A day on the water in Palma Bay feels like a cheat code for summer in Mallorca. This catamaran cruise pairs two standout sea stops—Cueva Verde and the Cala Vella nature reserve—with a proper BBQ meal onboard.

What I love most is how comfortable it feels for the price: you cruise on a luxury catamaran with a cap of 55 people (even though it holds 87). I also like that you get real water time—swim breaks plus paddleboards—so the trip isn’t just about sightseeing from the deck.

One consideration: drinks are not included, and the on-board bar can get pricey if you’re cocktail-heavy. If you’re planning to drink more than just water and the included aperitif, budget for that early.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Cueva Verde cove swim time in clear, turquoise-looking water with time to hop in more than once
• Cala Vella marine nature reserve access with paddleboards provided for exploring nearby coves and shallows
• Onboard BBQ with dessert served during the cruise so you can eat without rushing back to shore
• Smaller-group comfort: max 55 people on a boat that can carry 87
• Bar onboard for cocktails and mixed drinks (water is included, drinks cost extra)
• Weather can change the route, so plan for flexibility

Palma Bay in 5.5 hours: the simple pitch that works

This is the kind of tour you book when you want a full Mallorca day without a bunch of transfers, ticket lines, or complicated logistics. You meet at OASIS CATAMARAN, board a modern catamaran, and then spend the next 5.5 hours cruising Mallorca’s coastline like you live there.

The pacing is built around water time: you head out from Palma, get a main swim stop at Cueva Verde, then continue to Cala Vella, a marine nature reserve where you can use paddleboards. After that comes the onboard meal—appetizers, BBQ, and dessert—plus a chance to cool down with the bar and the views on the return.

Getting to Cueva Verde: your first swim break

The cruise starts from the Port of Palma, then moves toward Cueva Verde, described as a beautiful cove with free time to swim. This stop is the one most people think about when they picture a catamaran day: warm water, good visibility, and the kind of coastline views you can’t replicate from shore.

What makes this stop practical is that you don’t have to be a strong swimmer to enjoy it. You’re given time to choose your comfort level—quick dips, long hangs, and lounging between swims. If you like being active, you can also expect the crew to keep things organized so you can actually enjoy the cove instead of feeling rushed.

What to watch for: the route and timing can shift if sea conditions are rough. That’s common at sea, and it’s why you should pack for sun and water, not just a photo mission.

Cala Vella marine nature reserve: paddling and snorkeling time

Next up is Cala Vella, a marine nature reserve—exactly the kind of place where the water quality matters because you’re out there to explore. Here you get paddleboards provided, plus time that’s built for relaxing and getting your feet wet, literally.

This is where the trip feels different from a basic cruise. Using paddleboards turns the reserve into an experience, not just a backdrop. You can drift, paddle short stretches, and check out the shallows without needing to be a certified snorkeler.

Snorkeling is part of the highlights, but the details matter:

• You can use the paddleboards included in the experience.
• Snorkel gear may be available to buy on board, based on guest experiences.

So if snorkeling matters a lot to you, I’d plan on using whatever’s available during the ride and be ready that the reserve experience may lean more heavily toward paddling plus swim time.

Small safety note: there are life jackets onboard (and the crew is used to handling on-water questions). If you don’t swim confidently, you’ll likely feel better with added floatation. A simple set of your own floaties can reduce stress.

The BBQ onboard: good food, plus the one thing to set expectations

You’ll eat while you’re still at sea, with appetizers, BBQ, and dessert included. That’s a big value point, because it keeps the day flowing. No “race back to shore, grab something, then run for the next stop.”

A key thing to set expectations: on a catamaran, BBQ is typically more like a well-prepared hot meal service than a long, live-grill backyard style. The menu can feel casual, and some people found it less like a classic BBQ and more like a set spread with meats, sides, and snacks. Most guests still describe it as tasty and substantial, but the exact vibe can vary.

Dessert is called out as home-made, which is usually a good sign on food-focused tours. You’re also not stuck with only one meal moment—there’s time built around eating so you’re not swallowing food while the boat is in full motion.

Money tip: drinks are not included. If you’re tempted by cocktails, plan for that expense. Water is included, and the included meal means you can keep your spending predictable if you choose beer, water, or lighter bar items.

On the catamaran: comfort, space, and that not-too-crowded feel

This tour is built around a big comfort advantage: the boat holds 87, but they only admit up to 55 people. That number changes the whole experience. You’re less likely to feel like you’re fighting for a spot at the rail or balancing your drink around someone’s elbows.

