Palma de Mallorca: Deluxe Catamaran Sailing Tour with Meal

The best Mallorca days happen offshore. This four to four-and-a-half-hour cruise pairs Cala Vella’s clear coves with a clean, stylish catamaran, a grilled lunch or sunset tapas, and time in the water. I like the limited group size most, with no more than 36 people aboard a boat built for 57. I also like the friendly, attentive crew and the easy mix of swimming, food, sailing, and views.

The main catch is cost once you add drinks. The $88 price covers the cruise, food, water, insurance, and SUP equipment, but cocktails can cost about €18 to €20, and snorkeling masks and tubes are not included. The meeting point can also be a little hard to spot, so allow time to find it.

Key points at a glance

• A 36-person limit: The catamaran can carry 57, but the operator limits each trip to 36 for more room to sit, move, and enjoy the water.
• Cala Vella swimming stop: The boat heads from Palma to a natural reserve known for small coves and clear water.
• Food prepared aboard: The daytime trip includes appetizers and a BBQ lunch. The adult sunset trip serves tapas and canapés instead.
• Water activities included: Stand-up paddleboards are provided, while your own snorkeling gear is recommended.
• Two very different moods: Daytime suits swimming and a relaxed lunch. Sunset offers dinner, old-town views, and a more romantic setting.
• A polished boat experience: Oasis is modern, clean, and designed to feel more comfortable than a packed party boat.

Sailing from Palma on the Oasis catamaran

This trip begins in the Port of Palma, with the exact meeting point depending on the option you book. The boat, called Oasis, has a modern design and enough open space to keep the cruise from feeling cramped.

That passenger limit matters. Many boats look spacious in their photographs but fill every available seat. Here, the maximum of 36 people on a 57-person catamaran leaves room for sunbathing, taking photographs, finding a quiet corner, and getting to the water without a human traffic jam.

The atmosphere is best described as relaxed rather than wild. Music, drinks, open views, and the gentle motion of the boat create a social setting, but this is not presented as a party cruise. Couples, families, and small groups can all fit in comfortably, although the sunset departure is only for adults aged 18 and over.

The crew speaks Spanish, English, German, and French. Their role is practical and visible throughout the trip, from serving food and drinks to helping people use the paddleboards and keeping the boat tidy. Several detailed experiences praise the crew for being friendly, polite, and quick to help, including handing out blankets when the evening became cool.

The cruise across Palma Bay

The outward journey gives you a changing view of Mallorca from the water. Palma’s port falls behind, and the city becomes part of a wider coastal scene rather than the entire focus.

The trip to the swimming area takes about an hour, according to the tour details provided in several accounts. That is useful to know because this is not a short harbor ride with a quick photo stop. A good part of the experience is simply being on the sea, watching the coast pass by, and enjoying the catamaran’s open deck.

When conditions allow, the crew raises the sails. That is one of the most satisfying parts of the trip, since the boat can move quietly with the wind instead of relying only on its motor. The exact sailing time depends on the weather, so you should not book this expecting a guaranteed full sailing passage.

The trip can also be changed because of weather. That is sensible for a water activity, but it means the route, swimming conditions, or timing may not always match the planned schedule. One particularly helpful detail is that the operator has sometimes allowed a date change when poor weather made the original departure unsuitable.

Cala Vella and the swimming stop

The main stop is Cala Vella, a natural reserve with small coves and clear Mediterranean water. This is where the tour shifts from sightseeing to active time on the sea.

You can swim from the boat, use the provided stand-up paddleboards, and bring your own snorkeling equipment. The water is the star here, with fish visible in the area and plenty of reason to spend more than a few minutes in the sea.

The tour does not include rental snorkeling masks and tubes for hygiene reasons. Bring your own if you have space. Otherwise, a snorkeling set can be purchased aboard for €25. That extra cost is easy to overlook, especially if you assume all the equipment in the photographs is included.

The included SUP equipment gives you another way to enjoy the stop. You can paddle away from the catamaran, look back at the boat from the water, or simply use the board as a floating platform. The supplied information also refers to surf paddling and snorkeling, and some departures include floats or similar water toys.

