Palma: Cueva Verde and Cala Vella Catamaran Cruise with BBQ

The best part of this Palma catamaran cruise is the combination of two well-timed swim stops and a roomy boat that carries up to 87 people but admits no more than 55. You can swim in Cueva Verde, paddle around Cala Vella, eat on board, and return toward Palma with the coastline and possibly the sunset in view.

I like the generous time at sea and the polished catamaran. I also like the crew’s attentive service, the included food, and the fact that the boat does not aim to pack every seat. The main consideration is the drinks bill: water is included, but cocktails and alcoholic drinks cost extra, with cocktails drawing the sharpest price complaints.

Key points to know before booking

• Two water stops: Swim at Cueva Verde, then use the paddleboards at Cala Vella marine nature reserve.
• Comfort-first capacity: The catamaran can hold 87 people, but the operator limits departures to 55.
• Food is included: Expect snacks or appetizers, a barbecue-style meal, and homemade dessert.
• Drinks cost extra: Water is provided, while beer, cava, cocktails, and mixed drinks are sold at the bar.
• Sunset can be a highlight: Afternoon departures may bring a sunset return past Palma Cathedral.
• Bring the basics: Pack swimwear, a towel, and a sun hat. Shoes are not worn inside.

Leaving Palma for a half-day on the water

You meet the boat at the Port of Palma, looking for OASIS CATAMARAN. Hotel transfers are not included, so you need to make your own way to the port and allow enough time to find the correct boarding point.

The cruise lasts about 5.5 hours. That is long enough to feel like a proper day at sea, but not so long that the outing takes over your entire Mallorca visit. You get a mix of sailing, swimming, food, music, and time to sit back rather than a rushed string of short photo stops.

The catamaran is one of the strongest reasons to choose this trip. It is described as modern, stylish, clean, and spacious, with enough room to sit in different parts of the boat. The reduced passenger limit matters here. Even when the boat carries around 50 to 55 people, the open layout generally gives you room to move and find a comfortable place.

Do not expect every premium feature to belong to you alone. One June account noted that there were only two sunbeds, so you would need to board early if that particular spot matters. The forward nets are also off limits while the boat is moving, although the rear section remains available for sitting. These details are small, but they help set realistic expectations.

Cueva Verde: your first swim in Palma Bay

The first stop is Cueva Verde, a cove known for its clear, turquoise water and sheltered feel. The plan gives you free time to swim, so this is the moment to get into the sea rather than simply photograph it from the rail.

You can treat the stop as a relaxed first dip. Some people may want to swim close to the boat, while others can use the time to look beneath the surface or enjoy the cove from a paddleboard if equipment is available at that point. The water is described as warm during the summer departures, and several accounts noted swimming with fish.

An aperitif is served before the cruise continues. This helps break up the outing nicely: you are not expected to sprint from the boat into the water and straight back again. You get a swim, a little refreshment, then time to dry off and settle into the next stretch of coast.

The exact swimming conditions depend on the day. The route may change with the weather and sea, so Cueva Verde should be viewed as the planned destination rather than an absolute guarantee of identical conditions. Wind, swell, and water safety come first.

If you bring children or anyone who is not a confident swimmer, pay attention to the available safety equipment. Life jackets are provided, but extra floatation toys are not promised. A July account also noted jellyfish at the second stop, with the crew helping affected swimmers. That is a useful reminder to stay alert in open water and follow the crew’s instructions.

Cala Vella nature reserve and the second water stop

The cruise continues to Cala Vella, a marine nature reserve with clear water and a more active feel. This is where the paddleboards come into their own. You can paddle across the surface, look down into the water, or simply swim and relax beside the catamaran.

The two stops give the day a good rhythm. Cueva Verde works as the initial swim break, while Cala Vella offers a second chance to get wet after lunch preparations have begun and the boat has moved farther along the coast. You are not limited to one quick dip.

Snorkeling is part of the appeal, but check the exact equipment arrangements before you count on a free mask and snorkel. Paddleboards are included, while the information for snorkeling equipment is less clear. One account says snorkels were available to buy, so bringing your own gear may be sensible if underwater viewing is important to you.

The water is the star at Cala Vella, but the reserve is not a guided marine biology outing. The English and Spanish-speaking crew explain the day and manage the boat, yet you should expect free time rather than a formal nature lecture. That suits you if you want an easygoing swim stop. It may feel light on interpretation if you want detailed information about the reserve.

Allow yourself time to dry off before returning to the main seating areas. Shoes are not worn indoors, and the boat has a shower, a welcome feature after swimming. A towel, sun hat, and swimwear are specifically recommended.

A barbecue-style lunch, snacks, and dessert

Food is included in the $109 price, which makes a meaningful difference to the total cost of the outing. You receive appetizers or snacks, a freshly prepared main meal described as a barbecue, and dessert. Water is also included.

The exact food can vary, but the available descriptions include hot dogs, chicken, corn, salad, quiche, cheese, crackers, melon, and homemade dessert. Several meals were described as plentiful and freshly prepared. One particularly useful point is that the first snack service was considered better than the later barbecue by one person, while another felt the meal was mainly hot dogs and chicken.

So keep your expectations sensible. This is boat catering, not a restaurant lunch in Palma. If you enjoy a generous, casual meal after swimming, you will likely find it satisfying. If the word barbecue makes you picture grilled steaks and a full outdoor spread, the reality may feel more basic.

There is also a small inconsistency in how the meal is presented. One account specifically said it did not feel like a true barbecue and that the advertised appetizers were closer to meat, cheese, and crackers. The practical takeaway is simple: expect a substantial mixed meal with barbecue-style items, not a guaranteed gourmet grill menu.

Dietary needs can be handled if you tell the operator ahead of time. A vegan meal was prepared for one person who provided advance notice. Do not assume every special diet can be handled without warning, so send the request before the sailing.

The meal service is spaced through the trip rather than dropped all at once. That helps the 5.5 hours pass naturally. You can swim, sit, eat, listen to music, and watch the coast without feeling as if the schedule is only about getting from one meal to the next.

The bar, music, and the mood on board

The boat has a bar selling cocktails, mixed drinks, beer, cava, wine, and other beverages. Prices are not included in the ticket, and the cost is the clearest weak point in an otherwise well-liked outing.

Beer and cava were described by some as reasonable, while cocktails were repeatedly called expensive. One account put cocktails at around €20, and another found the prices high even when the drinks themselves were good. You can keep spending under control by sticking to the included water or buying only one drink.

Music is an important part of the atmosphere. It is described as well chosen and a major part of the relaxed, holiday feel. The tone is social and upbeat, but the rules make clear that this is not designed as a private party boat. Speakers, party groups, and bachelor or bachelorette groups are not allowed.

That policy helps explain the mix of people on board. The outing can suit couples, families, and groups of different ages. One account included a 14-year-old who enjoyed jumping and swimming from the boat, while another appreciated that the trip did not feel like a crowded children’s excursion. You should expect a shared cruise with music, not a silent sailing or an adults-only charter.

Intoxication is not allowed, and alcohol and drugs are prohibited beyond what is responsibly purchased and consumed on board. High heels, food and drinks brought from outside, sprays, aerosols, fishing gear, and pets are also not allowed. Shoes are removed indoors, so wear something easy to take off.

The return to Palma and the sunset payoff

The ride back is more than a transfer to the port. You cruise along the Palma coastline and, on suitable afternoon departures, may catch the sunset from the water. The return has been especially well timed for views of Palma Cathedral and the harbor.

This is where the trip feels most complete. You have already had the active part of the day at the coves, eaten, and settled into a slower pace. Now you can sit with a drink from the bar, listen to music, and watch the city come back into view.

Sunset is not guaranteed. It depends on the departure time, season, weather, and route. Still, if you can choose an afternoon sailing, the light on the return can add real value to the ticket, particularly if this is your first visit to Palma.

The crew may return under sail when conditions allow, adding a quieter finish to the trip. Do not count on a fixed sailing route, since sea and weather conditions can alter the plan. The sensible approach is to regard the sunset and cathedral views as likely highlights, not fixed promises.

