A day at sea from Dénia or Jávea with Barbecue aboard the Catamaran

Planning a day on the water in Spain’s Costa Blanca? This half-day catamaran tour offers a relaxed journey along the coastline, with a delicious barbecue lunch, swimming stops, and plenty of space to soak up the sun. While the experience earns a solid 4-star rating based on reviews, it’s worth understanding what makes it stand out—and what might give some travelers pause.

One of the biggest perks? The small group size—usually capped at 30-40 people—ensures a more intimate and comfortable atmosphere. Plus, the stunning coastal scenery of coves, cliffs, and clear waters is exactly what you picture when imagining Mediterranean escapades. The included barbecue meal, with bread, salad, fruits, and a drink, adds real value, especially considering the overall price point.

That said, some guests mention that weather can make or break the trip—no shelter onboard means a sunny day is best. Others note that the crew’s attitude varies; while some found them friendly and professional, a few felt they lacked warmth or enthusiasm. Plus, the duration of about five hours might feel long for those expecting more activity or storytelling. Still, for those who love scenic sailing, swimming, and relaxed dining, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience suits travelers seeking a calm, scenic day with good food, particularly families or small groups that enjoy being out on the water. If you’re after a lively party or detailed local commentary, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your ideal day involves crystal waters, beautiful views, and a laid-back atmosphere, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery with coves, cliffs, and clear waters
• Inclusion of a barbecue lunch, with fresh bread, salad, fruits, and drinks
• Small group capacity enhances comfort and space
• Swimming stops at Cala de Portixol offer peaceful, crowd-free dips
• Weather dependency is crucial; no shelter on board
• Mixed crew attitude—some reviews mention a lack of warmth but professionalism
• Duration of around 5 hours may feel long for some
• Limited capacity on the net over the sea—advance booking advised

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: The Departure and Sails

The tour kicks off in the early morning, with the Catamaran Mundo Marino ready at the port of Benidorm or nearby. The setting is idyllic—an expert crew prepares the sails on a spacious vessel designed for comfort. The soft breeze and gentle sounds of the water create a relaxing vibe from the moment you set sail.

Guests love the big nets over the sea—a signature feature of catamarans—where you can stretch out, sit, or lie down. These nets offer unbeatable views and a feeling of floating right above the sea, perfect for sunbathing or simply watching the coastline drift by.

The Itinerary: Coastal Highlights and Stops

The boat first cruises along the cape of San Antonio, giving everyone a chance to admire the spectacular scenery. As it skirts the coast of Jávea, you’ll pass in front of the entire bay, with some reviewers noting the stunning vistas—ideal for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty.

The main stop is Cala de Portixol, a peaceful cove where the boat anchors for about an hour and a half. Here, you’re free to jump into the crystal-clear waters, which some reviews mention as being home to jellyfish, so a bit of caution is good. The calm bay offers a serene environment away from the often-crowded beaches, perfect for a relaxing swim.

The Food: Barbecue and Refreshments

The highlight for many is the included barbecue meal. The menu features bread, salad, fruit, and a drink, with some guests noting that the quality is good given the price. One reviewer mentioned that the food was delicious and appreciated the variety—especially the bread and fruit.

However, a few reviews point out inconsistencies—some guests received cold paella instead of the promised grilled food, served in containers unfit for hot dishes. Others mention that the meal service can be chaotic, with long queues for bread or salad, especially if you’re near the end of the line. Still, most find the value for money acceptable, considering the included meal and the overall experience.

Swimming and Relaxation

Guests frequently praise the ample time for swimming—with several reviews mentioning that there’s plenty of time for dips, floating, or just relaxing on the boat. The cove’s tranquility makes it a favorite part of the trip, and many appreciate the small group size, which makes the experience more personal.

Some reviewers mention that swimming with jellyfish was a surprise, so bringing appropriate gear—like wetsuits or jellyfish repellent—is advised. Others note that the boat’s safety and organization during the anchoring and swimming is generally good, though some mention that the nets over the sea are limited in capacity, so early booking is recommended.

