From Colònia de San Jordi : Catamaran Cruise to Es Trenc

We’re reviewing a 5-hour catamaran cruise from Colònia de Sant Jordi to the Es Trenc area, with two swim and snorkel stops and an onboard BBQ lunch. You sail past Cap Salines, drop anchor in crystal-clear water, then spend real time off the boat rather than just watching from the deck.

I like two things most. First, the included meal setup is a win for value: a BBQ-style spread plus soft drinks, wine, and sangria during the food. Second, the experience is built around the coast itself, with long stretches of swimming and snorkeling right where the water looks best.

One thing to consider: it can get busy on board, especially in peak season. Some travelers report not always finding easy shade or sitting spots, so if you hate crowds, you’ll want to be intentional about when and where you relax.

Key takeaways before you go

• Two anchor stops give you enough time in the water to feel like a real swim day, not a quick splash.
• Cap Salines coastal views are part of the payoff while you’re sailing between beaches.
• Included BBQ and drinks make the $69 price feel more like a day out than a boat ride.
• Snorkel masks require a €10 cash deposit, so plan to carry cash for that one small step.
• Only card payments are accepted onboard, and American Express isn’t.
• Vegetarian meals need advance notice (at least 1 day before), or they won’t be served.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Where You Start: The Pier by Hotel Marqués del Palmer

Most people miss the easiest detail: how simple the meeting point is. You board at the pier next to Hotel Marqués del Palmer in Colònia de Sant Jordi. That matters because you don’t want to waste your cruise time hunting down a bus stop or figuring out a sketchy “nearby” location.

The activity notes also say there’s no easy way to book pick-up and drop-off through the page. So if you’re staying in another part of Mallorca (or you’re arriving late), give yourself cushion time to get to the port. One traveler mentioned that a staff member named Belen helped them sort out ground transport when they hadn’t booked a transfer, which is a nice reminder that questions on location can pay off.

Tip: aim to arrive early enough to use the bathroom and get settled before the boarding rush. It’s a short trip overall, and you’ll feel the difference between “calm boarding” and “last-minute scramble.”

The Boat Ride Part: Sailing the Southeast Coast of Mallorca

The cruise is designed so you’re not stuck with hours of “just sailing.” You depart Colònia de Sant Jordi and head along the southeast coastline, with standout scenery as you pass Cap Salines. Even if you’re not the type who cares about boats, the shoreline here is what you’ll remember later.

A catamaran also gives you something practical: stability. On a day with wind or chop, it usually feels easier on the body than smaller boats. Several reviewers also noted there was enough room once on board, while others found it busy. So plan for a “lively deck” vibe rather than a quiet private yacht moment.

If you’re prone to seasickness, keep your expectations reasonable: the catamaran tends to be smoother than you might fear, but conditions change. Bringing basic motion-sickness supplies can still be smart, especially on afternoon departures.

The Swim Stop Reality: Cala Marmols or Es Caragol and Es Trenc

This tour anchors in the Es Trenc area, with stops that may be listed as Cala Marmols or Es Caragol plus Es Trenc, depending on the day’s conditions. What stays consistent is the goal: you get real time in the water off Mallorca’s most famous beach stretch.

Why this matters: Mallorca’s calm, turquoise coves can look amazing from shore, but you only truly get it when you’re floating above it. You’re not just taking photos on a crowded beach. You’re in the water, often just minutes from where you stepped in.

One traveler’s timing description matches what many people want to hear: there’s a decent cruising segment between anchor points, then a longer swim and snorkel block paired with BBQ. Another review noted roughly 2.5 hours of swimming/snorkeling around one stop, with another stop later. Even if your exact timing varies, the pattern is clear: the day is split into “sail, then swim,” not “sail, then wait.”

Snorkeling Masks: Included Gear With a €10 Cash Deposit

Snorkeling is part of the deal. You can use complimentary snorkeling masks, but there’s a catch: a €10 deposit is required (cash). That’s not a big cost, but it’s easy to forget if you’re traveling with only cards.

