Medes Islands: Snorkeling at the beautiful Nature Park

Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant marine life and fascinating rock formations. That’s exactly what you get with a snorkel trip to the Medes Islands, one of the Mediterranean’s most biodiverse marine reserves. This experience offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and a touch of Spain’s coastal charm. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious first-timer, this tour promises memorable moments and a good dose of underwater wonder.

What we love about this tour is how it combines a scenic boat ride with a well-guided snorkeling session, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers. Plus, the small group size and personalized attention mean you’ll get expert guidance and safety assurance. On the flip side, the activity’s duration is relatively short—about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total—so if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this might be just one highlight of your trip.

Ultimately, this tour is ideal for those who want to experience the Mediterranean’s marine diversity in an authentic way, especially families, first-timers, or nature lovers seeking a gentle but beautiful underwater escape.

Key Points

• Biodiversity: The Medes Islands boast one of the most ecologically varied marine environments in the Mediterranean.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide clear instructions, safety tips, and insights about the underwater ecosystem.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkels are provided, ensuring you don’t need to worry about gear.
• Small Groups: Personalized attention enhances safety and enjoyment, making this a more intimate experience.
• Convenient Location: Meeting and returning to the same point at Carrer de la Platja simplifies planning.
• Accessible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for most ages over 2, with a friendly, family-run atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on Your Snorkeling Tour

Starting at the Unisub diving center in Estartit, you’re greeted with a friendly, professional atmosphere. The staff will fit you with all the necessary equipment—wet suits, masks, fins, and snorkels—making sure you’re comfortable before heading out. The process is straightforward: once suited up, you walk to the boat, which takes you across the water to the Medes Islands.

During the boat ride, expect a brief orientation from your guide. They will explain how to snorkel, what behaviors are recommended for safety, and what marine life you might encounter. The guide’s local knowledge is one of the tour’s biggest strengths, adding context and making your underwater exploration more meaningful.

Once in the water, you’ll float alongside your guide for approximately 50 minutes. The route is designed to showcase the stunning underwater landscapes, including rocky formations and vibrant marine ecosystems teeming with colorful fish and other sea creatures. The water clarity is typically excellent, providing great visibility to appreciate the diversity of marine life and the intricate rock formations.

The total activity lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the boat trip and equipment handling. The short duration is perfect for those who want a taste of the underwater world without spending hours in the water. According to reviews, the experience is well-paced, with plenty of time to enjoy the sights and get comfortable in the water.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start at Carrer de la Platja, 8 — This is your meeting point, marked by the dive center’s logo and conveniently located before the harbor. Arriving here early is advisable to get fitted with equipment and listen to the safety briefing.

Boat trip to the Medes Islands — The boat ride itself is scenic, offering views of the coast and a chance to relax before the underwater adventure. Expect a comfortable, well-maintained vessel suitable for small groups.

Snorkeling at the Medes Islands — The core activity involves floating over vibrant marine habitats. The guided route emphasizes safety and enjoyment, and the guides are skilled at making sure everyone has a chance to see the highlights underwater.

Return to the starting point — After about 50 minutes of snorkeling, you’ll head back to the boat, then return to the original meeting point, completing a well-rounded experience.

This straightforward itinerary ensures you get a thorough taste of the Medes Islands’ marine treasures without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What’s Included and Practical Considerations

All snorkeling gear—masks, fins, wetsuits, and snorkels—are included, removing the hassle of bringing or renting your own. The park fees are also covered, so there are no hidden costs upon arrival. The guides are knowledgeable and speak multiple languages (English, French, Catalan, Spanish), making communication easy for international visitors.

The tour is designed to be family-friendly, with the minimum age set at 2 years, though it’s not suitable for those over 95 or under 2. The group sizes are small, ensuring personalized attention, which enhances safety and makes the experience more intimate.

In terms of timing, the activity lasts around 1.5 hours, with available start times depending on the day. It’s best to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The Price and Its Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews highlight that this snorkeling trip offers excellent value for money. For a relatively short activity, the inclusion of all equipment, park fees, and guided instruction makes it a well-rounded, affordable option. If you consider the cost of renting gear, the boat trip, and the cost of a guided experience independently, this package streamlines everything into one hassle-free outing.

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Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers praise the guides’ professionalism and knowledge, noting that the small group size allows for a more tailored and relaxed experience. One traveler described it as “superb and professional,” appreciating the attentive service. Others mentioned that the water clarity and marine diversity exceeded expectations, making it a highlight of their trip.

Some minor points included the wetsuits fitting a bit snug, especially on busy days, and boat crossings requiring brief standing due to full capacity. But these are small trade-offs for the overall quality of the experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

This snorkeling experience is perfect for travelers seeking a stress-free introduction to Mediterranean marine life. It’s well-suited for families, first-time snorkelers, or anyone eager to see the underwater world without extensive training or equipment worries. The guided approach ensures safety and educational value, making it more than just a swim—it’s an engaging exploration.

It’s also an excellent choice for those who appreciate small-group tours and personalized service. The relaxed pace and beautiful surroundings make it suitable for a half-day outing, fitting into a broader itinerary of exploring the Costa Brava.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling trip to the Medes Islands offers a great mix of nature, comfort, and authentic coastal charm. It’s ideal for families, beginners, and eco-conscious travelers wanting a safe, guided adventure in a protected marine environment. If you’re looking for a memorable way to connect with the Mediterranean’s underwater beauty without the fuss of complex logistics, this tour hits the mark.

Travelers who value knowledgeable guides, stunning underwater scenery, and a small-group setting will find this experience particularly rewarding. It’s a chance to see some of the most biodiverse waters in the Mediterranean, with all equipment and park fees taken care of, making it simple and accessible.

While it’s not a full-day or extreme adventure, the quality of the guides, the clarity of the water, and the vibrant marine life make it a worthwhile highlight of any Costa Brava trip. Whether you’re visiting with family or just want a relaxing yet engaging underwater experience, this snorkeling tour provides a lovely taste of what the Medes Islands have to offer.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children over 2 years old. The tour is family-friendly, with all necessary equipment provided and a gentle pace.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel and water. All equipment is provided, so no need to worry about bringing your own gear.

How long does the snorkeling activity last?
The guided snorkeling in the water lasts about 50 minutes, within a total activity time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, including boat rides and equipment fitting.

Are park fees included in the price?
Yes, all park fees are included, so there are no additional costs once you book.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Catalan, and Spanish, making it easy to find a guide who speaks your preferred language.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re after a scenic, guided, and well-organized snorkeling experience in the Medes Islands, this tour balances value, ease, and the chance to enjoy some of the Mediterranean’s best underwater sights. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or seasoned, the combination of professional guides, beautiful marine life, and a stunning protected area makes it a solid choice for your Costa Brava adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: