Benalmádena: Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure along Spain’s Costa del Sol, a catamaran cruise from Benalmádena might just be your perfect choice. This 2-hour trip offers a blend of stunning coastline views, the chance to spot dolphins and whales, and an opportunity to cool off with a swim in the Mediterranean. With a luxury 44-foot catamaran, complimentary drinks, and a small group experience, it promises an intimate and enjoyable outing.

What we particularly love about this cruise is its combination of comfort and authenticity—you’re out on the water in a beautiful vessel, with ample space to stretch out and enjoy the sun, while the friendly crew makes sure you’re taken care of. A potential consideration is that dolphin or whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, but even without marine life, many reviews highlight how enjoyable the ride and scenery are. This trip suits travelers who enjoy relaxed outings, wildlife spotting, and a touch of adventure—all at a very reasonable price.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 12 guests, the atmosphere is relaxed and personalized.
• Valuable Inclusions: Complimentary drinks, a swim stop, and engaging commentary from crew members add value.
• Exceptional Views and Wildlife: Expect beautiful coastline scenery, and the possibility of dolphin and whale sightings.
• Flexible and Practical: Two hours of sailing makes it a perfect half-day activity, especially for families, couples, or groups.
• Customer Satisfaction: An impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 520 reviews highlights consistent quality.
• Opportunity for Fun: Swimming and paddleboarding add an active element to the cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect During the Cruise

The experience begins at the port of Benalmádena, where you’ll meet at the berth of Borrasca, next to the parasailing boats near the ferry departure point. Once aboard the luxurious 44-foot catamaran, you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew, including guides like Maria and Jason, who are praised for their attentiveness and local knowledge. You’ll receive a complimentary drink—a nice touch that starts the trip on a relaxed note—and settle into the spacious deck that comfortably fits up to 12 guests.

The boat itself is described as immaculate and comfortable, with enough space to lounge, sunbathe, or sit at the front to enjoy panoramic views. This small-size vessel is ideal for those who dislike crowded boat trips, ensuring you don’t feel lost in a crowd. As the trip departs into the crystal waters of the Mediterranean, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Benalmádena’s coastline and the neighboring Torremolinos area. Expect a leisurely hour of sailing, with the captain and crew sharing stories and insights about the local marine life and area history.

Wildlife Spotting and Marine Life

While dolphin and whale sightings are not guaranteed, many past travelers have been lucky. Numerous reviews mention spectacular encounters, with dolphins swimming close to the boat, even racing alongside it. The crew is said to be highly knowledgeable and engaging, sharing stories about their own experiences and pointing out any marine activity. Sunfish and other sea creatures are also possibilities, adding an element of surprise to the trip.

Swimming and Water Activities

After about an hour of sailing, the crew will identify a suitable spot for passengers to jump into the sea for a swim. You’ll have roughly 10 minutes to cool off in the clean, inviting waters—an invigorating break that many reviewers find unforgettable. Paddleboarding is also available, allowing a fun, active way to explore the surroundings while watching dolphins if you’re lucky.

Final Return and Scenery

The trip wraps up with a scenic 20-minute sail back towards Benalmádena’s marina. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking the coastline views are from the water, especially as the sun sets or during the morning hours. The cruise concludes at the same spot you boarded, with many travelers noting how this experience enriched their holiday memories.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point:
C. La Fragata, 4 – easy to find, close to local attractions and the ferry terminal.

Sailing Duration:
About 1 hour, covering scenic coastlines with plenty of space to relax and take photos.

Dolphin Watching:
Approximately 30 minutes of focused water activity, where sightings are frequent but not guaranteed. Many reviewers mention seeing pods of dolphins, with some even describing the moment as “magical.” The crew, often led by knowledgeable guides like Emily and Jason, keeps guests informed and excited about what’s in the water.

Swimming Stop:
Roughly 10 minutes for a quick dip, which most guests agree is refreshing and fun. The boat has a ladder to ease in and out of the water, and life jackets are provided.

Additional Sailing:
Post-swim, a 20-minute sail takes you back toward the marina, offering more stunning views and a chance to relax in the sun.

End Point:
C. La Fragata, 4 – close to local cafes, shops, and the ferry terminal for onward adventures.

Included and Not Included

This experience includes:
– A luxury cruise on a well-maintained, spacious boat
– Licensed crew known for their friendliness and local expertise
– Complimentary drinks served throughout
– A swim stop in the sea

Food and hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly. You might want to bring some snacks or water bottles, especially if you’re prone to hunger or thirst during the trip.

Real Insights from Passenger Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, often mentioning guides like Emily and Jason by name. They describe the crew as “friendly,” “attentive,” and “informative,” which elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable adventure. The small group size is highlighted as a major plus, allowing for more personal interactions and better chances of wildlife sightings.

Many travelers had their expectations exceeded, noting that dolphin sightings were “absolutely breathtaking” and “a highlight of the trip.” One reviewer shared, “the dolphins loved to swim in front of the boat,” which suggests the crew’s skill in positioning and patience.

The value for money is often mentioned, with many saying that the experience feels “more expensive than it is” given the high-quality boat, drinks, and personalized service. The swimming stop is described as “refreshing” and “perfect for cooling off in the warm weather,” adding an active component to the trip.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Trip

• Timing Matters: Morning trips tend to have calmer seas and better chances for wildlife sightings, but sunset cruises can offer stunning scenery.
• Bring Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, as you’ll be exposed for the entire duration.
• Arrive Early: Meeting at C. La Fragata, 4, means arriving a little before the scheduled start to settle in comfortably.
• Dress Lightly: Swimwear and light clothing are best, especially if you plan to swim or paddleboard.
• Bring a Camera: The coastline, dolphins, and sea life are all photogenic moments.
• Consider Your Tolerance: The boat is stable, but if you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits those looking for a relaxed yet engaging activity—families, couples, or small groups wanting a personal touch. If you love wildlife and scenic water views but dislike overly crowded tours, you’ll appreciate the smaller size and attentive crew. It’s also great for anyone wanting a refreshing sea swim and the chance to spot marine life in a beautiful setting.

However, if you’re strictly aiming for guaranteed dolphin sightings or prefer longer excursions, you might want to explore other options. Also, since it’s not wheelchair accessible, it’s best for able-bodied travelers.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You need to meet at the port location, which is easy to find near the ferry departure point.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with about 1 hour of sailing, a swim stop, and time for sightseeing back.

Are drinks really free?
Yes, the cruise provides complimentary drinks, including a couple of beverages per person—perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Food is not included or permitted on board, so plan to bring snacks or water separately if desired.

What if I don’t see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, but many guests have been lucky. The crew’s experience and patience increase your chances, but nature can be unpredictable.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families with older kids. The trip is a fun mix of wildlife, relaxation, and water activities, but it’s not designed for very young or wheelchair users.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons. Check availability and consider private group options if you prefer a more exclusive experience.

What should I wear?
Light clothing, swimwear, and sun protection are recommended. Don’t forget your towel and camera!

A Benalmádena catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and refreshing water activities—all in a small, friendly setting. The value for money is clear, with many reviewers mentioning how much they appreciated the knowledgeable guides and personalized service. Even if marine sightings aren’t guaranteed, the journey itself, the views, and the chance to swim in the Mediterranean make it worthwhile.

This trip is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic escape with a touch of adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who value small group intimacy and friendly, professional crew. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind, this cruise promises memorable moments with plenty of opportunities for photos, fun, and maybe even a dolphin surprise.

Source: GetYourGuide

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby