We spend every season helping people plan days out on this coast, so here is the advice we actually give: what boat fits your plan, what to bring aboard and the one thing everyone underestimates — the wind. A little forward planning goes a long way.
Whether it's your first time on the water or you have years of experience, keeping a few key things in mind makes the difference between a good day and a perfect one. Here are 7 practical tips to plan your next day out on the water on the Costa Brava.
1. Choose the right type of vessel
The first thing we always ask: how many of you are there, and how far do you want to go? For the canals and the bay with up to 5 people, a no-licence boat is plenty. If you hold a licence and want to reach Cap de Creus with time to spare, go for a licensed motorboat. And if nobody fancies the helm, that's what our skippered trips are for.
2. Plan your route
Once you've chosen your boat, it's time to plan your route. The northern Costa Brava gives you plenty to choose from, from the Santa Margarita canals to the bare rock of Cap de Creus.
Our standing advice: fewer coves, more time in each. Half a day comfortably covers the canals, a swim at Cala Murtra and lunch at anchor in Montjoi without watching the clock; trying to see everything in four hours is the recipe for enjoying none of it. On the water there's no point rushing.
3. Check the weather forecast
The weather and sea state are the most decisive factors for any boat outing. It's essential to check the forecast before you set off, paying special attention to local winds like the Tramuntana.
Avoid heading out in strong winds or heavy swell, and make sure you have a backup plan if conditions deteriorate (such as sheltering in the inner canals or returning to port). In our case, we always cancel or modify bookings at no cost if the weather isn't safe.
4. Prepare the safety kit
Safety at sea is paramount. Make sure the rental boat includes a complete safety kit: life jackets for all passengers (especially child sizes if there are children on board), flares, a first-aid kit and an anchor.
During the pre-departure briefing, familiarise yourself with how each item works and make sure all passengers know where to find them if needed.
5. Stock up on provisions
Before you leave, make sure you have enough provisions for the whole trip. The sea makes you hungry and thirsty, so bring light food, fruit and plenty of drinks — especially fresh water to stay hydrated under the sun.
An ice box is essential in summer. If you plan to anchor at lunchtime, a good picnic on board or booking a table at a beach bar accessible by boat (like the one at Cala Pelosa) will round off the day perfectly.
6. Protect the marine environment
Respect the marine environment and follow sustainable practices while sailing. It's everyone's responsibility:
- Never throw any rubbish or plastic into the sea (keep all your waste on board).
- NEVER anchor on posidonia seagrass meadows; always look for sandy beds or use the designated mooring buoys.
- Respect marine protection zones and the maximum permitted speed, especially when approaching the coast.
7. Enjoy the ride
Finally, once you're out on the water with everything under control, relax and enjoy. Take time to soak in the stunning coastal scenery, dive into the crystal-clear water for a swim and some snorkelling, and explore the coves that dot the coastline.
Remember, the point isn't to get somewhere quickly — it's to enjoy the day at your own pace, with your group and nobody else's schedule.
No licence? No problem.
We have easy-to-handle boats so you can head out to sea with no prior experience.