The Costa Brava looks different from nets and sun deck. This 5.5-hour catamaran trip from Roses turns the Medes Islands Natural Park into a swim-and-sail day with a BBQ lunch onboard and drinks on the water. Two things I really like: the chance to see the coastline from the sea, and the mix of calm sailing plus real time in the turquoise shallows.

One thing to consider: the day’s rhythm moves fast. With a limited time at the islands, you’ll want to show up ready to swim, not just watch the view for hours.

Medes Islands scenery on a smooth catamaran

Two swimming stops (Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa), about 2 hours

BBQ lunch onboard with wine, rosé, sangria, and watermelon

Snorkeling gear included with a €10 deposit

Life jackets provided for kids and adults

Roses to the Medes Islands on a 5.5-Hour Catamaran

If you want a day on the water that feels more like a vacation than a schedule, this one works. You start in Roses, sail along the Costa Brava, and spend your main island time in the Medes Islands Natural Park. The pace is relaxed: sailing time to enjoy the coast, then a dedicated swim window, then lunch, then back to port.

The value here is the combination. Many half-day trips offer a view. This one gives you both time in the water and a proper meal while you’re still at sea. At $66 per person, that’s a fair price when you factor in lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment (even with the deposit).

Getting to the Boat: Dock of Ginjolers, Right in Roses

Plan to keep it simple. The meeting point is the Dock of Ginjolers, in the center of Roses, in front of Hotel Ramblamar. The address is 153 Av. de Rhode, 17480 Roses, Girona.

This matters because you don’t want to burn your short trip hunting for the right dock. If you’re arriving by foot, aim to get there early enough to park your brain and wait comfortably. The tour runs for only 5.5 hours, so every minute you’re moving matters.

First Leg Sailing: Bay of Roses to the Costa Brava Coastline

Once you’re aboard, you glide through the Bay of Roses and out along the Costa Brava. From a catamaran, the coast tends to look more open and airy than from shore. You can also enjoy that unique “sea view from a different height” feeling as you move.

You’ll sail past the lookouts and scenery that make this area famous. The route includes sights of the village of Estartit and the Montgrí massif, which helps break up the day so it’s not just one long stretch of water.

And yes, the boat design makes you feel a bit connected to the sea. With the water running below you through the nets, it can feel like the sea is part of the floor.

Medes Islands Stop: Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa (About Two Hours)

Here’s the heart of the day: a stop at Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa for swimming and sunbathing. You get about 2 hours in that window, which is just enough time to do what you came for without feeling rushed.

Cala Montgó and Illa Pedrosa are known for clear, bright water, and the trip leans into that. You can swim, relax on deck, and use the snorkeling gear if you brought it with deposit rules handled (more on that next).

A realistic note: underwater visibility depends on conditions, and not every area is equally deep. In one case people found the water too shallow to see much through the snorkeling time. If fish visibility is your top goal, focus on where the crew directs you and be willing to adjust your expectations if the water is shallower than you hoped.

Snorkeling Gear: Included, but You Need to Plan for the €10 Deposit

Snorkeling equipment is included, but there’s a €10 deposit. That means you should be ready with the right payment method for the deposit when you pick up gear. (You’ll also want to read up on what kind of card you plan to use, since the boat accepts cards only; American Express isn’t accepted.)

The main advantage of having gear included is that you don’t have to bring your own set for such a short day. It also keeps the barrier low for beginners. If you can swim comfortably, you’ll likely have a good time.

What I’d watch for is how you approach the water. This isn’t a scuba excursion where you’re going far below. You’re snorkeling in open water near the island stop, and that means you should swim at an easy pace, keep an eye on where you’re entering, and remember that your time is limited.

The Floating BBQ: What You Actually Eat and Drink Onboard

This trip earns its reputation with the onboard meal. The BBQ lunch includes chicken breasts, skewers, and sausages. You’ll also get fresh salads like green salad and Russian salad, plus bread. Dessert is watermelon.

Drinks are part of the deal during lunch. You’ll have soft drinks and water (with and without gas), and you’ll also get regional red, rosé, and white wine, plus sangria during the lunch period. Mineral water is available throughout the trip.

That lineup is practical for a day trip crowd. You’re not stuck with only one heavy option, and the watermelon at the end helps cool you down after sun and salt.

