Mallorca Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Trip

Taking a boat trip along Mallorca’s coastline is a popular way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, and the Mallorca Catamaran Cruise offers just that — a blend of scenic views, swimming, and good food. This 5-hour adventure, operated by Nofrills Excursions, promises a relaxing day out on a sleek catamaran with several stops for swimming and snorkeling, along with a hearty buffet lunch.

What we find particularly appealing about this trip is the chance to see Mallorca’s rugged coast, natural monuments, and turquoise waters all in one package. The inclusion of a delicious Mallorcan tapas lunch adds a tasty touch to the day. However, it’s worth noting that the experience has mixed reviews, especially around the value for money, crowd sizes, and snorkeling provisions.

This tour works best for travelers looking for a leisurely day on the water, enjoying scenic views, casual swimming, and a good meal. If you’re not expecting a snorkeling-focused adventure or a quiet, intimate sailing trip, this could be a great fit. But if your priority is expert-guided snorkeling or fewer crowds, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: You’ll enjoy breathtaking sights of Mallorca’s cliffs, natural landmarks, and the Palma coastline.
• Multiple Swim Stops: Cala Vella and Cala Blava are highlights, offering calm waters, natural pools, and sandy beaches.
• Good Value for the Price: Includes a buffet lunch, cruise, and water — but be aware of extra costs for drinks and snorkeling gear.
• Crowded but Comfortable: Limited space and large groups can make the experience less intimate; expect around 100 guests.
• Mixed Reviews on Snorkeling: Equipment isn’t included by default, and some found the snorkeling options limited or unsatisfactory.
• Suitable for Relaxation: This isn’t a high-adventure trip; it’s perfect for sunbathers and those wanting relaxed coastal scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

Boarding at Palma’s Port

Your day begins at Palma de Mallorca’s port, where you’ll step onto a modern, well-equipped catamaran. The crew, led by a knowledgeable local captain, emphasizes safety while providing a comfortable environment. According to reviews, the boat is generally clean and spacious enough, although some guests mention it can get crowded, especially if the trip is fully booked.

Sailing the Bay of Palma

Once onboard, the cruise kicks off with a 15-minute sail through Palma Bay. The views here are a major highlight — think of the Gothic spires of Palma Cathedral towering over the coast, alongside charming towns and secluded beaches. We loved the way the crew shared insights about the coastline, making the scenery more meaningful. As you glide past Cap Rocat, the rugged cliffs and untouched landscapes evoke a sense of Mallorca’s natural beauty far from the resorts.

More than an Hour Past the Coastline

The journey continues for about an hour and a half, sailing past the Nord de Palma district, where expansive views of the city blend with the wild coastline. Photos of the cityscape and the iconic cathedral are a must, especially if you’re into capturing memorable travel moments. According to one guest, the relaxed atmosphere makes this part of the cruise feel like a gentle, floating sightseeing tour.

Nature and Untamed Beauty at Cap Rocat

Next, the boat sails past Cap Rocat, an area celebrated for its dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain. It’s a section that showcases Mallorca’s less commercialized side, with crystal-clear waters inviting you to soak in the scenery. Several reviews mention that this part of the trip offers a peaceful, natural perspective—offering a break from the busy tourist spots.

The Highlight: Cala Vella

Cala Vella is where the adventure heats up, with a long stop that allows you to swim, snorkel, or relax on the natural sand. The calm waters here are perfect for snorkelers, although some reviews note that snorkeling equipment isn’t included, and you’ll need to pay €20 on board if you want to use gear. Many guests rave about the vibrant marine life and the opportunity to explore natural pools formed by old quarries.

For the more adventurous, jumping off the boat into the water is part of the fun—just make sure you’re comfortable swimming in choppy conditions, as one review pointed out the water can be a little turbulent. The scenery here is spectacular, with hidden coves and clear waters that make it a favorite stop.

