From Roses: Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus

Roses: Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus offers a relaxing way to explore the spectacular coast of Catalonia. For around $64 per person, you’ll spend 5.5 hours aboard the “Magic” catamaran, sailing past iconic sights like Cadaqués and Port Lligat, home of Gaudí’s influence, and stopping in secluded coves like Cala Culip for swimming and sunbathing. The experience balances scenic views, gentle sailing, and leisure, making it an appealing choice for those craving a laid-back day on the water.

What we love are the opportunities to relax in an exclusive environment that’s only reachable by boat, and the delicious barbecue served onboard. Both add a sense of special indulgence to the trip, making it feel more like a special treat than just another boat tour. On the downside, some guests mention that the boat’s condition can vary, and there’s limited access to the toilets, which might matter on longer days or for more comfort-focused travelers.

This tour suits those who enjoy scenic sailing, swimming, and good food in a relaxed setting. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even on your own, and want to experience Costa Brava from the water with minimal fuss, this cruise offers a friendly, informal way to soak up the natural beauty.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Sail along Costa Brava, passing iconic spots like Cadaqués and Port Lligat.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Free snorkeling gear and crystal-clear waters invite you to explore underwater life.
• Gourmet Barbecue: Enjoy a hearty onboard lunch of meats, salads, bread, and fresh watermelon.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Lounge on comfortable nets or cushions, feeling like you’re flying above the water.
• Authentic Experience: Small group, friendly crew, and stunning scenery provide a genuine, stress-free outing.
• Variable Boat Condition: Some reviews note broken or outdated equipment, so manage expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Roses Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus

Setting Sail from Roses

We start our day at the Ginjolers dock in Roses, a charming seaside town in Catalonia. The departure point is straightforward, behind the Ramblamar Hotel, and arriving about 15 minutes early ensures we’re ready for a smooth start. The vessel, the “Magic,” is a modern-looking catamaran that promises comfort, although a few reviews hint that the boat’s condition can vary—some recent comments mention broken things or maintenance issues. While this might give you pause, it seems most passengers still find the trip enjoyable, focusing more on the scenery and experience than onboard amenities.

The Itinerary: Coastline and Coveted Stops

Once underway, the crew gently guides the boat along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the spectacular Costa Brava. We pass by solitary coves lined with pine trees, dramatic cliffs, and rocky formations—every turn offers a postcard-worthy scene. The route includes passing by Cadaqués, a town famous for its artistic heritage, and Port Lligat, where Gaudí’s house is located. This is a highlight for many, as the coastline is truly striking, with jagged rocks and shimmering waters.

The boat stops in either Cala Culip or Cala Guillola, where we anchor for swimming and snorkeling. The water in these spots is known for its incredible clarity and turquoise hue—perfect for a refreshing dip. The snorkel gear, provided for free with a small deposit, allows exploration of the seabed, revealing a glimpse of marine life that’s often hidden from land.

What Makes the Experience Special

The main attraction here is the chance to relax in a private-like environment, only accessible by boat. You can lie back on the wide nets at the bow, feeling as if you’re flying over the water, or stretch out on cushions. The crew is friendly and attentive, and they serve a delicious barbecue on board—think grilled chicken, skewers, sausage, plus fresh salads, bread, and juicy watermelon. During lunch, an assortment of drinks is available, including wine from nearby wineries, sangria, mineral water, and soft drinks.

One reviewer, Olga, praised the crew as “amazing,” noting their fun attitude and good service. She suggested a little more fruit at the end, which indicates the focus on good food and friendly service is appreciated. Another passenger, Annemijn, enjoyed the music and the scenic views, highlighting the importance of group atmosphere and the flexibility of the cruise’s timing.

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Potential Drawbacks

While the trip is generally well-received, some reviews mention issues worth considering. Carl, for example, pointed out that the boat was in poor condition with broken parts, which could be bothersome if you’re expecting pristine facilities. The toilets are limited and not very accessible, which might be an issue for some travelers, especially on longer stops or with young children.

Plus, weather can impact the experience. A cloudy or windy day might mean needing warmer clothes or fewer opportunities for swimming, as one reviewer noted. The departure times are usually around 9:30 AM, with the return around 1:15 PM, so it’s a good idea to plan your day accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic day away from crowded beaches or busy sightseeing. It’s especially fun for those who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, good food, and casual sailing. Families, couples, or groups of friends will find the environment friendly and relaxing. If you appreciate a bit of local flavor, natural beauty, and a friendly crew, this experience is a solid choice.

Pricing and Value

At $64 per person, the tour offers a reasonable price for the length of the trip, especially considering the included barbecue, snorkeling gear, drinks, and the scenic sailing. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it’s a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty with leisure. The fact that drinks during lunch are free adds to the value, making it feel like a good deal for a half-day adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

In essence, this sailing trip is best suited for those who love coastal scenery, relaxing on the water, and good company. It’s a straightforward but charming way to explore Costa Brava’s famed coastline, with enough time to swim and enjoy a hearty meal. If you’re looking for a stress-free, authentic experience that combines natural beauty with friendly service, this cruise fits the bill.

However, if you need top-notch boat conditions or luxury amenities, you might want to consider other options. Still, for a good value and a chance to see some of the most beautiful parts of Catalonia from a different perspective, this cruise is hard to beat.

FAQs

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy sailing, swimming, and relaxing onboard.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the barbecue lunch and drinks, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and water/soft drinks throughout the trip.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for both children and adults, with life jackets provided for all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket if you’re sensitive to wind or cooler weather. The boat has limited toilet access, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Weather can impact the trip; a windy or cloudy day might reduce swimming opportunities and could affect the boat’s comfort. The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in poor conditions.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The tour is offered in Spanish, English, and French, ensuring most travelers can comfortably follow along.

Do I need to pay onboard?
All payments are made via card onboard; cash is not accepted, so remember your credit or debit card.

To sum it up, the Roses Catamaran Cruise to Cap de Creus offers a laid-back, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience Costa Brava’s coastline. It balances natural beauty with good food and a friendly crew, making it a delightful half-day escape. While some minor boat condition issues have been noted, most travelers find the relaxed atmosphere and stunning views well worth it—especially if you’re after an authentic, informal adventure on the water. Perfect for those who love sunbathing, swimming, and sampling local wines in a tranquil setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: