L’Estartit: Boat Trip to the Medes Islands and the NP Caves

Exploring the Medes Islands and NP Caves with a Boat Trip from L’Estartit

Taking a boat trip to the Medes Islands and the Natural Park’s caves is one of those experiences that promises a blend of scenic beauty, marine discovery, and authentic maritime charm. This particular tour, offered by Excursions Maritimes Nuria, combines a short but sweet 1.5-hour journey aboard a historic Catalan fishing boat with plenty of opportunities to see the area’s stunning coastline, explore hidden caves, and even enjoy a splash in the clear waters.

What makes this trip stand out for us is the intimate atmosphere aboard the Nuria, a boat built in 1942 that still retains its traditional character. The limited group size of just 20 passengers creates a cozy, friendly vibe that’s perfect for soaking in the views without feeling crowded. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s duration is quite brief, so if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration, you might want to consider longer options.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, appreciate authentic maritime charm, and want a quick, manageable adventure that covers some of the best sights of the Costa Brava. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the area’s natural beauty, this trip offers good value, especially with its unique features like the glass-bottom sections.

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Key Points

• Authentic Experience: The Nuria boat, built in 1942, offers a genuine maritime feeling ideal for small groups.
• Scenic Views & Photo Opportunities: Expect plenty of picturesque moments overlooking the coastline, caves, and islands.
• Underwater Discovery: The glass-bottom sections give a peek into the underwater world of the Natural Reserve.
• Swim Option: From June to September, you can enjoy a 10-minute swim in the clear waters, perfect for marine life spotting.
• Ideal for Short Visits: The 1.5-hour duration makes it a flexible addition to your day without requiring a huge time commitment.
• Friendly Guides: The live guides speak several languages (Catalan, English, Spanish, French), making the information accessible and engaging.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point: Espigó de Llevant

The adventure begins at Port de l’Estartit, specifically at the Espigó de Llevant. The departure point is easy to find—just follow Passeig Marítim to the end, where you’ll see a small playground and an information kiosk. From there, turning right past the kiosks leads you to the harbor, where the boat “Nuria” awaits, marked clearly with a white board reading “BARCA NURIA” in red. Expect to arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in comfortably.

The Boat: An Authentic Catalan Fishing Vessel

The Nuria is a charming vessel with character, being built over 80 years ago. Its traditional design offers an authentic feel that enhances the maritime experience. Seating is limited to 20 passengers, which means you’ll enjoy a personalized journey filled with friendly chatter and localized insights from guides. The boat features strategically placed glass panels on the floor, designed for underwater viewing—an element that surprises many guests, as it allows you to “peek” beneath the water without getting wet.

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The Itinerary: From Coastline to Caves

The tour includes several stops and scenic drives that showcase the natural beauty of the region.

Stop 1: Montgri Natural Park

Your journey begins with a scenic drive around Montgri, known for its rugged cliffs and lush landscapes. This is a great chance to snap photos of the coastline and enjoy panoramic views. Guides often point out interesting geological features and local fauna, adding depth to the experience.

Stop 2: Visiting Caves and Coveseas

Along the way, you’ll visit some of the caves and coves within the Natural Park. These hidden gems are often quiet, especially in spring and autumn, providing a more private feel compared to busy summer months. The boat ride itself offers spectacular views of the coastline, with plenty of scenic spots to take photos.

Stop 3: The Medes Islands

The highlight for many is the visit to the Medes Islands. Known for their underwater richness, these islands are a designated Natural Park, and the cruise offers a walk around the islands, where you can admire the rugged terrain and possibly spot local marine life through the glass-bottom sections. You also get a chance for marine life viewing, which is especially popular with families and those interested in underwater ecosystems.

Swimming in the Natural Park

Between June and September, weather permitting, the tour includes a 10-minute swim in the crystal-clear waters of Montgri’s bays. This is a fantastic opportunity to cool off and observe the vibrant marine life that thrives just beneath the surface. Guests from previous trips mention that the water is “vibrant” and that the experience “really connects you to the biodiversity of the Mediterranean.” Be sure to bring your swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim.

Authentic, Intimate Experience

One reviewer mentions that “Maggy said it was a magical moment,” highlighting how special this small-group boat ride can feel. The guides speak multiple languages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the commentary and learn about the local geology, history, and marine environment.

The Value of this Tour

At only $26 per person, the price point for this experience is quite attractive, especially considering the inclusions like the glass-bottom boat, scenic stops, and the potential for swimming. Since it lasts about 1.5 hours, it works well as a quick addition to a day exploring the Costa Brava or as a standalone experience for those with limited time.

It’s worth noting that the tour is flexible in terms of booking and cancellation—cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance, which provides peace of mind when planning your trip.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early—about 15 minutes before departure for smooth boarding.
• Bring sunscreen, hat, or sunglasses, especially during the summer months.
• If you want to swim, pack your swimsuit, towel, and possibly waterproof shoes for rocky areas.
• The boat’s limited size creates an intimate atmosphere, so consider booking in advance.
• Guides speak several languages, but feel free to ask questions for a richer experience.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as the trip depends on good weather conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a short, scenic excursion that combines stunning coastline views with a touch of marine discovery. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy authentic maritime experiences without the need for a full-day commitment. If you’re interested in photography, the vistas along the coast and the caves provide ample opportunities for memorable shots.

Those with a curiosity for marine life will appreciate the glass-bottom feature, especially if they want a quick, visual peek beneath the sea without diving gear. It’s also a good choice for travelers visiting in spring, autumn, or summer when the coves are quieter and the water warmer.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from L’Estartit offers a genuinely charming way to see some of Catalonia’s most beautiful coastal sights. For just over an hour and a half, you get a mix of scenic views, marine life glimpses, and a taste of traditional maritime culture aboard a historic vessel. The inclusion of a glass-bottom section and optional swimming makes it engaging for a variety of interests, adding a layer of interactivity that many short tours lack.

While it’s not a comprehensive deep dive into the area’s natural wonders, it provides a well-balanced snapshot perfect for those with limited time or looking for a relaxing, authentic outing. The small group size and friendly guides help create an experience that feels personal rather than commercialized.

If your travel plans include the Costa Brava and you enjoy scenic, quick excursions with authentic charm and spectacular views, this boat trip to the Medes Islands and NP Caves should definitely be on your radar.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a scenic boat ride aboard the Nuria, a historic Catalan fishing vessel, with glass-bottom sections for underwater viewing. It also features stops at natural parks and caves, with guided commentary in multiple languages.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 1.5 hours, making it a short but memorable outing suitable for fitting into a day of exploring the Costa Brava.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, from June to September, weather conditions allowing, you’ll enjoy a 10-minute swim opportunity in the clear waters of Montgri’s bays. Remember to bring your swimsuit and towel.

Where do I meet the boat?
Start at Port de l’Estartit, specifically at Espigó de Llevant. The boat is located at the beginning of the harbor, marked clearly with “BARCA NURIA.”

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy the boat ride and the chance to see marine life through the glass-bottom panels. The intimate size and relaxed pace make it family-friendly.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and, if planning to swim, your swimsuit, towel, and waterproof shoes if preferred for rocky areas. Also, arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process.

This boat trip from L’Estartit offers a compact yet rich experience, perfect for travelers wanting the essence of the Mediterranean’s natural beauty in a manageable timeframe. With its combination of scenic vistas, marine exploration, and authentic vessel charm, it’s a charming way to add a touch of maritime magic to your Costa Brava visit.

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