Adventure brief
Tour en vaixell amb fons de vidre complert
Float above Posidonia meadows and glide past sea caves on a one-hour glass-bottom cruise from Cala Giverola. This short, family-friendly tour is an ideal way to sample Costa Brava geology, marine life and hidden coves without getting wet.
On the sun-baked cliffs of the Costa Brava, a one-hour glass-bottom boat tour from Cala Giverola offers a close-up view of the Mediterranean you won’t forget. Departing from the meeting point at Cala Giverola, Ctra. Blanes a Sant Feliu, 920, 17320 Tossa de Mar, Girona, Spain, this short cruise threads through serrated cliffs, hidden coves and sea caves that define this stretch of Catalan coastline.
The attraction here is simple: clear water, sculpted rock, and a glass floor that turns the boat into a moving aquarium. The route follows a coastline of rhyolite and Jurassic limestone where waves have carved arches and grottoes. Look down through the viewing panels to see beds of Posidonia oceanica—Mediterranean seagrass that supports small fish, sea urchins and crustaceans—and, if you’re lucky, glinting schools of sardine and the slow shuffle of a common octopus.
Captains point out secret beaches accessible only by sea and pause for a swim at Cala Giverola, whose shallow turquoise shelf makes it perfect for a quick dip. This operator has made itself integral to local outdoor recreation by offering an accessible, low-impact way to experience coastal geology and marine ecology without the need for snorkeling gear or a yacht. The boarding point at Cala Giverola is convenient for visitors based in Tossa de Mar, and the open return policy lets you linger ashore before rejoining the boat.
Accessibility is limited—embarking requires climbing several steps—so plan ahead if you have mobility concerns. The tour also frames the human history tucked into this coastline: weathered towers and the stone ramparts of Tossa de Mar’s Vila Vella recall centuries of fishing and maritime trade. Guides often mention traditional livelihoods and the role of marine meadows in sustaining local fisheries, giving context to the living seascape below your feet.
Practical perks are straightforward: plan to arrive early to queue for boarding, bring reef-friendly sunscreen and a hat, and download the referral booking link to reserve a seat. The experience is compact enough to pair with a morning exploring Tossa’s medieval streets or an afternoon at nearby coves. For travelers who want a quick, scenic, and educational taste of the Costa Brava, this glass-bottom boat tour is a high-value, low-effort highlight that puts the sea—and its stories—front and center.
Morning crossings often offer the calmest water and the brightest clarity; late afternoon trips can paint cliffs orange as light falls across Aleppo pines and scrub rosemary clinging to rock. The one-hour format makes this a friendly outing for families, photographers and anyone short on time, though passengers with mobility limitations should note the steps at embarkation. Bring a light windbreaker, sun protection and water, and pair the tour with a walk along Vila Vella promenade.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Earlyessential
Boarding is by queue—arrive 20–30 minutes before departure to secure your preferred spot near the viewing panels.
- 02Sun Protectioninfo
Even on overcast days UV reflects off the water; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- 03Camera Readyinfo
Use a polarizing filter or shoot through the glass panel edges to reduce glare for underwater shots.
- 04Mind the Stepswarning
Embarkation requires climbing several steps; if you have mobility concerns contact the operator before booking.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sunglasses with strap
Reduce glare when viewing through glass and keep eyewear from blowing away on deck.
summerEssentialReef-safe sunscreen
Protect skin while respecting the marine environment and Posidonia meadows.
summerEssentialLight windbreaker
Coastal breeze can be cool, especially in morning or late-afternoon trips.
springPolarizing filter or polarizing clip
Helps cut surface reflection for clearer underwater photography through the glass panels.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Cala Pola — a quieter pebble cove north of Tossa with clear water and cliffs to explore by kayak, Cala Futadera — a small rocky inlet accessible by hiking or private boat, great for rocky shore snorkeling
Local fauna
Common octopus, European sea bass (and small schooling fish)
Historic heritage
Tossa de Mar’s Vila Vella walls and towers date back centuries and reflect the town’s maritime and defensive heritage, visible from sea.
Mindful exploration
Posidonia oceanica meadows are protected in the region; avoid anchoring or standing on seagrass and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Through the glass-bottom viewing panels, Bow of the boat for seascape compositions, Cala Giverola beach for cliff-to-sea panoramas
- Subjects
- Underwater seagrass beds and fish, Sea caves and rock arches, Coastal cliffs with Aleppo pine and scrub vegetation
- Best times
- Morning, Golden hour (late afternoon), Overcast midday for reduced glare
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How long is the tour?
The scheduled duration is approximately 1 hora (one hour).
Where is the meeting point?
Meeting point is Cala Giverola, Ctra. Blanes a Sant Feliu, 920, 17320 Tossa de Mar, Girona, Spain.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No. Embarkation requires climbing several steps and the operator notes limited accessibility for those with reduced mobility.
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes. The route includes a stop at Cala Giverola where passengers can swim; the return is flexible to allow time ashore.
Are food or drinks included?
No. Food, drinks and bar service are not included on this tour.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Tours can fill quickly in peak season; use the referral booking link to reserve your seat and avoid long queues.