Cadiz Bay Catamaran

The skyline of Cadiz is made for the sea. From the water the old town appears as a long low line of white buildings capped by the cathedral's golden dome, with a ring of sea walls, watchtowers and forts around it, and the water glittering on both sides of the narrow isthmus. The Bay of Cadiz, which stretches round towards El Puerto de Santa Maria and Puerto Real, was the natural harbour that made the city rich, and a cruise is a useful way to understand its geography. The product here is a catamaran navigation tied to the city's three-thousand-year history, which suggests an excursion where commentary on Phoenicians, Romans and the age of trade accompanies the views.

A typical catamaran outing leaves from the marina or a pier near the old town, sails along the old town's sea wall past La Caleta and Santa Catalina, and may cross the bay to give views of the long coast and the industrial and shipbuilding areas on the other side. In warm months the deck is a pleasant place to be, with a breeze, sunshine and sometimes a drink on board. Dolphins are occasionally seen in the wider Strait region, though they cannot be promised on a bay trip.

Departure times vary through the year, and a cruise can be cancelled or rerouted if the wind picks up, since the levante wind can be strong and the swell uncomfortable. If you are prone to seasickness, take precautions. Bring sun cream, a hat and a light jacket for the evening, since the temperature drops on the water. Sunset departures are the most atmospheric, with the city glowing in soft light, so book those first if you can. Confirm the language of the commentary when you reserve.

A boat trip can be one of the most relaxed parts of a Cadiz itinerary, but a little planning helps. The best days are those with a gentle westerly breeze, when the bay is calm and the sky is clear; days with the strong levante wind can be rougher, and tours may be rescheduled. Spring and autumn offer the best combination of light and temperature, while midsummer midday is hot on open decks.

Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and carry a thin windproof layer, since the temperature drops when the boat moves. A catamaran is more stable than a small boat, so it suits families and people who dislike rocking, but anyone prone to seasickness should consider a tablet beforehand. The commentary may mention how the bay was a natural harbour for Phoenicians, then Romans, then the Spanish fleet, and how the shipyards across the water built ships for centuries.

Keep an eye on the sea walls and forts as you pass, and the cathedral dome which becomes the focus as you turn back to port. Taking photographs from the water gives the classic composition of the old town. Allow time before boarding, check the meeting point, and eat something light beforehand.

Check the departure point and the language of any commentary when you book, and arrive about fifteen minutes early so you can pick a seat on the shaded or sunny side as you prefer. Children should wear a life jacket where the crew advises it, and anyone carrying a camera should keep a strap around the wrist.