Palamós is an excellent charter base on the Costa Brava if you want to explore charming fishing towns, rocky coves, and lively Mediterranean resorts within a single week. From here, you can plan relaxed coastal legs or build a more ambitious itinerary linking some of the region’s most iconic harbours. What makes this area special is the combination of dramatic shoreline scenery, great food, beaches, and atmospheric overnight stops. The routes below help you decide whether your crew prefers an easy coastal week or a more active sailing tour.
The article includes the followings:
- Which month is best for sailing in Costa Brava?
- Ports around Palamós
- Sail in Palamós! Palamós sailing itineraries
- Marine gas near Palamós, boat gas stations around Costa Brava
Which month is best for sailing in Costa Brava?
The best time for sailing in Costa Brava is generally from May to June and again from September to October. During these months the Mediterranean is already pleasant, the days are long, the winds are usually sailor-friendly, and the famous coves along the coast feel far less crowded than in peak summer.
Spring: From March to May, Costa Brava welcomes sailors with crisp light, clear horizons and an energetic but often manageable start to the season. Daytime temperatures usually range from 16 to 24 °C, while the sea sits around 13–18 °C, still fresh but increasingly enjoyable on sunny days. The region’s well-known northerly Tramuntana can blow hard at times, especially near Cap de Creus, although many days also bring more moderate 10–15 knot winds that are ideal for rewarding coastal passages. Sea state is often calm to slight, but stronger northerly flow can quickly build short and steeper waves. Marinas and anchorages are still relatively quiet, so the fishing villages and hidden calas along the coast feel more intimate and unhurried.
Summer: From June to August, Costa Brava shifts into full Mediterranean summer mode, with long sunny days, warm water and a lively charter atmosphere. Daytime temperatures typically range from 26 to 31 °C, and sea temperatures climb to around 22–26 °C, making this the easiest season for swimming stops and relaxed cove-hopping. On many days the morning begins with lighter airs before a thermal sea breeze fills in around midday, often from the south or southeast at roughly 8–15 knots, creating very pleasant daytime sailing along the coast. Even so, the Tramuntana never fully disappears and can still produce sharper conditions on the northern stretches. The sea is usually smoother inside protected bays, while more open water can become choppier during the afternoon. This is the busiest time of year, so popular ports and anchorages around places such as Palamós, L’Escala and Cadaqués are noticeably more crowded.
Autumn: From September to November, Costa Brava offers what many sailors consider the most balanced conditions of the year. In early autumn, daytime temperatures still often reach 22–28 °C, and after summer the sea remains pleasantly warm at about 20–24 °C, so the comfortable season lasts surprisingly long. Winds are often fresher and more consistent than in midsummer, commonly around 10–18 knots, which makes for more satisfying sailing days. As October progresses, the chance of showers and Mediterranean rain events increases, and passing fronts can make the sea more active, especially on less protected sections of the coast. Crowds drop noticeably, coastal towns regain their calmer rhythm, and that makes September and early October particularly appealing for the yacht charter community.
Winter: From December to February, Costa Brava reveals a more dramatic and more athletic side. Daytime temperatures are usually around 12–16 °C, nights can feel distinctly cooler, and the sea is generally about 13–15 °C. The Tramuntana is more frequent and more forceful in winter, and windy periods above 20–30 knots are not unusual, especially on the more exposed northern coast, so winter sailing is better suited to experienced crews. Sea conditions can change quickly, with a calm morning giving way to rougher and more energetic water in a short time. In return, the air is exceptionally clear, visibility can be spectacular, and the coastline is almost entirely free of summer crowds, giving winter sailing here a quiet, raw and authentic feel.
Ports around Palamós
Marina Palamós
The marina offers 866 berths and is able to accommodate boats up to 30 m in length and the maximum water depth reaches 10 m. There are fantastic facilities including maintenance station and access to drinking water, electricity and showers. Rent a boat in Palamos and experience what it feels like when everything is perfectly timed – the sunset, the sea, and freedom.
