From Colònia de San Jordi : Catamaran Cruise to Es Trenc

Mallorca looks different from a catamaran deck. You sail along the southeast coast, with big views past Cap Salines, then drop anchor near Cala Marmols or Es Caragol and on toward Es Trenc. I love the friendly crew and the BBQ lunch with sangria and wine worked in with the meal. The one drawback to keep in mind: the boat can get busy, and shaded seating is not something you should count on.

This is a simple plan that works—meet at the pier by Hotel Marqués del Palmer in Colònia de Sant Jordi, enjoy two water stops, and still get back with time left in your day (or evening). If you’re vegetarian or you want to snorkel, just plan ahead since the vegetarian option needs advance booking and snorkel masks require a deposit.

Key takeaways before you go

• Coastline views past Cap Salines from the comfort of a catamaran
• Two anchor stops for swimming and snorkeling, timed into the 5 hours
• BBQ buffet on board (meats, salads, cake) plus wine and sangria during lunch
• Snorkel masks included with a €10 deposit
• Good for families and mixed groups, with crew help getting on and off the boat
• Music on board that sets a fun, relaxed vibe

Why this Colònia de Sant Jordi catamaran feels like real Mallorca

If you picture Mallorca as beaches and sea views, this cruise delivers the full package without asking you to plan a complex day. You get that signature southeast-coast look from the water—clean horizons, dramatic coastline, and the kind of turquoise water that makes you want to stop thinking and just swim.

What makes it especially satisfying is how the day is built around the water time. You’re not touring your way through ten things. You’re sailing, then you’re anchored, then you’re back out there again. And in between, you’re eating. That matters, because a boat day can turn annoying fast if you’re hungry or if the food feels like an afterthought.

I also like the way the cruise balances fun with comfort. The catamaran setup gives you space to move around, and the crew keeps things moving. Reviews consistently point to friendliness and a good atmosphere—plus Spanish music that makes the trip feel like a party without turning it into a loud mess.

One other reason it feels like value: this isn’t just a “watch from the boat” ride. You’re expected to get in the water at the stops, and you’re given the tools for it.

Timing: how the 5 hours usually play out

You’re choosing between two departures: a morning cruise from 10:00 to 15:00, or an afternoon cruise from 15:30 to 20:30. Either one keeps the experience tight and focused—long enough to matter, short enough that it doesn’t dominate your whole day.

On board, the rhythm typically goes like this:

• You cruise out with coastline views, including the Cap Salines stretch.
• You stop and anchor for swimming and snorkeling.
• Lunch happens as part of the on-board experience (not off-site), with the crew preparing a buffet while you’re on the move or stopped.
• You head to a second anchoring area for another swim/snorkel window before returning.

This structure is good for you if you hate “half-day tours” that feel like waiting in line. It’s also good if you’re with kids or older relatives, because the crew can help with getting on and off the boat when needed—one review mentions support for an elderly mother.

The only timing-related consideration is crowd energy. Some reviews note that the boat can feel busy, especially with many people aboard and limited shade. Once you’re out on the water, it’s less chaotic than the initial boarding line, but it’s still a factor.

The first water stop: Cala Marmols or Es Caragol and real snorkeling time

Your first anchor tends to be one of these areas: Cala Marmols or Es Caragol. This is where you cash in your time. The cruise isn’t just sightseeing; you’re meant to swim and snorkel off the boat.

A helpful detail from the experience: the snorkeling quality seems to vary by spot and conditions. One consistent theme is that the first stop can have more visible fish, with people spotting marine life more easily in that first window. Another review notes that snorkeling can be limited by weather—so if conditions aren’t perfect, don’t treat it as a guaranteed “see everything” underwater experience.

Still, even when snorkeling isn’t ideal, the water time is the point. You’re getting cool-off minutes, plus you can just float and swim. For many people, that alone is the highlight: turquoise water, direct access from the boat, and plenty of time to relax.

Also, this is where the catamaran vibe starts to feel real. People talk about the music and the atmosphere early on, and the crew generally keeps things friendly. If you want a chill day with fun energy, this first stop is your payoff.

A note for snorkelers

You can use complimentary snorkel masks, but there’s a €10 deposit required. That deposit detail matters because it’s one of the few places where cash comes up. Plan for it if you’re counting on mask time.

The second stop near Es Trenc: where beach longing becomes reality

After the first swim window, you’re sailing again, with more coastline in view, and then you drop anchor again toward Es Trenc (or in the general sequence that includes Es Caragol and Es Trenc). This second stop is where you get another chance to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the sea.

What you should expect here:

• Another stretch of water time directly from the boat.
• More chances to see marine life, though it may be less intense than the first stop in some conditions.
• A classic “get your bearings fast” feeling: you find your footing in the water and settle into the rhythm.

A few reviews mention the second stop having fewer fish than the first. That doesn’t mean it’s worse—it usually means snorkeling results depend on where you’re anchored and what the day decides to do with the water. The beach-and-water combo at Es Trenc is still the selling point, even if the underwater show is smaller that day.

If you’re the type who wants both photos and actual swimming time, this two-stop format is a sweet spot. You’re not stuck with just one “maybe I’ll go in” moment.

BBQ lunch and drinks: is it really worth $69?

For $69 per person, this cruise earns its price by combining three things many boat trips separate:

1. A catamaran cruise experience
2. Real time in the water (not just short dips)
3. A full on-board buffet lunch

Lunch is described as a buffet with a selection of meats such as chicken breast, skewers, and sausages, plus fresh salads and cake for dessert. People repeatedly call out that there’s a lot of food, and that it’s more than a token plate.

Then there are the drinks. You get soft drinks and mineral water during the whole trip. During the meal, there are wines from Mallorca and sangria. After that, additional drinks may have a charge, and a few reviews mention drinks being reasonably priced while alcohol beyond the included part costs extra.

If you’re thinking, So am I paying for a boat or for lunch? Here’s the honest math in plain terms: you’re paying for the entire day on the water, and lunch and basic drinks are part of the deal. That usually means fewer “surprise costs” than a pay-as-you-go outing.

The atmosphere factor

Food on a boat can feel awkward. This one doesn’t. Reviews mention a friendly crew, great music, and a lively vibe that still feels relaxed. One passenger even mentions chatting with the captain and getting a chance to drive the boat, which says a lot about the crew’s openness.

And yes, sangria tends to flow during the meal—based on what people highlight in their comments.

On-board rules you should know: masks, cards, and deposits

There are a few practical details that matter more than you’d think once you’re on the water.

Snorkel masks

Snorkel masks are provided for you, but there’s a €10 deposit. The data you were given also says this deposit is in cash, so bring that if you plan to snorkel.

Payment method

On board, only card payments are accepted. American Express is not accepted. That’s a big one if you only carry AmEx. If you’re planning to buy extra drinks, snacks, or anything else available on board, make sure your card works.

Vegetarian meals

If you want a vegetarian menu, you’ll need to contact the activity provider at least a day before by email or phone. Vegetarian food won’t be served if you don’t book it in advance. This is one of those “don’t assume” issues, and it’s worth handling early.

Where it fits: families, solo travelers, and groups

This cruise is a strong match for:

• Families: Several reviews mention it being family-friendly, including positive notes about how the crew handles younger passengers and children’s life jackets.
• Solo travelers: You’re not stuck in a couples-only vibe. People describe good atmosphere and a relaxed day even when booking solo.
• Groups of friends: The music and the laid-back energy make it easy to hang out without planning every moment.
• Older relatives: The crew’s willingness to help with getting on and off the boat is a real plus, especially when mobility is a concern.

It’s also a good “first Mallorca boat day” if you want one outing that gives you sea views, swimming, and lunch without complicated logistics.

The main “fit” caution is crowd tolerance. If you’re someone who needs lots of quiet space or you’re very sensitive to packed boats, you might find the onboard capacity a bit tight at times. Reviews include both experiences: some say it’s not crowded once you’re seated, while others mention limited space in sun/shade.

Getting to the pier: the simple starting point in Colònia de Sant Jordi

Your boarding and disembarkation happen at the pier next to Hotel Marqués del Palmer in Colonia de Sant Jordi. That’s nice because you can focus on the fun part instead of hunting for meeting points across the town.

If you’re already based in Colònia de Sant Jordi, the location is a practical win. If you’re coming from another area, plan your timing so you’re at the pier early enough to check in and settle before boarding.

One small logistics story from a review sticks in my mind: Belen helped someone figure out a way back by bus when they didn’t have a transfer. It’s not a guarantee for everyone, but it hints that the crew can be helpful beyond the exact cruise tasks.

Should you book this catamaran cruise to Es Trenc?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward Mallorca highlight that combines:

• Southeast-coast catamaran sailing
• Two swim/snorkel stops
• A proper BBQ buffet lunch
• Included soft drinks, mineral water, sangria, and wine during the meal

Skip it (or at least think twice) if:

• You hate crowds and need guaranteed space and shade.
• You’re expecting snorkeling to be excellent no matter the weather. Conditions can affect what you see.
• You’re relying on an AmEx card onboard, since American Express isn’t accepted.

If your idea of a great day is sailing, swimming, eating well on a boat, and coming back with sun on your face and no extra planning headaches, this cruise is a strong value choice for Es Trenc.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The tour lasts 5 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

You board and disembark at the pier next to Hotel Marqués del Palmer in Colonia de Sant Jordi.

What time does the cruise run?

There is a 5-hour morning cruise from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and a 5-hour afternoon cruise from 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A buffet meal is prepared on board, including meats, salads, and cake.

Are drinks included?

Soft drinks and mineral water are included during the whole trip. Wine from Mallorca and sangria are included during the meal.

Are snorkel masks included?

Yes, snorkel masks are included, but you need a €10 deposit.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes, but you must contact the activity provider at least a day before the activity. Vegetarian menu is not served if it isn’t booked in advance.

Can I use cash or AmEx on board?

Only card payments are accepted on board, and American Express is not accepted. The €10 snorkel mask deposit is required as a cash deposit.

Is pick-up and drop-off available?

The page does not give you the possibility to book pick-up and drop-off service.