Is $109 a fair price?

At $109 per person, this is not Palma’s cheapest boat outing. You are paying for a half-day on a modern catamaran, food, water, paddleboards, crew service, and two swim stops. Hotel pickup is not included, and drinks add to the final bill.

I think the price is reasonable if you value space and comfort. A cheaper boat may offer a similar view of Palma Bay, but the reduced passenger count is a real part of this experience. You are less likely to spend the day shoulder to shoulder or fighting for every patch of seating.

The food also improves the value, even if it is not consistently gourmet. Buying lunch, drinks, and a separate water activity could narrow the price gap with this cruise. The included paddleboards are useful because you do not need to arrange a second activity at Cala Vella.

The value drops if you mainly want a quiet sail and do not plan to swim or eat on board. It also drops if you expect premium cocktails to be part of the package. Set aside extra money for the bar, or decide in advance that your ticket includes enough without alcoholic drinks.

The overall rating is 4.7 from 1,344 reviews, and the most consistent praise centers on the boat, crew, food quantity, swim stops, and uncluttered feel. The repeated drawbacks are drink prices, limited premium sunbeds, unclear snorkeling equipment, and occasional complaints about the barbecue. That is a healthy pattern: the important parts of the day work well, while the weaker points are easy to plan around.

Who should book this catamaran cruise?

I would choose this trip if you want an easy way to combine Palma sightseeing with a proper swim day. It suits couples looking for a romantic afternoon, families with older children, and friends who want music and a social setting without a full party cruise.

It is also a good match if you dislike tightly packed boats. The limit of 55 people on a vessel built for 87 gives the outing breathing room, though you should not assume that everyone gets a sunbed or that every part of the deck remains open while sailing.

You should consider another activity if your priority is serious snorkeling, detailed nature guiding, or a private boat. The snorkeling gear is not clearly included, and the crew’s role is mainly to run a safe, enjoyable cruise rather than lead a specialist marine tour.

This is not ideal for anyone who wants to bring their own picnic, travel with a pet, wear shoes indoors, or organize a bachelor or bachelorette party. The operator also reserves the right to alter the route when sea conditions require it.

Cancellation is flexible up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. The activity is offered in English and Spanish, so you should check the departure time and language details when choosing your date.

Should you book it?

Book it if you want Palma’s coast in one tidy half-day package: two swim stops, paddleboards, a modern catamaran, included food, music, and the possibility of a sunset return. The space on board and the helpful crew are the strongest reasons to choose it over a more crowded boat.

Go in expecting a barbecue-style meal rather than a high-end grill, and budget carefully for drinks, especially cocktails. Bring your own snorkeling gear if that activity matters, arrive prepared with a towel and sun protection, and choose an afternoon departure if cathedral and sunset views appeal to you.

FAQ

Where does the Palma catamaran cruise depart?

The meeting point is at the Port of Palma. Look for the boat named OASIS CATAMARAN.

How long does the cruise last?

The cruise lasts 5.5 hours. Departure times vary, so you need to check availability for your chosen date.

What locations does the cruise visit?

The planned stops are Cueva Verde cove and Cala Vella marine nature reserve. The route can change because of weather and sea conditions.

Is swimming included?

Yes. The itinerary includes free time to swim at Cueva Verde and another water stop at Cala Vella.

Are paddleboards included?

Yes. Paddleboards are provided for use during the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

The information confirms snorkeling as an activity, but it does not clearly state that snorkeling gear is included. One activity account says snorkels were available to purchase, so check the arrangements or bring your own equipment.

Is food included in the ticket?

Yes. Food includes appetizers or snacks, a barbecue-style meal, and dessert. Water is also included.

Are drinks included?

Water is included, but other drinks are not. You can purchase cocktails, mixed drinks, beer, cava, and other beverages at the onboard bar.

Should I bring a towel and sun hat?

Yes. Swimwear, a towel, and a sun hat are specifically listed as items to bring.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, subject to the booking conditions.