From Palma: Luxury Catamaran Group Tour with Tapas & Drinks

Leave Palma behind for four easy hours. This catamaran trip combines clear Mediterranean water, a quiet bay, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and tapas without the packed-party-boat feel. I like the small group, usually around 10 to 12 people, and the roomy boat, which gives you space to sit at the front, back, or upper deck.

I also like how much of the equipment is included: snorkels, floats, and SUP boards are ready when the boat anchors. The main consideration is the food. It is fresh and tasty, but some people found the tapas closer to light snacks than a full lunch. Drinks beyond the welcome beverage cost extra.

The tone is relaxed rather than formal. Captains and hosts such as Tilla, Linda, Mila, Monica, and Angel have earned praise for being friendly and attentive, and the crew has adjusted routes when weather or technical problems got in the way. Still, bring a jacket or hoodie, since the boat can feel windy and chilly even on a sunny day.

Key points to know before booking

• Small-group sailing: The boat carries roughly 10 to 12 people, far fewer than a large party cruise.
• Swimming time matters: The catamaran anchors in a scenic bay where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or use floats.
• Tapas are included: Freshly made food and water are provided, but expect a light shared spread rather than a large meal.
• Extra drinks cost more: Wine, beer, soft drinks, cocktails, cava, champagne, and long drinks can be purchased onboard.
• The boat has room to spread out: Seating is available at the front, rear, and upper deck, with sun and semi-shaded areas.
• Sunset is different: The evening option lasts two hours and does not include the SUP boards, floats, snorkels, or paddleboarding.

Leaving La Lonja Marina in Palma

Your starting point is La Lonja Marina Charter, near Palma’s waterfront. Meet the skipper and hostess at the marina gate 15 minutes before departure. The meeting point is at Muelle de la Lonja, in the La Lonja area of Palma, so allow extra time if you are walking from the old town or arriving by car.

Driving is possible, but parking near the marina deserves planning. Parc de la Mar and Parking Antonio Maura are the two listed options close by. From either one, you still need to walk to the marina gate, so do not arrive at the last minute with beach bags, towels, and sunscreen in hand.

Once aboard, the crew gives a safety briefing before setting off. English and Spanish are spoken, and both a skipper and host or hostess remain onboard. The boat has an onboard music system, though the feel is more relaxed sailing day than nonstop party cruise.

The catamaran is the main reason this trip feels different from a basic harbor excursion. You have more open deck space than on a small motorboat, and the twin-hull design gives you several places to sit or stretch out. The exact boat may vary, but the experience is described as comfortable, clean, and well maintained, with seating at the front, back, and upper deck.

The first hour: Palma from the water

The trip begins with coastal sightseeing as you move away from Palma. You get a different view of the city and the Bay of Palma once the shoreline starts to open up. The sailing itself is part of the attraction, not just transportation to the swimming stop.

The welcome drink starts the outing. It may be sparkling wine or another offered drink, depending on the setup, but the included welcome beverage is not a full drinks package. Water is included, and you can order additional drinks onboard at an extra cost.

The boat may sail under power for part of the route and open the sails when conditions allow. One especially appreciated touch has been the skipper making an effort to raise the sails on the return journey. If sailing is important to you, remember that wind and weather determine how much time is spent under sail.

This is also a good time to settle into the pace. You can sit in the sun, use the semi-shaded area, listen to music, and watch the coast pass by. I would not book this as a sightseeing cruise packed with commentary and landmarks. The pleasure is simpler: open water, a comfortable boat, and a few hours without city traffic.

Anchoring in a turquoise bay

The main stop is a calm bay in the Bay of Palma or along the nearby Mallorca coast. The crew chooses a place with clear water where you can get off the boat for swimming and water activities. The exact bay can vary with weather and sea conditions, so the appeal is the overall setting rather than one guaranteed location.

This is where the tour earns its price. You are not merely looking at the sea from the deck. You can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, float, or stay onboard and sunbathe. Snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, and floats are provided, which saves you from carrying extra gear or hiring it separately.

