Palma de Mallorca: Deluxe Catamaran Sailing Tour with Meal

The best part of this Palma sailing trip is the breathing room. The Oasis can carry 57 people, but the operator limits each departure to 36, so you get room to stretch out, take photos, and reach the water without feeling packed in. I especially like the clean, modern boat and the calm stop at Cala Vella, where you can swim, paddleboard, or jump into clear water.

I also like that food is prepared on board rather than treated as an afterthought. The daytime trip includes a BBQ, while the sunset sailing serves tapas and canapés. The main drawback is that cocktails and most drinks cost extra, snorkeling equipment is not included, and the meeting point can be hard to spot.

Key points

• A deliberately small sailing group: The boat holds 57, but only 36 people are accepted.
• Cala Vella swimming stop: The main water stop includes time for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling with your own equipment.
• Two different moods: Pick a daytime BBQ cruise or an adults-only sunset trip with tapas and canapés.
• Food is cooked or arranged on board: Lunch includes appetizers and a BBQ, with vegetarian food available.
• Extra costs to plan for: Water is included, but cocktails and other drinks are not. A snorkeling set costs €25 on board.
• Flexible weather policy: The route may change in poor conditions, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.

A quieter catamaran from Palma

Many boat outings around Mallorca are built around filling every available seat. This one takes a different approach. The Oasis has capacity for 57, but the maximum tour size is 36. That difference matters more than it may sound.

You have a better chance of finding a comfortable place to sit, moving around for views, and getting onto a paddleboard without a scrum. The lower passenger count also helps the trip feel more like a relaxed sailing outing than a floating beach club.

The catamaran is described as elegant and distinctive, and the strongest praise centers on its condition. It is modern, spotless, and comfortable, with clean toilets and open areas for sunbathing. If you care about the boat itself as much as the destination, this is one of the tour’s strongest selling points.

The crew also receives consistent praise for being attentive and polite. Marshall is one crew member specifically noted for making the evening pleasant, while the wider team is described as helpful with water, blankets, food, and general comfort. That does not turn the trip into a private charter, but it does make the limited-capacity format more worthwhile.

Leaving Port of Palma for Cala Vella

Your trip begins at the Port of Palma, although the exact meeting point can vary depending on the option you book. Allow extra time to find it. A lack of clear signs has been a repeated nuisance, so check your booking details carefully and contact the local partner if the instructions are not clear.

Once underway, the first stretch is about settling into the boat. You sail across the Bay of Palma toward Cala Vella, taking in views from the water rather than from the busy roads and waterfront streets. On a good-weather day, the crew may raise the sails for part of the journey. When the wind is not suitable, the catamaran can travel under motor power instead.

This is not a nonstop sailing lesson. You are not being taught how to handle the boat. The appeal is the combination of moving through the Mediterranean, relaxing on deck, and reaching a good swimming spot without having to arrange separate transport.

The four to four and a half hour length is well judged for most people. You get enough time at sea to feel that you have had a proper outing, but it does not consume an entire day of your Mallorca itinerary. I would still protect the afternoon or evening around it, since the return time can be affected by weather and sailing conditions.

Cala Vella and the main swimming stop

Cala Vella is the center of the daytime experience. It is a natural reserve area with coves and clear water, and the catamaran pauses here for swimming and water activities.

This is where you can use the provided stand-up paddleboarding equipment. The boards give you something to do beyond swimming, especially if you want to move around the cove and see the boat from the water. You can also jump from the catamaran, although you should follow the crew’s instructions and use sensible care around the boat.

Snorkeling is possible, but there is an important catch. For hygiene reasons, masks and tubes are not rented as part of the trip. Bring your own set or buy one on board for €25. If snorkeling is a priority, bringing equipment from home is the better value.

The swimming stop is also the point where the day becomes less structured. You can swim, paddle, sunbathe, take photos, or simply remain on deck. That freedom is useful for mixed groups. Strong swimmers can get active while anyone who prefers to stay dry can enjoy the cove and the view.

Do not expect a secluded private bay. Cala Vella is popular, and the route may be amended because of weather. Still, the stop gives the outing a clear purpose. You are not just circling the bay and returning to port. You have a proper chance to get into the water.

Bring a towel, swimwear, a hat, and sun protection. The supplied information contains a contradiction: sunscreen is listed both as something to bring and as something not allowed. Confirm the current rule with the operator before departure, especially if you have sensitive skin or plan to spend several hours in full sun.

The daytime cruise and its onboard BBQ

The daytime option includes appetizers and a BBQ prepared directly on board. This is a major part of the value, since you are not paying for a sailing trip and then needing to find lunch immediately afterward.

The meal is described as plentiful, fresh, and better than a basic boat buffet. Vegetarian food is available, and the menu has also accommodated a dairy intolerance. If you have a dietary restriction, tell the local partner in advance rather than relying on a last-minute conversation on the boat.

The timing of the food works well with the swimming stop. You can spend time in the water, return to the catamaran, and eat while the boat is stationary or preparing to continue through the bay. There are appetizers and snacks as well, so the food service is more than a single plate dropped in front of you.

I would choose this version if you want the most practical Mallorca day outing. You get a swim, water equipment, a substantial meal, and a cruise back into Palma without giving up a whole day. Families can book the daytime option, and it is the better fit for anyone under 18, since the sunset trip is adults-only.

The sunset sailing with tapas and canapés

The sunset option follows a similar route toward Cala Vella, including a swim stop, but the mood changes as the light softens. Instead of a daytime BBQ, you receive tapas and canapés while sailing back toward Palma.

The return is the visual highlight. You get views of the old town and Palma Cathedral from the sea, with the changing light adding a different feel to the waterfront. If your main goal is photography, a romantic evening, or a slower drink-and-sunset experience, this version makes more sense than the daytime cruise.

