L’Estartit: Medes Islands Cruise with Guided Snorkeling

If you’re looking for a way to combine boating, snorkeling, and stunning scenery in Catalonia, the Medes Islands cruise from L’Estartit might just be what you need. This 2-hour tour promises a chance to explore the protected waters of the Medes Island marine reserve, with plenty of opportunities to spot marine creatures and take memorable photos of the seven islands. While it’s a short outing, it offers enough depth to satisfy both casual beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

What we particularly like about this experience is the seamless blend of guided snorkeling in a protected marine environment and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular island views from the boat. The boat itself features a glass bottom, which means even non-swimmers or those who prefer staying dry can still catch glimpses of the underwater world. The relaxed pace and friendly guides make it accessible for a variety of travelers, though the activity’s dependence on sea conditions might cause occasional cancellations or delays.

This tour suits travelers who love nature and want a straightforward, affordable way to get close to the Mediterranean’s vibrant marine life. If you’re after a quick, well-organized adventure that balances active snorkeling with scenic cruising, this could be a perfect choice. However, travelers seeking a full-day experience or more extensive underwater exploration might want to look for longer tours or combined excursions.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect spectacular vistas of each of the 7 islands in the marine reserve.
• Guided Snorkeling: Know where to look for marine life with expert guidance, increasing chances of seeing species like groupers and seabreams.
• Glass Bottom Viewing: Enjoy marine life even without getting wet, thanks to the boat’s glass bottom.
• Relaxed Pace: The 2-hour tour includes free time on board to soak up the sun and take photos.
• Comfortable Boat: The vessel is well-equipped and designed for both sightseeing and snorkeling.
• Weather Dependence: The activity can be affected by sea conditions, so check availability and weather forecasts.

This tour offers a rare peek into the thriving underwater world of the Medes Islands, one of Spain’s most protected marine parks. We loved the way the guides help identify marine species, making the underwater interactions educational but fun. The waters here are crystal-clear, making snorkeling a delight, and the variety of fish and marine creatures adds a vibrant splash of life that keeps your camera busy.

Plus, the boat’s glass bottom is a clever feature. It’s perfect for those who prefer to stay dry or for families with younger children. The views of the islands from the boat are equally captivating, offering perfect photo opportunities of the rugged coastlines and lush islands. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with friendly guides like Carla (who gets high marks from reviewers), makes this a low-pressure, enjoyable outing.

The only caveat is that this tour relies on favorable sea conditions. If the weather turns bad or the water is choppy, the tour might be postponed or canceled—a common issue with sea-based activities. It’s advisable to check the forecast before booking or on the day of your trip.

The tour begins at the Diving Center La Sirena, where you’ll meet your guide and gather your snorkeling gear. The location is central and convenient, making it easy to locate in L’Estartit. Once on board, the boat departs for the Medes Islands, a protected marine reserve famous for its abundant marine life and rugged islands.

The boat ride itself offers scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere. You can sit back, enjoy the breeze, and admire the coastline as you cruise toward the islands. The boat’s glass bottom allows onboard observers to catch glimpses of fish and underwater formations, even if they’re not snorkeling.

Once at the reserve, you’ll put on your snorkeling equipment—provided and included in the tour—and follow your guide into the water. Here, the focus is on guided snorkeling, with the guide pointing out key marine species and helping you spot creatures like groupers, saddled seabreams, and salemas. The experience is tailored to different skill levels, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time.

After about an hour of underwater exploration, the group returns to the boat. You’re then free to relax, take more pictures, or just soak up the sun during the free time on board. The boat will then cruise around the islands, offering more views of the striking coastline and marine life through the glass bottom.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with plenty of time to explore L’Estartit afterward if you wish.

The marine reserve itself is a major highlight. The protected waters mean you’re less likely to encounter pollution or overfished areas, resulting in healthier marine ecosystems. Reviews praise the stunning fish and the vibrant underwater landscape, which makes snorkeling here worthwhile.

The guidance from knowledgeable guides is also a big plus. As one reviewer noted, “Carla was our tour guide and we really enjoyed her company. She was very friendly and pleasant. We loved the experience.” This personal touch not only enhances the educational aspect but also ensures safety and comfort during snorkeling.

The scenic views of the islands from the boat, combined with the chance to see marine life through the glass bottom, make this tour feel both leisurely and engaging. It’s a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a quick but meaningful taste of the Mediterranean underwater world.

While the tour’s exact price isn’t listed here, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, boat trip, and life vests suggests good value for a two-hour activity. It’s a budget-friendly option compared to longer or more elaborate excursions. Many travelers appreciate the straightforward nature of this tour—no hidden costs, just plenty of opportunities to observe marine life and enjoy the scenery.

For those wanting more, there are similar experiences available, such as longer snorkeling trips or boat tours to caves and other islands (links provided), but this cruise hits a sweet spot for a quick, high-quality outing.

• Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and water to stay comfortable. The sun can be intense, especially during summer.
• Arrive early at the Diving Center La Sirena to allow time for gear fitting and safety instructions.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as sea conditions influence the actual experience.
• No pets are allowed, so plan accordingly.
• If you’re a non-swimmer or uneasy in water, you’ll still enjoy the boat’s glass bottom, but hanging out on deck is equally pleasant.
• The activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

If your idea of a perfect day involves snorkeling in clear waters, spotting colorful fish, and enjoying scenic island views, this cruise is for you. It offers a well-organized, relaxed outing that combines nature, comfort, and education, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of the Mediterranean’s vibrant marine life without a full-day commitment.

The friendly guides and the beautiful setting turn this tour into a memorable experience, especially if you appreciate the small details—like the chance to see marine creatures up close or capture stunning photos of the islands. The tour’s value lies in its combination of accessible snorkeling, scenic cruising, and the peace of mind from knowing you’re in protected waters, guaranteeing a healthy marine environment.

While weather-dependent, this experience is a fantastic way to add a splash of adventure and natural beauty to your Catalan itinerary. Just arrive prepared, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description emphasizes snorkeling and boat cruising, many families find it enjoyable, especially since the boat has a glass bottom for non-swimmers. However, always confirm the age restrictions or suitability with the provider directly.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, and water. The tour provides snorkeling gear and life vests, so you won’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to snorkel?
The tour is guided, and snorkeling is done with professional guides, so beginners can participate comfortably with instructions and assistance.

What happens if the sea conditions are bad?
The activity might be subject to sea conditions. If canceled due to weather, you can often reschedule or receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How long is the actual snorkeling time?
The guided snorkeling part lasts around an hour, giving you plenty of time to see marine life and take photos before returning to the boat.

Is there a bathroom on board?
While not specified, most tour boats of this type typically have basic facilities onboard. Confirm with the provider if this is a concern.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, the calm, clear waters of the Mediterranean are generally best from late spring to early fall, when sea conditions tend to be more stable.

This guided cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the Mediterranean’s marine wonders from L’Estartit, blending scenic views with the thrill of snorkeling. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a complete novice, you’ll find plenty to love in this well-reviewed, value-packed tour.