The water is often described as clear, with fish visible around the swimming area. If you enjoy snorkeling, bring your own expectations under control. This is casual recreational snorkeling, not a guided marine-life excursion. You are given the equipment and time to explore on your own.

The swimming stop can last long enough to feel worthwhile, but the schedule is still only four hours from marina to marina. Some people wished there were time for two separate swimming bays, while others found one extended stop perfect. If you want several coves and a full day at sea, choose a longer private charter instead.

For many people, the small group is just as valuable as the water. With around 10 to 12 people onboard, you are less likely to wait for equipment or fight for a place to sit. A group of friends, a family, or a small celebration can enjoy the space without the crowded feel of a big excursion boat.

Tapas, welcome drinks, and the food question

Freshly made tapas are served to share onboard. The food has received strong praise for flavor and quality, and several people considered the meal one of the best parts of the trip. It fits the setting well: small plates, a cold drink, and the boat rocking gently in a sheltered bay.

I would treat the tapas as a generous snack or light lunch, not a restaurant meal. One useful criticism is that the portions can feel modest, especially if you are hungry after swimming. If you need a substantial lunch, eat something before boarding or plan a meal after returning to Palma.

The timing is also worth noting. The food may be served during the swimming stop rather than on the way back. That creates a small tradeoff. You can eat with a beautiful view, but food service takes time away from swimming and sunbathing. If you want every available minute in the water, you may prefer to eat quickly and return to the deck.

Water is included. Other drinks, including wine, beer, soft drinks, cocktails, long drinks, cava, and champagne, are available to buy. Those extras can raise the final cost, so keep them in mind when comparing this tour with a private charter or a basic sailing trip.

Special occasions can be discussed with the provider. The catamaran has been used for birthdays, group celebrations, and a bachelorette outing, but the core package remains a shared small-group cruise rather than a fully private event.

A relaxed boat, not a party cruise

The strongest feature is the mood. You can listen to music, chat with the people in your group, and meet others onboard, but you are not squeezed shoulder to shoulder. Several people specifically liked avoiding the overcrowded party boat atmosphere.

That makes the excursion suitable for couples, friends, families, and small celebrations. It also works for solo visitors who enjoy a social setting without a huge crowd. You may find the atmosphere varies with the group on your departure, but the limited capacity gives the crew a better chance to look after everyone.

The boat has sun sails and semi-shaded seating, but shade is not guaranteed for every seat at every moment. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and some cover for your shoulders. A towel and swimwear are essential. I would also pack a light jacket or hoodie because the ride back can feel cool once the wind picks up.

Smoking is not allowed onboard. That is useful to know before you arrive, especially if you are considering the cruise for a group with different habits.

Weather, seasickness, and crew care

The Mediterranean is not always calm. Wind, clouds, or a quick storm can change the feel of the trip, and the captain may alter the route for safety and comfort. Past departures have still gone ahead in less-than-perfect weather, with the crew adjusting the plan and doing their best to keep the mood pleasant.

If you are prone to seasickness, take the possibility seriously. The catamaran is stable compared with some smaller boats, but no vessel is motion-free. One passenger received helpful care from the assistant after feeling unwell, which is reassuring, but bring any medication or personal remedy you normally use.

The crew is a major part of the experience. Names praised in connection with different departures include Tilla, Linda, Mila, Monica, Angel, Carla, Brian, and others. Their role is practical as well as social: safety briefing, drinks, food, equipment, swimming support, and help with anyone who feels unwell.

The best departures seem to benefit from attentive hosts who keep the atmosphere friendly without taking over the day. This matters on a small boat. A disorganized crew would be hard to escape, while a warm and capable one can make a weather change or minor delay much less frustrating.

Is $117 a fair price?

At $117 per person, this is not Mallorca’s cheapest way to get on the water. You are paying for a small group, a four-hour outing, a catamaran with comfortable seating, a welcome drink, tapas, water, fuel, insurance, a skipper, a host, and the use of swimming equipment.