The catamaran is described as luxurious, and multiple guests highlight the boat feeling spotless and stylish. You’ll also find onboard features that make sea time easier—like a place to shower (for freshening up after swimming). That might sound small, but after salty water, it’s a real quality-of-life upgrade.

Music and vibe: the cruise includes music on board, which many people credit for making the mood feel like a vacation, not a school trip. You’re not locked into it, though—you can still step away to enjoy the quiet moments when the sea turns calm.

Deck rules you should know: some parts of the boat are off-limits while moving (for example, side nets). It’s normal safety procedure. If you see crew watching or giving instructions, treat it as a standard on-water rule, not a random annoyance.

The onboard bar: how to enjoy it without blowing your budget

The bar is there for a reason: you’ll get cruising time between swim stops and while you’re waiting for sunset-style views. Drinks include cocktails, mixed drinks, and other options you can purchase.

The value question is: is it worth it for you? Based on how guests talk about pricing, beer and simpler drinks may feel more reasonable, while cocktails can land on the pricey side. If you want one signature cocktail, great. If you’re aiming for multiple rounds, it can become the biggest variable cost of the day.

A practical move:

• Treat the included aperitif as your “starter.”
• Then decide how many paid drinks you want based on your own comfort level.

That keeps the whole tour feeling like value instead of turning into a surprise bill.

Timing and return views: Palma harbor and sunset energy

The itinerary is structured so you’re not back at Palma right after the last swim. Instead, you cruise back with scenic payoff—often including a sunset moment at sea. If you love golden-hour light, this is usually the part of the day you remember.

On the return, you may also get close-up harbor views, including sightlines toward Palma’s cathedral as the boat approaches. Even if you’ve already walked past the cathedral on land, seeing it from the water hits differently.

If weather plays nice, the return can feel especially relaxed. Some guests describe coming back with the boat under sail, which naturally slows things down and makes the final stretch feel more peaceful.

What to bring (and what can trip you up)

Pack like you’re going for a water day, not just a boat ride.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Sun hat
• Towel

You might also want:

• Water-friendly sandals or flip-flops (since you’ll be on a boat and around wet areas)
• Sunscreen you apply before boarding (sprays and aerosols are listed as not allowed)

Not allowed includes:

• High-heeled shoes
• Pets
• Fishing
• Alcohol and drugs
• Sprays or aerosols
• Shoes indoors
• Speakers
• Party groups and bachelorette groups
• Making fire

Real-world boarding tip: there can be limited shade at the meeting point while you wait. If your departure time is during the hottest part of the day, consider arriving a little early with your hat and hydration ready so you don’t spend the wait overheating.

Who this cruise suits best

This is a great match if you want:

• Swim breaks in scenic coves without ferry schedules or complicated planning
• A food-included sea day with an easy, relaxing pace
• A boat experience that feels premium rather than cramped

It may fit less perfectly if:

• You want a strict snorkeling-focused itinerary (this is more “swim + paddle + enjoy” than a dive-style day)
• You’re on a tight budget for drinks, since cocktails and mixed drinks cost extra
• You dislike spending time outdoors in the waiting period before departure

Should you book this Palma catamaran cruise?

If your idea of value is simple: scenic water time, included food, and a boat that doesn’t feel overcrowded, then I’d book it. The 55-person cap on a larger-capacity catamaran is a rare comfort perk at this price point, and the pairing of Cueva Verde plus Cala Vella makes the day feel complete.

Book it especially if you want a balanced mix of relaxation and light adventure: swim, paddle around, eat onboard, then enjoy the views on the way back. Just go in knowing that the bar is for add-ons, not included spending, and that weather can shift the route.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The duration is listed as 5.5 hours.

Where do I meet the tour?

Meet at OASIS CATAMARAN. You’ll look for your boat there.

Is the BBQ meal included?

Yes. The experience includes appetizers, a freshly prepared BBQ, and dessert.

Are drinks included in the price?

Water is included, and there is an aperitif as part of the experience. Drinks from the on-board bar are available to purchase, and are not included.

Is swimming and snorkeling time included?

There are stops with free time to swim, and the experience highlights snorkeling and marine reserve exploration. Paddleboards are included, and snorkeling gear may be available to purchase on board.

What gear is provided on the cruise?

You get paddle boards provided.

What should I bring to the trip?

Bring sun hat, swimwear, and a towel.

What’s not allowed onboard?

The tour lists restrictions including no pets, no fishing, no intoxication, no speakers, no party groups (including bachelor and bachelorette groups), and no aerosols/sprays. Shoes indoors are also not allowed.