Estartit (1h 30m STOP) & Medes Islands – Super Underwater Vision

Estartit (1h 30m STOP) & Medes Islands – Super Underwater Vision: An Authentic Coastal Adventure

Imagine sailing along the Girona coast, with the imposing El Montgrí massif in the background, which looks like a sleeping bishop stretching out towards the Mediterranean. For about five hours, this tour takes you across the Bay of Roses, providing a rich combination of scenic views, cultural stops, and underwater exploration. The price of $46.30 per person makes it a surprisingly accessible way to enjoy the Costa Brava’s natural beauty and marine life.

What we particularly love about this experience is the stunning views of the coast, especially the Foradada cave, which you might glimpse with a bit of luck. Plus, the underwater vision rooms on the catamaran offer a unique way to observe the seabed without getting wet — a real highlight for marine enthusiasts. That said, some travelers have noted that weather conditions can influence the itinerary, which could mean a different route or stops, so flexibility is key.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, appreciate nature and marine life, or want a relaxed day with multiple points of interest. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic Mediterranean experience will find plenty to enjoy here, especially if they’re comfortable with moderate boat trips and a bit of walking.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery including El Montgrí and Cala Montgó.
• Underwater vision rooms provide a peek into the seabed without snorkeling.
• Cultural stops in Estartit and the weekly market on Thursdays.
• Flexible itinerary based on weather, with alternatives like the Cap de Creus route.
• Accessible for most travelers — close to public transport and with service animals allowed.
• Booking in advance (average of 9 days ahead) suggests good planning.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

When we first consider a boat tour along the Costa Brava, what truly catches our attention is the combination of scenic sailing, marine exploration, and local culture. This particular tour hits all three, offering a well-rounded day out that remains quite affordable.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting from the port of Estartit, the journey begins with a leisurely sail across the Bay of Roses. The imposing El Montgrí massif forms a striking backdrop, especially when the sunlight hits its contours, creating what looks like a giant sleeping figure stretching out across the landscape. We loved how this mountain seemed to blend natural grandeur with a touch of local myth.

The boat then heads toward Cala Montgó, a charming cove that’s perfect for photos. The guide will likely point out this beautiful spot, emphasizing its significance on the Costa Brava. Here, you get a quick 15-minute window to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, or even walk along the beach if you choose to explore on foot.

Next, the Foradada cave makes an appearance. Its name means “holed” in Catalan, and with some luck, you might spot a small boat passing through the natural arch. The cave’s dramatic shape and the chance to see it from the water is a memorable highlight, especially when the weather cooperates.

The Medes Islands and Underwater Vision Rooms

The main draw of this tour is the visit to the Medes Islands Marine Natural Park, once infamous for pirates and now a protected haven for marine life. The catamaran is equipped with underwater vision rooms, which allow you to peer beneath the surface into the seabed without getting wet. This feature is perfect for families, non-swimmers, or anyone who prefers a dry experience but still wants to observe the vibrancy of Mediterranean life.

The seabed around the islands is reportedly teeming with marine creatures, and the views can be surprisingly detailed, thanks to the clear waters and specially designed viewing rooms. We appreciated that this setup offers an educational aspect with minimal effort — ideal for those who want to see marine life without snorkeling or diving.

Visiting Estartit and the Local Market

Once the boat drops anchor at Estartit, you’ll have about an hour and a half to explore. The town itself is small but lively, with streets lined with shops that feature marine-themed gifts and souvenirs. Thursday is the weekly market day, when the town fills with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. It’s a wonderful chance to experience a slice of local life and perhaps pick up some authentic Catalan treats.

If you’re feeling more active, you can also take your snorkel gear to explore the beach directly from the shore, further connecting with the Mediterranean’s underwater world. It’s a flexible stop, catering both to those who want a quick cultural jaunt and others eager for some beach time.

