S’Arenal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ

Sunsets over Palma Bay feel like a cheat code. On S’Arenal’s sunset catamaran, you sail past Cap Enderrocat and Cala Vella with onboard BBQ and drinks, then jump in for swimming and snorkeling.

I also like the relaxed vibe and the space to stretch out, with music and sailing that never rushes you. One bonus: it’s often not too full. If you want lots of extra drinks beyond what’s included, expect that to cost extra.

Key things to know before you go

• Cap Enderrocat sunset views: prime photo angles from a moving deck
• Snorkeling kit and life vests included: easy gear access without extra stops
• Swimming stop with anchoring: time to sunbathe, swim, and float around
• BBQ with pasta salad and local bread: a real meal, not just snacks
• Protected areas on the route: calmer-feeling water for a holiday pace

Why this S’Arenal sunset catamaran feels worth the time

This is one of those Mallorca evenings that works even if you’re not a die-hard “boat person.” You get sailing time, a real sunset moment, and then the fun part: water time. The boat feels like a lounge with sails, not a bumpy cattle-car cruise.

What I like most is the combo. You’re not just sitting for sunset photos—you’re also swimming and snorkeling. And you’re not stuck with dry bread and mystery salad; you’ve got a hot BBQ with pasta salad and local bread.

The pace is also friendly. It’s long enough to feel like an experience, but short enough that you still have energy for dinner back on land. One more plus: the vibe tends to stay relaxed, with music onboard and room to spread out.

Getting to Playa del Arenal and spotting LIFE & SEA

This cruise doesn’t include hotel pickup. You’ll head to Playa del Arenal and meet at the beach area near the kiosk.

Look for a sign that says LIFE & SEA as you walk down to the sand. It’s an easy meet-up point: simple, direct, and you can get there at your own pace.

Plan around beach basics too. You’ll want comfortable shoes for getting from the kiosk area onto the boat, and you’ll be changing into swimwear once you’re settled. The trip runs about 3 hours, with departure times that depend on availability.

The 3-hour flow: sailing out, water stop, BBQ, then sunset

The evening starts with sailing through Palma Bay, then heading toward Cap Enderrocat and Cala Vella. Those areas are protected environmental zones, which helps explain why the swimming spot can feel calmer and more scenic.

From there, the cruise drops anchor at a good-looking spot. This is when you switch from “watching the water” to actually using it. You’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, and try snorkeling with the equipment provided.

BBQ happens onboard while you’re enjoying the sailing atmosphere. It’s fresh and served with pasta salad and local bread, so you’re not waiting hungry in the middle of the swim part.

Then comes the sunset moment. Even though the tour is listed as three hours, the timing can flex in a good way so you’re more likely to see the sun go down properly, instead of racing the clock.

Cap Enderrocat at sunset: the photo moment you can actually enjoy

Cap Enderrocat is the kind of viewpoint that makes you stop thinking and just look. The route is set up so you can enjoy those angles from the boat as the light turns gold.

The best part is that you don’t have to scramble for shore parking or squeeze into a crowded lookout. You get the view while you’re moving, which gives you a lot of angles without extra walking.

Bring your phone and your patience for “just one more shot.” It’s also a nice moment to take a breather after swimming—dry off, grab a drink, and watch the horizon do its thing.

Cala Vella and the protected-water feel

Cala Vella is part of the cruise route, and it being a protected area matters. Protected zones often mean the water experience feels smoother and more controlled than open, windier stretches.

On your stop, you can anchor, relax on deck, and choose your level of effort. Some people want full snorkeling time. Others just want a dip and a tan with the soundtrack turned up.

If you’re with friends or family, this stop works because the boat gives you options. You can hang out above the waterline or get in with the gear.

And if you like a bit of lounging, you may appreciate that there are nets you can sit on, so it’s easy to find a comfortable spot without competing for the best seat on land.

Swimming and snorkeling: gear is handled, you just show up

This cruise makes snorkeling simple. You get snorkeling equipment plus life vests, so you’re not scrambling to rent gear or figure out fit on the fly.

That’s a big value point for the price. On many trips, snorkeling gear is extra or it’s minimal quality. Here, you’re given the basics so you can actually try it during the stop—not just admire the water.

The swimming part is also approachable. You’ll have time to go in, float around, and get back out without the pressure of an overly tight schedule.

