9 Best Boat Trips for Families on the Costa Brava

You’ll find Costa Brava’s best family boat trips combine safety with adventure, from snorkeling expeditions to the protected Medes Islands (€35) to budget-friendly catamarans departing Roses with onboard toilets and shaded decks (€17-30). Private boats from L’Escala reach hidden coves in 45 minutes, while sunset cruises offer memorable photo opportunities. Most operators provide child life jackets, non-slip surfaces, and professional crews for ages 7-85. These carefully selected adventures reveal why families consistently rate Costa Brava’s marine experiences so highly.

Private Boat Adventure From L’escala to Montgrí Natural Park

When you set sail from L’Escala’s protected harbor, you’ll discover why this coastal town serves as the perfect gateway to the Montgrí Natural Park and Medes Islands. Your family can reach stunning destinations like Cala Pedrosa in just 45 minutes, where kids can swim to the accessible island.

The protected Medes archipelago lies 50 minutes away, offering incredible underwater viewing opportunities through crystal-clear waters. The 7 islands that make up this protected natural park provide an unforgettable experience for families exploring the marine environment.

You’ll need to follow strict environmental regulations—use only the provided free mooring buoys and maintain 3-knot speeds near the islands. Don’t anchor at protected coves like Cala Ferriol or Cala Montgó.

These waters suit unlicensed boats perfectly, staying sheltered from rough conditions. Pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and binoculars for wildlife spotting along this emblematic Costa Brava route.

Private Boat Tours From Calella De Palafrugell to Hidden Coves

From Calella de Palafrugell’s Port Pelegrí beach, you’ll set out on a completely different coastal adventure that showcases some of Costa Brava’s most secluded gems. Your private boat tour, accommodating up to 22 passengers with professional crew, explores hidden coves like Cala Marquesa and Cala Estreta that are practically inaccessible by land.

You’ll cruise between dramatic cliffs toward Aigua Xelida or south to Platja del Castell, depending on sea conditions. The tramuntana winds dictate your route, but experienced operators like Poseidon Calella adapt itineraries for safety.

Your family can customize everything from duration—starting at 70 minutes—to onboard activities and catering. The crystal-clear waters provide exceptional visibility for spotting marine life throughout your journey.

These protected coves offer perfect swim stops in turquoise waters, while the Formigues Islands provide excellent snorkeling opportunities away from crowded beaches.

Catamaran Cruise From Roses to Cap Norfeu and Cadaqués

Since you’re looking for a longer family adventure with comfortable amenities, this 3.5-hour catamaran cruise from Roses delivers the perfect blend of coastal exploration and onboard relaxation.

You’ll sail along the stunning coastline to Cap Norfeu and Cadaqués, with swimming stops at protected coves like Racó de l’Home or Cala Canadell.

The spacious catamaran accommodates 100 passengers and features shaded seating, toilets, and a cafeteria—essential for families with young children.

Pricing remains budget-friendly: adults pay 30€, children 7-14 cost 15€, and kids under 7 sail free.

Snorkeling equipment’s available with a 10€ deposit.

The vessel provides life jackets, drinking water, and fun floats for safe swimming. The friendly staff create a relaxed atmosphere that solo travelers and families alike consistently praise in their reviews.

Operating June through September, you’ll only pay by card onboard.

Snorkeling Expedition From L’estartit to Les Illes Medes

While most Costa Brava boat trips focus on scenic coastlines, this snorkeling expedition from L’Estartit takes your family beneath the waves to explore one of the Mediterranean’s most protected marine reserves.

You’ll depart from Pg. Marítim port for a 15-minute boat ride to Les Illes Medes mooring buoys. The tour accommodates families with children aged 7-85, providing full snorkeling gear including wetsuits and flotation aids.

Professional guides guarantee safety with small groups of maximum 20 people.

During your hour underwater, you’ll spot groupers, octopuses, barracudas, and colorful fish schools in crystal-clear waters. The 1h30 basic tour includes briefing and equipment fitting, while the 2h30 eco-version adds detailed marine education. At €35 per person, the experience includes all equipment and the Marine Reserve tax.

Summer departures run at 13h00, returning by 14h30. Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in.

Budget-Friendly Family Boat Trips With Baby-Friendly Features

Exploring the Costa Brava with babies doesn’t require breaking your holiday budget, as numerous operators offer gentle coastal cruises designed specifically for families with infants. CheckYeti lists 23 baby-suitable tours from 17–30€ per person, featuring stable catamarans and glass-bottom boats with stroller-accessible boarding ramps.