It is also a good choice for a honeymoon or anniversary. The boat’s limited passenger count helps here. With around 25 to 33 people on some departures, the deck can feel spacious rather than crowded, and chilled music provides atmosphere without turning the trip into a loud party.

The sunset sailing is strictly for adults age 18 and over. Do not book it for minors. The evening can also become cool on the way back, especially after swimming, so a light layer is sensible. The crew has provided blankets when conditions turned chilly, but I would not count on that as a substitute for bringing something warm.

The sunset trip is not automatically the better option. Tapas and canapés are lighter than the BBQ, and you lose the bright midday view of Cala Vella. Choose it for the light, the atmosphere, and the Palma skyline, not because it includes more activities.

Drinks, food, and the real price

At $88 per person, this is not the cheapest way to get onto the water in Mallorca. The price makes more sense when you count what is bundled: a four to four and a half hour cruise, a luxury catamaran, food, unlimited water, stand-up paddleboard equipment, and insurance.

The reduced passenger count is also part of the value. You are paying more than you might for a large shared boat, but you are not being charged for a supposedly deluxe experience and then placed shoulder to shoulder with dozens of other people.

Water is included throughout the trip. Other drinks are not. Cocktails have been priced around €18 to €20, and mixed drinks and alcoholic beverages are available from the onboard bar. A glass of champagne has also been offered at boarding on some outings, but you should not assume that is included every time unless your booking details say so.

The bar is convenient, but the drinks can push up the final cost quickly. I would budget for one or two paid drinks at most, unless the bar is a major part of your plan. If you are mainly interested in swimming, lunch, and the boat ride, the included food and water may be enough.

Snorkeling equipment is another possible add-on. Since a mask and tube are not included, bring your own if you have room. Buying a €25 set on board is easy, but it is not a small extra charge for a short snorkeling session.

Who will enjoy the Oasis most

I would recommend this tour to you if you want a polished boat day without a party-boat feel. Couples, families, small groups, and anyone marking a special occasion should appreciate the clean catamaran, attentive crew, and space created by the 36-person limit.

It also suits people who want several activities in one outing. You can sail, swim, paddleboard, eat, sunbathe, take photos, and return to Palma in one booking. You do not need to organize separate equipment or find a waterfront restaurant afterward.

The daytime trip is the most flexible. It works for families and for people who prefer to see the water clearly in full daylight. The sunset option is better for adults who care more about atmosphere than a larger meal.

I would hesitate to recommend it if you want a private charter, a long period of actual sailing, or a serious snorkeling excursion. The boat is shared, the route can change with weather, and the snorkeling gear issue means the water activities are casual rather than specialist.

If you dislike paying extra once you are on board, plan carefully. Water is included, but cocktails, other drinks, and snorkeling equipment can cost more. You should also be comfortable with a swimming stop rather than a beach landing. The information provided describes swimming from the catamaran, not time spent walking ashore.

Practical details before you book

The tour operates in Spanish, English, German, and French. No hotel pickup is included, so you must make your own way to the meeting point at the port. Since the start location can vary by option, read the booking confirmation rather than assuming every departure leaves from the same spot.

Wear casual, suitable clothing and bring swimwear. High heels are not allowed. A towel, hat, and sun protection are essential, though you should clarify the sunscreen rule because the instructions conflict.

The operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and allows you to reserve now and pay later. Those terms help if your Mallorca schedule is still moving around, but weather remains a factor. The itinerary may change in unsafe or unsuitable conditions.

Groups of 10 or more should contact the local partner if their preferred date is unavailable. Large groups may have fewer options, even though the tour itself limits the number of people on board.

The trip ends back at the meeting point. That makes it easy to pair with other plans in Palma, but do not schedule something immediately afterward. Give yourself a little margin for a late return caused by wind or sea conditions.

Should you book this catamaran tour?

I would book the Oasis if you want a comfortable, food-inclusive half-day on the Mediterranean and are willing to pay extra for space. The strongest reasons are the smaller passenger limit, the spotless boat, the friendly crew, the Cala Vella swim, and the fact that the BBQ or sunset food is part of the main package.

Choose the daytime sailing for families, a proper lunch, and active time on the water. Choose the sunset sailing for an adults-only occasion, tapas, soft music, and views of Palma Cathedral as the light fades.

Skip it if your priority is the lowest price, a private boat, or extensive snorkeling. For everyone else, $88 is a reasonable price for a well-organized outing, provided you keep the paid drinks and €25 snorkeling set in mind. The combination of limited numbers, good food, and a genuinely pleasant swimming stop makes this one of Palma’s stronger shared-boat choices.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran tour?

The trip lasts about four to four and a half hours. Starting times vary, so check availability for the date you want.

Where does the tour start and end?

The meeting point depends on the option booked. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup is not included, so you must make your own way to the designated meeting point.

What food is included on the daytime trip?

The daytime option includes appetizers and a BBQ prepared on board.

What food is included on the sunset trip?

The sunset option includes tapas and canapés instead of the daytime BBQ.

Are drinks included?

Unlimited water is included. Other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, are not included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

No. For hygiene reasons, snorkeling masks and tubes cannot be rented. You may bring your own or buy a snorkeling set for €25 on the boat.

Is paddleboarding equipment included?

Yes. Stand-up paddleboarding equipment is included.

Can children join the sunset tour?

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

What should I bring?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. High-heeled shoes are not allowed. Because the instructions both allow and prohibit sunscreen, confirm the current sunscreen policy with the operator before you go.

Can the itinerary change?

Yes. The route and itinerary may be amended because of weather conditions.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve-now, pay-later booking is also available.