Catamaran sailing in Mallorca through the Bay of Palma with BBQ

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Mallorca’s stunning coast without the hustle of crowded beaches, a catamaran sailing tour might be just what you need. Based on reviews and details from Oasis Catamaran, this experience offers a peaceful cruise through the Bay of Palma, with plenty of opportunities to swim, paddleboard, and indulge in a tasty BBQ. While I haven’t done this trip myself, I can tell you it seems like a great mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and good food—especially if you’re into being on the water.

What really stands out are the comfortable, elegant catamaran and the small group size, which helps keep the vibe friendly and laid-back. Plus, the inclusion of paddle boards is a lovely touch that lets you get even closer to the Mediterranean’s calm, clear waters. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the trip might be a bit underwhelming if you’re expecting a lot of sightseeing or a longer adventure, so it’s worth considering whether this short cruise aligns with your expectations. This tour seems best suited for those wanting a relaxing, scenic day with good company, decent food, and some water fun.

Key Points

• Comfortable Small Group: The max of 36 passengers ensures a cozy, relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful Scenery: Sailing through Mallorca’s Bay offers stunning views and peaceful coves.
• Inclusive Water Activities: Paddleboarding is included, adding fun for water lovers.
• Delicious BBQ: The onboard meal is a highlight, with many reviewers praising the quality.
• Flexible & Convenient: Mobile tickets and easy meeting points make planning straightforward.
• Weather-Dependent: The trip isn’t guaranteed and can be canceled if weather isn’t suitable.

What to Expect from the Catamaran Experience

This sailing trip is designed to give you a taste of Mallorca’s waters, with a focus on comfort and enjoyment over long-distance cruising. The boat itself is a magnificent and elegant vessel, capable of holding up to 57 people, but in practice, they limit bookings to 36 to keep things spacious and relaxed. This means you won’t feel cramped, and the crew can give more attentive service, which many reviews confirm.

Departure and Route

The adventure begins at the Port of Palma, where you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard. The boat departs towards Cala Vella, a stunning nature reserve known for its pristine coves and tranquil waters. The route might shift slightly depending on weather conditions, but the aim is to reach Cala Vella, where you can stop for swimming, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun.

The Stop at Cala Vella

Here, you’ll pause in one of Mallorca’s most picturesque spots—crystal-clear waters, calm and inviting. The highlight? A delicious BBQ prepared right on the boat, which many reviewers have raved about. The food is said to be beyond expectations, with some saying it’s a notable part of the experience. You’ll also have paddle boards included, making it easy to get out on the water and explore at your own pace.

Swimming and Water Fun

The reviews highlight how much guests enjoyed the swim and paddleboarding opportunities. The water in Cala Vella is described as crystal-clear, perfect for a refreshing dip or paddling around. Expect a relaxed vibe—this isn’t a high-energy boat party, but rather a peaceful cruise with optional water activities.

Return Journey

After spending some quality time in the coves, the boat will sail back along the Bay of Palma, giving you a different perspective of the coastline. You can sit back, take in the views, and enjoy the sea breeze. The entire experience lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes—just enough time to unwind without feeling rushed.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From reviews, many guests loved the friendly crew and the laid-back atmosphere. Kathleen G described it as a “fantastic adventure,” praising the BBQ and paddleboarding. Chuck H called the crew “excellent” and said the trip was “amazing and beautiful.” The food seems to be a standout, with multiple reviewers mentioning that it exceeded expectations, adding a delicious element to the day.

However, not everyone was completely thrilled. Samantha S found the stop somewhat average and felt the trip didn’t quite live up to the price, highlighting that it was their most disappointing boat trip. This indicates that if you’re seeking extensive sightseeing or a longer excursion, this might not be the perfect fit, but if you want a calm day on the water with good food, it’s a solid choice.

Price and Value

At around $91.71 per person, this tour strikes a reasonable balance considering the amenities included—paddleboards, BBQ, and scenic sailing. For the length of about four and a half hours, you’re paying for a relaxed, well-organized outing rather than a high-adventure experience. If you’re someone who appreciates quality comfort and a pleasant atmosphere, this cost is justified. Besides, the small group size means you’re more likely to enjoy personalized service and avoid feeling lost in a crowd.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoyment

• Book in advance: The experience is often booked about 27 days ahead, so plan early if you’re set on a particular date.
• Weather matters: The trip is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Arrive prepared: Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a towel. Paddleboarding is included, but you’ll want to stay comfortable.
• Expect a relaxed pace: This isn’t a high-energy tour—think laid-back, scenic, and enjoyable rather than packed with activities.
• Small groups: The limited capacity enhances the experience, making it more intimate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing trip is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful escape with stunning views and good food. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the crowded beaches and enjoy a leisurely day on the water. Families or small groups looking for a relaxing outing will find it appealing, though it’s not overly family-oriented. It’s also great for anyone interested in paddleboarding or simply soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere in a comfortable setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy sailing, swimming, and eating without it feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, paddleboards, and a BBQ meal prepared onboard. It’s a good package considering the scenic views and water activities.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, cancellations are free if you decide to cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If weather causes a cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the boat crowded?
No, the boat limits bookings to 36 guests, even though it can hold 57. This keeps the atmosphere relaxed and prevents overcrowding.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, water, and perhaps a towel for swimming. The boat may also have some water and snacks, but bringing personal essentials is wise.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and water activities suggest it could be family-friendly, especially for older children who enjoy swimming and paddling.

Where do I meet the boat?
You’ll meet at the specified point in Palma (H9J+29 Palma). The exact location is provided in your booking details, and the process is straightforward with mobile tickets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful day on Mallorca’s waters, with good company, tasty food, and plenty of opportunities to splash around, this catamaran trip could be a lovely choice. It’s not about high-adrenaline adventures but about soaking in the scenery and enjoying simple pleasures like swimming, paddleboarding, and a well-cooked BBQ. With a small group, friendly crew, and beautiful views, it offers a relaxed and memorable way to experience Mallorca from the water.

That said, if your expectations lean toward a longer, more adventurous or sightseeing-heavy tour, you might want to explore other options. But for those wanting a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and water fun, this could be the highlight of your trip.