Benalmádena: Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop

Benalmádena: Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop

A catamaran cruise in Benalmádena offers a peaceful way to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea—with plenty of chances to see playful dolphins and even whales, all while sipping on complimentary drinks. For around $53 per person, you get about two hours of sailing on a 44-foot luxury catamaran with space to stretch out, a swim stop, and a friendly crew eager to make your trip memorable. Tours run from the Benalmádena port, starting with a warm welcome and a free drink, and then out into the shimmering waters along the coast.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized size of the group—usually no more than 12 guests—means you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. Second, the stories and local insights shared by the crew, especially about dolphin interactions and the local coastline, add a layer of genuine connection. However, keep in mind that dolphin and whale sightings are not guaranteed—nature can be unpredictable, after all.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, want a bit of adventure in their day, and enjoy marine wildlife. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find it a worthwhile outing, especially if you’re seeking value and authentic moments at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Small groups make for a more personal, relaxed experience.
• Wildlife Watching: Chances to see dolphins, whales, and sunfish, though not guaranteed.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Enjoy complimentary branded drinks throughout the cruise.
• Swim Stop: Refresh yourself with a dip in the sea, with gear provided.
• Comfortable Boat: The 44-foot catamaran is spacious, tidy, and designed for comfort.
• Flexible Booking: Book now with the option to pay later, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours ahead.

The Experience from Start to Finish

Once you arrive at the Benalmádena port, near the ferry departure point and parasailing boats, the process is straightforward. The crew greets you warmly, and you’ll be handed a complimentary drink—a nice touch that sets the tone. You’ll settle onto the spacious deck, which is perfect for lounging, taking photos, or just soaking up the sun. The small group size (up to 12 guests) ensures you’re not crammed, and everyone gets a good view.

The cruise begins with a gentle departure, heading out into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. The coastline views are spectacular, with the coast of Benalmádena and Torremolinos sprawling out beside you. The narration from the crew adds a layer of local flavor—stories about the area, insights into marine life, and tips on spotting dolphins and whales.

Watching for Marine Life

One of the most exciting parts of the cruise is the possibility of spotting dolphins, which many reviews mention as a highlight. Multiple travelers report seeing pods of dolphins swimming near the boat, sometimes even approaching closely. For example, a reviewer named Kelly described their trip as “amazing,” with the dolphins swimming right next to the boat, adding a sense of magic to the experience. The crew, particularly guides like Emily and Jason, are attentive and eager to point out dolphins or sunfish when they’re nearby.

However, it’s worth remembering that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Some trips, especially later in the day or in choppier seas, might not yield dolphin encounters. As one reviewer noted, “No luck with dolphins but that’s obviously not the crew’s fault,” which is a fair reminder that nature doesn’t always cooperate.

The Swim Stop

Midway through, the crew will identify a suitable area for guests to jump into the sea. Here, you can cool off, snorkel, or just float and relax. Gear such as life jackets and paddleboards are provided, turning your cruise into a mini aquatic adventure. Many reviewers describe the swim stop as a highlight—an invigorating break and a chance to experience the cool, clear waters of the Mediterranean.

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Returning to the Marina

After some time in the water, the boat heads back toward the port, with the coastline scenery providing a perfect backdrop for photos. The cruise typically lasts about two hours, which many find just right—not too long to be tiring, but enough to relax and truly enjoy the surroundings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families with children, couples celebrating special occasions, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape. The small group size fosters intimacy and personal interaction, making it perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, less commercialized experience. If you’re enthusiastic about marine wildlife or simply want a scenic, restful day on the water, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Pricing and Value

At $53 per person, the tour provides a good value considering the all-inclusive drinks, the swim stop, and the small-group atmosphere. Compared to larger, more crowded excursions, this private-feel cruise feels like a special outing without the hefty price tag. The reviews consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the comfortable boat as major pluses, making the price well justified for a personalized experience.

Some reviews highlight the additional touches—such as snacks, paddleboarding, and the ability to take photos of dolphins swimming alongside the boat—that elevate this beyond a simple boat ride. The opportunity to see dolphins up close, combined with a refreshing swim in the sea, makes it a well-rounded, memorable outing.

Practical Details for Your Trip

• Meeting Point: At the berth of Borrasca, next to parasailing boats near the ferry terminal.
• Duration: About 2 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Group Size: Max 12 guests, ensuring a cozy, intimate experience.
• Languages: Tours are offered in English and Spanish.
• Booking Flexibility: You can reserve now with pay later options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Not Suitable For: Wheelchair users, but assistance dogs are allowed.
• What’s Not Included: Hotel pickups, food, or any additional drinks beyond the complimentary ones.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Numerous reviews echo the overall high satisfaction, with several travelers emphasizing the friendly staff and spectacular dolphin sightings. For instance, Jade called it an “amazing trip, easy to find the boat,” and Dawn highlighted the great value for money. Many describe it as “a peaceful, beautiful experience,” especially when dolphins swim close enough to touch (okay, maybe not quite, but it feels that close).

Others appreciated the personal touch—guides like Emily and Jason, who show genuine enthusiasm and knowledge about marine life, make the trip more than just a boat ride. Kelly’s comment about sipping sangria and enjoying snacks encapsulates how this cruise combines relaxation with adventure.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic escape with the chance to glimpse dolphins and other marine life, this catamaran cruise hits the mark. It offers excellent value for the price, especially with the small group size and friendly crew making it feel personal. The swim stop provides a refreshing break, and the breathtaking coastal views are a bonus for anyone wanting a taste of the Mediterranean’s natural beauty.

This experience is especially suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of wildlife spotting, sunbathing, and light adventure. While the unpredictability of wildlife sightings is worth noting, the overall atmosphere and attentive guides make this a memorable day out.

For those who love authentic marine encounters and relaxed sightseeing, this cruise offers both in abundance—delivering unforgettable moments that will linger long after you leave Benalmádena.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own drinks? No, the cruise includes complimentary branded drinks throughout the journey, so you can relax without worrying about extras.

Is there food available on the cruise? No, food isn’t included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy a meal before or after the trip.

How long does the cruise last? The experience is about two hours—a perfect length for a laid-back adventure without it feeling hurried.

Can I see dolphins and whales on this trip? There’s a chance to see dolphins, whales, and sunfish, but sightings are not guaranteed as they depend on nature.

What’s the boat like? The 44-foot luxury catamaran is spacious, tidy, and designed for comfort, offering plenty of room to relax and enjoy the ride.

Where do I meet the tour? At the Borrasca berth, near the parasailing boats and the ferry departure point in Benalmádena.

Is this activity suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since the boat is small and the pace relaxed. However, very young children should be supervised, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers.

Are pets allowed on the boat? Pets aren’t allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted.

This Benalmádena catamaran cruise combines relaxation, wildlife viewing, and coastal scenery into a delightful half-day outing. It balances comfort and adventure, making it a perfect choice for those wanting to enjoy the Mediterranean from a different perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: