Malaga: Sailing Catamaran with Swimming and Paella Lunch

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to enjoy Malaga’s coastline, a catamaran sailing trip might just be your perfect escape. This 3-hour journey combines the thrill of sailing with the chance to cool off with swims in clear waters, topped off with a hearty pork paella and refreshing drinks. It’s a popular choice for visitors wanting a blend of scenic views, good food, and some downtime away from busy beaches.

One thing we really like about this experience is the opportunity to go off the beaten track — away from the crowds, you’ll find spots where the water is calm and the scenery is pristine. Plus, the well-organized crew ensures everyone feels comfortable and well-cared for. But it’s worth noting that the stop for swimming can sometimes be affected by the weather or other vessels, which might impact the overall water time.

This tour suits travelers who want a laid-back, scenic outing with a focus on comfort, good eats, and scenic views. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it a delightful way to spend part of their day in Malaga, especially if you’re interested in enjoying the water and sampling authentic Spanish cuisine aboard a spacious vessel.

Key Points

• Relaxing sailing experience with open sea swimming and snorkeling options.
• All-inclusive meal featuring pork paella, salads, bread, and fruits.
• Complimentary drink (water, soft drink, or sangria) included.
• Off the beaten track waters and scenic coastline views.
• Family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and suitable for most travelers.
• Flexible cancellation policy with the option to book now and pay later.

What to Expect on the Malaga Catamaran Trip

Imagine stepping onto a spacious, stable catamaran named Shooting Star, docked at the marina, ready for your 3-hour escape. The crew, fluent in Spanish and English, greets you warmly — a detail often appreciated in reviews, where guests mention the “friendly and attentive” staff. As you settle in, you’ll notice the large deck space perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun or seeking shade if you prefer to stay cool.

The Sailing and Scenic Views

The trip begins with a gentle set sail along Malaga’s coast. Expect to admire the stunning Mediterranean landscape, with panoramic views of the shoreline, rocky coves, and the city backdrop. Many reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the calm and peaceful atmosphere, with some noting that the boat’s size and stability made the experience comfortable even for those prone to seasickness.

Swimming and Snorkeling Stops

One of the main highlights is the chance to swim and snorkel in the open sea. The boat stops multiple times, giving guests ample opportunity to cool off in the blue, tranquil waters. Several reviews praise the well-organized stops, though a few mention that the swimming duration could be longer — some guests felt a bit rushed, especially if the weather wasn’t perfect.

Guests often comment on how relaxing it is to lie on the mesh netting (which is available at an extra cost), providing an unobstructed view of the water below while you soak up the sun. The reviews suggest that the staff are very attentive during water stops, helping with snorkeling gear and making sure everyone feels safe.

The Food: Authentic Paella and More

A major draw for many travelers is the delicious pork paella, served with fresh salads, bread, and fruits. The portion sizes are generous, and reviewers note that the food on board is well-prepared and flavorful. One reviewer mentioned that the lunch was “decent” with good portions, and many appreciated the refreshing side salads and fruits that complemented the meal.

The included drink is another nice touch — guests can choose a soft drink, water, or sangria. The sangria is often praised as being surprisingly good, making the sailing experience even more enjoyable.

The Return and Overall Vibe

After the swim, the boat heads back to port, offering more scenic views and a chance to relax under the sun or in the shaded areas. Many reviewers say that the staff are friendly and helpful, making the trip feel well-organized and relaxed. A few guests mention that music could be a bit louder, which would add a party vibe, but overall, most found the atmosphere just right for a chill day.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Accessibility

At around $51 per person, this tour offers quite good value considering the all-inclusive meal and drinks. Compared to other water-based activities in Malaga, it strikes a nice balance of price and quality. The 3-hour duration makes it ideal for fitting into a day without it taking up your entire schedule.

The activity is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful feature, though it’s worth confirming the details if mobility is a concern. The meeting point is straightforward — at the Catamaran Shooting Star, near the Mundomarino ticket booth — making it easy to find without fuss.

Since the tour is operated by MUNDO MARINO, you’ll be in the hands of a provider known for well-organized trips. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Authentic Insights from Guests

The reviews reveal some useful tidbits. For example, one guest noted that sitting on the nets — although at an extra cost — is highly recommended for the ultimate relaxing experience, as it lets you lie flat with a perfect view of the water. Several reviewers highlighted the friendly staff and the cleanliness of the vessel, which contributes to a comfortable experience.

A few guests mentioned some minor downsides: one noted that the swimming stop was affected by a “poop-strong lett” (probably a typo for “leak” or “let in” a cause), which impacted their water time. Others suggested that more music might have lifted the atmosphere, hinting at a desire for a bit more lively energy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxing, scenic escape from the busy beaches. It’s perfect if you enjoy water activities and authentic Spanish cuisine in a calm, friendly setting. Families and couples will appreciate the casual vibe and the opportunity to enjoy quality time together. If you’re interested in sampling traditional paella and exploring Malaga’s coastline from the water, this experience checks all the boxes.

However, if you’re a party seeker craving a lively, music-filled cruise, this may feel a bit subdued. It’s also worth noting that water stops can sometimes be shorter than expected, so if swimming and snorkeling are your main goals, plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Malaga Sailing Catamaran with Swimming and Paella Lunch offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience for travelers looking to combine scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and some leisure time on the water. The friendly crew, delicious food, and easygoing atmosphere make it a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Mediterranean coastal life without fuss.

While it might not satisfy those craving a high-energy party cruise, it excels at providing a relaxed, scenic, and tasty escape. With good value for its price and flexible cancellation terms, it’s a hassle-free way to add a unique highlight to your Malaga visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the trip is family-friendly, and many reviews mention children enjoying the time on the water and the food.

How long is the sailing trip?
It’s approximately 3 hours long, with starting times depending on availability. Check ahead to confirm the schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the pork paella meal, a salad, bread, fruits, and one drink (water, soft drink, or sangria).

Is there a bathroom onboard?
While the provided info doesn’t specify, most large sailing vessels like this typically have basic facilities. Confirm with the operator if needed.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed onboard.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to inform the operator in advance for specific needs.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for sun and water. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.

Are there snorkeling gear available?
The info doesn’t specify, but given the mention of snorkeling stops, gear might be available or advisable to bring.

Can I sit on the nets?
Yes, sitting on the nets is an option at an extra cost and is highly recommended for maximum relaxation.

What happens if it rains?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if the weather affects the trip.