Private Boat Tours in Palamos: What to Expect with a Local Captain.
A private boat tour in Palamos is the easiest way to see the Costa Brava’s hidden coves, swim in clear water and enjoy the coast without crowds. You have the boat to yourselves, a local captain who knows every cove, and a route planned around the wind and your plans for the day. Here is everything you need to know before you book.
Why choose a private boat tour instead of a shared excursion?
Shared boat excursions on the Costa Brava follow a fixed route with dozens of passengers. A private tour is different:
- Only your group on board: family, friends or a couple, with no strangers.
- Your pace: stop longer where you like it, swim when you want, skip what you don’t.
- A local captain: our skippers know this coast inside out. They choose the calmest coves on the day, based on the wind.
- No license needed: the captain drives the boat, so you only need to relax.
Where does the tour start?
All our private boat tours leave from Port Marina Palamos, a few minutes’ walk from the old town and the fishing harbor. There is paid parking at the marina. Please be at the boarding point 5 minutes before departure:
Our favorite route: from Palamos to Calella de Palafrugell
The coastline north of Palamos is one of the best preserved on the Costa Brava. Much of it is a protected area with pine forest down to the sea. A typical route includes:
- Castell Beach and Cala Estreta: wild coves with no buildings, only reachable on foot or by boat.
- Cap Roig: red cliffs below the famous botanical garden.
- Calella de Palafrugell: the whitewashed fishing village with its arches and boats on the sand.
- The Formigues Islands: a small group of rocky islets, great for snorkeling.
On a 4-hour tour you will see two or three coves and have time for a swim. On a full-day trip tour you will reach Calella and stop for longer swims, snorkeling and lunch.
What is included?
- Private boat with a professional local captain
- Fuel
- Snorkeling masks
- Drinks and snacks
- Music
Optional extras: paddle board, lunch on board with local products, and wine or cava.
When is the best time to go?
The season runs from May to October, but we can arrange boat trips all year round. July and August are the busiest months, so book early. For quieter coves and a more relaxed day, try to avoid the peak season (July 24 to August 22).
If the wind is too strong, your captain will change the route to a sheltered part of the coast. If the sea is not safe, we will move your tour to another day or refund 90% of the amount you prepaid.
What should I bring?
- Swimsuit, towel and a change of clothes
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible), sunglasses and a hat
- A light jacket for the way back
- Soft-soled shoes
- A waterproof bag for phones and cameras
Is it safe for children?
Yes. All boats carry life jackets for adults and children, and the captain explains the safety rules before departure. Families with children are some of our most frequent guests.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a boating license? No. The captain drives the boat for the whole tour.
How many people fit on a boat? It depends on the boat; our largest boats take up to 11 guests. See our Fleet.
Can I pay online in US dollars? You pay online by card in euros; your bank converts the amount automatically.
Do your captains speak English? Yes, our captains speak English.
Can I combine the tour with a visit to Palamos? Yes. Visit the fish auction and the Fishing Museum (Museu de la Pesca) before or after your trip.
Book your private boat tour in Palamos
Choose your date, your boat and the length of your tour, and book online in two minutes. If you have questions, write to us on WhatsApp +34 625 391 401 and we will help you plan the perfect day on the Costa Brava.
Want to know more about our captains? Read Advantages of Sailing with a Local Skipper on the Costa Brava
