Valencia: Catamaran Cruise, Paella Lunch and Swim Stop

Thinking about adding a bit of maritime magic to your Valencia trip? This 2.5-hour catamaran cruise offers a chance to enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty, a tasty paella lunch, and a quick dip in the sea. It’s a popular choice among visitors, especially those craving a relaxed day on the water, but like any experience, it has its strengths and quirks.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines stunning coastal views with a delicious local meal. Plus, the swim stop provides that refreshing break many travelers seek after a few hours of lounging on deck. On the flip side, it’s not a long trip, and the swimming is somewhat limited — especially for those hoping for a full-on water adventure. Still, if you’re after a scenic, laid-back outing with good food, this tour could be a great fit.

This experience tends to suit those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and culinary treats, especially if you’re looking to relax rather than engage in high-energy activities. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a more flexible schedule, it’s worth noting that the tour has some restrictions and specific meeting details. Overall, it offers a lovely snapshot of Valencia’s seaside charm, without the fuss or frills.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views from the deck of a comfortable catamaran
• Tasty Valencian paella served onboard, paired with fresh fruit
• A swim stop in Port Saplaya to cool off and relax
• A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with friendly crew
• Limited swimming time and a relatively short trip
• The tour is ideal for those seeking scenic and culinary experiences rather than adventure
• Meeting point is at Valencia Marina, next to the clock tower, with required voucher exchange
• Price point around $44 per person offers decent value for the combined experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Water

Once you step onto the catamaran at the Valencia Marina—located next to the prominent clock tower—you’re greeted with a friendly crew prepared to make your journey smooth. The tour lasts roughly 2.5 hours, perfect if you want a quick yet memorable seaside escape. It’s worth arriving 30 minutes early to sort out your voucher and get settled.

The Sailing and Views

As the boat sets sail, you’ll immediately notice how cooling and refreshing the sea breeze feels—especially on a warm day. The deck offers sweeping vistas of the Valencian coastline, with views that make for great photo ops. The calm waters and gentle waves create a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those who want to unwind and take in the scenery.

Food and Drink

One of the tour’s key highlights is the lunch service. You’ll enjoy a salad first—a light, refreshing start—before diving into a generous serving of Valencian paella. The rice is tender and carefully seasoned, capturing the essence of local cuisine. Fresh fruit provides a sweet, juicy finish.

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the meal, with one noting, “Good was delicious!! Great service.” The drinks are available on board, with one traveler mentioning that they enjoyed cheap, flowing beverages, which added to the laid-back vibe. The tour includes one drink per person, making it a good value for the price.

The Swim Stop

Midway through, the boat pulls up in Port Saplaya, a picturesque spot perfect for a quick swim. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make the dip feel like a mini escape. It’s a great chance to cool off and get some sun, but don’t expect an extended water adventure—reviews indicate the swimming time is somewhat limited.

One guest shared, “So much fun we got to jump off the boat and swim if we wanted to,” highlighting how optional and relaxed the swim can be. However, some note that the swim period isn’t very long, and it tends to follow right after lunch, which might make some feel a bit uncomfortable about getting into the water immediately after eating.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Pros and Cons

The Positives

• Beautiful coastal scenery: The views of Valencia’s shoreline from the deck are truly worth the trip.
• Delicious, authentic paella: For just $44, the meal quality is impressive, especially considering it’s served on a boat.
• Relaxed atmosphere: No rushing, just a chill cruise with a friendly crew.
• Good value: The tour combines scenery, food, and a swim for a reasonable price.
• Ease of booking and cancellation: You can reserve your spot comfortably, and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.

The Downsides

• Limited swimming time: If you’re hoping for a full hour of water fun, you might be disappointed. The swim stop is brief.
• No hotel pickup: You need to get to the meeting point yourself, which is worth considering if you’re staying outside the city center.
• Weather dependency: As with most outdoor water activities, poor weather can cancel the tour or limit the experience.
• Group size: Minimum of 15 people is required, so it may not be ideal for very small groups or solo travelers seeking a private experience.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers: The tour has some restrictions for those with mobility issues.

Is It Worth It?

In terms of overall value, this cruise offers a pleasant way to enjoy Valencia’s coast without breaking the bank. The combination of scenic views, tasty food, and a swim makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting a quick, relaxing marine outing. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and the friendly service, which elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride.

That said, it’s not designed for thrill-seekers or those wanting a long, adventure-packed day. It’s best suited for people who want a laid-back, scenic experience with a good meal in a short time frame.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxing escape with great photo opportunities and delicious local flavors, this cruise could be a perfect fit. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting a quick taste of the sea and some authentic Valencian paella. Families or groups looking for a casual, friendly atmosphere will also find it appealing, though very young children or those with mobility challenges might find some restrictions.

Those on a tight schedule will appreciate how short and straightforward this trip is. However, if you’re craving more extensive swimming, snorkeling, or a longer sea adventure, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly in spirit, it’s best for older children who can handle being on a boat and swimming in open water. Very young children or those with mobility issues might find it less suitable.

Do I need to bring anything?
All essentials are provided onboard, but consider bringing sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and water if you want extra hydration. Swimmers should bring a towel and perhaps some waterproof sunscreen.

Can I buy extra drinks onboard?
Yes, there’s a drinks service during the cruise. You can purchase additional beverages if desired.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tours are subject to weather conditions. If weather cancels the trip, you’ll be able to reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

How do I find the meeting point?
The starting point is at Valencia Marina next to the clock tower, at shed Tinglado #2. Arrive 30 minutes early to exchange your voucher at the ticket booth.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour runs with at least 15 participants, so large groups will be accommodated, but very small groups might need to wait or join with others.

Are there any restrictions?
Wearing costumes isn’t allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran cruise in Valencia offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to soak in the coast’s beauty with some good food and a quick swim. It’s an experience that balances scenic relaxation with a taste of local gastronomy, making it a wholesome addition to your trip. The friendly crew, tasty paella, and inviting waters make it particularly suited for travelers who want a no-fuss, laid-back outing.

If you’re looking for a peaceful break from city sightseeing, enjoy a delicious meal with sea views, or just want to feel the breeze on your face, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind the limited swimming time and plan your day accordingly. Overall, it’s a simple yet pleasant way to spend a few hours in Valencia’s beautiful seaside environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: