5 hours on a catamaran equals pure sun time. I like that this cruise pairs easy water time with a full meal, so your day feels like a win from start to finish. You’ll sail along Mallorca’s south coast, then anchor in coves near Portals Vells or Cala Vella for swimming and snorkeling.

My favorite parts are the combo of a real BBQ lunch onboard and the close-to-shore swim stops—seriously, you’re jumping in for water time without a long detour. The only real drawback to keep in mind is that the second cove can be less impressive than the first one, depending on water clarity and conditions.

Key Points Worth Knowing Before You Go

• Two anchor stops: one at Portals Vells or Cala Vella, plus a second cove nearby
• BBQ lunch onboard: grilled meats and fresh salads, plus cake for dessert
• Drinks included with the meal: wine from Mallorca and sangria, along with soft drinks and water all day
• Snorkeling gear with a €10 refundable deposit: you’ll need cash for the deposit
• Captain Perez and energetic crew: multiple reviews call out upbeat hosting and fun vibes
• It’s a big boat at peak times: start can feel busy, even if space opens up later

Why This 5-Hour Catamaran Works So Well in Palma

This is the kind of trip that fits real holiday pacing. You’re only out for 5 hours, but you still get sailing, two swimming moments, and a proper lunch onboard—no rushing to squeeze in three separate plans.

For me, the value is in what you actually get for the money: the catamaran ride itself, two anchor-and-swim stops, snorkeling gear (with a refundable deposit), and a BBQ meal with drinks. At this price point, that’s a lot of built-in “day structure,” which matters in places like Palma where good weather days disappear fast.

One more plus: you’re not spending time on a bus. You’re already at the water, and the day is designed around being in it.

Getting Oriented at the Port of Palma (Magic Catamarans Dock)

Your meeting point is the Port of Palma, at the boat dock in front of the Auditorium de Palma on Passeig Marítim. Look for a boat labeled Magic Catamarans on the pier in front of the auditorium, harbor side.

Arrive about 30 minutes early. Parking around this area is very limited, so give yourself enough time to park (or walk in) without starting the trip flustered. A few reviews mention the start can feel line-heavy in the hot sun, so getting there early is your easiest “stress reducer.”

The South Coast Sail: Yachts, Big-Boat Views, and Photo Moments

Once you’re aboard, you cruise from Palma along Mallorca’s south coast. Reviews describe that stretch as scenic and fun, with plenty to look at—plus that sense of leaving the busy port behind and moving into sea time.

You might also get a quick photo moment near Palma Cathedral on the way back, depending on timing. One review mentions a close view from the boat during the return sail, which makes sense because the cathedral sits right on the waterfront.

And yes, it’s a bigger catamaran experience, not a private boat. That’s a trade-off: more people, more energy. Many guests say it doesn’t feel overcrowded once you’re settled, even if boarding initially looks like organized chaos.

Stop One: Portals Vells or Cala Vella for the Best Water Time

Stop one is where the trip usually sets its tone. Depending on the wind, you’ll anchor in either Portals Vells or Cala Vella, then jump in in turquoise water a few meters from idyllic beaches.

Why this stop matters: it’s built for easy swimming. Several reviews talk about swimming near the coastline and having enough shallow water that you can enjoy a calm swim back toward shore. If you’re hoping for that “I’m floating right by the beach” feeling, this is your moment.

Snorkeling is also most likely to shine here. One guest specifically mentions seeing small fish and even jellyfish during the snorkeling. Another says the first stop delivered clearer water and more wildlife visibility, which lines up with why many people rate the overall trip highly.

Practical note: the timing at the first stop can vary. Reviews mention shorter bursts like around 30 minutes, while others describe longer windows. Either way, treat it like a true swim slot, not a quick dip.

Stop Two in a Nearby Cove: More Swims, But Watch the Clarity

After lunch—or after the sailing between stops—you’ll anchor again for the second swim location. This is the part where conditions can shift.

A few reviews say the second cove was still enjoyable and refreshing, with plenty of time to swim. But at least a couple guests note that the second stop wasn’t as clear or as “wow” as stop one. One person even described it as more in open water where it wasn’t as blue/clear.

So what should you do with that info? Don’t build your expectations around one single “perfect” water moment. If you’re the type who wants the best snorkeling visibility, you’ll likely prefer to treat the first stop as the main event.

BBQ Lunch on Board: What You’ll Eat and Why It Feels Included

Lunch is a buffet-style BBQ onboard. Based on what’s listed and echoed in reviews, you can expect barbecue meats like chicken breast, skewers, and sausages, plus fresh salads and cake for dessert.

The reason this lunch works so well on a cruise day is timing. You’re not waiting hours for food after swimming. You swim, you regroup, you eat while the crew keeps things moving—and then you still have time to get back into the water after.

Drinks also make lunch feel complete. Soft drinks and mineral water are included during the full excursion. Wine from Mallorca and sangria are included with the meal.

