-free catamarans have been put into service from the Drassanes Pier, located next to the Columbus statue, to the Levante Pier, next to the luxury hotel W Barcelona.

This new mode of transport will not only give people another way to enjoy the city, but also improve mobility during the busy summer months, as the streets around this area are prone to traffic jams.

These catamarans are open 12 hours a day from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and depart every 30 minutes.

Unlike other European cities where similar services can be quite expensive, the “nautical bus” only costs €2.85 return. However, rides only last 10 minutes.

“The boats are “100% electric and sail through the harbor in just 10 minutes.” These boats are powered by electro-solar energy, allowing for a silent ecological tour, according to the official site.

The Ecocat Dos has a capacity for 56 passengers and the Ecocat Three, 140. Both have toilets and a beautiful outdoor area.

Alsa, the company that manages the nautical buses, also offers passes for 10 trips for just €13.30 and several for €40 for 30 days. Discounts for children and seniors are also available. Children under the age of four can travel for free.

This new service is just one of the surprises that the ports of Barcelona will bring this season.

The town hall has also decided to rebuild some “restaurants”.‘ that were removed years ago to make way for the 1992 Olympics and reopens the old fishermen’s market.

The main objective is to reconnect citizens with the famous Rambla and the ports.

If this new way of traveling around Barcelona attracts a substantial number of passengers, the company would add new stops and expand opening hours.

In other news related to Barcelona’s sea, tourists will also have the chance to enjoy the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup 2024, which will be held in the city from August to October 2024.

This competition is the third most important sporting event in the world. There will be 135 regattas competing for first place (second place is not offered in this sport).

The tournament will be visible from Barcelona’s most popular beaches.