One consideration: if you’re picky about food or eat a vegetarian style, be aware that the main BBQ lineup is built around meats and salads. In the feedback you can see that at least some people had vegetarian options, but the vegetarian burger wasn’t a hit for everyone. If you have strong dietary needs, it’s smart to confirm what vegetarian choices look like for your specific sailing date.

Sea Time Magic: Nets, Sun Deck, and the Calm Rhythm of a Catamaran

A catamaran changes the feel of “time on the water.” The motion tends to be steadier than a single-hull boat, which helps when you’re staying out for a half day. When the sea passes beneath you from the nets, it adds a cool sensation that’s hard to recreate from shore.

This part sounds small, but it’s actually why the experience feels memorable. You’re not just sitting. You’re floating with changing views. You can shift between deck sun and shaded spots, and if you want to swim, you’re already close to the water.

And because the schedule includes actual downtime, it’s a nice reset if you’ve been bouncing between towns.

Who This Trip Suits Best (And Who Might Want a Different Plan)

This is a strong fit for people who want a day that balances sightseeing with swimming. If you like the Costa Brava but don’t want to rent a boat or manage your own timing, this gives you structure: sail out, island swim time, BBQ lunch, sail back.

It also works well for families thanks to the provided life jackets for children and adults. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s worth noting there’s at least some indication in the feedback that children up to 6 may be free, which can make the price feel especially reasonable.

It might be less ideal if you want lots of snorkeling time underwater, because the day is built around a short swim window rather than extended underwater exploration. It’s also less ideal if you hate meal plans on tours and need highly specific diets.

Price and Value: Why $66 Can Make Sense Here

Let’s talk value without sugarcoating it. $66 per person is not cheap, but it’s not just for a pretty boat ride either.

You’re getting:

• A catamaran day trip from Roses to the Medes area
• BBQ lunch with meats, salads, bread, and watermelon
• Drinks including water, soft drinks, wine, and sangria during lunch
• Snorkeling equipment with a €10 deposit
• Life jackets

If you were to pay separately for boat access, a guide, lunch, and gear, the total adds up fast. Here, the cost feels more efficient because the essentials are bundled.

The only catch is your comfort with the day’s pace. If you need more time on the islands or you’re chasing long snorkeling sessions, you may feel like the schedule moves quickly.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day at Sea

Here’s how to make the day easier on yourself:

Bring swim gear mindset even if you’re not a hardcore swimmer. Plan on changing plans fast once you’re at the water. The island stop is the moment to get in quickly, especially since you only have about 2 hours.

Use sun protection. You’ll be in daylight for a good stretch: sailing plus deck time plus swimming.

Pack light but smart. You’ll want an easy place for your phone and valuables during swimming. The tour includes snorkeling gear, but that doesn’t mean you want to carry extra stuff you’ll regret later.

Payment tip: onboard you’ll use cards only, and American Express isn’t accepted. So have a Visa or Mastercard ready.

If you’re arriving hungry, you’ll likely have time between boarding and lunch. The meal is part of the schedule, so don’t assume you’ll snack beforehand unless you plan to.

Should You Book This Catamaran to the Medes Islands?

Yes, if your goal is a half-day mix of sailing, Medes Islands scenery, and real swim time with a BBQ lunch and drinks included. I’d book it if you want a straightforward Costa Brava experience that doesn’t require planning a boat rental or navigating your own day.

Skip it or choose another option if:

• You’re expecting long, deep snorkeling sessions
• Your food needs are highly specific and you can’t count on what’s cooked on the BBQ
• You dislike tours where the day moves quickly and the island stop is limited

FAQ

What is the duration of the Roses to Medes Islands sailing trip?

It lasts 5.5 hours.

What is included in the price?

You get a BBQ lunch, drinks during lunch, water and soft drinks during the whole trip, snorkeling equipment (with a €10 deposit), and life jackets for both children and adults.

Where do I meet the tour?

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

Where will we swim?

You’ll stop at either Cala Montgó or Illa Pedrosa for swimming and sunbathing.

What does the BBQ lunch include?

It includes chicken breasts, skewers, sausages, fresh salads (green salad and Russian salad) with bread, and watermelon for dessert.

What drinks are offered?

Soft drinks and water (with and without gas) are included, plus regional red, rosé, and white wine, and sangria during lunch/dinner.

Can I pay with American Express on board?

No. Only card payments are accepted on board, and American Express is not accepted.

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