That first spray of sea air wakes you up fast. This 3-hour Alicante coastal catamaran trip gives you a smooth ride, big views, and time to cool off in open water off Cabo de Huertas.

What I like most is the simple setup: you cruise out from the marina, then anchor for a real swim break with nets to lounge on. I also like the included basics that actually matter on the water—one drink, fruit, unlimited water/soft drinks/juice, plus snorkeling masks and fins.

My only caution is that on busier departures the boat can feel crowded in places, and the snorkeling can be more “try it, enjoy it” than guaranteed fish spotting.

Key things I’d count on

• A 45-minute sail out of Alicante for coastline views without rushing
• Cap de l’Horta anchoring time for swimming and snorkeling in open water
• Nets up front for sunbathing, photos, and that classic catamaran feeling
• One included drink + fruit plus unlimited water and soft drinks onboard
• Mask and fins included, with lifeguard-style safety during swimming

Entering the marina scene: where you meet and how early to arrive

This cruise leaves from the port area in Alicante, at the Adventurer Catamaran meeting point. You’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early so you’re not doing that last-minute dash while people are already stepping aboard.

The maxi catamaran is located next to the bar Noray, in front of Mundo de los Niños. That’s useful because it’s a clear landmark when you’re walking the marina area and trying to keep your bearings.

Right before departure, there’s a short presentation about what to expect—keep an ear out for the part about where to go for the swim and how to use the snorkeling gear.

Sailing from Alicante: the 45-minute coastal show

Once you’re on board, the first stretch is all about the ride and the views. You head out for around 45 minutes, giving you time to see Alicante’s coastline from the water without committing to a half-day excursion.

This portion feels like a decompression chamber. You get to sit, look, and let the city blur into shoreline detail—curving bays, cliffy edges, and that Costa Blanca feel where the color of the sea changes as the boat turns.

If you’re the type who likes photos, this is your window. The deck is set up for movement—people float between seats and the front nets—so you’ll get plenty of angles without sprinting around.

Cap de l’Horta: nets, sunscreen time, and the swim/snorkel stop

The cruise’s main event is the anchored break near Cap de l’Horta (Cabo de Huertas). You’ll be out there for about 1.5 hours, which is long enough to do the whole “get in, warm up, get back out” routine.

The nets are the star for sun and chill

The boat has nets you can relax on, and that’s a big part of why this trip feels fun even if you’re not a strong swimmer. They’re great for sunbathing and for watching the water while you work up the courage to jump in.

Swimming is the easy win

The water stop is designed for a straightforward sea swim. You cool off with a dip in the high seas area, and you’re not trapped in a swim line. You anchor, then the crew handles the flow so people can take turns without chaos.

There’s safety support during the snorkeling activity, and life-vest style gear and foam floaties are provided for sea swimming (handy if you want help with comfort in open water). Sailor-lifeguards are also present during the snorkeling time.

Snorkeling gear is included, but fish aren’t guaranteed

You get snorkeling equipment (masks and fins) included, and snorkeling is offered as a free activity without a guide. That means you’re not paying for a formal underwater briefing—what you get is a setup that lets you snorkel when you’re ready.

One practical thing: snorkel tubes aren’t provided for hygiene reasons. You can buy them onboard for €5 if you want that extra piece. For me, that matters because a mask-and-fins kit alone can feel limiting if you prefer easy, steady breathing at the surface.

Now, the honest note: snorkeling visibility and fish activity can be hit-or-miss depending on conditions. Some people find plenty to look at; others feel there isn’t much going on. Either way, you’re paying for the seawater experience and the chance to try snorkeling where the boat anchors—expect a “go and see” moment more than a guaranteed underwater show.

Onboard drinks, fruit, and the mood on deck

This is one of those cruises where the value is in what’s already there when you sit down.

Included onboard:

• Unlimited water, soft drinks, and juice
• A welcome fruits plate
• One drink included (beer, wine, or tinto de verano)
• Onboard music
• An onboard restroom

That one included drink is a small thing on paper, but it changes the vibe. You don’t have to think about cash or orders every time you want something refreshing. Plus, the fruit and included drink help the stop feel like a mini holiday, not just a “stand around until the swim.”

Music adds energy, and a couple of departures mention a DJ/guitarist-style element. So if you like a light soundtrack instead of pure silence, you’re probably in the right place.

