Nerja: Maro Waterfall Boat Trip with Paddleboarding & Drink

Discover the Natural Beauty of Nerja’s Coast with the Maro Waterfall Boat Trip

If you’re craving a taste of Andalusia’s rugged coastline, this 4-hour boat trip from Nerja offers a chance to see it all. For $63 per person, you’ll sail from Caleta de Velez Málaga aboard the Aventumar, exploring the dramatic Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo. Along the way, you’ll enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and even standup paddleboarding (SUP) toward the Maro Waterfall, a highlight for many.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with active fun — it’s more than just a boat ride. The guides are praised for their friendly attitude and helpfulness, and the inclusion of photos and videos makes capturing memories effortless. Also, the small group size (or at least the feeling of roominess) means you won’t feel cramped, even if the boat is busy.

One consideration is that the waterfall may sometimes be dry, as noted by some travelers, which could affect that particular experience. Also, if you’re not comfortable with boats or water activities, this might not be your best choice.

This trip suits adventurers, nature lovers, and those interested in authentic coastal experiences. It’s especially appealing if you want more than just sightseeing — the paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scenic stops make it memorable.

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Key Points

Stunning Coastal Views: Sail along the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo, known for their dramatic rugged beauty.
Multiple Water Activities: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, with all gear included.
Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides help make the experience smooth and fun.
Photo & Video Memory Package: Capture your adventure with included GoPro photos and videos.
Flexible & Practical: Bring your own food and drinks; boat has a private toilet.
Ideal for Active Travelers: Suitable for those comfortable with water activities and boat trips.

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A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting at the Port of Caleta de Velez Málaga, the adventure begins with a short walk to the boat, where the crew awaits at gate C. Check-in is simple — arrive 15 minutes early to avoid rushing, and look for the sign “Paseo en barco Aventumar” with the boat named “Aventumar.” The group size can vary but generally feels comfortable, with enough space for everyone’s gear.

The boat itself is equipped with a private toilet and ample space for sunbathing or relaxing on deck. You are encouraged to bring your own food and drinks, making this a flexible experience if you prefer snacks or beverages during your journey.

The Scenic Sail through the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo

As the boat departs, you’ll glide past craggy cliffs and hidden coves with crystal-clear waters that have made this stretch famous. The Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo are a favorite for their raw, unspoiled beauty, and many reviews highlight how breathtaking the views are from the water. Your guides will point out key landmarks, caves, and natural formations, enriching your understanding of this rugged coastline.

Swimming and Snorkeling Stops

The boat pauses at several spots along the way where you’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel. The snorkel gear is included, and the water’s clarity allows you to see a surprising amount of marine life. Travelers often mention that these stops are refreshing and offer a chance to relax in nature.

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Approaching the Maro Waterfall by Paddleboard

Perhaps the most talked-about part of the tour is the paddleboarding experience to reach the Maro Waterfall. The activity is suitable for those comfortable on a paddleboard, as you’ll be paddling toward a shallow area to bathe in front of the waterfall. Some adventurers, like Seán, loved snorkeling and paddleboarding around the waterfall, describing it as “amazing.” Others, like Tony, noted that the waterfall was dry during their visit — an important point to consider, as seasonal dryness can affect this stop.

The guides help everyone get on their paddleboards, and for those less experienced, they’re patient and encouraging. The waterfront bathing is a highlight, offering a close-up view of this natural feature.

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The Photos and Videos

One standout feature is the GoPro photos and videos included in the package. Many travelers, including Marion, appreciated the high-quality shots taken by the guides, capturing moments that are often hard to photograph on your own. This addition makes the tour especially appealing if you want lasting memories without the hassle of taking your own photos.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the price are the guide, boat tour, snorkel gear, paddleboard, one drink, water bottle, and photos/videos. It’s a good value given the variety of activities and the scenic beauty.

However, you’ll need to bring your own towel, sunscreen, and storage device for photos. If you plan to spend time sunbathing or paddling, packing a towel and sun protection is essential. Remember, extra drinks are not included, so bring water or your preferred beverage if you want to stay hydrated.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s starting point at Caleta de Velez is convenient, and the departure times are flexible based on availability. The boat ride itself lasts about 4 hours, which feels just right — enough to enjoy the scenery without it dragging on.

The first part of the journey involves sailing along the coast, with frequent stops for swimming or snorkeling, allowing you to cool off in the crystal waters. As you approach the Maro Waterfall, the guide will help you don your paddleboard gear and lead the way.

The waterfall stop is the climax, giving you an opportunity to bathe in the shallow waters or paddle closer to the cascading water (if present). Afterward, the boat heads back, with plenty of time to relax or take in the scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Samy, Sam, Antonio, and the captain are often praised for their friendly, engaging manner. One reviewer appreciated that the captain played music of their choice, adding a personal touch to the trip.

Despite some minor downsides, such as the dry waterfall or the initial language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, most travelers describe the trip as “beautiful,” “fun,” and “worth it.” For instance, Marion said, “We had a fantastic afternoon with Sam and Antonio — really enjoyed everything, from paddleboarding to the GoPro pictures.”

The value for money is often highlighted, especially given the inclusion of snorkel gear, photos, and paddleboarding—activities that could easily cost extra elsewhere. People also mention that the small group feel and the attentive guides enhance the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers comfortable in the water and interested in natural scenery. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and exploring caves or waterfalls. The tour might not be suitable for mobility-impaired persons or those who prefer more relaxed, land-based activities.

If you like small-group adventures with a focus on photo memories and outdoor fun, this is a solid choice. Conversely, if you’re looking for a very laid-back, purely scenic trip, other options might be more your style.

The Sum Up

The Nerja Maro Waterfall Boat Trip delivers a balanced mix of spectacular views, active water sports, and natural discoveries. It’s ideal for those who want a fuller experience beyond just sightseeing — paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming make it an engaging day. The guides’ friendliness and the included photos are nice touches that elevate the trip.

While the waterfall may sometimes be dry, many travelers find the boat ride and stops at caves, beaches, and coves to be more than enough to justify the cost. It’s a great value considering the range of activities and the natural beauty you’ll see.

This tour is best for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and photo lovers who want to explore the coast in a fun, active way, with plenty of opportunities to cool off and soak in Andalusia’s stunning coastline.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is more suitable for active individuals comfortable with water activities. Children who enjoy swimming and paddleboarding might love it, but those with mobility issues or very young children may find it less appropriate.

Do I need prior experience for paddleboarding?
No prior experience is required, but you should be comfortable on a paddleboard or willing to learn. Guides are helpful and patient, making it friendly for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a storage device for photos. You might also want to pack snacks or extra drinks since they’re not included.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks onboard for a more personalized experience.

Will I see the waterfall?
Most likely, but keep in mind that the waterfall can sometimes be dry depending on the season or recent weather. It’s still a beautiful spot to paddle toward and swim in.

Is there a language barrier?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, so communication should be smooth for most travelers. Some reviews mention initial language issues, but these are usually quickly resolved.

This boat trip from Nerja offers a lively, scenic, and active way to experience Andalusia’s coast — perfect if you want a day filled with fun, natural wonder, and memorable moments.