Palma de Mallorca: Deluxe Catamaran Sailing Tour with Meal

You can feel the luxury before you even leave Palma. The Oasis catamaran is sleek, clean, and built for comfort, then it pays you back with time in the water and a proper meal onboard. Cala Vella swim stop plus a relaxed sail make it an easy “do this on Mallorca” choice.

Two things I really like: the small onboard group (max 36, even though the boat holds 57) and the way the crew keeps the experience moving without rushing you. I also love the food format—BBQ lunch for day trips, and tapas/canapés for sunsets—so you’re not stuck eating at a random harbor restaurant. One consideration: the sunset tour is adults-only (+18), so it won’t work for everyone traveling with kids.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Small-group comfort: max 36 aboard for more space, photos, and less shoulder-to-shoulder time
• Cala Vella swim time: crystalline coves in a natural reserve, with paddles/boards and snorkeling options
• Onboard meal options: BBQ at midday, or tapas and canapés at sunset
• Bar onboard all trip: water included, other drinks available (cocktails cost extra)
• Snorkeling gear rule: you can’t rent masks/tubes, but you can buy a snorkeling set on the boat

Why the Oasis catamaran feels like a deluxe Mallorca day

The biggest upgrade here isn’t just the catamaran itself—it’s the comfort-control. The Oasis has a capacity for 57, but they only run up to 36 people, which changes how the whole trip feels. You get room to move around the deck, find a good spot for shade or sun, and actually enjoy the sea views instead of playing “where do I stand?” all afternoon.

The boat also comes across as truly well-kept. People consistently highlight how spotless and modern it feels, and that matters more than you’d think once you’re boarding with wet towels, sunscreen (applied carefully), and saltwater all over everything. Even the bathrooms get a shout-out for cleanliness, which is the kind of detail that quietly makes a big difference on a 4–4.5 hour outing.

Crew energy is another part of the value. You’ll hear staff being professional and attentive, and one named crew member—Marshall—gets specific praise. That’s not just “nice service” talk; it’s the practical stuff: they help you get oriented, support water activities, and keep the timing smooth so your meal and swim stops feel organized rather than chaotic.

Finally, this is a “catamaran day” that doesn’t feel like a party boat. If you want sails up when conditions allow, calm pacing, and views that don’t require elbowing for a camera angle, this is built for you.

How the Palma to Cala Vella sail works (daytime version)

The daytime tour runs about 4 to 4.5 hours, usually starting from the Port of Palma. You depart, get the Mediterranean breeze right away, and settle in for the part that people come for: the sea time.

The route is simple and effective. You sail toward Cala Vella, a natural reserve area known for small coves with crystal-clear water. This is a sweet spot because it’s not just “jump off near the harbor”—you’re getting out into the scenic swimming zone.

Then comes the swim stop. Expect time to cool off with opportunities in the water:

• Snorkeling (but see gear notes below)
• SUP equipment (stand-up paddle boards)
• Kayaking or surf-paddling options may be offered as part of the on-water activities listed for the tour

This is where the catamaran shape helps. On a stable multi-hull, you can feel safer standing, moving to gear, and getting in and out without the pitching that makes people seasick. If you’re planning to bring a little “water day” energy—float, paddle, snorkel, repeat—this format supports it.

After the first swim, you get the onboard meal. The day tour includes BBQ prepared directly on board, plus appetizers. That’s a big deal for value because it means you’re not taking a chunk of your day to find lunch somewhere else. You’re already on the water, and the meal is timed so you can eat without rushing the whole experience.

One more dip happens after lunch. You’ll have a second chance to enjoy the water with paddle boards and snorkeling before sailing back toward Palma through the bay.

The small drawbacks to plan for

Nothing is perfect. You’ll want to be mindful that the itinerary may change due to weather. Mallorca can be breezy, and while a sail tour can handle wind, sometimes they adjust the timing or details to keep it comfortable and safe.

Also, there’s a real “bring your kit” part to snorkeling because of the gear rule (next section).

Sunset version: tapas, canapés, and old-town views over dinner

The sunset excursion follows the same core idea: sail toward Cala Vella and stop for a swim. If you love the idea of swimming in daylight and then turning the trip into an evening experience, this is the best of both worlds.

The swap is the meal. Instead of the BBQ, the sunset option includes dinner with tapas and canapés served onboard. You eat while watching the Mallorca sunset—exactly the kind of simple luxury that feels more special than a sunset dinner that includes a long bus ride and a crowded dining room.

On the way back, you get scenery that land-based plans often miss. The cruise returns toward Palma while you can admire the old town and the Cathedral from the water. That angle gives you a calmer, more cinematic view than you’d get standing on the street.

Two practical points:

• The sunset tour is adults only (+18). Don’t book it if minors are in your group.
• In the evening, it can feel cooler on deck. Some crews hand out blankets for comfort on the way back (not guaranteed, but it’s a common feature in the experience people describe).

If you want a romantic outing without a rigid fine-dining schedule, this works. It’s structured enough to feel like a “real plan,” but loose enough that you’re still mostly hanging out on the sea.

The water time that makes it worth leaving the harbor

I’m going to be blunt: what makes this tour feel worth it is not the sailing itself. It’s what happens once you get to the water—swim, paddle, snorkel, jump off—then do it again.

The swim stop at Cala Vella is the heart. People describe the water as clear enough to see fish and enjoy snorkeling, which tells me the stop is more than just a quick dip. If you’re choosing between a boat tour that spends 70% time motoring and 30% time swimming, this one leans hard into the opposite.

Here’s the gear reality so you don’t get surprised:

• Snorkeling mask and tube can’t be rented for hygienic reasons.
• You can bring your own, or buy a snorkeling set on the boat for €25.
• SUP equipment is included, so you don’t need to bring anything for paddle boards.

That snorkeling policy is the one part you need to plan for. If you forgot a mask, the €25 on-board option saves the day, but it’s still an extra cost and time on the water matters most. For a smoother day, pack a mask if you have one.

Also note the clothing rules you’ll want to follow:

• Swimwear is recommended
• Bring a towel and sun hat
• You should avoid high-heeled shoes onboard

One more smart move: think about how you’ll handle wet gear. You’ll be in and out of the water, so bring a small dry bag or zip pouch if you have one. It’s not listed as required, but it’s the difference between “I’m comfortable” and “I’m scrambling for my phone.”

Finally, there’s a bar onboard open during the trip. That means you can paddle and swim, then come back to a drink without feeling like you’ve missed your chance to relax.

Food and drinks: BBQ lunch, tapas, and what costs extra

Food is a major part of the pitch here, and it lands. The daytime tour includes apetizers and a BBQ lunch; the sunset tour includes tapas and canapés. Either way, you get something that feels like a real meal, not just a snack plate.

Vegetarian food is specifically mentioned as available, which is a genuine plus. If your group has dietary needs, you’ll likely be able to eat without feeling awkward. Still, if you have allergies or strict requirements, it’s smart to mention it to the crew when you meet them so they can point you to the best options.

Drinks work like this:

• Unlimited water during the trip is included.
• There’s a bar on board open throughout the excursion.
• Other drinks (especially cocktails) cost extra. In the experience people describe, cocktails are around €18–€20 each, and general drink pricing is said to be “reasonable,” with cocktails being the noticeable splurge.

So you should plan your budget like a hybrid. If you’re mainly drinking water and maybe one soft drink or one cocktail, the cost is manageable. If you’re doing multiple cocktails each, this becomes a more expensive day.

One food-detail I like: the meal is tied to the swim timing. You’re not waiting around for lunch at the dock. You’re out enjoying the water, then you eat onboard, then you head back into the sea for more.

Some people also mention a welcome touch like a glass of champagne, which makes the first moments feel extra polished. Even if that isn’t guaranteed every single trip, the overall vibe people describe is that the crew sets a calm, friendly tone early.

Group size, comfort, and the practical stuff (what to bring)

This is one of those tours where the fine print changes your satisfaction level.

The headline comfort number is max 36 people onboard. That affects seating, how easy it is to find a place to relax, and how smoothly water activities run. People repeatedly say the boat feels not overcrowded, with plenty of space to sunbathe and move around for photos.

Now, the practical checklist you should actually follow:

• Sun hat
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen

But there’s a twist: sunscreen is listed as not allowed. The way I read that practically is: apply it before boarding or follow crew guidance once you’re onboard, because the boat rules clearly forbid having sunscreen onboard. To avoid hassles, put sunscreen on at home or at the meeting point, then bring your swimwear and towel.

