Mallorca Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Trip

Mallorca Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Trip: A Relaxing Day at Sea with Beautiful Views and Tasty Food

If you’re heading to Mallorca and looking for a way to enjoy the coast from the water, this 5-hour catamaran cruise offers a blend of scenic sailing, swimming, and delicious local food. For just under $95 per person, you’ll explore some of Mallorca’s most picturesque spots, including Cala Vella, Cala Blava, and the rugged cliffs near Cap Rocat, all while lounging on a comfortable vessel. The tour departs from Palma de Mallorca, making it accessible whether you’re staying in the city or nearby.

What we really love about this experience is the opportunity to see Mallorca from a different perspective—sailing past natural monuments and coves that are often hidden from land. The buffet lunch, featuring authentic Mallorcan tapas and fresh snacks, really adds to the value, giving you a taste of local flavors amid the stunning scenery. Plus, the chance to snorkel in calm waters at Cala Blava makes it a well-rounded trip for those who enjoy water activities.

However, a word of caution: some reviews mention that the snorkeling equipment is not included and must be purchased on board. Others point out that the water can be choppy, so if you’re not confident in treading water or not a strong swimmer, bringing your own life jacket might be wise. The experience seems best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere and are okay with some crowds and the possibility of less-than-ideal snorkeling conditions.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a combination of sailing, sightseeing, and good food without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. Families, couples, or groups looking for a laid-back way to enjoy Mallorca’s coast in a comfortable setting will find it appealing. If you’re after an authentic, scenic day with a friendly crew and tasty bites, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and natural landmarks like Cap Rocat and Cala Vella.
• Delicious buffet lunch featuring Mallorcan tapas and snacks included in the price.
• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear waters.
• Comfortable catamaran with plenty of space and friendly crew.
• Some reviews mention crowds and equipment costs, so plan accordingly.
• Good value for the price, especially with included food and scenic stops.

The Complete Experience: What to Expect on the Mallorca Catamaran Cruise

When we first set sail from Palma de Mallorca, the modern catamaran made a sleek, inviting impression. The crew, well-versed in local lore and safety, immediately set a friendly tone. The initial 15-minute boarding is smooth, with most travelers finding plenty of space on deck to settle in. You’ll want to arrive a little early to secure your spot and soak in the atmosphere.

The Coastal Panorama of Palma Bay

Our cruise begins with a gentle glide through the Bay of Palma, offering sweeping views of the city skyline, including the Palma Cathedral—a Gothic marvel that dominates the waterfront. This part of the trip is perfect for snapping photos of the city’s skyline, the busy port, and the distant hills. We appreciated the relaxed pace, giving everyone a chance to relax, chat, or soak up the sun.

One reviewer, Kate, highlighted how breathtaking the swimming locations were, describing stops as “very enjoyable” and “breathtaking.” It’s true—the coast is dotted with hidden coves and cliffs worth admiring from the water. Expect to feel a gentle, refreshing breeze as you glide past rocky outcroppings and natural formations.

The Rugged Beauty of Cap Rocat

Sailing past Cap Rocat, you’ll notice dramatic cliffs and untouched landscapes that feel far from the tourist resorts. This area, described as “untouched by resort developments,” offers a sense of Mallorcan wilderness. The crystal-clear waters here are perfect for photos, and the tranquility is a stark contrast to more crowded parts of the coast.

Cala Vella: The Main Water Play Stop

The long stop at Cala Vella is the highlight for many. As one review notes, “Cala Vella offers a perfect escape into Mallorcan natural beauty,” with options to swim, snorkel, or explore natural pools formed by old quarries. The waters here are calm and inviting, ideal for a refreshing dip.

You can jump directly from the boat into the water or swim to the sandy beach nearby. For snorkelers, the marine life is vibrant, but keep in mind that snorkeling equipment is not included—you’ll need to buy or bring your own if you want to explore underwater. Some reviews mention the cost of snorkeling gear (around €20 on board), which might be an unexpected expense if you assumed it was included.

Cala Blava and the Lunch Break

After Cala Vella, the tour makes a stop at Cala Blava, a tranquil spot with calm, shallow waters, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Here, the buffet lunch takes center stage. The menu features a variety of Mallorcan tapas, including black pork with mushroom sauce, chicken, ginger, and mango salad, vegetable spring rolls, and fresh salads with oranges.

