Palma de Mallorca: 5-Hour Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Swim

Sun, sea, and a barbecue at anchor. This five-hour Magic Catamarans cruise gives you a simple way to enjoy Mallorca’s south coast without renting a car or planning a string of beaches. I like the two swimming stops, especially when the boat reaches the clear water near Portals Vells or Cala Vella. I also like the generous food and drink package, which makes the $69 price feel fair.

The main tradeoff is scale. This is a large, social boat rather than a quiet private sail, and the second swimming stop may be less scenic than the first. The route depends on wind conditions, so you should treat the coves as a general plan, not a fixed promise.

What Makes This Cruise Worth Considering

• Two chances to swim: The boat anchors at two nearby coves, with time for swimming and snorkeling from the catamaran.
• A working barbecue on board: Chicken breast, skewers, sausages, salads, bread, and dessert make this more than a sightseeing sail.
• A social but spacious setting: The catamaran can fill up, yet several people found there was still room to move around and change sides.
• Two departure choices: Pick the 10 a.m. sailing for a full day on the water, or the 3:30 p.m. departure for sunset views on the return.
• Drinks are part of the deal: Water, soft drinks, coffee, and juice are available throughout the trip, with wine and sangria served at the meal.
• A strong price for a five-hour outing: At $69 per person, the food, drinks, crew, boat ride, and swim time add up to solid value.

Leaving Palma Harbor by Catamaran

The meeting point is at the Port of Palma, at the dock in front of the Auditorium de Palma on Passeig Marítim. Look for the boat marked Magic Catamarans on the harbor side of the pier, and arrive about 30 minutes early.

That early arrival matters. Parking near the port is very limited, and the boarding area can feel crowded while people sort out where to wait. If you drive, use a planned parking option rather than hoping to find a space beside the dock.

Once aboard, you get a fine introduction to Palma from the water. The boat passes the harbor’s cruise ships and yachts before heading along the south coast. The catamaran gives you several ways to spend the crossing: sit in the sun, find shade, take photos, or simply watch the coastline slide past.

This is not a lecture-heavy sightseeing cruise. The guides speak English and Spanish, but the focus is on music, swimming, food, and a cheerful day at sea. If you want detailed facts about Mallorca’s coastline, you may find the commentary fairly light. If you prefer a relaxed outing without constant narration, that may suit you perfectly.

Choosing the Morning or Afternoon Departure

The morning boat leaves at 10 a.m. and gives you a classic daytime outing. You get strong light for photos, warm hours for swimming, and plenty of time to enjoy the boat before returning to Palma.

The afternoon departure leaves at 3:30 p.m. and returns after five hours. This option can be especially appealing if you want the coast in softer evening light. Several people enjoyed sunset views during the return sail, and the boat may pass close to Palma Cathedral near the end, offering a memorable city view from the water.

The afternoon trip has a more festive feel, with music, dancing, dinner, and the changing colors of the sky. It is also a smart pick if you do not want to give up your entire morning. The drawback is that your swim time and meal happen later, so check the weather forecast and choose the time that fits your plans.

Portals Vells or Cala Vella: The First Main Stop

The exact route depends on wind and sea conditions. The boat may head to Portals Vells or Cala Vella, then make a second stop at another nearby cove.

The first anchorage is usually the highlight. You are close to an attractive beach, with clear water around the boat and enough time to swim toward shallower water in some locations. This is where snorkeling makes the most sense. Small fish and other marine life may be visible, particularly when the water is calm and clear.

You can use the boat’s snorkeling equipment, but you must leave a €10 cash deposit. The deposit is refundable when the equipment comes back. You may also bring your own mask and snorkel, which avoids the cash deposit and can be more comfortable if you care about fit.

The water is the star here, but conditions can change. After heavy rain, visibility may be reduced. Wind can also affect where the captain anchors. One strong point of this outing is that the captain chooses a safer swimming area when the sea is rough, but the prettiest cove is not guaranteed on every departure.

Life vests are available for adults and children. Families with children as young as six and seven have enjoyed the boat, and the broad age range makes this a workable choice for mixed groups. Still, you should be comfortable entering the sea from a boat and climbing back aboard.

The Second Anchorage and Its Limits

After the first swim, the catamaran moves to another nearby cove or anchorage. This gives you a second chance to get in the water, and it breaks up the day nicely. Some departures offer a short first swim and a much longer second stop, while the exact timing can vary.

The second location is not always as photogenic as the first. It may be farther from shore, with deeper water and less to see through a snorkel mask. That does not make it a bad stop. You still get a refreshing swim, but you should not expect two identical postcard coves.

This is one place where expectations matter. If your main goal is to visit a particular beach, a small boat or land-based beach day may suit you better. If your goal is to swim twice, relax on deck, and let someone else handle the route, this setup works well.

The boat’s size helps here. Even when it is full, you can generally find space to sit, stand, or move to the more open side. On a sunny day, switch positions during the trip so you do not spend all five hours in direct sun.

Barbecue Lunch, Salads, and Sangria

While you swim, the crew prepares a buffet on board. The meal includes chicken breast, skewers, sausages, fresh salads, bread, and cake for dessert. Some departures have also included tuna and fresh fruit.