Also remember:

• The tour includes insurance.
• There’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.
• The meeting point may vary based on the option booked, so confirm where to go after you reserve.

If you get seasick easily, a catamaran usually helps compared to a single-hull boat, but don’t assume you’ll be fine. Still, people describe calm, comfortable sailing with sails used when conditions allow—which suggests the crew isn’t just motoring the whole time.

Language and crew

The tour runs with instructors/crew in Spanish, English, German, and French. That matters if you want to understand snorkeling rules or timing without guessing.

Value check: is $88 a steal or just a nice boat ride?

At $88 per person for a 4–4.5 hour catamaran experience with a swim stop and a meal, the value is pretty strong—especially if you care about comfort and not being packed in.

Here’s why it feels like good value:

• You’re getting transport by sea, not just sightseeing.
• You get a proper meal: BBQ lunch (day) or tapas/canapés (sunset).
• SUP equipment is included.
• Unlimited water is included.
• The onboard limit (36) makes it closer to a “premium group experience” than a mass excursion.

The cost rises if you add cocktails, since bar drinks are extra and cocktails are priced in the high teens to low twenties. But even then, you’re paying for an experience you’d normally have to piece together—boat rental, lunch, and a beach club day—often at higher total cost.

Also, the snorkeling mask/tube rental restriction affects value slightly. If you don’t bring gear, the €25 snorkeling set onboard is still a helpful fix, but it’s another line item.

My take: if you want a relaxing Mallorca day on the water with a real meal and you value not being overcrowded, $88 feels fair. If you only want “a quick look at the coast” and don’t care about swimming, paddling, or food, a cheaper boat cruise might be enough. But for most people, this hits the right mix.

Who should book this sailing tour (and who should skip it)

Book it if:

• You want a small-group experience on the water.
• You like swimming and being active without making the day a workout.
• You want lunch/dinner onboard without hunting for a restaurant.
• You’re okay managing snorkeling gear yourself (bring your mask or plan for the €25 set).

Skip it if:

• You need family-friendly evening options, since sunset is adults-only (+18).
• You’re strongly budget-driven and plan to drink cocktails nonstop (bar drinks aren’t included).
• You’re expecting snorkeling gear rental; it’s not available by policy.

It’s also a great choice for anniversaries and couples. People describe the vibe as more relaxed and less party-like than some boats, which is exactly what you want for a romantic trip.

If your idea of a perfect day is: cool sea breeze, a swim in clear water, good food, then a scenic sail back—this matches that.

Should you book this Oasis catamaran tour?

Yes, I’d book it—if your plan includes swimming and you value comfort. The small onboard maximum, the real onboard meal, and the Cala Vella swim stop are the big reasons. Just go in with a few smart preparations: bring (or buy) snorkeling gear, apply sunscreen before boarding if you can, and decide ahead of time if you’ll have a cocktail or two so your budget stays under control.

If you’re choosing between day and sunset, pick day for the BBQ and max swim time in daylight. Pick sunset if you want the extra payoff of tapas onboard and those old-town and Cathedral views as the light turns golden.

FAQ

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes the catamaran cruise, appetizers and BBQ on the daytime option (or tapas and canapés on the sunset option), unlimited water, SUP equipment, and insurance.

Are drinks included?

Unlimited water is included. A bar is available onboard for other drinks, but drinks beyond water are not included (cocktails are extra).

Do I get snorkeling masks and tubes?

No. Snorkeling masks and tubes can’t be rented. You can bring your own or buy a snorkeling set for €25 on the boat.

What activities are available during the trip?

You can enjoy swimming at Cala Vella, and you’ll have SUP equipment available. Snorkeling is part of the experience, and the tour description also points to kayaking or surf paddling options.

How many people are on board?

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

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 4 to 4.5 hours (starting times depend on availability).

Is there an adults-only option?

Yes. The sunset option is for adults only (+18). Don’t book it for minors.

What should I bring?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

What’s not allowed onboard?

High-heeled shoes are not allowed, and sunscreen is listed as not allowed. Wearing swimwear and bringing a towel is the practical way to handle the water time.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included. You’ll need to reach the meeting point listed for your option.