A Day at Sea on a Catamaran from Calpe or Altea with Barbecue

Planning a day on the water in Spain’s Costa Blanca? This catamaran tour from Calpe or Altea offers a leisurely escape with stunning coastal views, a peaceful swim in a secluded cove, and a laid-back barbecue. While it sounds like a perfect way to unwind, it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

What really appeals here are the beautiful scenery along the coastline—crystal-clear waters, coves, and dramatic cliffs—and the friendly guides who make the experience enjoyable. The inclusion of lunch with a barbecue and drinks is another plus, making it a relaxed, all-in-one day out. However, some reviews point to issues like overcrowding and the actual size of the boat, so it’s good to weigh these factors.

This experience suits travelers seeking a calm day on the water rather than an adventure-filled excursion. If you like scenic, unhurried moments with good food and friendly company, this could be just what you need. But if you’re after a more active or intimate experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Scenic coastline views and a peaceful swimming spot make this a relaxing outing.
• The barbecue lunch includes bread, salad, fruit, and a drink, adding to the laid-back vibe.
• The crew’s friendliness and knowledge are often highlighted positively by travelers.
• Be aware that some reviews mention crowding and boat size, which could affect comfort.
• The tour runs for roughly 3 hours, with a start time of 12:30 pm, fitting well into a half-day plan.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, but those seeking a private or less crowded experience should consider this.

Setting Sail from Calpe or Altea: What to Expect

This tour promises a gentle start with the mild morning breeze guiding the Mundo Marino Catamaran out of port. The crew, described as expert and friendly, prepare sails and make sure everyone is comfortable aboard. The boat itself is spacious enough to allow sitting or lying on the netting, which is perfect for soaking up the sun or just relaxing with a view.

The itinerary includes coastal walks in Calpe and Altea, giving you a chance to appreciate the local scenery on land before or after your sea adventure. The day’s highlight is likely the anchoring in a secluded cove, where you can swim away from the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the Mediterranean.

The Actual Sailing Experience

While the tour is marketed as a catamaran trip, some reviews cast doubt on this description. One reviewer called it “not a catamaran,” describing it as a small boat that felt overcrowded. This is worth considering if comfort or space is a priority for you. The limited size might mean less room for lounging or moving around freely, especially with a larger group.

That said, many travelers appreciate the guides’ friendliness and professionalism. They often mention that the crew made the day enjoyable, keeping the mood light and friendly. The views of the coastline from the water are consistently praised, with photos showing shimmering waters, rocky coves, and steep cliffs.

The Anchor Point and Swimming

The real magic happens when the boat drops anchor in a quiet, picturesque cove. Here, you’re free to swim in the clear waters or just relax on deck. One review described it as a “superbe après-midi”—a superb afternoon—highlighting the mellow pace and gorgeous scenery.

Most participants find the swimming stop a highlight, especially because it provides a break from sunbathing and sightseeing. Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling with children or less confident swimmers, it’s good to be cautious and ensure safety.

The Barbecue and Onboard Amenities

The included lunch is a simple barbecue with bread, salad, fruit, and a drink. This meal keeps things casual and convenient, with many travelers noting the delicious food and friendly service. One review did mention they wished for “patatas” (potatoes) in the barbecue, so there’s some room for improvement there.

Onboard amenities include restrooms, which is a thoughtful touch for a 3-hour trip. The bar offers drinks but prohibits bringing your own alcohol, so plan to purchase beverages if desired.

Price and Value

At around $63.60 per person, this tour offers a decent value for those seeking a leisure-focused day. The price includes the boat ride, the scenic stops, and the barbecue meal, which makes it a convenient all-in-one package. It’s worth noting that some reviews hint at feeling crowded, which could affect perceived value depending on your comfort preferences.

Timing and Group Size

Starting at 12:30 pm, the tour fits well into a midday plan, giving you the afternoon to relax without rushing. The maximum group size of 105 travelers indicates a lively, social atmosphere but also a possibility of feeling crowded aboard.

What the Reviews Say

Authentic traveler feedback offers a balanced picture. One reviewer called it an “Arnaque” (scam), criticizing the boat as not being a true catamaran and feeling overcrowded. Conversely, others rated it 5/5, praising the guides, the scenery, and the food.

Several reviews mention the excellent crew and the beautiful views, making it clear that the experience’s success heavily relies on the crew’s attitude and weather conditions. Simple pleasures like a nice breeze and calm waters can make or break the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re after a relaxing, scenic day at sea with minimal fuss. It suits travelers who enjoy leisurely boat rides, beautiful coastlines, and casual meals. It’s also suitable for those who want to combine land walks in Calpe and Altea with a boat trip, making it a flexible day out.

However, if you’re particularly sensitive to crowding or prefer a larger, more stable boat, you might find the experience less comfortable. Likewise, if you’re seeking a more intimate or private sailing experience, this may not tick all your boxes.

Final Thoughts

A day on a catamaran from Calpe or Altea offers a gentle escape to enjoy scenic views and coastal tranquility. The inclusion of a barbecue, friendly guides, and swimming opportunities makes it a solid choice for laid-back travelers looking to unwind. While some reviews raise concerns about overcrowding and boat size, many find the experience enjoyable and picturesque.

In short, this tour provides a relaxing, good-value outing that emphasizes scenery and comfort over adventure. It’s best for those who want a straightforward, scenic cruise with good company and simple pleasures. Keep expectations in check regarding boat space, and you’ll likely come away with some lovely memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the calm waters and scenic stops could appeal to family travelers. Always consider the boat size and comfort if traveling with kids.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat ride, scenic stops, and a barbecue meal with bread, salad, fruit, and a drink. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard, but you can’t bring your own.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 12:30 pm and lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a good option for a relaxed afternoon activity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund if canceled within that window.

How crowded is the boat?
The maximum group size is 105 travelers, so it can feel busy, especially on a nice day with many bookings. Some reviews mention feeling crowded, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel if you plan to swim. The onboard amenities include restrooms, but it’s always good to be prepared for a day on the water.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and leisurely day out, this could be a lovely way to see the coastline and enjoy some downtime. Just keep in mind the potential for crowding and the boat size, and you’ll be set for a relaxing trip.