L’Estartit: Snorkeling in the Medes Islands

L’Estartit: Snorkeling in the Medes Islands offers an inviting and accessible way to explore one of Catalonia’s most captivating underwater landscapes. For just $38.12 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly 1 hour 45 minute adventure that combines a boat trip with time in the water, encountering colorful fish in a protected marine reserve. The tour departs from Carrer de la Platja, 8 in L’Estartit, a charming coastal town about 30 km from Girona, making it a convenient day-trip option.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is — no prior experience needed, and the equipment is provided, including suit, fins, mask, and snorkel. Plus, the knowledgeable guides help ensure everyone feels safe and confident, which is especially important for beginners or those who haven’t snorkeled much before. Another highlight is the remarkable natural setting: the Medes Islands are a protected marine reserve, so you’re in a spot where marine life flourishes and the waters are crystal clear.

A potential consideration is weather dependency — since the activity is outdoors and weather can affect visibility or safety, it’s worth checking the forecast before booking. Also, the activity is capped at 20 travelers, so it’s intimate but might require booking in advance, especially in high season.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, guided introduction to the underwater world without the need for heavy gear or certification. If you enjoy observing marine life in calm, scenic settings, this snorkeling trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Accessible Adventure: No prior snorkeling experience required, equipment included.
• Expert Guides: Guides provide safety instructions and insights, enhancing the experience.
• Natural Beauty: Explore the protected waters of the Medes Islands, home to vibrant marine life.
• Concise Duration: At about 1 hour 45 minutes total, it’s a manageable activity for most day plans.
• Weather Sensitive: The activity depends on good weather conditions for safety and visibility.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 20 participants, ensuring personal attention.

A Closer Look at the Snorkeling Experience in the Medes Islands

Starting Point at Unisub Estartit

We begin at the Unisub diving center, conveniently located in L’Estartit. Here, you’ll be fitted with your snorkeling gear, which includes a wetsuit, fins, mask, and snorkel. The staff is friendly and efficient, making sure everyone has what they need before heading to the boat. This initial step is straightforward — gear fits well, and if you’ve never used a wetsuit before, it’s surprisingly comfortable.

What makes this part enjoyable is the sense of preparation and the friendly atmosphere. You’ll see other travelers getting their gear ready alongside you, all eager to start exploring. Once equipped, we walk to the boat, where our guide (who may be named in your group, though not specified) gives a quick rundown of the activity.

The Boat Trip and Introduction

The boat ride itself offers a relaxed approach to reaching the Medes Islands, with views of the rugged Montgrí coast framing the horizon. The guide explains safety tips, what marine life to expect, and how to behave in the water — important info that boosts confidence, especially for first-timers.

In the Water: Up Close with Marine Life

Once in the water, you’re accompanied by a guide who ensures everyone stays safe and gets the most out of their time. Expect about 50 minutes of snorkeling, during which you’ll glide over the seabed, watching for schools of colorful fish of all sizes and shades. We loved the way the water’s clarity makes it easy to see marine creatures and the textured landscape of the underwater rocks and plants.

One reviewer aptly called it an “excellent site for mask and snorkel,” emphasizing that there’s no need to dive deep with tanks to see the underwater wonders. You can simply float and observe, which makes this accessible to most ages and skill levels.

The Natural Setting & Marine Reserve

The Medes Islands are a protected natural reserve, which means you’re visiting a vibrant, well-preserved ecosystem. The experience feels authentic because the marine life is abundant and diverse, not overcrowded or artificially enhanced. The guide often points out interesting features, helping you identify different fish and underwater formations.

Return and Reflection

After the snorkeling, you’ll return to the boat, and the activity lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes in total, including equipment setup and the boat trip. The whole experience is designed to be enjoyable without feeling rushed or overly structured.

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour starts at Carrer de la Platja, 8, which is near public transportation options, making it easy to reach without a car. The activity concludes at the same meeting point, so no need to worry about logistics afterward.

Booking and Cancellation

Advance booking is recommended, typically 19 days ahead, to secure your spot — especially during high season. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Weather and Safety

Since snorkeling is weather-dependent, a poor forecast might mean cancellation or rescheduling. You’ll be notified promptly, and the operator offers a full refund if the trip is canceled due to weather conditions. Service animals are allowed, which is a thoughtful touch for travelers with support animals.

Who Should Do This?

This experience suits beginners, families, or anyone looking for a gentle introduction to the underwater world of the Medes Islands. It’s ideal if you want a safe, guided experience with minimal equipment hassle. Those interested in a more immersive or extensive underwater adventure might want to consider longer dives or courses.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized snorkeling trip that emphasizes safety, expert guidance, and natural beauty, this activity hits the mark. It’s especially appealing to travelers who appreciate small group settings and want to make the most of a limited time in the area. The presence of knowledgeable guides, combined with the stunning marine environment, makes this a worthwhile addition to your Catalonian itinerary.

This is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging, and authentic introduction to the Mediterranean underwater scene. It’s also a good choice for families or anyone new to snorkeling, thanks to the equipment and guidance provided.

While weather can influence the experience, the overall value — given the price and the chance to see vibrant fish without diving experience — makes this a memorable, worthwhile outing.

FAQs

How long is the snorkeling activity?
The total activity lasts around 1 hour 45 minutes, with approximately 50 minutes spent in the water with your guide.

What equipment is included?
You’ll receive a wetsuit, fins, mask, and snorkel, all provided at the start of the tour.

Is prior snorkeling experience necessary?
No, the tour is suitable for beginners and those who’ve never snorkeled before. Guides assist with safety and technique.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Carrer de la Platja, 8 in L’Estartit, making logistics simple.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What weather conditions are needed?
Good weather is important for safety and visibility. The activity may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 20 travelers to ensure personalized attention and safety.

What is the cost and is it good value?
At $38.12 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience the Medes Islands’ underwater world, especially considering gear and guide included.

Is the tour accessible for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

What do reviewers think?
One Tripadvisor reviewer called it an “excellent site for mask and snorkel,” praising the ease of spotting pretty fish of all sizes and colors.

In essence, this snorkeling tour in L’Estartit offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to connect with the Mediterranean’s Marine life. With a focus on safety, expertise, and natural beauty, it’s an experience that many will find both fun and memorable — especially those new to snorkeling or seeking a relaxing day on the water.