Cala Blava and the Lunch Break

The next stop is Cala Blava, a dreamy spot with calm waters and a gorgeous beach that feels postcard-perfect. Here, guests often choose to swim to the shore or relax on the boat, soaking up the sun and the views.

The included buffet lunch is served at this point, featuring a menu packed with Mallorcan tapas, including beef meatballs with Thai sauce, chicken, ginger and mango salad, roasted black pork with mushroom sauce, and a variety of fresh vegetables and rice. Reviewers have commented positively on the quality and variety of the food, with some noting the portions were generous and satisfying. A great point is that the lunch is served with water, and there’s a bar on board for other drinks (not included).

Return to Palma

After lunch, the cruise heads back to Palma, with a final 10-minute sail that offers last views of the coast before disembarking at the port. The entire trip lasts about five hours, with some guests feeling it could be a little rushed or, conversely, too crowded depending on the group size.

The Value Proposition

The trip is priced at around $94.95 per person, which includes the cruise, lunch, and access to the various stops. This makes it a fairly good deal for a full day on the water, especially considering the picturesque scenery and the included meal. Still, the experience is marred slightly by some reviews mentioning the crowding—up to 100 guests—and the fact that snorkeling gear isn’t included unless you buy it on board.

If you’re looking for a laid-back outing with scenic views, plenty of swimming opportunities, and a tasty meal, this package offers a lot of value. But if you’re expecting a quiet, private cruise or a snorkeling adventure with professional equipment, you might find the realities a bit different.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at the port to avoid missing the departure, as timing can be tight with large groups.
• Bring high-factor sunscreen because you’ll be exposed to Mallorca’s strong sun for several hours.
• Consider bringing your own snorkeling gear if you have specific preferences, since equipment isn’t included by default.
• Be prepared for some crowding, especially if the boat is full, which can affect comfort and photo opportunities.
• If you’re not confident in swimming in choppy water, consider bringing a life jacket, even though they aren’t provided.
• Carry some extra cash if you want to buy drinks or snorkeling equipment on board.
• Check the weather forecast — the tour is subject to weather conditions and can be canceled or altered for safety reasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip suits travelers who enjoy relaxed days spent soaking up the sun, taking scenic photos, and exploring Mallorca’s coastline without too much hustle. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and swimming, with a tasty meal included.

However, those expecting an exclusive or quiet experience might find the large group size and some logistical hiccups less appealing. It’s also worth noting that if snorkeling is your main goal, you should prepare to bring your own gear or spend extra on equipment.

The Mallorca Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Trip offers a solid way to see the island’s southern coast from the water. You’ll get to enjoy stunning views, natural swimming spots, and a delicious buffet lunch, all at a reasonable price. While it’s not perfect — crowding and limited snorkeling gear are points to consider — it remains a fun, scenic, and fairly comprehensive coastal experience.

If you’re after a laid-back day with plenty of natural beauty and good food, this cruise could be just what you need. But if you want a more intimate or snorkeling-focused excursion, it’s worth shopping around for other options.

FAQ

Is snorkeling equipment included?
No, snorkeling gear isn’t included by default. You can buy the equipment on board for €20, which includes goggles and a snorkel, but fins are not provided.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the departure point is at the Port of Palma de Mallorca, so guests need to make their own way there.

How long is the cruise?
The full experience lasts about 5 hours, including stops, sailing, and lunch.

What should I bring?
High-factor sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and possibly a cash for extras. If you’re into snorkeling, bring your own gear if preferred.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Check the specific age restrictions with the operator if needed.

What is the group size?
The tour can host up to 100 travelers, so it might feel busy at times.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. The cruise is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Is the food vegetarian or vegan?
The menu includes options like fresh salads, vegetables, and spring rolls, which might suit vegetarians. Vegan options aren’t specified, so check ahead if needed.

What are some highlights of the tour?
Expect breathtaking coastline views, a peaceful stop at Cap Rocat, vibrant marine life at Cala Vella, and a hearty Mallorcan buffet lunch.

This cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, swimming, and delicious food, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to experience Mallorca’s coast without too much fuss.