Roses, Spain, is a fantastic spot for sailing adventures thanks to its stunning coastline, clear waters, and charming coves that are best explored from the sea. Whether you’re craving a relaxing cruise, a lively party on the water, or an exclusive swim in hidden bays, Roses offers a variety of options that cater to different interests and budgets. We particularly like the Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus for its longer duration and barbecue, which combines sightseeing with a tasty meal. For a romantic evening, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a beautiful sunset with music and drinks.
If you’re keen on discovering underwater sights, the Costa Brava Catamaran Trip with Underwater Views provides submarine vistas of seabeds and caves. For a more active day, the Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Medes Islands combines island exploration and snorkeling. And if you want a quick, fun escape, the Catamaran Cruise Cap Norfeu – Cadaqués is perfect for a family-friendly outing in a beautiful setting. Below, we break down each option to help you pick the perfect sailing experience.
1. From Roses: Catamaran Cruise Cap Norfeu РCadaqu̩s
Starting our list is a 3.5-hour adventure that offers a wonderful mix of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing. You’ll depart from Cala Joncols and glide along the coast to the Cap Norfeu, one of the most dramatic headlands on the Costa Brava. The highlight is stopping at Racó de l’Home cove, a secluded spot perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. This cove is only accessible by boat, making it feel like a private paradise.
After relaxing at Racó de l’Home, the boat takes you to the bay of Cadaqués, famously associated with Salvador Dalí and his whimsical art. From the sea, you’ll get a fresh perspective on this charming town’s whitewashed buildings and narrow streets. The tour is rated 4.7/5 with over 600 reviews, and at just $34 per person, it offers great value for such a personalized experience. It’s ideal for families and travelers wanting a mix of leisure and scenic beauty without breaking the bank.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a shorter, relaxed trip with swimming, snorkeling, and stunning coastal views—all in an intimate setting.
2. From Roses: Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus
For those who want a longer day on the water, the Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus covers a 5.5-hour journey along the spectacular coast. The cruise sails from Roses and stops in Cala Culip or Cala Guillola, inviting you to swim, sunbathe, and explore the secluded coves that are only reachable by boat.
A real treat on this trip is the onboard barbecue—a delicious meal prepared fresh during the voyage. You can lounge on nets over the water, feeling as if you’re flying above the sea, which adds a fun, almost surreal element. The tour earns a solid 4.6/5 from over 400 reviews, with many travelers praising the crew’s friendliness and the laid-back atmosphere. Prices are higher at around $64, but the inclusion of a barbecue and the longer duration justify the extra cost.
A few reviews mention that the boat’s condition can vary, and weather can influence the experience. Still, most find the journey to be worth the price, especially for the chance to see the Costa Brava’s rugged coastline and enjoy a tasty meal at sea.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a more comprehensive day out, with good food and immersive views of the coastline, especially if you love relaxing on nets with panoramic vistas.
3. From Roses: Sunset Catamaran Cruise
If romance is on your mind, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers a 1.5-hour trip along the Bay of Roses. Departing in the late afternoon, this cruise is designed to catch the magic hour of sunset. You’ll glide past Roses and Empuriabrava, enjoying spectacular views of the coastline as the sky turns shades of orange and pink.
What makes this tour special is the atmosphere—lively music, a Cava or Sangria in hand, and the gentle rocking of the boat. It’s a perfect choice for couples or anyone seeking a relaxed, romantic experience. With a 4.5/5 rating from nearly 300 reviews and a very reasonable price of $23, it offers excellent value for a memorable evening. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery and the magical ambiance as standout features.
The main limitation is the short duration, so it’s best suited for an evening activity rather than a full-day adventure. The trip can be affected by weather, but most find that the experience is well worth it.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples, those celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting a short, atmospheric sail with great photos and a relaxed vibe.
4. From Roses: Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Medes Islands
A true highlight for nature lovers, this 5.5-hour trip takes you to the Medes Islands Natural Park. The tour begins with sailing along the rugged Costa Brava coast, then arriving at the protected islands, renowned for their rich marine life and bird populations. You’ll stop in Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa to swim and sunbathe, immersed in the turquoise waters.
The barbecue lunch prepared onboard is a real treat, letting you enjoy freshly grilled food while taking in breathtaking sea views. The boat feels stable and spacious, and the trip is rated 4.4/5 from over 200 reviews. Many travelers mention how this tour is a “brilliant” repeat experience, especially appreciating the chance to explore marine parks and islands that are otherwise difficult to reach.
The cost is about $64, which includes the trip, lunch, and snorkeling gear. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to combine sailing, sightseeing, and underwater discovery.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a full-day adventure with the chance to snorkel around protected islands and enjoy a quality barbecue in a quiet, scenic setting.
5. Roses: Costa Brava Catamaran Trip with Underwater Views
If exploring beneath the surface appeals to you, this 2 to 2.5-hour tour offers underwater views of seabeds and caves. Departing from Roses, you’ll sail along the Costa Brava and visit Cala Jóncols, known for its caves and clear waters. The highlight is the submarine viewing, where you can see fish, rocks, and marine life from the comfort of the boat.
Rated 4.2/5 from nearly 300 reviews, this trip is praised for its easygoing pace and the spectacular views from the boat. It’s particularly good for families and travelers short on time but wanting a taste of the coast’s underwater beauty. The modest price of $28 makes it an accessible option for many.
Some reviewers note that the experience is simple, but the submarine views and caves are a real treat. It’s a good choice if you want to combine a shorter cruise with a unique perspective on the underwater world.
Bottom line: Designed for those interested in marine scenery and caves, especially if you prefer a quick, relaxed trip with a focus on underwater sights.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience in Roses
When picking your ideal sailing trip, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a short, family-friendly outing, the Catamaran Cruise Cap Norfeu is perfect. If you’re after a longer, more immersive day, the Cruise to Cap de Creus offers a delicious onboard barbecue and secluded coves. For a romantic sunset, the Sunset Cruise is hard to beat.
Active travelers or snorkelers should look at the Medes Islands trip, while those curious about marine life and caves might prefer the Underwater Views tour. Remember to book early during peak season, as these trips fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Roses offers a wonderful array of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. If you want a quick, family-friendly adventure, the Cap Norfeu cruise is a great choice. For those seeking a more comprehensive day with food included, the Cap de Creus trip stands out. And for unforgettable sunsets or underwater discoveries, the other tours provide just the right mix.
We recommend booking your preferred trip early, especially in summer, to secure your spot and enjoy the magic of sailing along Spain’s stunning Costa Brava. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or romance, Roses has a sailing experience that will make your trip truly memorable.