You should bring a towel, swimwear, a sun hat, and sunscreen. There is a contradiction in the supplied rules: sunscreen appears both on the recommended packing list and under items not allowed. Confirm the current policy with the operator before departure, especially if you plan to bring spray sunscreen.

The boat’s layout helps at this point. With a reduced passenger count, people can spread out while some swim, some paddle, and others remain on deck. If you dislike crowded swim stops, this is one of the strongest reasons to choose this particular cruise over a cheaper, higher-capacity option.

Daytime sailing with BBQ lunch

The daytime option is the better choice if swimming is your main goal. You reach Cala Vella during daylight, have time in the water, and then eat a BBQ prepared directly on board.

The food receives unusually strong praise. The lunch is described as plentiful, fresh, and better than expected, with vegetarian food available as well. One account specifically notes that the meal worked well for vegetarian diners, while another praises the healthy food and careful attention to dietary needs.

The meal is more than a token snack. Appetizers come before or around the main service, and the BBQ provides a proper lunch during the stop. That makes the $88 price easier to justify, since you are not paying for a boat ride and then needing to find a separate meal afterward.

Still, do not expect a restaurant with an extensive menu. The information only promises appetizers and a BBQ lunch, not a choice of several main courses. If you have a serious allergy or a strict diet, contact the local partner before booking and confirm exactly what can be provided.

The onboard bar remains open during the excursion. Unlimited water is included, but other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are extra unless specifically mentioned in your booking. Cocktails and mixed drinks add a noticeable amount to the final bill, with cocktails reported at around €18 to €20.

Sunset sailing with tapas and Palma views

The sunset option has a more romantic feel and is limited to adults. Instead of the daytime BBQ, you receive tapas and canapés while the sun drops over Mallorca.

The boat still sails toward Cala Vella for a swim, so this is not merely a sightseeing cruise. You can get into the water before dinner, then return to the deck for food and the evening light. The swim may be especially appealing after a warm day in Palma, though the water and air can feel cooler later in the season.

On the return journey, the views turn back toward Palma. The old town and Cathedral become the visual focus, giving you a fine angle on the city that you cannot get from its streets. The combination of the historic skyline, open water, and sunset is the main reason to choose this departure.

The evening atmosphere is calm, with chilled music and enough room to sit comfortably. Blankets may be available if the return trip becomes cool, but you should still bring a light layer. Even in warm Mallorca, an open boat can feel chilly after sunset.

Tapas and canapés are suitable for a light dinner, but the meal differs from the more substantial daytime BBQ. If you want a large meal, the daytime departure may offer better value. If you care most about mood, sunset color, and Palma’s evening views, the adult departure is the more memorable pick.

Food, drinks, and the real cost

At $88 per person, this is not Mallorca’s cheapest boat trip. The price makes more sense when you count the space aboard, the meal, the swimming stop, the included SUP equipment, unlimited water, insurance, and the four-hour-plus duration.

The limited passenger count is the most important value difference. Paying a little more for 25 to 36 people can feel worthwhile when nearby boats are carrying far more. You are buying room as much as transport.

Food is another strong point. The daytime BBQ is a genuine meal, and the sunset tapas include enough variety to support an evening on the water. The boat is also reported to be very clean, with spotless toilets and a polished interior, which matters during a long outing.

Drinks are where the budget can creep upward. Water is included, but cocktails and other bar purchases cost extra. If you want to control the total price, plan to use the included water and treat the bar as optional rather than part of the package.

A glass of sparkling wine has been offered on at least one special occasion, but you should not assume it is included on every departure. Check the exact booking option for what drinks, if any, are part of your fare.

What the crew and boat do well

The strongest pattern in the available feedback is the quality of the crew. The three-person team is repeatedly described as kind, professional, hospitable, and attentive without being overbearing.

That care shows in small practical actions. Crew members help people settle in, explain what to expect, serve food, keep water available, and assist with the water equipment. On one sunset trip, blankets were handed out when the air became cool.

The boat itself is another major strength. It is described as new or modern, clean, comfortable, and immaculate. Clean toilets are not a glamorous feature, but after several hours at sea they are a real advantage.

