Palma de Mallorca: Deluxe Catamaran Sailing Tour with Meal

Mallorca looks best from the water. This Oasis catamaran cruise combines a scenic sail from Palma with a swim at Cala Vella, onboard food, and room to stretch out instead of packing people shoulder to shoulder. I especially like the small maximum group of 36 and the clean, modern boat. The main catch is the meeting point, which may not be clearly marked, and paid drinks can add to the $97 price.

The daytime trip is the better choice if you want a generous barbecue and more time for water activities. The sunset version feels more romantic, with tapas, canapés, and views back toward Palma Cathedral, but it is for adults only. Weather can change the route, and the sea may feel choppy if you are prone to motion sickness.

What makes this catamaran trip worth considering

• Only 36 people on a boat built for 57: You get noticeably more space than on many large party boats.
• Cala Vella swimming stop: The natural reserve offers clear water, cliffs, and a calm setting for swimming.
• Food cooked or served onboard: The daytime option includes a barbecue, while the sunset cruise includes tapas and canapés.
• Paddle boards included: SUP equipment is part of the fare, giving you more to do than simply sit on deck.
• Clean, well-kept facilities: The boat has two bathrooms, and several recent trips praised their cleanliness.
• Two very different moods: Choose relaxed daylight and a full barbecue, or an adult-only evening with sunset views and dinner.

A polished boat with breathing room

The Oasis is designed as a luxury catamaran, but the real luxury here is space. Its official capacity is 57, yet the operator limits the tour to 36 people. That difference matters once everyone is sitting, eating, taking photos, or waiting for a paddle board.

Some departures have had around 15 to 33 people, leaving plenty of room across the deck. You can sit in the sun, find shade, move around for a better view, or take photos without feeling trapped in a row of seats.

The boat itself receives some of the strongest praise. It is described as new, immaculate, modern, and well maintained. The two bathrooms are another practical plus, especially on a four to four-and-a-half-hour outing. Clean toilets are not the most glamorous part of a boat tour, but you will appreciate them before the return to Palma.

The crew is made up of professional boat staff, with three or four crew members depending on the departure. Their role is not just to steer. They serve food and drinks, help with the water equipment, explain what is happening, and keep an eye on the group. Captain Pawel has been singled out by name in one account, while Marshall was praised for being especially friendly on another trip.

Leaving Palma for Cala Vella

The route begins at the Port of Palma and heads toward Cala Vella, a natural reserve on the bay side of the island. The sailing time to the swimming stop can be about an hour, depending on the exact route and conditions.

This first stretch is part of the experience, not dead time. You get broad views of Mallorca from offshore, with the city gradually becoming smaller behind you. On days with enough wind, the crew may raise the sails, creating a quieter and more traditional sailing feel. At other times, the catamaran uses its motor, so do not book this expecting nonstop sailing under canvas.

The route can be adjusted for weather. That is normal for a boat trip, but it means the exact order of stops and the amount of sailing may vary. If you are choosing this activity mainly for one particular photo location, keep your plans flexible.

The meeting point deserves attention. It may change according to the option you book, and some departures have had no obvious sign at the pier. The map pin has generally been accurate. A useful approach is to arrive at the stated quay, near the stairs and parked cars, and watch for a crew member who checks people in.

Check WhatsApp before leaving your accommodation. Location updates may be sent there rather than through the booking app. This is a small detail, but it can prevent an unnecessary scramble around Palma’s waterfront.

Cala Vella: the main swimming stop

Cala Vella is the heart of the daytime experience. The catamaran stops near clear water and rocky cliffs, creating a much more memorable swim than a quick dip beside the port.

You can jump or climb into the sea, swim around the boat, and use the included paddle boards. The stop also works well for people who want to float and relax rather than take part in every activity. The water is the star here, so pack a towel and swimwear where you can reach them easily.

Paddle boards are included, but the supply is limited. One departure had three boards for the group. With a small crowd, that can work well, but you may need to wait your turn at busier times.

Snorkeling is advertised, but masks and tubes are not included for hygiene reasons. You can bring your own equipment or buy a snorkeling set onboard for €25. That makes a major difference to your packing plan. If you already own a compact mask and snorkel, bring them.

The stop is beautiful, but it is still a shared boat excursion. You are not getting a private cove or unlimited time in the water. The tour normally includes one main swimming stop, and the schedule must allow time for lunch and the return journey.

The daytime barbecue and onboard service

The daytime version includes appetizers and a barbecue prepared directly on the catamaran. Food has included chicken, hot dogs, sweet corn, salad, bread rolls, mini burgers, cheese, and dessert on some departures.

The portions appear generous rather than decorative. One account described enough food for everyone with leftovers, while others praised the fresh grilled lunch and healthy options. Vegetarian meals have also been available, and the crew has accommodated dietary restrictions, though you should tell the operator in advance rather than rely on a last-minute request.

Water is included throughout the excursion. It is served cold, and recent passengers specifically appreciated having unlimited bottled water. Other drinks are extra, including beer, wine, cocktails, mixed drinks, and nonalcoholic choices from the onboard bar.

Prices can vary, but recent accounts put beer at about €3.50 and cocktails somewhere from €10 to €20. That is not unusual for a boat bar, though it means the $97 ticket is not the final cost if you plan to order several cocktails. One useful service tip: if a complimentary drink is part of your booking, ask for it after the meal if it has not appeared. It may not be brought automatically.