This is straightforward boat food rather than a restaurant meal. The grilled meats are filling, and the buffet format lets you choose what suits you. The food has received especially warm praise, although a few people found it basic or only average. I would think of it as a hearty lunch that keeps the day moving, not a reason to expect fine dining.

Water, soft drinks, coffee, and juice are included throughout the excursion. Wine and sangria are served with the meal. Cocktails and other alcoholic drinks can be bought at the bar, but only card payments are accepted on board, and American Express is not accepted.

The drink policy is useful to know before you board. Bring a card for purchases, and bring cash only for the snorkeling deposit. If you need a vegetarian meal, contact Magic Catamarans ahead of time rather than waiting until lunch.

Music, Dancing, and the Social Side

Music is a major part of the mood. Spanish songs, easygoing background tracks, and occasional dancing turn the return sail into more than a quiet boat ride. Some people loved the party atmosphere, while others wished the music were louder or wanted more peace and quiet.

The crew carries much of the mood. Captain Perez has been praised for his friendly manner, and the wider team is often described as cheerful, organized, and helpful. Crew members serve food, manage the swim stops, keep drinks moving, and encourage people to join the fun without forcing anyone to dance.

You can enjoy this as a couple, family, solo visitor, or group of friends. Solo travelers may find it easy to chat with people during the long sail and swim stops. Families get a simple day with life vests, food, and plenty of water time. Couples can choose the afternoon departure for sunset and a more festive evening.

If you want a private, silent sail with personal attention, this is the wrong product. The appeal is the shared atmosphere, not seclusion.

How the $69 Price Holds Up

At $69, this is a strong value for a five-hour outing from central Palma. The price includes the catamaran ride, two planned swim stops, a buffet meal, nonalcoholic drinks all day, and wine and sangria with food. You also get the crew, life vests, and access to snorkeling equipment after the refundable deposit.

A comparable self-planned beach day could involve transport, food, drinks, and beach fees, while still giving you the job of getting from one cove to the next. Here, the boat handles the movement and the meal is ready while you swim.

The value depends on how much you use the included parts. Swimmers and sun seekers get the most from it. If you do not like swimming, do not enjoy loud music, or prefer small groups, the price may feel less attractive because much of the day is built around being in the water and socializing on deck.

The boat’s size also keeps the price reasonable, but it means the experience is not exclusive. You are paying for a well-organized shared day, not a private charter.

Practical Advice Before You Board

Arrive 30 minutes early, especially if you are unfamiliar with the Port of Palma. The dock is in front of the Auditorium, and the boat is labeled Magic Catamarans.

Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a card for any purchases. Carry cash for the €10 snorkeling deposit if you plan to use the provided equipment. A waterproof phone pouch is sensible for photos, though that item is not supplied by the operator.

Wear something comfortable for five hours outside. The sun can feel strong even when the breeze is pleasant, and swimming stops may tempt you to stay in the water longer than planned. A light layer can help on the return sail if the wind picks up.

The route can change because of weather. That is normal for a sea excursion, and it is better to have a safe anchorage than a fixed stop in rough conditions. You should also contact the provider in advance if you have separate bookings but want to sit on the same boat.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms are helpful if the weather forecast is still uncertain when you make your plans.

Who Should Book This Palma Cruise?

I would recommend this to anyone who wants a low-effort beach day with a boat ride attached. It is especially good for people who value swim time, included food, cold drinks, music, and a friendly crew more than formal sightseeing.

Families can benefit from the open space, life vests, and simple buffet. Couples should consider the afternoon sailing for sunset. Solo visitors can enjoy the relaxed social setting without needing to organize a group.

I would hesitate if you need a quiet boat, a fixed destination, detailed coastal commentary, or two equally beautiful snorkeling spots. The boat may be full, and the second stop can be less clear and less scenic than the first.

For most people, the decision comes down to expectations. Think of it as a lively beach club that floats along Mallorca’s south coast, with a barbecue and two chances to swim. At $69 for five hours, that is a good deal if the description matches your idea of a perfect day at sea.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran leave from?

It leaves from the Port of Palma, at the dock in front of the Auditorium de Palma on Passeig Marítim. Look for the Magic Catamarans boat on the harbor side of the pier.

How early should I arrive?

Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Parking is very limited near the port, so plan your arrival carefully.

How long is the cruise?

The cruise lasts five hours.

What departure times are available?

You can choose a morning departure at 10 a.m. or an afternoon departure at 3:30 p.m., subject to availability.

Where does the boat stop?

The boat stops at Portals Vells or Cala Vella, depending on wind conditions, and makes a second stop at another nearby cove.

Are two swimming stops guaranteed?

The planned schedule includes two stops, but the route and stops can change because of weather and sea conditions.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Masks and snorkeling equipment are available with a €10 refundable cash deposit. Life vests for adults and children are also provided.

What food and drinks are included?

The buffet includes barbecue meats, salads, and cake. Water, soft drinks, coffee, and juice are available throughout the trip. Wine and sangria are served with the meal.

Can I buy alcoholic drinks during the cruise?

Alcoholic drinks outside mealtime are available at the bar. Only card payments are accepted on board, and American Express is not accepted.