From Roses: Sailing Catamaran Cruise to Medes Islands

Catamaran nets make you feel weightless. This half-day sailing from Roses to the Medes Islands Natural Park turns Costa Brava sea air into the main event, with time to swim and a meal cooked right on board. I especially like the way you sail for real, not just tour from a window, with the sea running beneath you through the nets. I also really enjoy the onboard BBQ and drinks, because you get a full lunch experience without hunting for restaurants.

One drawback to factor in: your swim-and-snorkel time is limited to about two hours at Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa, so it helps to arrive ready to make those hours count.

Key things I’d focus on before you go

• Costa Brava sailing time instead of a rushed land tour
• Medes Islands scenery with great viewpoints from the water
• Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa for swimming and snorkeling in clear water
• BBQ lunch prepared onboard, served while you’re still on the sea
• “Flying” feeling from the nets, with the water passing below you
• Snorkeling gear deposit (plus life jackets for kids and adults)

From Roses Dock to Medes Islands: the catamaran pace that fits

This is a classic Catalonia sea day, built for comfort and time on the water. You start at the Dock of Ginjolers in central Roses, in front of Hotel Ramblamar (153, Av. de Rhode, 17480 Roses, Girona), then you’re transferred onto a comfortable catamaran for a smooth ride out toward the protected Medes area.

The timing matters. With a total 5.5 hours, you’re not trying to do everything in one go. You’re doing the best part, sailing along the coast, seeing the islands from sea level, then stopping long enough to actually swim, snorkel, and relax.

And the vibe is practical. You’re not stuck in one place for long stretches of time. The catamaran moves, you get views as you go, and when you reach the swim stop, you’re positioned to hop in and enjoy yourself.

Sailing past Estartit and the Montgrí massif, with sea-level views

On the way to the Medes Islands, you cruise through the Bay of Roses and along the Costa Brava. This stretch is a big part of the value, because you get a different way of seeing the coastline than you would from the road.

Expect passes by the area of Estartit and the Montgrí massif as the catamaran weaves toward the islands. From a boat, those shapes and cliffs read much faster, and you also notice details like how the shoreline bends where water gets calmer.

One small detail I appreciate is the boat design. You end up spending real time near the waterline, and the experience can feel almost weightless when you’re sitting above the nets and watching the sea slip below. It’s a silly, fun feeling, but it also makes the whole trip feel more connected to the coast.

Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa: your swim-and-snorkel window

The centerpiece stop is about two hours at either Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa (the specific one depends on the sailing). This is where you’ll want to focus, because this is the time you’ll actually be in the water.

The water is described as transparent turquoise, and that tracks with what people look for in this park area. You can swim from the boat and you’ll have snorkeling equipment, which helps you get a closer look at what’s near the surface. You’ll also have deck time to sunbathe, so you’re not spending the entire stop only in the water.

Here’s a reality check: fish-spotting can be inconsistent depending on depth and conditions at your exact spot. If your main goal is lots of visible fish, go in with flexible expectations and plan to enjoy the water and the scenery even if you don’t see a ton. It also helps to use your time smartly, a quick snorkel loop, then a longer swim, then back to the deck.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be fine. Life jackets for children and adults are provided, and the boat setup is designed for easy water access. Just keep an eye on little ones during boarding and getting in and out of the sea.

BBQ lunch onboard: what you eat while you’re still on the water

This is not a bring-your-own-snacks situation. A barbecue lunch is prepared on board, timed for when you’re either settling into the day or right around the main stop. The point is simple: you get a proper meal without leaving the boat, and you eat with sea views.

Here’s what’s included for lunch:

• Various meats including chicken breasts, skewers, and sausages
• Fresh salads such as green salad and Russian salad
• Bread
• Watermelon for dessert

Drinks are also part of the experience. You’ll have soft drinks and water throughout the whole trip, plus wine from the region (red, rosé, and white) and sangria during the meal. Mineral water is also available.

Two tips for getting the most out of this section:

1. Pace yourself. The combo of sun, salt air, and wine or sangria can sneak up. If you’re snorkeling, go easy on the alcohol first.
2. If you have dietary needs, bring it up early. There can be options beyond the standard BBQ, but the exact alternative can vary by what the boat is set up to serve that day.

