Cala Murtra: Immerse yourself in the beauty of an underwater world

Starting with an affordable price of just $23.74 per person for a 1.5-hour adventure, this tour takes you from the charming town of Roses to the wild, protected Cala Murtra in the Cap de Creus Natural Park. You’ll be aboard a spacious catamaran with air-conditioned underwater viewing rooms, giving you a chance to see marine life without getting wet. The experience is perfect for families, nature lovers, or anyone curious about what’s beneath the waves of Costa Brava.

What we really like about this tour is how accessible and relaxing it is—a gentle cruise that combines scenic views with the thrill of marine observation. The second is the friendly, helpful staff who make the experience more enjoyable, especially for kids. That said, one thing to consider is that the underwater viewing windows might be narrow, which could limit the view for some.

This activity suits those seeking a quick, family-friendly outing or a relaxing way to enjoy Costa Brava’s spectacular coastline. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine a boat trip with a chance to observe marine life in a natural setting, all at a budget-friendly rate.

Key Points

• Affordable and family-friendly: perfect for a quick, engaging experience.
• Unique underwater rooms: offer a direct glimpse of marine life without snorkelling.
• Scenic route: views of Roses bay and Cap de Creus Natural Park.
• Helpful guides and friendly staff: enhance the overall experience.
• Limited stop: only one main destination, possibly a drawback for those wanting multiple stops.
• Best in good weather: weather conditions greatly influence the trip’s quality.

A Detailed Look at the Cala Murtra Boat Tour Experience

What’s Included and Overall Value

This tour, priced at just under $24, provides a surprisingly good value considering it combines scenic cruising with underwater viewing. The spacious boat is described as clean and comfortable, accommodating up to 200 travelers without feeling cramped. The air-conditioned underwater viewing rooms are a standout feature, allowing everyone to observe the marine environment comfortably.

Many reviewers highlight the friendly and helpful staff, who make children feel at ease and contribute to a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere. The tour is booked via a mobile ticket, making it convenient and straightforward to plan your day. The cancellation policy offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind, especially when booking in uncertain weather.

The Itinerary: From Roses to Cala Murtra

The tour begins in Roses, a lively coastal town with plenty of charm and good access to public transportation. From there, the boat departs for a scenic cruise along the coastline, passing smaller coves and natural parks. The main attraction, Cala Murtra, is located midway through the trip, in the Cap de Creus Natural Park—a protected area known for its rugged cliffs and lush vegetation.

When we reach Cala Murtra, we’re treated to some of the wildest natural scenery on the Costa Brava. Surrounded by cliffs and greenery, this beach is notable for its turquoise waters and pristine environment. What’s intriguing about Cala Murtra is that it’s the only authorized nudist beach in the area, adding a note of exclusivity to the visit.

The highlight of the tour is the underwater view. As you sit in the climate-controlled room, you get a close-up look at fish and marine life that you might not otherwise see. One review mentions seeing “many fish,” which delighted both children and adults. The viewing windows, although not very large, are sufficient for a group to observe marine life in groups, especially with the boat’s moving vantage point.

The Marine Observation: What to Expect

The underwater viewing rooms provide a unique perspective. You’ll see fish swimming beneath the boat through small, comfortable windows. Multiple reviews mention the viewing experience as “correct” or “average”, citing that the windows are a bit narrow. Some travelers found that the marine life is limited during certain seasons, with reports of only one type of fish being visible in summer.

The group is divided into smaller groups for viewing, meaning your time at the windows might be about 10 minutes, with some waiting around before the next group takes its turn. While this might sound brief, many reviewers agree it’s still worthwhile, especially for children who love to see fish up close.

The Environment and Setting

Cala Murtra’s setting is what makes it truly special. Surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, the natural beauty of the area is undeniable. It’s a place where “nature is sovereign,” as one reviewer put it, and its crystal-clear waters make for memorable photos and peaceful moments.

The tour’s timing—generally spring or early summer—allows for fewer crowds and better weather. Several travelers note that spring trips are especially enjoyable, combining good weather with fewer visitors, which enhances the experience.

The Pros and Cons: What Travelers Love & What to Watch For

Reviews consistently praise the friendly staff, who are described as sympathetic and attentive. Many mention the well-maintained, spacious boat and the spectacular scenery along the coastline. The underwater window experience is appreciated, particularly by families with children, who find it engaging and manageable in length.

However, some reviews point out that the viewing windows are small, which can limit what you see, especially if marine life is scarce during certain times of the year. Others mention that the trip only makes one stop at Cala Murtra, which may leave those wanting to explore more of the area feeling slightly disappointed.

A minority of reviews recount issues with the experience, including different expectations about the cave visits or the duration of viewing, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip suits families with children, thanks to its short duration and straightforward setup. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic journey with a touch of marine exploration, especially if they appreciate peaceful natural environments and easy access. If you’re a nature lover or interested in marine life but prefer not to snorkel or dive, this is a practical way to get a glimpse of the underwater world.

Those expecting multiple stops or long periods of underwater viewing might want to consider other options, but for a quick, scenic, family-friendly excursion, it’s a solid choice. Be sure to go on a good-weather day, as the experience relies heavily on sunshine and calm seas.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?

For anyone visiting Roses or the Costa Brava, this tour offers a value-rich, scenic outing with the added thrill of underwater observation. Its friendly staff, beautiful setting, and accessible price point make it attractive, especially for families or first-time visitors wanting a relaxed way to enjoy the coast.

While the underwater windows’ size and single stop might not satisfy those seeking in-depth marine exploration, most travelers find the short duration and picturesque environment compensate well. The tour’s simplicity and focus on natural beauty—not overly commercialized—are what set it apart.

In the end, it’s an activity that combines leisure, scenery, and a touch of marine wonder, making it a worthwhile addition to your Costa Brava itinerary—especially if you’re traveling with children or seeking a calm, scenic cruise.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, including cruising and underwater viewing.

Is swimming possible during the tour?
Yes, some reviews mention that swimming is possible, although the main focus is on the boat cruise and underwater viewing.

Is the tour suitable for young children?
Absolutely. Many guests mention children are delighted by the underwater windows and the boat’s friendly atmosphere.

How many stops does the tour make?
The boat only makes one main stop at Cala Murtra, allowing time for sightseeing and underwater observation.

What does the underwater view involve?
You sit in air-conditioned rooms with windows beneath the water, viewing fish and marine life from a close distance during your allotted time.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are fully refundable if made more than 24 hours in advance. The experience depends on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the boat accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the tour is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach from Roses or nearby towns.

In the end, this tour offers a gentle, scenic way to enjoy Costa Brava’s natural coastline and underwater life. Whether you’re with family, curious about marine ecosystems, or simply seeking a relaxing boat ride, Cala Murtra’s underwater views and stunning surroundings make it a trip to consider.