A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with a barbecue aboard the Catamaran Mundo Marino offers a delightful combination of scenic sailing, swimming in calm coves, and a hearty meal—all for $63.60 per person. Departing in the morning, this approximately 5-hour cruise invites travelers to enjoy the spacious catamaran, with options to sit or lounge on the nets over the water. The tour is suitable for most, given its relaxed pace, but it does lack some shelter from the weather, as noted by reviews. The highlight remains the chance to anchor in a picturesque cove, enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch, and take a peaceful swim away from crowded beaches.

This tour generally attracts bookings about two weeks in advance, indicating it’s popular among those seeking a relaxing maritime escape. While the experience offers many scenic and culinary pleasures, it’s worth considering the mixed reviews about crew interaction, meal quality, and crowd management. For those looking for a leisurely day on the water, with the bonus of crystal waters and coastal views, this cruise provides a straightforward, enjoyable outing.

Key Points

• Price: $63.60 per person for around 5 hours of sailing and activity
• Includes: Lunch with barbecue, salads, fruit, and a drink, plus access to restrooms on board
• Stops: The cruise skirts San Antonio cape, passes Jávea coast, and anchors at Cala de Portixol for swimming and relaxing
• Capacity: The boat accommodates up to 105 travelers, but reviews praise a smaller, more comfortable group size of around 30
• Weather considerations: The tour relies on good weather; no shelter is available, so prepare accordingly
• Crowd and service: Some reviews mention crowding and a crew that does not talk much, which may impact the overall experience

Departure from Dénia and Jávea for Scenic Coastal Sailing

This cruise departs from Dénia or Jávea, two charming towns on Spain’s Costa Blanca, with the catamaran Mundo Marino ready to set sail in the soft morning breeze. The spacious vessel is designed for relaxation, offering plenty of room to sit or lie on the nets while enjoying the views of coves, steep cliffs, and clear waters.

The departure point is easy to reach, with the boat leaving under the guidance of an experienced crew that prepares the sails and ensures safety. The morning sailing offers a peaceful start to the day, and the average reservation window of 14 days indicates it’s a well-liked choice for travelers planning ahead.

The Route: From San Antonio to Jávea’s Coasts

The itinerary involves sailing along the cape of San Antonio, leading the boat to pass in front of the entire coast of Jávea. This route offers impressive views of the coastline, with opportunities to photograph or simply take in the scenery. Passing Cabo de la Nao, the cruise highlights iconic spots that are perfect for appreciating the Mediterranean’s beauty.

The journey is primarily focused on coastal sightseeing, making it appealing for those who enjoy watching the landscape drift by at a leisurely pace. It’s a straightforward route, without extra stops along the way, but the anchor at Cala de Portixol provides an ideal spot for a swim and a meal.

Swimming and Relaxing at Cala de Portixol

The anchor stop at Cala de Portixol is the centerpiece of the tour. This 1 hour 30 minutes pause offers ample time to cool off in the calm waters, which are described as crystal clear and perfect for swimming. The cove’s peaceful environment allows for a relaxed swim, away from the busy beaches.

The included barbecue lunch is served on the boat during this stop, featuring bread, salad, fruit, and a drink. While most reviews praise the meal, a few mention disappointments with the quality or presentation, noting that the paella served was cold and in improvised containers. Still, the consensus remains that the lunch is satisfying enough for a casual cruise.

Food and Drinks: Barbecue Meal on Deck

The included barbecue menu makes this tour stand out, offering bread, salad, fresh fruit, and a drink. This simple yet hearty meal is served during the stop at Cala de Portixol and is generally well-received. The tour also features a bar onboard, where alcohol can be purchased; however, guests are not allowed to bring their own drinks.

Some reviews highlight that the food quality varies, with one critic describing a frozen paella served in kebab-style containers, which was disappointing. Others appreciate the casual, self-serve style, especially after a swim. The lunch complements the relaxing atmosphere and keeps guests well-fed during the day at sea.