Bring a towel so you’re not improvising with a dry bag or the last bit of fabric in your beach tote. Wear swimwear under your clothes if you can—it saves time once you’re aboard.

The BBQ and drinks: what you get, and what to watch for

The BBQ is cooked fresh onboard and served with pasta salad and local bread. That matters because it turns the trip from a “drink and snack” cruise into a proper meal you can count on.

For drinks, the included options are water, beer, or sangria. In other words, you’re not stuck with just water while you enjoy the sunset.

One practical consideration: some people find drinks beyond the listed included options can get pricey. If you like cocktails or nonstop ordering, budget for that rather than assuming everything is included.

If you’re trying to keep the evening easy on your wallet, treat the included drinks as your main plan and save your big spend for a bar back in Palma.

Music, space, and that relaxed onboard rhythm

There’s a clear “good vibes” element here. People mention fun music, a lively onboard soundtrack, and even dancing at times. It’s the kind of energy that makes the sailing part feel like part of the party, not just transportation.

I also like the way this cruise tends to avoid the packed feeling. One of the best compliments in the reviews points to the boat being less crowded than some other Mallorca day trips. That matters for comfort, and it makes it easier to enjoy your own space during the swim stop.

Deck space is part of the experience. Nets let you sit and relax, and the boat layout gives you options for sun or shade depending on the moment.

If I had one caution, it’s this: a couple of comments mention the music could be louder on the way back. That’s not usually a deal-breaker, but if you want a soundtrack that’s loud enough to drown out conversation, you might be a bit underwhelmed.

Price and value: $88 for 3 hours with food and water time

At $88 per person for about 3 hours, the value comes from stacking the right things together:

• You get a catamaran sailing experience, not just a small boat.
• You get a swim stop and snorkeling gear included.
• You get a BBQ meal and included drinks.

Many Mallorca boat tours charge extra for snorkeling equipment or treat food as an afterthought. Here, the meal is included and the water time isn’t “quick, here’s your 10 minutes.”

The biggest value trade-off is that there’s no hotel pickup. If you’re staying far from Playa del Arenal, you’ll need to budget time (and possibly transit cost) to get there. Still, the $88 price makes sense if you’re already close or comfortable getting yourself to the meeting point.

So I’d call it a solid pick if you want a sunset evening with water time and a real onboard meal.

Who should book this cruise (and who might not)

This cruise is a great fit for:

• Couples who want sunset views without the stress of planning two stops
• Friends who want music, swimming, and a shared meal
• People who want snorkeling without booking separate gear rental
• Anyone who prefers a relaxed pace over a strict sightseeing schedule

It’s less ideal if:

• You need wheelchair accessibility. The activity is listed as not suitable for wheelchair users.
• You’re looking for long guided history tours. This is about sailing, sunset, and water fun, not museum-style explanations.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to think about swim comfort and supervision, since snorkeling and swimming are a big part of the experience. But for the right family setup, it can be a memorable evening.

Should you book S’Arenal Sunset Catamaran with BBQ?

If you want a straightforward Mallorca evening with a sunset payoff, this is an easy yes. The combination of onboard BBQ, included snorkeling gear, and actual time to swim makes the tour feel complete.

I’d book it if you:

• are staying near Playa del Arenal (or can easily get there)
• want a less crowded vibe
• plan to spend time in the water, not just on deck

I’d think twice if you:

• can’t do stairs or may struggle with boat access
• expect all drinks to be unlimited at no extra cost
• dislike music or prefer ultra-quiet settings

If that sounds like you, you’ll probably love it. If not, it’s still a beautiful evening to watch from the waterline—just choose with your own comfort and budget in mind.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?

The cruise lasts about 3 hours. You can check available starting times when you book.

Where do I meet for the tour?

Meet at Playa del Arenal. You’ll see a sign with LIFE & SEA on it as you travel down to the beach where the kiosk is.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What’s included for swimming and snorkeling?

You get snorkeling equipment and life vests, plus a stop for swimming where you can sunbathe or go in the water.

What do you eat and drink on board?

A BBQ is included, with pasta salad and local bread. Drinks included are water, beer, or sangria.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.

Is alcohol allowed on the cruise?

Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Is it suitable for wheelchair users?

No. The experience is listed as not suitable for wheelchair users.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.