Snorkeling gear, nets, and comfort tips that actually help

This trip includes snorkeling equipment, but there’s a €10 deposit. So plan to have what you need for the deposit when you board. You’ll also want to check that you’re comfortable with the gear before jumping in, even if you’re an experienced snorkeler.

The catamaran setup is part of the charm. The nets under you create that floating, playful sensation, and it also shapes where you naturally sit while waiting to swim. It’s a fun design feature, but it’s also practical: it gives you a place to relax while the sea goes by.

Comfort matters because you’re outside for most of the day. Bring or plan for:

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Swimsuit and a plan for getting dry afterward
• A quick way to protect your phone or valuables, since you’ll be near splash zones

Also, know the payment rules if you’re planning ahead. Only card payments are accepted on board, and American Express isn’t accepted. That matters if you’re the person who prefers to pay for extras with whatever card is in your wallet.

Price and value: is $66 really worth it?

At $66 per person, this is in the “reasonable treat” category for the Costa Brava. What makes it feel fair is that you’re not paying just for transportation. Your money goes toward the catamaran ride, the Medes Islands stop, swimming/snorkeling gear, and a meal.

Here’s what’s included that you’d otherwise spend separately:

• BBQ lunch with meat, salads, bread, and watermelon
• Drinks during the meal (wine, sangria) plus soft drinks and water throughout
• Snorkeling equipment (with a deposit)
• Life jackets for kids and adults
• A live guide in Spanish, English, and French

In other words, the price isn’t just about seeing the islands. It’s about getting a full half-day experience that replaces a restaurant meal with something more fun, eaten at sea level.

Where value can drop slightly is when you compare time expectations. The swim stop is about two hours, so you’re paying for a highlight, not a full-day snorkeling expedition. If you’re dreaming of long underwater time, you may feel the clock.

Still, for most people, this length is the sweet spot. It’s long enough to swim, relax, and eat, but short enough that you don’t feel fried by the end of it.

Who should book this Medes Islands catamaran, and who shouldn’t

This cruise is a strong fit if you want:

• Sea views and sailing time out of Roses, not just a quick photo stop
• A convenient way to reach the Medes Islands Natural Park without driving yourself
• A day where lunch and drinks come to you, so you can stay in holiday mode
• A family-friendly setup with life jackets provided

It might be less ideal if your priority is quiet or ultra-controlled timing. Boat experiences can vary by group mood, and the trip’s schedule is built around getting everyone in and out smoothly. If you’re sensitive to noise or you really dislike waiting, plan to board promptly and bring the same patience you’d use at a busy beach.

Also, if you have very specific snorkeling goals, remember visibility depends on where you stop and local conditions. This is a swim-and-snorkel day with real access, but not a guarantee of seeing lots of wildlife from every angle.

Quick checklist before you go

A few details can make or break the comfort of a boat day like this:

• Bring your swimsuit and plan for sun exposure
• Pack sun protection and something you can use for shade on deck
• If you plan to snorkel, bring a calm mindset and focus on the water itself
• Use a card for anything you might need to pay onboard, since American Express isn’t accepted
• Expect about two hours at Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa, then get ready for the return sail

Should you book this Roses to Medes Islands catamaran?

If you’re choosing between a beach day and a boat day, I’d lean toward this one. The value is in the combination: Costa Brava sailing, a true stop at the Medes Islands, easy water time at either Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa, and an onboard BBQ with drinks that keeps the day simple.

Book it if you want an efficient half-day that feels like a real sea outing. Skip it or reconsider if you need a longer snorkeling session or you dislike any chance of a lively onboard atmosphere.

FAQ

How long is the Roses to Medes Islands sailing cruise?

The trip lasts 5.5 hours in total, and you can check availability to see the starting times.

Where do I meet the tour in Roses?

You meet at the Dock of Ginjolers, in the center of Roses, in front of Hotel Ramblamar (153, Av. de Rhode, 17480 Roses, Girona).

What’s included in the BBQ lunch and drinks?

A barbecue lunch is included, featuring meats (chicken breasts, skewers, and sausages), fresh salads (green salad and Russian salad) with bread, and watermelon for dessert. Drinks included are soft drinks, water (with and without gas), and regional wine (red, rosé, and white), plus sangria during the meal.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided. There is a €10 deposit required.

What languages does the live guide speak?

The live tour guide is available in Spanish, English, and French.

Can I cancel, and what payment methods are accepted onboard?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. On board, only card payments are accepted, and American Express is not accepted.