Costa Brava & Catalonia

The Costa Brava stretching north of Barcelona stands out for its diverse landscapes. From the dramatic cliffs of Cap de Creus to the charming fishing villages nestled along the coast, it’s a prime destination for those seeking both adventurous sailing and tranquil anchorages and the rich history and world-class gastronomy add to its allure.

Why go there?

A yacht charter along the Costa Brava promises an unforgettable journey. Don't miss exploring the medieval town of Tossa de Mar with its walled old town, Vila Vella, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Anchor in the secluded coves of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, a protected area of wild beauty, ideal for snorkeling and diving. The picturesque Cadaqués, a favorite of Salvador Dalí, provides a charming backdrop for an evening stroll and a taste of local life. Further south, the bustling city of Barcelona offers architectural marvels like the Sagrada Familia and a vibrant urban experience. The region is dotted with hidden gems, from the botanical gardens of Blanes to the ancient ruins of Empúries, all accessible by yacht.

Some of the most famous secluded bays and protected beaches for anchoring include Cala Pola (Tossa de Mar), Cala Futadera (Tossa de Mar), Cala Jugadora (Cadaqués), Cala Tavallera (El Port de la Selva), and Aiguablava (Begur).

Annual events and festivals to look out for include:

• Girona Flower Time (Temps de Flors): Held in May, this event transforms the city of Girona into a spectacular display of flowers and artistic installations.
• Sónar Festival: A renowned international festival of advanced music and new media art, typically held in Barcelona in June.
• Festa Major de Gràcia (Barcelona): Usually takes place in August, featuring elaborate street decorations and cultural events in Barcelona's Gràcia district.
• La Mercè (Barcelona): Barcelona's largest annual festival, held in September, celebrating the city's patron saint with parades, concerts, and traditional Catalan activities.

How to get there?

Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) serves the region, with scheduled flights arriving from various European cities. Main international and local airlines operating at GRO include Ryanair, Jet2.com, and TUI Airways. Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is the major international hub, offering a wider range of flights from around the world and is also easily accessible for those chartering along the Costa Brava. Major airlines flying into BCN include Vueling, Ryanair, easyJet, Iberia, British Airways, and Air France.

Approaching by yacht

From the largest marina hubs in the surrounding region:

• Palma de Mallorca (Balearic Islands): Approximately 110 nautical miles, with an average sailing time of 10-12 hours.
• Marseille (France): Approximately 150 nautical miles, with an average sailing time of 15-18 hours.

From the closest large marina hub in Corsica:

• Calvi (Corsica): Approximately 230 nautical miles, with an average sailing time of 20-24 hours.

Marina facilities

The Costa Brava region boasts several well-equipped marinas:

• Port de Roses: Accommodates vessels up to 45 meters and offers services such as fuel, water, electricity, waste disposal, and repair facilities.
• Club Nàutic L'Escala: Can accommodate yachts up to 25 meters and provides standard services including berths, fuel, and technical assistance.
• Port d'Aro (Platja d'Aro): Offers berths for vessels up to 25 meters and features services like fuel, water, electricity, and a boatyard.
• Port Olímpic (Barcelona): A large marina in Barcelona accommodating vessels up to 30 meters, with comprehensive services including shops, restaurants, and repair facilities.
• Port Vell (Barcelona): Located in the heart of Barcelona, this marina caters to superyachts up to 120 meters, offering luxury services, customs, and concierge assistance.
• Marina Palamós: Accommodates vessels up to 25 meters and provides essential services like fuel, water, electricity, and a travel lift.

Culinary Delights

Catalonia's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of traditional flavors and innovative gastronomy. Look out for Paella Marisco, a seafood-rich paella, often best enjoyed by the sea.

• Esqueixada de Bacallà is a refreshing salad made with shredded salt cod, tomatoes, onions, and olives, perfect for a warm day. Don't miss
• Suquet de Peix, a hearty fish stew, a true taste of the Costa Brava. For a sweet treat,
• Crema Catalana, similar to crème brûlée, is a must-try.

The Costa Brava is renowned for its excellent wines, particularly those from the Empordà, known for their robust reds and crisp whites.

Many coastal restaurants offer direct access from the sea, either via dinghy docks or nearby mooring balls, allowing for seamless dining experiences. The quality of these establishments ranges from casual beachfront ‘chiringuitos’ serving fresh seafood to Michelin-starred restaurants offering exquisite dining.

Provisioning advice

In key yachting hubs like Barcelona and Palamós, you'll find large supermarkets and specialized delis offering a wide range of provisions, fresh produce, and gourmet items. These areas also have fish markets where you can buy freshly caught seafood. In less developed areas along the Costa Brava, provisioning options may be more limited, with smaller local shops and markets. It's advisable to stock up on essentials in the larger towns before venturing into more secluded bays. Local bakeries offer fresh bread daily, and small family-run stores often have local cheeses and cured meats.

Language and currency

The main languages spoken are Catalan and Spanish. The official currency is the Euro (€).

Visa requirements

As part of Spain and the Schengen Area, Mallorca follows the Schengen visa policy.

• EU/Schengen Area Passport Holders: No visa is required for entry, regardless of the duration of stay. A valid passport or national ID card is sufficient.
• US, Canadian, UK, Australian, New Zealand Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. A valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area) is required.
• Other Nationalities: Travelers from many other countries may require a Schengen visa. It is essential to check the specific requirements for your nationality with the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country of residence well in advance of your trip.
• For Stays Exceeding 90 Days or for Other Purposes: For longer stays (e.g., work, study, residency), specific national visas are required, and the application process is more extensive.