One caution from the real-world mix of reviews: a few people found the drink quality just okay, and a few felt onboard drink prices for extra alcohol were high. So if you plan to drink a lot beyond the included drink, decide ahead of time so you’re not surprised.

Price and value: why $50 can work on the Costa Blanca

For about $50 per person for a 3-hour cruise, the math mostly depends on inclusions and the time on the water.

You’re getting:

• A full catamaran cruise with two sailing legs (about 45 minutes each)
• A meaningful anchored swim/snorkel window (about 1.5 hours)
• Mask and fins included
• Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks
• One alcoholic drink option (plus fruit)

That’s why this feels like good value compared with many shorter “boat tour + nothing else” options. You’re paying for time at sea, a place to hang out on deck (nets included), and a swim break that’s built into the route.

If you’re the kind of person who wants a boat ride but also wants a swim moment without extra rentals, this price tends to make sense. If you’re only looking for scenery and you won’t swim or snorkel, it might feel more like paying for comfort and views than for activities.

Where the cruise can feel tight: space, seating, and weather reality

Catamaran decks are open-air by nature, and this one is designed for lounging, not for everyone having a personal chair bubble.

Some people describe the passenger count as manageable. Others mention it felt crowded, especially at certain points. So if you’re sensitive to tight spaces, pick your timing thoughtfully and plan to share deck space.

Weather also matters. When it’s windy or choppy, the front areas can get spray. If you’d rather stay drier, you’ll want to choose seating farther back or more sheltered spots on deck.

It’s also worth noting that part of the boat has cover, which helps if the sky turns or the sun feels too intense.

Practical tips so you get more out of the 3 hours

This trip works best when you treat it like a beach day, just without the beach sand.

Bring:

• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Sun hat
• Swimwear and a towel
• Flip-flops (for deck movement)

Don’t bring:

• High-heeled shoes
• Pets
• Food and drinks
• Luggage or large bags
• Jewelry
• Coolers

If you’re buying the snorkel tube onboard (€5), I’d do it early so you’re not scrambling during the anchor time. Also, if you don’t have your own goggles, the included masks and fins are a solid baseline.

If you’re not a confident swimmer, the presence of lifeguard-style safety and foam floaties makes it easier to take part without feeling like you’re on your own.

Who should book this catamaran cruise (and who should skip it)

This is a great match for:

• People who want a short, simple sea outing from Alicante
• Sunscreen-and-nets loungers who enjoy the view as much as the water
• Anyone who wants included snorkeling gear and a swim stop without paying for a guided underwater tour
• Families and groups looking for a relaxed social vibe on deck

It may not be the best match if:

• You need wheelchair access (this cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users)
• You strongly prefer a guaranteed snorkeling “fish show” regardless of conditions
• You’re especially bothered by crowding during busy sailings

Should you book the Alicante 3-hour coastal cruise?

If you want a practical, good-value way to enjoy Alicante from the water, this is an easy yes. The included drinks, unlimited soft drinks, fruit, and mask-and-fins setup make the money feel fair for the time you’re actually spending at sea.

Book it especially if you like the idea of hanging out on nets, taking a real sea swim near Cabo de Huertas, and keeping the whole day to about half a morning/afternoon instead of surrendering hours.

Don’t book it expecting a fancy guided snorkeling expedition or a perfectly empty deck. If you go in with the mindset of sun, sea, and a fun swim window, you’ll likely feel like you got exactly what you paid for.

FAQ

What’s included in the ticket?

You get the catamaran cruise, welcome fruit, one included drink (beer, wine, or tinto de verano), unlimited water and soft drinks/juice, snorkeling masks and fins, onboard music, and an onboard restroom.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Masks and fins are included. Snorkeling tubes are not provided due to hygiene reasons, but you can buy them onboard for €5.

Do I need a guide for snorkeling?

Snorkeling is available as a free activity without a guide, and sailor-lifeguards are present during the snorkeling activity.

How long is the cruise, and how much time is there for swimming?

The total duration is 3 hours, with about 45 minutes sailing out of Alicante, around 1.5 hours anchored near Cap de l’Horta for swimming and snorkeling, then about 45 minutes returning.

Where do I meet the catamaran?

Meet at Adventurer Catamaran next to the bar Noray, in front of Mundo de los Niños. Arrive 15 minutes early.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and flip-flops.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

No. Pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is this cruise wheelchair accessible?

No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

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