The crew also appears to manage capacity carefully. Even when the boat reaches the stated maximum of 36, the layout can still feel open. Some departures have had closer to 15, 25, or 28 people, which makes the experience feel especially spacious.

Small drawbacks to plan around

The meeting point is the clearest practical weakness. It can be confusing, and there may not be obvious signs at the port. Read your confirmation carefully, check the exact departure location, and arrive early enough to sort out the final walk.

Snorkeling gear is another small inconvenience. You need to bring your own mask and tube or pay €25 for a set aboard. The rule is explained as a hygiene measure, but it is still an extra step for anyone expecting a fully equipped water excursion.

The bar prices may surprise you. Cocktails around €18 to €20 are closer to hotel-bar prices than casual beach-bar prices. Drinks are optional, but the open bar can make it easy to spend more than planned.

Finally, the route depends on weather. Sailing conditions may prevent the crew from raising the sails, and the itinerary can be amended for safety. That is normal at sea, but flexibility is important if the swim at Cala Vella is the only part you care about.

Who will enjoy this catamaran trip most

I would recommend this cruise to you if you want several Mallorca experiences in one outing: a coastal sail, time in clear water, a proper meal, and views of Palma from offshore.

It suits couples particularly well, especially the adult sunset option. It also works for families on the daytime trip, since the swimming stop and paddleboards give children something active to do. The boat is a good match for small groups who want a social setting without a packed party atmosphere.

It is less suitable if you want a quiet private charter, a long sailing lesson, or a full day at sea. The trip lasts four to four-and-a-half hours, and the main swimming stop is concentrated at Cala Vella rather than spread across several beaches.

You should also think twice if you dislike paying extra for drinks or if you need guaranteed snorkeling equipment. In those cases, a simpler self-planned beach day may be easier on your budget.

Booking advice for the best departure

Choose the daytime trip for the fullest use of the water activities and the most substantial meal. It is the practical choice for families and for anyone who wants to swim, paddle, and eat a BBQ in bright conditions.

Choose sunset for a more polished evening. You will still swim at Cala Vella, but the reward is tapas, canapés, softer light, and the return view toward Palma’s old town and Cathedral.

Keep your schedule flexible enough to handle weather changes. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and the reserve-now, pay-later option can help if your plans are not fixed.

For groups of 10 or more, contact Oasis Catamaran directly if your preferred date is unavailable. The operator may be able to help arrange another option.

Should you book the Oasis catamaran?

Yes, if you value space, clean facilities, good food, and a carefully managed group more than the lowest possible price. The strongest reasons to book are the 36-person limit, the attractive Cala Vella stop, the well-regarded crew, and the fact that the meal is prepared as part of the experience rather than treated as an afterthought.

I would choose the daytime BBQ trip for overall value and the sunset trip for a special occasion. Budget separately for bar drinks, bring snorkeling gear if you have it, and confirm the meeting point and sunscreen rule before you go. With those details handled, this is a polished and easygoing way to spend half a day on the Mallorcan coast.

FAQ

How long does the catamaran tour last?

The excursion lasts approximately four to four-and-a-half hours. Starting times depend on availability and the option you select.

Where does the tour begin and end?

The trip begins and ends at a meeting point in or near the Port of Palma. The exact start point may vary by booking option.

What is included in the $88 price?

The price includes the luxury catamaran cruise, unlimited water, insurance, SUP equipment, and food. Daytime bookings include appetizers and a BBQ, while sunset bookings include tapas and canapés.

Are drinks included?

Unlimited water is included. Other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are not included unless your selected option specifically says so.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Snorkeling masks and tubes are not included for rental because of hygiene rules. You may bring your own or purchase a snorkeling set aboard for €25.

Can children join the sunset tour?

No. The sunset option is for adults aged 18 and over. Minors should not be booked on that departure.

How many people are on the catamaran?

The catamaran has capacity for 57 people, but the operator limits the tour to a maximum of 36 for comfort and safety.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, a sun hat, and sunscreen. Casual, appropriate clothing is recommended, and high-heeled shoes are not allowed.

Can the itinerary change because of weather?

Yes. The route and itinerary may be amended due to weather conditions. Sailing time and access to the planned swimming area can therefore vary.