The Return Journey and Other Highlights

As the boat heads back toward Roses, the coastline offers views of L’Escala, Sant Martin de Empuries, San Pedro Pescador, and La Robina beach. The journey encapsulates the Gulf of Roses’s beautiful coastline, giving a sense of the area’s geological and historical layers. We loved how the boat cruise provides a moving postcard of the region’s varied landscapes.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure that combines marine beauty with a taste of local culture. The underwater vision rooms are a standout feature, especially if snorkeling isn’t your thing or if you want to avoid getting wet while still seeing marine life up close.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the route or the stops, as some reviews note. If a storm rolls in or seas become rough, the itinerary may change, but the operator will offer an alternative or a full refund. The moderate 5-hour duration makes it manageable for most travelers, and the price point offers good value considering the combination of boat rides, natural scenery, and cultural stops.

This tour suits families, couples, or solo explorers who appreciate a laid-back pace, interesting sights, and a chance to learn about the local marine environment from knowledgeable guides. Those with an interest in nature or coastal scenery will find this particularly rewarding.

In-Depth Review: What We Loved and What to Consider

Scenic Sailing and Coastal Views

We found the visual journey along the Costa Brava captivating. The views of El Montgrí and the bay of Roses offer photo opportunities that are both dramatic and peaceful. The sense of being on the water, watching the coastline change as you sail, is an experience that stays with you. It’s a reminder of how striking the Costa Brava’s rugged landscape is, especially when framed by the Mediterranean’s shimmering waters.

Marine Exploration with Underwater Vision Rooms

The underwater vision rooms deserve special praise. They’re a clever solution for those who want to observe marine life without snorkeling. The clarity of the water and the design of these viewing areas mean you can see interesting fish, seabeds, and coral-like formations, all while remaining comfortably seated.

Cultural and Local Flavor

Visiting Estartit and its market adds local flavor to the day. Walking through the town’s streets, you get a sense of Catalan life, especially on market day. The shops are full of nautical souvenirs and seasonal produce, giving you a taste of the region’s local economy.

The Weather Factor

One drawback noted in reviews is weather dependency. An unforeseen change in weather conditions can alter the route or limit certain activities. For example, Annie_T’s review mentioned disappointment because the itinerary changed due to weather. It’s worth considering that the itinerary is flexible, which is good for safety, but it also means your specific experience might vary.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 200 travelers, this is a reasonably sized tour, likely to be lively but still manageable. The availability of service animals and proximity to public transportation make it accessible for many travelers.

Booking and Pricing

Booking 9 days in advance on average indicates a steady interest and suggests securing your spot early is wise. At $46.30, the tour offers good value considering at least a couple of hours on the boat, the marine exhibits, and cultural stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, families with kids, and sea enthusiasts who want a combination of scenic sailing and marine observation. It’s also well-suited for travelers interested in local culture and small-town charm. If you prefer adventure activities like snorkeling or diving, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a relaxed, scenic day with educational highlights, this tour hits the spot.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, the stops, and the marine views without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families. The underwater vision rooms are a kid-friendly way to see marine life; just keep in mind the group size and weather dependence.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and snorkel gear if you’d like to explore from the beach. The tour provides the underwater viewing, so you won’t need your own gear unless you prefer to snorkel.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is there free time in Estartit?
Yes, once the boat stops there, you have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to walk through the town, visit the market on Thursdays, or relax at the beach.

What’s the significance of the Medes Islands?
The Medes Islands are protected as a Marine Natural Park, historically known for pirates, but now a haven for marine biodiversity with protected seabeds, making snorkeling or viewing especially interesting.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, the specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to contact Els Blaus de Roses directly if accessibility is a concern.

To sum it up, this tour offers a satisfying blend of natural beauty, marine curiosity, and cultural charm at an accessible price. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate scenic sailing, want a dry marine viewing experience, and enjoy small-town markets. With flexible stops and attentive guides, it’s a well-rounded way to experience the Costa Brava’s coast without overcommitting to strenuous activities. Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking a peaceful day on the water, this trip delivers a genuine taste of Girona’s maritime treasures.