The crew has also added small touches on some departures, including a welcome glass of champagne and, on one sunset outing, live saxophone music. Entertainment is not guaranteed, so treat this as a pleasant bonus rather than part of the core promise.

Why the sunset option feels different

The sunset cruise follows the same general route toward Cala Vella and includes a swimming stop. Its mood is calmer and more romantic, making it a natural choice for couples, anniversaries, and anyone who values evening light over a full lunch.

Instead of a barbecue, you receive tapas and canapés. Food has included dessert on some departures, and the portions are meant to function as dinner rather than just a small snack. Still, if you have a large appetite, the daytime barbecue may feel like the better food value.

The return to Palma is the payoff. As the light fades, you can look back toward the old town and Cathedral. The boat may pass close enough for striking views of the city from the bay, and the sunset adds a clear sense of occasion without requiring a formal dinner reservation.

The sunset option is adults only, with an age limit of 18. Do not book it for minors. Bring a light layer as well as swimwear, since the ride back can feel cool after sunset. On one evening trip, the crew handed out blankets when the temperature dropped.

Music is generally described as relaxed rather than aggressively loud. On some departures, the atmosphere has shifted into a small dance party, especially when live music was available. On others, the tone has remained quiet and easygoing. You will find a social setting, but this is not marketed as a party boat.

Is $97 a fair price?

At $97 per person, the tour costs more than a basic Mallorca boat ride. The price becomes easier to justify when you consider what is included: the luxury catamaran, a four to four-and-a-half-hour route, food, unlimited water, insurance, and SUP equipment.

The limited passenger count is the biggest value point. If you have seen large catamarans loaded with people, you know how quickly the experience changes when every seat and patch of deck is occupied. Paying extra for room can make sense, especially for a special occasion or a long afternoon on the water.

The daytime option offers the clearest value because it includes a proper barbecue and a swimming stop with paddle boards. The sunset option earns its price through the setting, dinner-style tapas, and views of Palma after dark. You still need to budget for drinks, and cocktails can be costly.

I would not choose this tour if your main goal is the cheapest way to get on the sea. I would consider it good value if you want a cleaner boat, a smaller group, a proper meal, and a more relaxed pace.

Who will enjoy the Oasis most?

This trip suits couples, families on the daytime departure, small groups of friends, and anyone who would rather have room to sit than chase a bargain price. It also works well for a birthday or anniversary, especially if you choose sunset.

You should be comfortable spending several hours on a boat and entering the sea from the catamaran. The swimming stop is a major part of the outing, not a minor extra.

The sunset version is less suitable for families with children because of the adults-only rule. People sensitive to motion may want travel-sickness tablets. The sea can become choppy, and the ride back is long enough for discomfort to build.

This is also not the right choice if you want a private charter. The group is capped, but you will still share the boat with other people. For most visitors, that shared setting adds a friendly social feel. For complete privacy, it will not.

What to bring and what to clarify

Pack a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable casual clothing. High heels are not allowed, and shoes must be removed indoors. Bring your own snorkeling mask and tube if you want to snorkel without paying €25 onboard.

The instructions contain a confusing point about sunscreen. They recommend bringing sunscreen but also list sunscreen among the items not allowed. Since sun protection is important on a boat, confirm the current rule with Oasis before departure rather than guessing.

You cannot bring your own food, drinks, cooler, or alcohol. Drones, fishing equipment, pets, and party items are also not allowed. Intoxication, drugs, and bachelor or bachelorette groups are prohibited.

Cancellation is flexible up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. The tour is offered with instruction in English, French, German, and Spanish.

My verdict: book it for space and scenery

I would book the Oasis if I wanted a polished half-day on the Mediterranean, a beautiful swim, and enough room to enjoy the boat without feeling packed in. The clean vessel, friendly crew, good food, and limited group size are the strongest reasons to choose it.

Pick the daytime departure for the barbecue, water activities, and family-friendly format. Pick sunset for tapas, softer light, and a more romantic return past Palma Cathedral.

Before booking, confirm the meeting point, check WhatsApp for updates, bring snorkeling gear if needed, and plan for paid drinks. With those details handled, this is a strong choice for anyone who sees the sea as a central part of a Mallorca visit rather than just a backdrop.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran tour?

The tour lasts about four to four-and-a-half hours. Starting times vary, so check availability for the date you want.

Where does the tour depart from?

The cruise departs from the Port of Palma. The exact meeting point can vary by booking option, so check the provided map and any WhatsApp updates.

Is food included?

Yes. The daytime option includes appetizers and a barbecue. The sunset option includes tapas and canapés.

Are drinks included?

Unlimited water is included. Other alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks from the onboard bar are not included unless specifically stated for your booking.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

No. For hygiene reasons, masks and tubes cannot be rented. You can bring your own or buy a snorkeling set onboard for €25.

Are paddle boards included?

Yes. SUP equipment is included in the tour price. The number of boards is limited, so you may need to wait for a turn.

Can children join the sunset cruise?

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

What happens if the weather changes?

The itinerary may be changed because of weather conditions. The route, sailing time, and swimming arrangements can therefore vary.