From Denia or Javea: 3 Cape Boat Excursion with Snorkeling

Exploring the coast of the Valencian Community by boat offers a fantastic way to see some of its most iconic landmarks — the capes of San Antonio, San Martín, and La Nao — all from a close and personal perspective. This 3 Cape Boat Excursion is perfect for travelers looking for a laid-back day on the water, combining scenic views with opportunities to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances simplicity with authenticity. The boat cruise isn’t about over-the-top luxury but about genuine, scenic enjoyment of the coastline, with a friendly and accessible atmosphere. That said, some travelers might find the boat itself a bit outdated, and the limited commentary during the trip a minor drawback for those hoping for more educational insights.

This excursion suits families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxed way to explore the coast and enjoy some swimming time. Just keep in mind that it’s not suited for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as getting on and off the boat and moving around might be challenging.

Key Points

• Stunning coastline views of San Antonio, San Martín, and La Nao capes are the main highlight.
• Swim and snorkel in the clear waters at one of the three stops, offering a glimpse into the underwater world.
• Relaxed, spacious boat with bar service, ideal for unwinding and socializing during the cruise.
• Flexible departure points from Denia or Javea let you choose what suits your plans best.
• Duration varies from 1.5 to 4 hours; check availability for specific start times.
• Basic amenities included, but no food or drinks are provided, so bring your own if desired.
• Reviews highlight the great views but also point out some boat age issues and limited commentary.
• Accessible info: not suitable for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users.

An In-Depth Look at the 3 Cape Boat Excursion

How the Itinerary Unfolds

Starting from either Denia or Javea, you’ll step aboard a boat that promises a relaxed and scenic outing. The trip from Denia typically lasts up to 4 hours, while from Javea, it’s around 2.5 hours — a good choice depending on how much time you want on the water. The boat departs from the port, with the route passing along some of the most striking landmarks of the coast.

First, you’ll cruise past Cabo de San Antonio, known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged charm. The boat then continues toward Cabo de San Martín, where the views often take your breath away, especially when the sun hits the cliffs just right. Finally, the journey reaches Cabo de La Nao, a favorite for its lighthouse and picturesque landscape.

Highlight: The Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling

After cruising along the coast, the boat anchors for about an hour at one of the three capes or nearby spots. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to swim in the clear waters, with optional snorkeling gear available. This part of the trip is an authentic highlight — many reviewers say the water quality is excellent, making it a fun and refreshing break.

One reviewer, Ina, noted, “There was plenty of room on board,” but also mentioned that “there was little explanation of what you were seeing,” which points to the fact that this is more about the scenery and less about guided commentary. If you’re hoping for detailed historical or geological insights, you might find the trip somewhat basic in that regard.

The Boat and Its Comfort Level

The boat itself is described as spacious, which is great for comfort, especially on a sunny day. However, a reviewer in September 2024 described it as “very obsolete,” and mentioned the unpleasant smell of gasoline, which could detract from the overall experience. This suggests that the vessel’s age and maintenance might be a consideration for some travelers.

On board, you’ll find a bar service, allowing you to purchase drinks during the cruise — a small but welcome perk that helps make the experience more leisurely. Keep in mind, though, that food and drinks are not included in the price, so bringing your own snacks might be a good idea if you want to stay energized.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at just $21 per person, this excursion offers solid value considering the scenic beauty and swimming opportunities. The cost includes the departure from your chosen port, the boat cruise, the stop for swimming, and the availability of snorkeling gear.

Since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, you’ll need to get to the port yourself, which is straightforward in Denia or Javea. The activity is suitable for all ages, provided participants are comfortable on a boat and can handle a bit of walking and climbing.

What Travelers Should Know

• Timing: Check the specific start times when booking, as they vary.
• Duration: From 1.5 hours (from Javea) up to 4 hours (from Denia), so plan accordingly.
• What to bring: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and snorkel gear are recommended.
• Language: Guides or crew members may speak Spanish and English, but expect limited commentary.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

Real Traveler Insights

The reviews paint a mostly honest picture. One traveler pointed out that “there was plenty of room on board,” making it comfortable for groups. Yet, they also noted that the boat felt a bit outdated with “old cups from the previous trip,” and that explanations during the trip were minimal — mostly in Spanish, despite the booking claiming bilingual commentary.

Another reviewer was less satisfied, highlighting “the smell of gasoline” and the boat’s outdated condition. They also mentioned not seeing some of the sights promised, such as the “3 cables,” which could refer to specific landmarks or features that weren’t visible.

These insights suggest that while the views are spectacular, the overall experience can vary based on boat condition and the crew’s effort in providing commentary. It’s worth considering whether you prefer a more guided experience or are happy to simply enjoy the scenery silently.

The Sum Up

This boat trip provides a straightforward yet scenic way to explore the coastline near Denia and Javea, especially if you’re after stunning views of the capes and a refreshing swim in clear waters. It’s an excellent choice for travelers on a budget who want a relaxed day out, with the bonus of snorkeling at a reasonable price point.

While some may find the boat’s age and limited narration a bit underwhelming, the beauty of the coast more than makes up for it. The excursion’s flexibility — departing from either port — allows you to customize your day, and the opportunity to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s rugged coastline is priceless.

This experience is best suited for those who value genuine scenery and a laid-back atmosphere, rather than luxury or detailed commentary. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a simple, affordable way to see some of Spain’s most picturesque coastal landmarks.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families with kids who are comfortable on a boat and enjoy swimming. Just keep in mind that younger children might need supervision in and out of the water.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, giving you the chance to explore the underwater world during your stop.

Can I book from either Denia or Javea?
Absolutely, you can choose to depart from either port, depending on your location and schedule.

How long does the cruise last?
From Denia, it can be up to 4 hours, including the stop for swimming. From Javea, the cruise is approximately 2.5 hours.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There is a bar on board where you can purchase beverages.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, as getting on and off the boat might be difficult.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you want to snorkel.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can reschedule or get a full refund if the weather isn’t cooperating.

In all, this coastal cruise offers a simple yet picturesque experience that highlights some of Spain’s most charming capes. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a budget-friendly, scenic outing with swimming and snorkeling in beautiful waters. Just be prepared for a boat that might show its age and limited commentary — but the views and relaxed vibe more than compensate.