What I like about this setup: it’s not just snack-level food. Multiple reviews say there was enough to eat and that the meal felt filling, even describing leftovers in some cases. That’s important because you’re out at sea and you’ll likely work up an appetite.

Snorkeling Gear, Life Vests, and Staying Comfortable

You’ll have snorkeling equipment available, and you’ll need to pay a €10 refundable deposit in cash if you want to use it. Life vests are provided for adults and children, which makes it easier to relax in the water.

A detail worth noting: some descriptions mention masks, and the pricing notes mention snorkeling equipment with the refundable deposit. Either way, the key point for you is the deposit requirement and the fact that snorkeling gear isn’t just “free free.” Plan for the €10 cash.

Also, don’t assume the second stop will be as good for snorkeling. Some guests say the second area was deeper, and snorkels didn’t produce the same fish visibility as the clearer first anchoring spot. Translation: bring a flexible mindset. Swim first, snorkel second.

Drinks, Music, and the On-Board Mood

This cruise has a laid-back, upbeat atmosphere. Reviews repeatedly mention music and dancing onboard, with some calling out specific Spanish music while watching the sunset on the return.

A standout: one review names the energy of Captain Perez and his crew’s service. Guests describe staff as fun and helpful, and that matters on a catamaran day where you want people to keep things organized while you focus on swimming and eating.

One practical consideration: if you’re very sensitive to loud music, keep your expectations flexible. One guest felt the music could have been louder, while others liked the background vibe. So think “party mood, not club volume.”

Timing Choices: 10 AM vs 3:30 PM and the Sunset Factor

You can choose a morning departure at 10:00 AM or an afternoon departure at 3:30 PM.

The afternoon slot is often the one you pick if you care about a more dramatic finish. Multiple reviews mention stunning sunset moments on the boat during the return sail. If your goal is to end with scenery, the 3:30 PM departure naturally gives you more daylight for those golden-hour views.

The morning option is best if you want to be back earlier and still have time for dinner plans in Palma. Either way, the day structure stays similar: cruise out, anchor for swims, BBQ lunch onboard, then return.

Who This Cruise Suits Best (and Who Might Want Something Else)

This tour fits best if you want an easy, value-heavy day in Palma with water time as the main event. It’s great for:

• Couples who want a scenic day without a packed itinerary
• Families with kids, thanks to life vests and multiple swim chances
• Solo travelers who want social energy and a clear schedule

A smaller-boat passenger might feel less happy if you strongly prefer quiet. It’s a big catamaran with lots of people, and that can mean busy lines right at the start. Reviews generally say things settle once you’re underway, but the overall format is still group-based.

If snorkeling is your absolute priority, aim your expectations toward the first stop being the most impressive for clarity and wildlife visibility.

Price and Value: Why $69 Feels Reasonable Here

At $69 per person, this cruise stacks several “paid separately” items into one ticket: catamaran transport, two swim stops, a BBQ lunch, soft drinks and water all day, and wine/sangria with the meal. On many coastal days, you’d pay for a boat ride and then still need to buy food and drinks.

The other piece of value is friction reduction. Everything is handled onboard: the crew cooks, the schedule is built-in, and you don’t need to arrange beach access or transport between coves. That’s why reviews keep circling back to fun vibes plus food plus swimming time—because it’s all in one package.

The main cost add-ons you should budget for are the €10 snorkeling deposit (refundable) if you use the gear, and any alcohol purchases outside mealtime at the bar. Also, note the on-board payment rules: card payments only, and American Express isn’t accepted.

Should You Book This Magic Catamarans Cruise?

Yes, book it if you want a simple Mallorca sea day: sailing, two anchoring swim stops, BBQ lunch, and included drinks with a guaranteed schedule. It’s a strong pick for people who hate wasting time and love being out on the water.

Skip it only if you’re chasing one thing—like the best possible snorkeling conditions every time—or if you hate the idea of a bigger group format, even if the boat has space once you’re underway.

If you do book, your best strategy is mental: treat the first stop as the highlight for water clarity and snorkeling, enjoy the second for more swim time even if it’s not as crystal as the first.

FAQ

What is included in the BBQ lunch and drinks?

You’ll get a buffet-style meal with BBQ meats, fresh salads, and cake for dessert. Soft drinks and mineral water are included for the full excursion, and wine from Mallorca plus sangria are included with the meal.

Do I need to pay for snorkeling gear?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is available with a €10 refundable deposit, and the deposit needs to be paid in cash.

Where do I meet for the cruise?

Meet at the Port of Palma at the boat dock in front of the Auditorium de Palma on Passeig Marítim. Look for a boat labeled Magic Catamarans at the pier in front of the auditorium (harbor side).

What departure times are available?

You can choose between a 10:00 AM morning departure or a 3:30 PM afternoon departure.

Is the vegetarian option available?

If you require a vegetarian option, you need to contact the activity provider directly.

What happens if the weather changes?

The route may change due to weather conditions, which can affect where you stop to swim.