Crew and Onboard Facilities

The crew is experienced and prepares the vessel carefully for the journey. The restroom onboard adds convenience, especially during the 5-hour cruise. While the crew’s attitude varies—some reviews mention a crew that doesn’t smile or talk much—they generally maintain safety and navigation.

The capacity of the bow nets is limited, and travelers are advised to book in advance to ensure space. The small group sizes praised in some reviews (around 30 people) contribute to a more comfortable experience, although larger groups might feel a bit crowded.

The Swimming Experience and Water Conditions

The swimming stop in Cala de Portixol is a favorite aspect, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the crystal waters. However, some reviews warn that there is a chance of swimming with jellyfish, and that the sea can be a bit choppy, which may not suit everyone. For those sensitive to motion, the lack of shelter might be a consideration, especially if weather conditions turn less favorable.

Most swimmers find the water beautiful and inviting, making it a perfect spot for families or those who enjoy casual swimming in calm conditions.

Timing, Pacing, and Crowd Management

This 5-hour excursion is designed for a leisurely pace, with ample time for sailing, swimming, and eating. Most travelers find the duration appropriate, though some mention it feels a bit long, especially if the weather is less favorable.

The group size of around 30 people, as praised in reviews, helps keep the experience more relaxed. However, some passengers note crowding at meal times and limited space on the bow nets, emphasizing the importance of booking early.

Weather Considerations and Practical Tips

Since the tour relies heavily on good weather, travelers should check the forecast before booking. The lack of shelter means that sun protection and light rain gear are advisable. In case of poor weather, the tour will be canceled and refunded or rescheduled.

Guests are encouraged to bring towels, sunscreen, and personal water. The onboard restroom offers convenience, and service animals are permitted.

Comparing the Experience to Similar Tours

This cruise offers a relaxed sailing experience with a focus on coastal scenery and swimming, similar to other guided kayak and snorkeling tours available in the region. However, the catamaran’s spacious nets and deck provide a different, more laid-back atmosphere.

While some reviews mention disappointments with the boat type or meal quality, the scenic route and swim stop are consistently praised. This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking an easy-going day at sea with good food and scenic views.

Final Thoughts on the Dénia and Jávea Catamaran Day Trip

The A day at sea with barbecue aboard the Catamaran Mundo Marino offers a simple, enjoyable escape into the Mediterranean. Its scenic route, relaxing swim stop, and included barbecue make it a solid choice for those wanting a low-stress, seaside adventure.

While crew interaction and meal presentation might not meet everyone’s expectations, the overall experience remains warm, scenic, and family-friendly. The small group size and comfortable vessel are definite pluses, especially for travelers who appreciate a calm, uncrowded environment.

Most will find that this tour delivers value for the price, especially given the included meal and scenic stops. However, those seeking more engaging commentary or sheltered comfort might prefer alternative options or plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children, especially given the swimming stop and relaxed pace.

What should I bring for the day?
Guests should bring sunscreen, towels, water, and perhaps a hat. Since there is no shelter, sun protection is essential.

Are alcoholic drinks available onboard?
Yes, there is a bar onboard where alcohol can be purchased. Guests are not allowed to bring their own drinks.

How long is the cruise?
The approximate duration is 5 hours, including sailing, swimming, and eating.

Is the meal vegetarian-friendly?
The included barbecue features bread, salad, fruit, and a drink. Specific dietary needs are not detailed, so it’s best to inquire beforehand.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about two weeks in advance, but last-minute reservations might be possible depending on availability.

Are there any restrictions on accessibility?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves standing and swimming. Those with mobility issues should consider this.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 105 travelers, but reviews suggest a more comfortable experience with around 30 guests.

How do I confirm my booking?
Booking confirmation is received immediately upon reservation, with most bookings happening at least 14 days ahead.

Is it possible to customize the experience?
The tour follows a set route and schedule, with limited options for customization. It’s designed for relaxed sightseeing and swimming.

This Dénia and Jávea catamaran cruise provides a relaxed, scenic day out at an accessible price point, with the highlights being the coastal views, calm waters, and hearty barbecue. Travelers seeking an easy, laid-back ocean experience will find this cruise a good fit, as long as they are prepared for the weather and some crowding during meal times.