Here’s the practical way to handle it:

• Bring a small amount of cash just for the deposit.
• Put it somewhere secure before you board.
• If you forget, you might still snorkel without a mask, but you’ll lose one of the easier upgrades that makes the trip feel like more than a plain beach day.

Also, snorkeling quality can change. One older review mentioned snorkeling wasn’t great because of weather. That’s normal in the real world. The better your water conditions, the more you’ll see.

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The BBQ Lunch: What’s Actually Included and When

You’ll eat onboard while the crew cooks. The menu typically includes meats like chicken breast, skewers, and sausages, plus fresh salads and cake for dessert. It’s not trying to be Michelin. It’s doing something more valuable for a day on the water: it’s fast, filling, and designed for groups.

Drinks are where the value gets clearer:

• Soft drinks and mineral water are included during the trip.
• Wine and sangria are included with the meal.

A few reviews mentioned drinks beyond that might cost extra, and one noted alcohol was free for the first hour while eating, with additional drinks charged afterward. The safe takeaway: assume the core included drinks come with lunch, and expect other purchases to be card-based.

One more detail that surprised people in a good way: some travelers said the food was served in a way that felt plentiful, and they struggled to finish it. For $69, that’s exactly what you want to hear.

The Deck Vibe: Music, Atmosphere, and Crew Energy

This isn’t a silent, nature-only cruise. There’s music, and reviewers repeatedly mention the vibe as a big part of why they’d go again. You’ll likely hear Spanish music onboard, and some travelers talked about dancing with the crew. That’s not something you can plan, but it’s a real clue about the mood.

What I like here is that the crew seems to run things smoothly. Multiple reviews highlight staff friendliness, help with getting on and off the boat, and a laid-back but attentive service style.

One practical note: if you’re traveling with kids, several families said the day worked well. One review even mentioned life jackets for small children were good quality. Another mentioned crew help with an elderly mother, which is useful if mobility is part of your travel reality.

Morning vs Afternoon: Timing That Changes the Feel

You have two schedule options:

• Morning cruise: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Afternoon cruise: 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Which one is better? It depends on what you want from the day.

• If you like a full beach day energy with lunch as a highlight, the morning slot is great.
• If you want a later start and a more relaxed end to your day, the afternoon cruise can feel perfect.

Also, light matters. The Mediterranean can look even better under softer afternoon sun, but afternoon seas can be busier and sometimes warmer. If you’re traveling with kids or you want to avoid the hottest window, the morning might be more comfortable.

Value Check: Why This $69 Price Works (When You Match It to Your Priorities)

Boat trips in Mallorca can vary a lot. What makes this one feel like solid value is the combination of:

• a full 5-hour timeframe
• two water stops
• an onboard BBQ lunch
• and included basics like water and soft drinks, plus wine and sangria during the meal

You’re not paying extra for the main “why you came,” which is time in the water and food onboard. If your goal is pure swimming, this is a better deal than a tour where you spend most of your time sightseeing from land.

That said, value also depends on expectations. If you want quiet, uncrowded, and beach-adjacent access without any deck energy, this may feel a bit lively. But if you want an easy day where the logistics are handled and the reward is in the water, it’s hard not to see why so many people like it.

Crowd and Comfort: Finding Shade and Seating on a Busy Boat

One of the only repeated negative themes is crowding. Some travelers said it was busy and that they couldn’t always find space in sun or shade. Another said it wasn’t overcrowded once on the boat, and there was plenty of room.

So, here’s the balanced approach:

• Go in knowing the deck is shared and you’ll likely be near other groups.
• If shade matters to you, be ready to claim it early after boarding.
• If you’re traveling as a group, expect your boarding time to affect how quickly you can settle.

A catamaran usually has plenty of open deck surface, but peak season always brings pressure. If you’re sensitive to crowding, choose a schedule that feels calmer for your travel style.

