Palma Bay Catamaran Half-Day Cruise

Taking a half-day catamaran cruise in Palma Bay, this experience offers a relaxing way to explore Mallorca’s stunning coastline. Priced at $93.61 per person, the tour lasts about 5 hours and departs from Las Golondrinas pier in front of the Auditorium de Palma de Mallorca. You’ll glide past bays, coves, and beaches, with two swim and snorkel stops to cool off in the inviting waters. The onboard buffet includes an array of fresh breads, salads, meats, and desserts, with drinks available for purchase. This tour is well-suited for those who enjoy scenic sailing, good food, and water activities in a group setting.

While most passengers find the experience enjoyable, some note the crowded conditions and limited space for relaxation. It’s a good choice for those seeking a fun, social day on the sea, but less ideal if you prefer a quiet, more private environment.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 5 hours on the water
• Price: Around $94 per person
• Departure Point: Las Golondrinas pier in Palma
• Highlights: Sailing past beaches, coves, and sea caves with two swim and snorkel stops
• Food: Buffet lunch with fresh breads, salads, meats, and desserts included
• Drinks: Sodas, water, and alcoholic beverages available for purchase
• Crowd Level: Can be crowded with up to 70 guests, affecting space and comfort
• Booking: Mobile ticket with flexible departure times

Starting from Palma’s Pier: Convenient Departure in Palma Bay

The tour begins at the Las Golondrinas pier, located directly in front of the Auditorium de Palma de Mallorca on the Paseo Maritimo. The meeting point is easy to reach, near public transportation, making it simple for most travelers to find. The start time is 10:00 am, giving plenty of daylight for a full experience on the water.

The check-in process is straightforward, and travelers are advised to arrive early to secure a good spot. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics hassle-free. It’s recommended to bring towels and sun cream to stay comfortable during the cruise.

What to Expect on the Palma Bay Catamaran

This shared cruise involves sailing along Mallorca’s coast, with bays, coves, and beaches passing by as the catamaran glides smoothly through the water. The boat itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, with the crew known for their friendly and helpful attitude.

The onboard experience includes a buffet meal featuring fresh breads, salads, mini-beef burgers, and a chicken tikka masala kebab. For dessert, there’s mini-crème brûlée and a chocolate brownie, with vegan options also available. Drinks such as sodas and water are included, but alcoholic beverages are sold separately.

Two Swim and Snorkel Stops for Refreshing Water Activities

A major highlight is the two swim and snorkel stops during the trip. Passengers can cool off in the sea, with snorkeling equipment available for an additional €10. The stops are often at scenic spots like Cala Vella, where the clear waters invite relaxation and exploration.

Some reviews mention that strong rip tides can occur at the swim stops, so swimmers should be cautious. The snorkeling gear is not included in the standard package but can be rented on board for a small extra charge.

The Scenic Route Past Majorca’s Coastal Gems

Passengers enjoy sailing past beaches, coves, and caves, absorbing the sea breezes and scenic views. The catamaran’s open deck allows for sunbathing and taking photographs of the coastline. One notable stop is the Auditorium de Palma, which marks the departure point, and nearby attractions like the Palma Cathedral add to the scenic backdrop.

While the route focuses on natural beauty, some reviews indicate that the crowded conditions may limit comfort and space for lounging or sunbathing during the cruise.

Food and Drinks on Board: A Tasty Buffet with Refreshments for Purchase

The lunch buffet features focaccia with pesto, homemade ali-oli, smoked quinoa salad, beetroot, spinach, and orange salad, along with mini beef burgers and a ham, rocket, and cheese piadina. The chicken tikka masala kebab offers a touch of exotic flavor, and desserts include mini-crème brûlée and a chocolate brownie.

While drinks like sodas and water are included, alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately. The buffet is generally praised for its generous and tasty offerings, satisfying most appetites during the trip.

The Crew and Journey: Friendly Service and Breathtaking Views

The crew receives positive comments for their friendly and helpful attitude, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience. The boat itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained. The sailing pace allows ample time for swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing.

Some reviews note that crowding on board can make it harder to find seats during the meal and water stops, particularly when the vessel is near capacity, which can affect overall comfort.

Practical Tips: Booking, Crowds, and What to Bring

It’s advisable to book in advance, especially since the activity is popular, with over 10 bookings last week. The max capacity is 70 guests, but some reviews mention feeling overcrowded with more than that.

Travelers should bring towels, sun cream, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. The snorkeling equipment can be rented for €10, and alcohol is at your own expense, so bringing a small cooler might be convenient. The flexible departure times help accommodate different schedules.

Comparing Similar Mallorca Catamaran Tours

This tour is a solid option for those wanting a shorter, scenic cruise with water activities and a tasty buffet. Similar experiences include day trips with tapas and drinks or full-day excursions to beaches and coves. The price point and 5-hour duration make it a good value for a relaxed day on the water.

Limitations and Considerations

The crowded conditions can be a downside, with some travelers feeling cramped and having difficulty finding comfortable seats. The snorkeling gear is not included in the basic package, adding extra cost if desired.

Plus, poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling options. It is important to arrive early at the meeting point to avoid confusion, as some reviewers have experienced issues with directions and check-in.

Palma Bay Catamaran Half-Day Cruise: Final Thoughts

This 5-hour cruise offers a relaxing way to explore Mallorca’s coastline, with scenic views, water activities, and a delicious buffet. It’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone seeking a fun and social day on the sea.

While crowding and limited space are potential drawbacks, the friendly crew, stunning scenery, and refreshing swim stops make this a worthwhile outing. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy sailing, casual water activities, and good food in a lively atmosphere.

This tour provides good value overall, especially for those wanting an easy, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy Mallorca’s coastal beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 5-hour sailing experience, a buffet lunch, and two swim and snorkel stops. Sodas and water are provided, but alcoholic drinks are purchased separately.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Las Golondrinas pier, located in front of the Auditorium de Palma de Mallorca on the Paseo Maritimo.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the same meeting point.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for an additional €10.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, with family-friendly food options and water activities. However, crowd levels may impact comfort for some.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring towels, sun cream, and possibly a hat. It’s also recommended to bring cash or card for drinks and snorkeling gear.

Is there a maximum number of guests?
Yes, the maximum capacity is 70 travelers, though some reviews have noted feeling overcrowded.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; in case of cancellation due to poor weather, passengers are offered a full refund or rescheduling.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience, non-swimmers can still enjoy the scenic sailing from the deck.

Are there any hidden fees?
No, the price includes the cruise, buffet, and sodas/water. Alcoholic drinks, snorkeling gear, and transfers are extra.