The value is strongest if you would otherwise pay separately for a boat ride, snorkel gear, paddleboard rental, and drinks. The small capacity also matters. A cheaper cruise may offer a similar route but with many more people and less room to relax.

The value is weaker if you mainly want a full meal, unlimited drinks, or several swimming locations. Tapas are light, alcoholic drinks cost extra, and the schedule may focus on one main bay. In that case, the price can feel high unless the comfort and group size are your main priorities.

I consider the cost fair for a half-day premium shared cruise, especially for visitors who want a polished boat and a quieter setting. It is best seen as a comfortable leisure experience, not a bargain transportation option.

Choosing the four-hour daytime trip or evening option

The main daytime outing lasts four hours and includes the swimming equipment, swimming stop, tapas, and coastal sailing. This is the option to choose if you want time in the water and enough sailing time to make the trip feel like a proper half-day activity.

There is also a two-hour evening option at 7:00 PM. The shorter trip may suit you if you mainly want sunset views and a drink on the water. Keep in mind that the evening option does not include SUP boards, floats, snorkels, or paddleboarding.

That difference is important. Do not book the evening departure expecting the same swim-and-water-sports program as the daytime tour. Check the departure time and inclusions carefully before paying.

Practical tips for a better outing

Arrive at the marina gate 15 minutes early. The meeting point is specific, and finding a marina entrance can take longer than expected, especially if you are carrying beach gear or coming from a cruise ship.

Bring:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• A hat or other sun protection
• A light jacket or hoodie
• Comfortable clothes for the boat ride

You need to provide passport details after booking, as required for the sailing. The tour is offered in English and Spanish, and all listed fees, taxes, fuel surcharge, and visitor insurance are included.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. That flexibility helps if your Palma schedule depends on ferry, cruise, or weather plans.

Who should book this catamaran tour?

Book it if you want a small-group day on the water with swimming, casual snorkeling, paddleboards, tapas, and room to sit comfortably. It is a strong choice for couples, families, groups of friends, and celebrations that want something more relaxed than a party cruise.

It is also a good fit if you value helpful staff. The crew’s friendly service has been one of the most consistent strengths, including assistance with seasickness and route changes during poor weather.

Think twice if you want a full lunch, several different coves, included alcohol, or a guaranteed sailing-only experience. You should also reconsider if you dislike wind, boat motion, or being around a small group for four hours.

Should you book it?

Yes, if your ideal Palma outing is a comfortable catamaran, clear water, a swim stop, and an easygoing crew. The small capacity and useful water equipment make the $117 price easier to justify, while the boat’s seating gives you room to relax instead of simply sitting wherever space remains.

Book the daytime trip, pack a jacket, and eat a little beforehand if you expect a big lunch. If you want quiet water time and a polished half-day at sea, this is one of the better ways to see Mallorca from the coast without signing up for a crowded party boat.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran tour start?

The tour starts at La Lonja Marina Charter, at Muelle de la Lonja, s/n, 07012 Palma, Balearic Islands. Meet the skipper and hostess at the marina gate 15 minutes before departure.

How long is the daytime catamaran trip?

The daytime sailing trip lasts four hours, including coastal sailing, time in a bay, swimming, water activities, and tapas.

Is there an evening sailing option?

Yes. A 7:00 PM evening option lasts two hours. The evening option does not include SUP boards, floats, snorkels, or paddleboarding.

What is included in the price?

The price includes the sailing trip, skipper, host or hostess, welcome drink, freshly made tapas, water, onboard music, coastal sightseeing, seating areas, insurance, taxes, fees, and fuel surcharge. Snorkels, floats, and SUP boards are included on the daytime option.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No. Wine, beer, soft drinks, cocktails, long drinks, cava, and champagne are available to purchase onboard at an additional cost.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, and sun protection for your head and shoulders. A jacket or hoodie is also recommended because the boat can become windy and chilly.

Is cancellation available?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The activity also offers a reserve-now-and-pay-later option.