Club Nàutic Estartit
This port is located in the L’Estartit resort. It has 643 berths for yachts up to 32 metres in size. The port has a depth of 2.3 metres. There are a number of excellent services available. There is also a bar and a restaurant. L’Estartit sailing
Port of Empuriabrava (Roses)
They often refer to the city as “The Venice of Spain”. One of the largest ports of the world can be found here, with 5, 000 moorings for locals and visitors. 700 of these are preserved for tourists and can accept 26 metre-long yachts. The place offers modern facilities and equipment. For instance, if you are hungry, you can choose from 50 restaurants.
Port of Roses
The town’s new port boasts 485 berths, out of which 374 is reserved for vessels staying in the port permanently, whilst the rest is for passing boats. The entrance of the port is almost 70 m wide and 9 m deep, whereas the minimum water depth at other parts is 3.5 m. The port boasts modern services and splendid facilities. boat rental Roses
Port de Blanes
The port is run by Blanes Sailing Club. It provides 309 berths for yachts up to 24 metres in size. The club has a café, a restaurant and a sailing school, too. The port combines recreational sailing with commercial fishing activities. Blanes sailing, boat rental Blanes
Port Vell (Barcelona)
Barcelona is one of the most important port cities in the Mediterranean. The Port Vell can accommodate 148 vessels up to 190 metres long yachts. Drinking water, electricity and cable TV are available. Barcelona sailing, boat rental Barcelona
Club Nautic Cambrils
Thanks to the reforms implemented in recent years, the club has two parts. It can accommodate up to 426 yachts between 8 metres and 25 metres in size. Moreover, eight premises cover various yacht maintenance and repair services. There is a 24-hour crew service. You can also find a bar and a restaurant here, and of course, there is free Wi-Fi-access available. Cambrils sailing yacht charter Cambrils
Sail in Palamós! Palamós sailing itineraries
HELP ME TO CHOOSESailing in Palamós: a one-week sailing itinerary
This 1-week Palamós itinerary is built around shorter coastal legs, making it a comfortable option with plenty of marina stops along the Costa Brava. It’s ideal if you want to combine sailing with swimming, sightseeing, and relaxed evenings ashore without too many demanding passages. Recommended level: beginner Open sea passages: no
Day 1: Palamós – Platja d’Aro (3.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Apart from the main beach the village also boasts some other, smaller beaches. Platja d’ Aro is dotted with splendid bars and restaurants, often enlivened by live music. If you visit this village you can enjoy such events as the Sant Isidre Festival in May, the Jazz Nights in the summer or the Beer Festival in October. Spend the night in the village’s port.
Day 2: Platja d’Aro – Sant Feliu de Guíxols (3.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Our next destination is Sant Feliu de Guíxols, awaiting us with tiny, pinewood-framed coves, lined with crystal clear rocky or fine sandy beaches. Take a pleasant stroll down on the town’s unique, wide, sandy walkway, lined by trees. Spend the night in the town’s port.
Day 3: Sant Feliu de Guíxols – Tossa de Mar (5.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
If you are looking for a truly relaxing place, Tossa de Mar is the place to be! The town that is also often referred to as the ‘Spanish Saint Tropez’ takes pride in such heavenly beaches as Playa Gran, Mar Menuda or Cala Futadera. Visit the medieval Old Town of Tossa, and explore the fantastic historic monuments. Spend the night in the town’s port.
Say 4: Tossa de Mar – Lloret de Mar (4.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Our next stop is Lloret de Mar, the centre of nightlife in Costa Brava, crammed with discos and clubs. As compared to its impressive 0.8 nm length, the town’s beach still counts quite crowded. If you are a nature lover, visit the Santa Clotilde Gardens and immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas. The town is also home to some superb restaurants and wine bars. Spend the night in the town’s port.
Day 5: Lloret de Mar – Blanes (3.0 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Blanes is lined with heavenly beaches. If you love nature, visit the Marimurtra or the Pinya de Rosa botanical gardens. The latter is renowned for its cacti. Are you after some jaw-dropping views? Visit Castillo de San Juan, from where, in favourable weather conditions, you can even see the silhouette of the Montjuic Mountain. Read more about what to do in Blanes or Blanes sailing. Rent a boat Blanes.