The Return Journey and Overall Atmosphere

After a couple of hours in the bay, the boat sets sail back toward port. The scenery during this return trip continues to impress, with some guests enjoying the soundtrack of Spanish music and the calm breeze. The group size (generally capped at 105, but often much smaller) helps maintain a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere.

While some point out that the crew could be more engaging, others note that the professionalism and smooth organization make for a stress-free cruise. The small group size and laid-back vibe are often highlighted as positives, especially for families or couples seeking a peaceful escape.

Practical Details for the Traveller

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting in the morning. This makes it suitable for those who want a full but not overly long day in the sea. It’s ideal for a leisurely experience, with plenty of time at each stop.

Price and Value

At about $63.60 per person, the trip offers good value—especially considering the included lunch and the small group experience. For travelers who love scenic sailing, scenic views, and swimming, this price point is reasonable. However, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages are not included and are sold separately on board.

Group Size and Booking

The tour is limited to about 105 travelers, but reviews suggest that most trips are smaller, around 30-40 guests. The net capacity for lounging over the sea is limited, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred spot.

Accessibility and Conditions

The tour is accessible to most travelers—people with service animals are allowed, and public transportation nearby makes getting to the port straightforward. Keep in mind that weather conditions are crucial; bad weather can lead to cancellations, with a full refund offered if that happens.

Authentic Insights from Guest Reviews

One reviewer remarked, “We had a great time and the weather was great. I think if the weather had been bad it might have sucked as there is no shelter,” which perfectly underscores the importance of sunny days for this trip. A family with children noted that the smaller group and the sunbathing nets made the experience ideal for kids, who “flipped out” over the scenic views and the chance to float in the sea.

On the other hand, a more critical review pointed out that the crew’s attitude varied—some found them friendly, while others felt they could be more engaging or warm. It’s a reminder that while the scenery and food are generally well-received, the crew’s enthusiasm can influence the overall vibe.

The Sum Up

This sea and sail adventure from Dénia or Jávea is perfect for travelers who want a blend of stunning scenery, relaxing swimming opportunities, and good, uncomplicated food. The small-group atmosphere and laid-back pace make it especially appealing for families, couples, or groups seeking a serene day on the water. The included barbecue lunch adds value, and the chance to sunbathe on the nets or dive into peaceful coves makes it a memorable experience.

While some may find the length a bit long or wish for a more engaging crew, the overall consensus is positive—especially for those who prioritize beautiful views, good food, and a relaxed vibe. Just remember to check the weather forecast before booking, and be prepared for some variability depending on crew and conditions.

If you’re seeking a calm day at sea, with vistas that will stay with you, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the Costa Blanca’s coastline without the hustle of crowded beaches or noisy boats.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids enjoyed the experience, especially the swimming and floating on the nets. Just ensure children are comfortable in the water and bring appropriate gear.

What’s included in the meal?
The tour provides a barbecue menu that includes bread, salad, fruit, and a drink. Some guests noted the quality was good for the price, though there have been occasional mix-ups like cold paella.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, bringing your own drinks is not allowed. There’s a bar onboard where you can purchase alcohol and other beverages.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is around 5 hours, including sailing, swimming stops, and lunch. It’s a leisurely experience, not a fast-paced tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most trips are booked about two weeks ahead. Limited capacity on the nets and the popularity of the tour mean early booking helps secure your spot.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there any commentary or guide onboard?
This tour doesn’t include detailed narration; it’s mainly about relaxing, enjoying the scenery, and swimming. Some reviews note the crew’s attitude varies, so don’t expect a highly informative commentary.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The tour is suitable for most travelers and near public transportation. Service animals are allowed. However, the trip involves movement on a boat, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

This sea voyage combines scenic beauty with laid-back luxury—ideal for those craving a peaceful, memorable day on the Mediterranean. Whether lounging on nets, swimming in coves, or enjoying a hearty barbecue, you’re in for a relaxing treat in Spain’s Costa Blanca.