Boat Trips from L’Estartit: What to Expect on a Day Excursion with Camping Les Medes

Looking for effortless, memory‑making boat trips from L’Estartit? You’ve come to the right shore. With Camping Les Medes as your home base, you can plan a relaxed day on the water, take in the Medes Islands from sea level, and, if you like, join boat‑based diving or snorkelling outings run by the on‑site Aquàtica centre. In this guide, you’ll learn what a day at sea typically looks like, what you can expect to see, and how your excursion can dovetail with other activities during your stay.

Why L’Estartit and the Medes Islands are perfect for a boat day

Just one mile off L’Estartit beach lies the Medes Islands, an impressive seven‑islet archipelago—La Meda Gran, La Meda Xica, El Carall Bernat, Els Tascons Grossos, Els Tascons Petits, El Medellot and Les Ferranelles. The islands sit within the Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter and are widely regarded as one of the standout marine reserves in the western Mediterranean.

What does that mean for your outing? Crystal waters, dramatic rock formations and tunnels where sunlight filters through, and abundant marine life that make every pass by the islands feel special. For a deeper primer on the area, explore our article: All the secrets of the Medes Islands.

What a typical boat day looks like

Here’s a straightforward way to picture your day on the water from L’Estartit. Times and formats vary by operator and season, but the flow is usually simple and relaxed:

1. Easy start and orientation

   • Meet in L’Estartit with your chosen operator. Expect a short safety briefing and a rundown of the route.
   • If you’re diving or snorkelling with Aquàtica (the diving centre located inside Camping Les Medes since 2017), you’ll review equipment and the plan with an instructor.

2. Sail to the Medes Islands

   • Cruise across the short stretch to the archipelago and circle select islets for close‑up views of cliffs, caves and water‑sculpted rock.
   • For diving/snorkelling outings with Aquàtica, all dives are by boat inside the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, with routes tailored to experience level.

3. Time on (or in) the water

   • Scenic trips: sit back and take photos as you glide past the islands’ most emblematic formations.
   • Snorkellers and divers: enjoy clear water, rock tunnels and blue‑and‑white light shows under expert supervision.

4. Return and unwind

   • Head back to shore and round off the day with a swim at the beach, a gentle cycle ride, or another low‑key activity around the campsite.

Tip: Camping Les Medes is open all year, so you can plan sea days in any season. For ideas beyond the boat, browse our Activities page, which includes Boat trips, Diving, Snorkel, Kayak, Cycling, Hiking, Enotourism and more.

Guided diving and snorkelling with Aquàtica (on site)

If you want your boat day to include time in the water, Aquàtica makes it seamless:

• On‑site since 2017: The diving centre is located inside Camping Les Medes, adding convenience to your plans.
• What they offer: Diving trips in L’Estartit and the Natural Park area around the Medes Islands and Baix Ter, diving courses, and snorkelling excursions.
• Small, instructor‑led groups: Aquàtica deliberately limits divers on each rotation and forms two or three small groups, each led by an instructor, to keep things comfortable on board and underwater.
• For all levels: The Medes Islands offer routes at various depths, so professionals, amateurs and absolute beginners can all be guided safely—whether diving or snorkelling.
• Underwater highlights: Besides abundant marine life, you may explore rock formations and tunnels where sunlight creates striking light effects—scenes that make the Medes renowned among sea lovers.

Direct contact for Aquàtica: +34 972 750 656 or +34 609 311 133, info@aquatica.cat

Scenic boat trips for a relaxed pace

Prefer to keep your day simple and dry? Boat trips are one of the campsite’s highlighted activities in the surroundings. The Medes Islands are ideal for calmer boat routes suitable for all types of audiences—an easy way to experience the marine reserve’s beauty without specialist gear. Bring a camera, a hat and sunscreen, and enjoy the panoramas.

What you’ll see on boat trips from L’Estartit

While every route is a little different, expect these signature sights:

• The seven islets of the Medes archipelago: La Meda Gran, La Meda Xica, El Carall Bernat, Els Tascons Grossos, Els Tascons Petits, El Medellot, Les Ferranelles.
• Sculpted rock and light: Cliffs, arches and tunnels where daylight paints dramatic patterns on the water.
• A living marine reserve: You won’t miss the sense of a thriving ecosystem in and around the islands, which is why they’re so cherished by nature enthusiasts.

Practical planning tips for a smooth day

Use these pointers to make the most of your boat trip from L’Estartit:

• Book the right outing: If you want to be in the water, opt for Aquàtica’s boat‑based diving or snorkelling excursions. If you prefer to relax, choose a scenic boat route.
• Pack smart: Sunscreen, hat, light layers, water, snacks, and a soft bag. For snorkel/diving, follow your instructor’s kit guidance.
• Protect the reserve: Follow local guidance to respect wildlife and habitats; your crew or instructor will brief you.
• Stay flexible: Weather and sea conditions can shape routes. Your operator will choose the safest, most enjoyable plan on the day.
• Combine activities: Back ashore, add a gentle cycle to your day—Camping Les Medes has 20 bicycles (two electric). We don’t take reservations, and our team will help you find the best local routes.

Quick checklist:

• Confirm your trip type (scenic, snorkel, dive)
• Bring sun protection and water
• Follow crew/instructor briefings
• Keep your phone/camera in a waterproof pouch
• Plan an easy post‑boat activity (cycle, stroll, or beach time)

FAQs: Boat trips from L’Estartit (quick answers)

• Are boat trips suitable for families? Yes. The Medes Islands offer many options, including calm boat routes suitable for all types of audiences.
• Do I need experience? Scenic boat trips require no experience. For diving or snorkelling, Aquàtica tailors outings to ability, with instructors guiding small groups.
• Where do Aquàtica’s dives take place? All dives are by boat inside the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park.
• How big are Aquàtica’s dive groups? They limit divers per rotation and form two or three small groups, each with an instructor.
• Can I add an easy activity after my boat trip? Yes. On site you’ll find bicycle rental (20 bikes, two electric). No reservations are taken; our staff will suggest routes.

Make it a full day: easy add‑ons near the campsite

• Snorkel or Dive: Join Aquàtica’s boat‑based outings to see the Medes from beneath the surface.
• Kayak: For a human‑powered perspective, kayaking is another way to enjoy the coastline.
• Cycling & Hiking: Soft‑adventure options that pair well with a morning on the water.
• Enotourism or Golf: Swap sea spray for a vineyard visit or a round of golf to balance your itinerary.

See the full menu of ideas on our Activities page.

Conclusion: Ready to set sail?

Few places make boat trips as effortless and rewarding as L’Estartit and the Medes Islands—and Camping Les Medes puts it all within easy reach. Plan a scenic cruise, book a snorkel or dive with Aquàtica, and round off your day with a leisurely ride or walk.

• Learn about the islands: All the secrets of the Medes Islands
• Explore options: Activities
• Have questions or want help planning? Call +34 972 75 18 05 or email info@campinglesmedes.com

Make your reservation—we’re open all year—and let your next great day on the water begin.