What You Should Bring: Simple List, Big Comfort Payoff

The trip is built around water, food, and sun. Bring items that support that, not items that slow you down.

You’ll want:

• swimwear and a towel
• sunscreen (and reapply habits)
• a cover-up if you get sunburn-prone
• water shoes or sandals you can trust for boarding and stepping around
• a small cash amount for the €10 mask deposit
• a card for any onboard purchases

If you’re snorkeling, keep your snorkel rhythm calm. Even when you don’t see a “wow” amount of fish, the experience is about floating, looking, and enjoying the clarity.

Payment and Rules: Card Only, American Express Not Accepted

Onboard payment is straightforward but strict:

• Only card payments are accepted on board
• American Express is not accepted

Also, the snorkel mask deposit uses cash. That creates a small two-system situation. It’s not hard, but it is the one place you should be prepared.

If you’re the type who relies entirely on Apple Pay or one specific card, bring a backup option. Travel gets smoother when your payment plan doesn’t depend on one device working.

Vegetarian Lunch: Plan Ahead or You’ll Miss It

The tour can do a vegetarian menu, but it needs advance coordination. Contact the activity provider at least one day before the activity if you want the vegetarian option. If you don’t, the vegetarian menu won’t be served.

This is one of those travel details where acting early is the difference between a smooth day and a scramble. If you have dietary needs, send the message as soon as your booking is confirmed.

Who This Tour Suits Best

I think this cruise fits best if you want:

• a fun, social day with music and a crew that keeps things moving
• time in the water rather than a “run from viewpoint to viewpoint” style
• included lunch and included basics, so you’re not budgeting every hour
• an easy day trip from Colònia de Sant Jordi

It also seems to work for families. Reviews mention children onboard and the crew helping with boarding. Solo travelers also report enjoying the experience and the laid-back vibe, which is a good sign that you won’t feel like you’re wandering alone.

For couples, it’s a solid choice if you like swimming and want a break from planning. And for friend groups, it’s the kind of day where the deck becomes the entertainment.

When Not to Book: The Weather and Your Personal Comfort

Two things can affect enjoyment:
1) Snorkeling conditions can vary with weather. Some days will feel magical; others will be more limited.
2) Crowds on the boat can be a factor in peak times, and comfort might not be as easy if you’re sensitive to space and shade.

If you’re the type who only wants quiet nature time, consider whether a lively deck suits you. But if you’re okay with shared fun, you’ll probably have a great day.

Should You Book This Catamaran Cruise to Es Trenc?

If your ideal Mallorca day includes swimming, a no-stress onboard lunch, and views you can’t get from the road, I’d say yes. The combo of two water stops plus BBQ plus included drinks at around $69 for 5 hours is strong value, especially since the main costs are taken care of.

Skip it only if you know you hate crowds, or if you need guaranteed vegetarian food without planning ahead. Otherwise, pack your cash for the mask deposit, arrive early enough to settle, and expect a fun, sun-and-sea kind of day.

You’ll likely leave remembering the water clarity and the fact that the crew makes it easy to spend your time doing, not waiting.

FAQ

What is the duration of the catamaran cruise?

The tour lasts 5 hours.

Where do we meet and board the catamaran?

You board at the pier next to Hotel Marqués del Palmer in Colonia de Sant Jordi.

Are there snorkeling masks included?

Yes, you can use complimentary snorkeling masks, but there is a €10 cash deposit required.

What meals and drinks are included?

The tour includes a buffet meal and drinks. Soft drinks, sangria, and wine are included, along with water.

Can I get a vegetarian meal?

You need to request it by contacting the provider at least one day before. Vegetarian meals are not served if it’s not booked in advance.

Is there pick-up or drop-off service included with the booking?

Pick-up and drop-off isn’t available to book through this page. The tour documentation specifically notes you don’t have that option through the page.

You can check availability for your dates here: