Denia/Jávea: a day at sea with paella on Isla Portitxol

Planning a boat trip in the Valencian Community? This tour offers a charming escape on a catamaran along the coast, complete with swimming stops and a delicious Valencian meal. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxing day out, away from the hustle of city life, with beautiful seaside views and a taste of local cuisine.

What really draws us to this experience is the chance to unwind on the water, savor fresh food, and take in the scenery at a leisurely pace. We love how it combines the calming effect of being at sea with a hearty, authentic meal. Plus, the opportunity to visit Portitxol Island and swim in its turquoise waters makes it feel like a true seaside adventure.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s itinerary can be a bit flexible, meaning specific stops like Portitxol aren’t always guaranteed. If you’re set on visiting particular spots, this might be a consideration. Also, the experience might be less suitable for those who need accessible options, as it’s not geared toward wheelchair users.

This tour works well for travelers who appreciate relaxed, scenic outings with good food, especially if you’re traveling with friends or a couple looking to enjoy the coast from the water. It’s a straightforward way to soak up the sun, sea, and local flavors without a complicated schedule.

Key Points

• Relaxation at its best: A laid-back day aboard a catamaran with stunning views.
• Swim and explore: Stops at Portitxol Island for swimming and snorkeling.
• Local cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Valencian paella, fresh salad, and seasonal fruit.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops and location may vary depending on the captain’s discretion.
• Ideal for chill days: Perfect for those wanting to unwind, sip drinks, and soak up the sun.
• Not suited for everyone: Not wheelchair accessible and some reviews mention less-than-ideal communication or service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Points and Duration

The tour begins from one of two locations: Puerto Deportivo or Esplanada Cervantes. Both are central spots in Jávea or Dénia, making it easy if you’re already exploring the area. The full experience, which lasts between 3 to 5 hours, combines a boat ride, swimming, and a hearty meal. The flexible timing means you can choose a start time that suits your plans.

The Catamaran Ride

The catamaran itself gets many positive comments. We loved the way it’s described as “very comfortable,” and many reviewers mention the enjoyment of sailing on such a vessel. The ride provides a great chance to relax, take in the coastline, and enjoy some music along the way.

Some reviews highlight that the boat’s size and comfort level make it suitable for unwinding. Still, the actual boat might vary, and specific vessels aren’t guaranteed, so keep expectations flexible. The one-hour sail along the coast sets a peaceful tone, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the cliffs and coves lining the shoreline.

Stops at Portitxol Island

The highlight for many is the stop at Portitxol Island, a small, scenic spot offering turquoise waters perfect for swimming. You might find, as some reviews suggest, that the boat halts a bit before the island rather than right on it, which can be a small disappointment if you’re eager to explore the island itself. The anchoring location is at the captain’s discretion, so specific spots aren’t always promised.

During the swimming stop, you can snorkel and paddle around, enjoying the clear water. The water quality is generally praised, and some reviews mention the availability of diving goggles, which enhance the experience. Keep in mind that the exact swimming spot is flexible, and the crew decides based on safety and weather conditions.

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Food and Drinks

The onboard meal is a major part of this tour’s appeal. You’ll be served a traditional Valencian paella, which is often described as tasty and satisfying. Alongside, there’s a fresh salad, seasonal fruit, and a drink of your choice—water, soft drink, or beer. Guests often appreciate the quality and authenticity of the food.

One reviewer noted that the paella was “not particularly special,” but most found it to be a solid, enjoyable meal that fits well within the relaxed vibe of the day. It’s a good value considering the inclusion of food, drinks, and the scenic boat ride.

The Return and Atmosphere

As the tour winds down, you can continue to relax, enjoy music, and perhaps dance a little on deck. The leisurely return gives everyone a chance to soak up the final moments of the sea breeze and sunshine. Many reviews mention the crew’s friendly attitude and the overall good vibe onboard.

Things to Consider

While the experience is largely positive, some reviews point to minor inconveniences. For instance, one traveler experienced difficulty with exchanging vouchers and noted that the crew only spoke Spanish, which could be a barrier for non-Spanish speakers. Others mentioned that the tour did not include a visit to Portitxol itself but rather stopped offshore for swimming.

Plus, bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and comfortable shoes. The tour prohibits bringing drinks or alcohol onboard, and the cost of buying water on hot days can be high—something to plan for if you’re thirsty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back day on the water, especially if you’re interested in swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a decent local meal. It’s great for couples, friends, or anyone who wants to unwind without a packed schedule. If you’re after specific sightseeing or family-friendly amenities, you might want to consider other options.

It’s not suited for wheelchair users or travelers with mobility issues, given the nature of the boat and the activity setup. Also, if detailed itinerary accuracy or guaranteed stops are essential for you, this flexible tour might not meet those needs.

The Bottom Line

This experience offers a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy the Costa Blanca coastline. The highlight is definitely the combination of sailing on a comfortable catamaran, swimming in clear waters, and indulging in a tasty Valencian meal. For those who appreciate a relaxed pace, good company, and spectacular views, it’s a solid choice.

On the flip side, if you’re expecting a highly structured tour with guaranteed stops or specific sightseeing, you might find the flexibility a bit limiting. Communication could be better for non-Spanish speakers, and the actual port visit is not guaranteed, which might be a disappointment for some.

Overall, if your goal is to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the flavors of Valencia, this tour delivers. Just go prepared for some variability, and you’ll likely walk away with a memorable seaside day.

FAQ

Is the boat suitable for families with children?
This tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but children who enjoy swimming and boat rides might find it enjoyable. Keep in mind that the experience isn’t tailored for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Since drinks are not allowed in the vehicle and water can be pricey on hot days, it’s wise to carry your own water.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Spanish?
While the crew speaks both Spanish and English, some reviews mention that the communication can be limited if you don’t speak Spanish. It’s worth confirming with the provider if language is a concern.

Is the specific boat guaranteed?
No, the tour notes specify that a particular boat is not guaranteed. The vessel may vary, but it will be suitable for a relaxing day at sea.

Are the stops at Portitxol Island guaranteed?
Not necessarily. The anchor point and swimming location are at the captain’s discretion, so the exact spot for swimming may vary depending on weather and safety considerations.

How long is the whole experience?
The total duration is between 3 to 5 hours, including sailing, swimming, and the meal. Check the available start times to plan accordingly.

Is there a dress code or specific attire?
Casual, comfortable clothes are recommended, especially swimwear and beachwear. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

If you’re craving a peaceful day on the sea with good food, scenic views, and a chance to cool off in the water, this boat trip in Denia or Jávea might just be your ticket. Just keep expectations flexible and come prepared for a laid-back, enjoyable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: