Palma de Mallorca: Deluxe Catamaran Sailing Tour with Meal

The best reason to choose this Palma catamaran cruise is simple: the boat is deliberately under-filled. Oasis can carry 57 people, but the operator limits tours to 36, leaving you room to sit in the sun, move around, and enjoy the sea without feeling packed in. I especially like the beautiful Cala Vella swimming stop and the fresh meal prepared onboard.

I also like the clean, modern catamaran and the friendly crew, with paddle boards included in the price. The main drawback is the meeting point, which may be hard to spot because it is not always marked. Also, cocktails cost noticeably more than beer and other basic drinks, and the sea can get choppy on the return ride.

Key points to know before booking

• Small-group sailing: The boat holds 57, but bookings are capped at 36 for a more comfortable ride.
• Cala Vella swim stop: You can swim near the Cap Rocat cliffs in clear Mediterranean water.
• Two meal choices: The daytime cruise includes a BBQ, while the sunset sailing includes tapas and canapés.
• Paddle boards included: SUP equipment is provided, but snorkeling gear is not included for hygiene reasons.
• Clean onboard facilities: The catamaran has two well-kept bathrooms and plenty of space to sit.
• A calm alternative to party boats: Music and drinks are available, but the tone is generally relaxed rather than rowdy.

Why the Oasis catamaran is different

Palma has no shortage of boat trips. Many are cheaper, but the bargain often comes with a crowded deck and little personal space. The Oasis tour takes a different approach by selling fewer places than the boat can legally carry.

That difference matters during a four to four-and-a-half-hour outing. You are not simply sitting in one spot for a quick harbor cruise. You will spend time motoring or sailing across Palma Bay, swimming from the boat, eating onboard, and waiting your turn for water equipment.

With a maximum of 36 people, the boat feels more like a comfortable shared yacht than a floating excursion bus. Some departures have carried only around 15 to 28 people, while the official limit remains 36. You cannot count on such a small group, but the cap gives the crew room to avoid the packed feeling found on many competing boats.

The Oasis itself has a smart, modern design. Cleanliness is one of its strongest points, from the deck to the two bathrooms. That may sound like a small detail, but a clean toilet and an uncluttered place to sit make a real difference during a half-day at sea.

Leaving Palma for Cala Vella

The trip begins at a port meeting point in Palma. The exact location can vary by option, and the pickup area may not have a large sign. Use the map pin carefully, check any WhatsApp updates from the operator, and arrive early enough to find the pier without a last-minute scramble.

One useful landmark described for a departure is the quay beside the stairs and parked cars. A crew member comes to check people in, and the boat arrives at that same spot. Still, do not assume the meeting place is obvious. This is the one part of the experience that needs more care from you before departure.

Once aboard, you can settle into the boat and take in the view from the water. Palma looks different from the bay. The city, port, shoreline, and distant headlands form a wide backdrop, while the catamaran gives you several angles for photographs.

The ride to Cala Vella takes about an hour according to the onboard experience described for the tour. Conditions affect the route and the amount of sailing, so the boat may use its engines or raise the sails when the wind allows. On a good sailing day, the quiet movement under sail is one of the most enjoyable parts of the journey.

The route may change because of weather. That is worth accepting before you book. A swimming cove or sailing stretch can be adjusted for safety, and the crew has the final say on where the boat stops.

Cala Vella and the Cap Rocat swimming stop

The main event is the stop near Cala Vella, an area of coves and clear water close to the Cap Rocat cliffs. The setting gives you what most people want from a Mallorca boat trip: a swim away from the city, a dramatic rocky shoreline, and time to cool off in the Mediterranean.

You can enter the water from the catamaran, swim around the boat, or simply sit on deck and enjoy the view. Some people jump from the boat, while others use the paddle boards. The swimming stop is the part I would value most if you want actual time in the sea rather than a cruise that only passes the coast.

The water equipment includes stand-up paddle boards. There are several boards available, but if the boat is near its 36-person limit, you may need to wait for your turn. That is normal on a shared tour, and the limited passenger count helps keep the wait reasonable.

Snorkeling is also advertised as an activity, but there is an important catch. Snorkel masks and tubes are not included because of hygiene rules. You can bring your own equipment or buy a snorkeling set onboard for 25 euros. Pack your own if snorkeling is a priority, since the available gear may not suit you and the purchase adds to the cost.

The stop is not a private cove reserved only for this catamaran. Other boats may be in the area, especially during the busy summer season. Even so, the spacious boat and the length of the stop give you time to swim without feeling hurried.

The daytime BBQ and onboard food

The daytime version includes appetizers and a BBQ prepared directly on the catamaran. Food examples include chicken fillets, hot dogs, mini burgers, salad, bread rolls, sweet corn, and dessert. The exact menu can vary, but the meal is more substantial than a few packaged snacks.

I like the fact that lunch is cooked onboard rather than delivered as a cold box. It gives the trip a relaxed picnic-at-sea character, especially after you have been swimming. Portions have been described as generous, with enough food left over on some departures.

Vegetarian needs have been accommodated, and the crew has also handled dairy restrictions and other dietary concerns. You should still contact the operator in advance if you have a serious allergy or strict dietary requirement. Do not bring your own food or drinks, as outside provisions are not allowed onboard.

Water is included throughout the trip and is served freely. Other drinks are purchased from the bar. Beer has been priced at around 3.50 euros on one departure, while cocktails have commonly cost about 10 to 20 euros, depending on the drink. The range is useful to know before you start ordering, since cocktails can quickly add to the advertised price.

One practical tip: if a complimentary drink is part of your booking, ask for it after the meal if it has not arrived. Service is generally attentive, but drinks may not be offered at the exact moment you expect.

The adults-only sunset sailing

The sunset option follows the same general route toward Cala Vella, with a swimming stop before the evening meal. Instead of the daytime BBQ, you receive tapas and canapés, with dessert included on some departures.

This version is for adults aged 18 and over. Do not book it for minors. The evening cruise is best suited to couples, friends, and anyone looking for a quieter occasion rather than a full day in the sun.

The return to Palma is the visual highlight. As the light fades, you can watch the sun over the bay and later see the old town and Cathedral from the water. The views are especially appealing because the boat approaches the city from an angle you cannot get from the streets.

Music creates atmosphere without necessarily turning the trip into a loud party. One evening included a live saxophone performance, and the mood later became more lively with people dancing. That kind of entertainment is not guaranteed, but it shows that the tone can shift from peaceful sunset cruise to a small celebration.

Bring something light to cover your shoulders for the ride back. The sea breeze can feel cool after sunset, and the crew has handed out blankets on chilly evenings. The boat is comfortable, but you are still outdoors on the water.

Comfort, drinks, and the pace onboard

The Oasis is designed for relaxing rather than constant activity. You can sunbathe, sit with a drink, watch the shoreline, or talk with other people onboard. The crew includes multilingual staff, with service available in English, French, German, and Spanish.

The atmosphere depends partly on the departure. It can be romantic, social, or family-friendly during the daytime. The sunset option is adults-only, while the daytime sailing suits families and mixed groups.

The staff is one of the tour’s strongest features. Crew members have helped with directions, dietary needs, water refills, blankets, paddle boards, and general questions. A captain named Pawel was singled out for being especially pleasant and willing to chat, while Marshall was praised for warm service on another trip.

Do not expect a formal sailing lesson. The focus is leisure, swimming, food, and views. You may sail under wind power if conditions are right, but the itinerary is not built around learning nautical skills.

The sea is usually the star, but it can be uneven. If you are prone to motion sickness, bring the medication you normally use. One passenger found the ride a little choppy, even while considering the trip well worth doing.

Is $97 a fair price?

At $97 per person, this is not Palma’s cheapest boat outing. The value comes from what is included and, especially, from the passenger limit.

Your price covers the catamaran cruise, water, insurance, the meal for your chosen time of day, and SUP equipment. You also receive a more spacious setting than you are likely to get on a boat filled to its maximum capacity.

The cost works best if you plan to make full use of the experience. Swim, try a paddle board, eat the meal, stay for the return views, and treat the catamaran itself as part of the attraction. If you only want a short ride and a few photographs, a basic harbor cruise may be better value.

Budget separately for drinks. Water is included, but cocktails, mixed drinks, and other alcohol are not. Beer and basic drinks are more manageable, while cocktails can cost 15 to 20 euros. Snorkeling equipment is another possible extra at 25 euros if you do not bring your own.

Compared with crowded boats, the added cost is reasonable for couples, families, and anyone who dislikes being squeezed onto a deck. It is also a good choice for a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon, when comfort matters more than finding the absolute lowest price.

Who should book this Palma sailing trip?

I would choose this tour if you want a balanced half-day on the water. You get scenery, swimming, food, and a little water sport without giving up basic comfort.

It suits:

• Couples looking for a romantic afternoon or sunset
• Families choosing the daytime departure
• Small groups who want room to sit together
• People who prefer a polished boat to a crowded party cruise
• Visitors who want a meal included rather than arranging lunch separately
• Anyone who enjoys swimming but does not need a full-day sailing expedition

I would think twice if you want a very active snorkeling trip. Snorkel gear is not included, and the main focus is swimming, paddle boarding, eating, and relaxing.

I would also reconsider if you want total privacy. The boat is less crowded than many alternatives, but you still share it with other people. Music, conversation, and a lively mood are part of the experience.

Wear swimwear with casual clothing over it, and bring a hat, towel, and sunscreen. High heels, shoes indoors, drones, coolers, outside food and drinks, pets, fishing gear, and party-group behavior are not allowed. The operator also prohibits intoxication, alcohol and drugs brought onboard, and bachelor or bachelorette groups.

Should you book the Oasis catamaran?

Yes, if you want a comfortable Mallorca boat day with a real swimming stop, a good meal, and fewer people than the standard party-boat format. The clean boat, friendly crew, roomy deck, and Cala Vella stop make the $97 price easier to justify.

Choose the daytime option for swimming, the BBQ, and a more family-friendly schedule. Choose sunset if you are over 18 and want tapas, evening light, the Cathedral from the water, and a more romantic mood.

Before booking, confirm the meeting point, check WhatsApp for location updates, and bring your own snorkeling equipment if that activity matters to you. With those details handled, this is a strong choice for seeing Palma from the sea without sacrificing comfort.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran tour?

The cruise lasts about four to four-and-a-half hours. Starting times depend on the option and date selected.

What is included in the daytime tour?

The daytime option includes the catamaran cruise, appetizers, a BBQ lunch, unlimited water, SUP equipment, and insurance.

What food is served on the sunset option?

The sunset sailing includes tapas and canapés. Dessert may also be served during the evening cruise.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkel masks and tubes are not included. You may bring your own or buy a snorkeling set onboard for 25 euros.

Are drinks included?

Unlimited water is included. Other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, are purchased separately from the onboard bar.

How many people are allowed on the boat?

The catamaran has capacity for 57 people, but the tour limits bookings to a maximum of 36 for greater comfort.

Can children join the sunset cruise?

No. The sunset option is for adults aged 18 and over. The daytime option is the suitable choice for families with minors.

What should I bring?

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