Day 6: Blanes – Calella (7.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
The nice Spanish town is proud of its 2-kilometre long golden sandy beach. The beach is popular by locals and tourists alike. Or if you wish to have a more peaceful relaxation, Costa Brava resort is a perfect choice. Explore the old town centre of Calella one street behind and parallel to the shore. The resort’s most popular restaurant is Bodega Azor where you can try delicious meals and wines for reasonable prices.
Day 7: Calella – Mataró – Palamós (36.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 6 hours)
On the last day, we spend more time on the yacht then turn back towards Mataró to our original point, Palamós. After bringing back the yacht it is worth looking around in Palamós if you have some time. The town is famous, and not only for the locally caught prawns, but it’s also an important port. Its gorgeous beach stretches for 1.6 nm and the area is lined with fantastic hiking trails. The Old Town is brimming over with historic monuments and is full of great viewpoints. If you feel like grabbing something tasty, superb local restaurants are plentiful to choose from: Can Blau, Restaurante Caleta Blava, La Gamba, Hotel Marina Restaurant or the Mas dels Arcs, just a few to mention.
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
Palamós sailing: 7 days sailing itinerary
This 7-day Palamós sailing route includes longer daily distances and more exposed coastal stretches, so timing and local wind conditions matter more. It’s a great choice if you want to connect several iconic Costa Brava stops in one rewarding week. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: yes
Day 1: Palamós – Begur (7.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 2: Begur – L'Estartit (7.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 3: L'Estartit – Cadaqués (15.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 4: Cadaqués – El Port de la Selva (11 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 5: El Port de la Selva – Roses (17.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours), Day 6: Roses – L'Escala (9.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 7: L'Escala – Fornells – Palamós (21.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours)
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
More Costa Barava itinerary ” href=”https://boattheglobe.com/sailing-in/mediterranean/spain/costa-brava/sailing-in-costa-brava” rel=”noopener noreferrer”>Costa Brava sailing tours.
How to choose a Palamós sailing route?
- If you want a relaxed and easy weekly plan: choose the 1-week itinerary, as it focuses on shorter coastal legs.
- If you want more harbours and longer daily passages: the 7-day Palamós sailing route is the better fit because it covers a wider area.
- If your crew prefers a slower pace with sightseeing and beach time: stay with the shorter sections that leave more time ashore.
- If weather and coastal wind exposure are key factors: choose a route that can be shortened or rearranged easily during the week.
Marine gas near Palamós, boat gas stations around Costa Brava
- BARCELONA: Depth: 6 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.3888, 2.159
- BARCELONA: Depth: 6.00m, Working time: 8–22, GPS Coordinates: 41° 23.1128, 2° 12.0265
- BLANES: Depth: 1, 8-7m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.6742, 2.7904
- CAMBRILS: Depth: 8 m, Working time: 9-19, GPS Coordinates: 41.06477355957031, 1.0590695142745972
- EL MASNOU: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41º 28′ 30″, 02º 18′ 47″
- L ESTARITIT: Depth:4 m, Working time: 8-21, GPS Coordinates: 42.0540057, 3.2013105
- LLORET DE MAR: Depth:2-4m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.70706558227539, 2.8809142112731934
- PALAMOS: Depth:7m, Working time: 6-23, GPS Coordinates: 41º 50, 4 N i 03º 08, 1 E
- ROSES: Depth:3-5, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 42.2632018, 3.1755328
- SANT CARLES DE LA RAPITA: Depth:4, 5-5, Working time: 9-19, GPS Coordinates: 40.61808395385742, 0.5952594876289368
- SITGES: Depth:3, Working time: 9-19, GPS Coordinates: 41.11667, 1.25
- TARRAGONA: Depth:6, Working time: 6-22, GPS Coordinates: 041º06’20”001º15’08”
This article has given a brief overlook of why is it worth sailing in Palamós. The town is a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Costa Brava and there are some more great ports in the area to visit too. HELP ME TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT BOAT
Request a quote for a Palamós charter and we’ll help you choose a route that matches your crew’s pace and sailing experience. Set off toward the Costa Brava with a plan that is prepared for a smooth and memorable week.