Many travelers found the lunch plentiful and tasty, with a good selection of local flavors. One guest described it as “more than expected,” which is high praise given the modest ticket price. The bread and fruit salad with vanilla ice cream are the perfect finishing touches.

Final Stop in Palma

The tour concludes with a scenic sail back to Palma, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Most agree that the views of Palma’s skyline and the coastline are stunning, and that the friendly crew contributed significantly to the positive experience.

Authentic Water Activities and the Snorkeling Experience

While the tour markets itself as a snorkeling trip, some reviews suggest this might be a bit misleading. Several guests were disappointed to find that snorkeling equipment isn’t included in the base price, and they had to pay extra. Others mention that there’s limited time for snorkeling, with some stops focusing more on sightseeing than underwater adventures.

If snorkeling is a priority, consider bringing your own gear or budgeting for the additional cost. The waters around Cala Vella are described as crystal clear, making them ideal for underwater exploration, but the lack of fins and limited equipment options may frustrate more serious snorkelers.

The Crowds and Comfort Considerations

A common theme among reviews is the crowded nature of the boat, especially during peak times. Some mention the vessel feels cramped with around 100 people onboard, which can affect comfort, especially when trying to relax or take photos. The lack of life jackets is another point to consider, particularly if you’re nervous about swimming in choppy water.

If you prefer a more private or less crowded experience, booking early or visiting during off-peak hours might help. Alternatively, bringing your own safety gear is always a good idea.

Food and Beverage

The included lunch is a standout feature, with many reviewers praising the variety and quality of the food. However, drinks are not included, and the bar prices can seem steep—something to keep in mind if you’re planning to indulge. The tour provides water during lunch, but other beverages require additional purchase.

Some guests appreciate that drinks are reasonably priced, and the overall value remains good considering the scenic stops, food, and relaxed sailing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This catamaran cruise is best suited for those who value scenic views, good food, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting to spend a few hours on the water without the need for intense water sports. If your priority is seeing Mallorca from the coast and enjoying a tasty meal in a friendly setting, this trip fits the bill.

However, if snorkeling is a major priority or you prefer a less crowded, more intimate experience, you might want to explore other options or be prepared for some compromises.

The Sum Up

The Mallorca Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Trip offers a pleasant day at sea with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, good food, and relaxing vibes. The scenic stops and buffet lunch stand out, especially given the modest price, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good eats.

While some drawbacks like crowding and optional snorkeling gear exist, many guests find the overall experience very enjoyable. It’s a fine pick for those who want to soak up Mallorca’s coast without complicated planning or high costs.

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and tasty day on the water, this trip is likely to hit the mark. Just be mindful of the water conditions and equipment costs if snorkeling is a must. For anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic adventure with friendly service and authentic flavors, this cruise offers a flavor of Mallorca’s best from the deck of a well-equipped catamaran.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring life jackets if your kids aren’t confident swimmers, as some reviews mention water choppiness.

How long is the cruise?
The whole trip lasts about 5 hours, including stops, sailing time, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the round-trip catamaran cruise, buffet lunch, and water during lunch. Drinks and snorkeling equipment are extra.

Can I buy snorkeling gear on board?
Yes, snorkeling equipment costs about €20 and can be purchased on board.

Are there any stops for swimming?
Yes, there are stops at Cala Vella and Cala Blava for swimming and snorkeling, although the time at each may vary.

What is the quality of the food?
Guests generally report the lunch as plentiful and tasty, with a good variety of Mallorcan tapas, salads, and desserts.

Is the boat crowded?
Some reviews mention the boat feeling cramped with around 100 people onboard, so early booking or off-peak visits might improve your comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and possibly your own snorkeling gear if you want to snorkel extensively.

Is the itinerary fixed?
The itinerary may change depending on weather, wind, and safety considerations, but the main stops are usually Cala Vella, Cala Blava, and Cap Rocat.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if the tour is canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

This review aims to give you a complete picture of what you can expect from the Mallorca Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Trip. Whether you’re after scenic views, good food, or a relaxing day at sea, it offers enough to make it a memorable part of your Mallorca adventure.