A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

A Day at Sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Imagine setting out early in the morning, when the gentle Mediterranean breeze whispers through the harbor in Dénia or Jávea. For about five hours, you could be drifting along the coast on a spacious catamaran, soaking up stunning views of jagged cliffs, hidden coves, and sparkling waters. All this for around $64 per person, with the chance to enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch and plenty of time for swimming away from the crowds.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the relaxed atmosphere—a smaller group often means more space to lounge on nets or sit comfortably on deck. Second, the scenic route along the coast, passing Cala de Portixol and sweeping past Jávea’s coves, offers some of the most picturesque scenery in the region.

One consideration to keep in mind is that there’s no shelter on the boat, so if the weather turns bad, your experience might be less enjoyable. This trip suits travelers who love open water, nature, and aren’t overly concerned about having a lot of local commentary during the cruise. For those seeking a calm, scenic day with good food and swimming opportunities, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Ideal for Relaxation: Spacious catamaran with nets and decks perfect for lounging or lying over the sea.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: Passes along coves and cliffs, with stops in idyllic spots like Cala de Portixol.
• Includes Lunch: A barbecue menu with bread, salad, fruit, and a drink offers good value and a tasty break.
• Swim and Unwind: Anchors in peaceful coves for swimming, away from crowded beaches—highlighted by many positive reviews.
• Group Size: Usually up to 105 people, but smaller groups like 30 are common, creating a more relaxed vibe.
• Weather Dependency: The experience is weather-sensitive; poor weather results in cancellations or rescheduling.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Setting Out from Dénia or Jávea

The trip begins with a gentle departure, usually in the morning, on a large, well-equipped catamaran. The crew, though sometimes described as quiet or reserved, generally prepares the vessel with professionalism. You’ll love the ease of access — the tour is designed for comfort, with amenities like onboard restrooms and space to relax during the journey.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

Once underway, the boat skirts Cape San Antonio, providing travelers with spectacular views of rugged coastlines and shimmering waters. Passing front of Jávea, you get a panoramic perspective of the town’s coves and beaches—perfect for photo enthusiasts. As the vessel heads toward Cabo de la Nao, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, with steep cliffs and secluded bays that seem almost untouched.

The Anchor Stop at Cala de Portixol

One of the main highlights is the anchor in Cala de Portixol—a tranquil spot ideal for swimming and relaxing. Here, many guests find their peace: “We had a great time and the weather was great,” shares one reviewer, noting the plenty of space and lovely lunch. The shallow waters and natural surroundings make for excellent swimming, and the calm environment is perfect for those wanting a peaceful break.

This stop lasts about 90 minutes, enough to swim, snorkel (if you wish), or simply lay back and enjoy the sun. Several reviews mention that swimming in the bay was one of their favorite parts, especially the opportunity to escape the crowded beaches.

The Food and Beverage Experience

The included barbecue lunch is a major selling point for many travelers. It features bread, salad, fruit, and a drink, offering decent value for the price. Several reviewers appreciated the quality of the food—”the food was very good,” says one happy guest.

However, some noted that the service during meal times could be chaotic, especially when the boat is full. One review mentioned that “the moment of food” was a bit chaotic, which might be typical on such group excursions. Still, most found the lunch enjoyable and filling.

Swimming and Free Time

Apart from the meal, the chance to swim in the calm coves makes this trip worthwhile. Many reviews highlight the time allocated for swimming, with some noting it was “plenty of time,” while others wished for more stops or longer durations. Keep in mind, swimming with jellyfish has been mentioned, so it’s wise to be aware of the local marine life.

The Return and Reflection

As the journey concludes, you’ll start heading back to the port, often passing more scenic views. Many guests mention feeling refreshed and happy, eager to revisit this experience. The sense of peace and satisfaction after a day on the water is palpable, especially if the weather has been kind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who value scenery and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy comfortable outdoor spaces, swimming, and a casual atmosphere. If you’re looking for a smaller group feel—say around 30 people—this day at sea offers plenty of room to spread out.

However, if you’re someone who prefers guided commentary about the coastline or wants a more structured trip, this might not be the best fit. Also, those sensitive to weather conditions should be prepared for possible cancellations or less enjoyable days if skies turn grey.

The Value of This Experience

At roughly $64, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, comfort, and food. The inclusion of a barbecue and swimming opportunities adds value, especially considering similar boat trips that charge extra for meals or don’t include food at all.

The small group atmosphere makes the experience more intimate than larger ferry excursions, and the scenic coastlines are some of the most photographed spots in the region. For families, couples, or solo travelers craving a relaxed day at sea, this is a solid choice.

Practical Details

Duration: Approximately 5 hours—long enough to enjoy the coast but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.
Price: Around $64 per person—a good deal for the included food, scenery, and swimming.
Group size: Usually up to 105 travelers, with many trips around 30 people.
Booking: Book 14 days in advance on average, indicating good availability if planned early.
Weather: The trip is weather-dependent; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with full refunds or rescheduling options.
Accessibility: The boat features restrooms and is accessible for service animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the barbecue meal included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a barbecue menu with bread, salad, fruit, and a drink.

Can I bring my own drinks onboard?
No, external alcoholic beverages are not permitted. The boat has a bar where drinks can be purchased.

How long is the swimming stop?
The main stop at Cala de Portixol lasts about 90 minutes, with additional swimming opportunities if time permits.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, including children, and service animals are allowed.

Is there a limit on the number of people on the net over the sea?
Yes, the nets have limited capacity, so it’s best to contact the company in advance to book a spot on the nets.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. The boat is open-air, so dress comfortably for the weather.

To sum it up, this day at sea with a barbecue from Dénia or Jávea offers a lovely, laid-back way to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline. It’s especially well-suited for those looking for a relaxing escape, with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and a tasty meal included. While it’s weather-dependent and can get crowded, the overall experience showcases the natural beauty of the coast and the joy of being on the water.

If you’re after a peaceful day in nature with good food and plenty of swimming, this trip could be a highlight of your trip to Spain’s Costa Blanca. Just remember to plan ahead, pack sun protection, and relax—you’re in for a memorable day.