You’ll find wide, shaded decks perfect for naps, plus onboard toilets for essential nappy changes. These short 1.5–3 hour cruises follow sheltered routes around Roses and Lloret de Mar, minimizing motion and sun exposure.

Look for operators advertising quiet daytime sailings without party music, complete with child life jackets and non-slip surfaces. Most trips maintain high ratings above 4.7/5, indicating strong family satisfaction with safety standards and entertainment quality.

Save money with free infant tickets (under 2-3 years) and flexible 24-hour cancellation policies that accommodate unpredictable baby schedules.

Scenic Coastal Journey From Palamós to Calella De Palafrugell

For families seeking a more adventurous coastal experience beyond gentle harbor cruises, the scenic journey from Palamós to Calella de Palafrugell offers breathtaking views and cultural discovery along one of Costa Brava’s most dramatic stretches.

You’ll cruise aboard classic wooden vessels with expert skippers who provide commentary in multiple languages while ensuring complete safety with life vests and accessible options.

The 8.5-kilometer route takes approximately three hours, stopping at iconic spots like Platja del Castell’s ancient Iberian ruins and Cala S’Alguer’s traditional fishermen’s cottages.

Your family can swim in crystalline waters, try paddleboarding, and learn about local maritime culture. The crew shares fascinating stories about pirate stories, marine biology, and the geological formations that shaped this stunning coastline.

Starting at €40 per person with free 24-hour cancellation, this adventure combines education with excitement for unforgettable family memories.

Sunset Boat Excursions Perfect for Young Children

As daylight softens into evening hues, sunset boat excursions provide the perfect introduction to Costa Brava’s maritime adventures for families with young children.

The Medes Islands Sunset Trip from Estartit welcomes children from age four, offering a gentle 1h30 journey with qualified skippers and full insurance coverage. You’ll enjoy tranquil natural park views while little ones sip juice and adults toast with cava.

For longer adventures, Platja d’Aro’s 2-hour sailboat excursion includes swimming stops and champagne service.

Meanwhile, Lloret de Mar’s energetic catamaran cruise features DJ entertainment and up to five drinks.

The Roses Bay tour provides a perfect 1.5-hour family option with music and refreshments. Guests receive sunset photos to preserve their memorable moments from the cruise.

All excursions prioritize safety with professional crews and appropriate equipment for young passengers.

Half-Day Island Hopping Adventures Under 30 EUR

Budget-conscious families can discover Costa Brava’s stunning island archipelagos without breaking the bank, as glass-bottom catamaran tours to the Medes Islands marine reserve start from just €18–€28 per adult for 2.5–3.5 hour adventures.

You’ll circle all seven Medes islets with underwater viewing stops over seagrass meadows and rocky reefs teeming with groupers and colorful fish shoals.

These family-friendly vessels feature shaded decks, toilets, snack bars, and calm speeds perfect for children. Many operators include brief swimming or snorkeling stops during summer while maintaining half-day schedules that work around naps and mealtimes. Tours consistently earn excellent ratings of 4.7 to 4.9 out of 5 from satisfied families.

Multiple daily departures run from May through September, departing from convenient hubs like L’Estartit, Roses, and Lloret.

Children often receive 30–50% discounts, making total family costs markedly lower than full-day alternatives.

Multi-Activity Boat Trips Combining Swimming and Cave Exploration

When you’re ready to step beyond simple sightseeing tours, multi-activity boat trips offer the perfect blend of coastal exploration and hands-on adventure that’ll keep every family member engaged. Costa Brava’s cave-and-swim excursions combine marine cave viewing with snorkeling stops in sheltered coves, making them ideal for mixed-age groups.

From Roses, you’ll explore Cap Norfeu and Tamariu Cave aboard family-friendly vessels with safety equipment and easy sea access.

L’Estartit and L’Escala offer trips through Illes Medes Natural Park, where you can swim inside protected marine reserves after viewing underwater formations through glass-bottom sections. These excursions provide excellent opportunities to observe marine wildlife including fish, tuna, and dolphins in their natural habitat.

These 3-6 hour adventures feature stable platforms, shaded decks, and flexible itineraries that adapt to sea conditions and group preferences, ensuring safe, educational fun for everyone.

The Sum Up

You’ll create unforgettable memories exploring Costa Brava’s stunning coastline with these family-friendly boat adventures. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, snacks, and seasickness remedies for younger travelers. Always check weather conditions before booking and guarantee your chosen operator provides proper safety equipment. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options or luxurious private tours, these coastal excursions offer something special for every family. Book early during peak season and prepare for an incredible Mediterranean adventure your kids won’t stop talking about.