BBQ, swims, and bay time in four hours. I like the included BBQ lunch and the sail toward a nature reserve, plus how easy it is to jump in and cool off. The only real catch is that the boat can feel packed, so shaded spots may be limited when it’s busy.

You’ll meet in S’Arenal, board a sailing catamaran, and spend roughly four hours at sea with music, swimming breaks, and snorkeling gear. It runs in English, and it comes back to the same meeting point after the ride.

Key things to know before you go

• BBQ lunch on board plus included drinks during the cruise
• Multiple swim stops with clear water and chances to jump from the boat
• Snorkeling gear provided, but don’t expect a wildlife safari
• Hammocks and onboard chill time alongside music and group energy
• Large group size (up to 146), so shade and space can vary

Sailing Out of S’Arenal: The 10:00–14:00 Plan

This is a straightforward half-day boat trip. The start time is 10:00 am, and the experience runs about 4 hours, ending back at the same meeting point. That timing is great if you’re doing a Mallorca day without wanting to lose your whole afternoon.

The meeting spot is in S’Arenal, Spain, near public transportation. That’s helpful because you don’t need a complicated plan to get there. Also, service animals are allowed, and the vibe feels like it’s built for a broad range of ages—people who want to swim, relax, and eat well without overthinking it.

One thing to keep in mind: the maximum group size is 146. Even if the boat has room to move around, it can still feel busy at the busiest moments of the day—especially if you’re hoping for guaranteed shade for the entire cruise.

The Nature Reserve Sail: Why the Morning Works

The core idea is simple: you get on the catamaran, sail out toward a nature reserve, and spend most of the time in and around the water—swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing between stops.

That morning schedule matters. Morning trips usually mean calmer sea conditions and better light for seeing fish when you’re snorkelling (when the water cooperates). You also get the sea breeze right from the start, which makes the boat portion feel more like a vacation than “just transport.”

Expect the atmosphere to mix relaxation with group fun. Music plays onboard, and there’s time built in for people to hang out in hammocks. Some folks like the more upbeat feel; others mainly want clean swimming time and good views from the deck.

Swim Stops in the Mediterranean: What You’ll Actually Do

The best part of this tour is the “in the water” time. There are several swim opportunities, and the boat makes it easy to enter and exit thanks to stairs and ladders. If you’re not a confident swimmer, this matters. It turns snorkeling from something that feels intimidating into something you can try without drama.

The water is often described as clear, and jumping in can be genuinely fun—especially if you’re traveling with friends, teens, or a mixed group. You don’t have to be a pro; you just need basic comfort with the idea of open water.

You’ll also get snorkeling gear for exploring the underwater world. The important expectation-setting: the snorkeling is there, but it’s not positioned like a dedicated marine-ecology expedition. One practical way to think of it is this: snorkeling is a bonus on a swimming-focused day, not the whole reason you’re paying.

A small timing note for snorkel lovers

Some people felt one swim stop had less time than they wanted, and they preferred more time at a later stop. If snorkeling is your priority, plan to stay alert to the schedule and make the most of each stop as it comes.

BBQ Lunch and Drinks: Real Value for a Sea Day

This is not a “bring your own food” boat. BBQ lunch is prepared for you on board, and included drinks are part of the package. That changes the whole math of the day.

In practice, the meal style is what you want on a boat: filling, casual, and designed for big groups. People described it as good and properly cooked, with typical items like pasta, chicken skewers, burgers, and hot dogs. If you’re the type who worries about being hungry on tours, this is a big plus.

The drink situation is also part of the fun. Sangria came up specifically in positive feedback, along with general praise for the included drinks. If you’re the sober-planning type, it’s still nice that you don’t have to buy food and a bunch of drinks separately once you’re onboard.

Not everything is perfect—one negative comment complained about smaller portions and a less satisfying meal. Still, the overall tone is that the BBQ is a solid included lunch for the price, and it helps you keep the day simple.

Onboard Vibes: Music, Hammocks, and the Shade Question

Catamarans like this often land in the middle between party boat and calm day cruise. Here, music is part of the experience, and the mood can become more social once you’re out at sea. Many people describe the staff as friendly and the energy as good—some even call it party atmosphere.

But the practical reality is capacity. With up to 146 people on board, you can’t treat this like you’ll always find your own quiet corner in the shade. One recurring theme: shaded seating can get crowded. If shade is your priority (or you’re traveling with kids who need it), plan to be strategic—pick your spot early and be ready to move if it’s packed.

Also, pay attention to safety details when you board. There was at least one concern raised about life jackets not being enough in the way someone expected. You can’t fix that as a passenger, but you can do your part: locate the life jacket area for your spot and use the onboard instructions calmly.

Snorkeling Expectations: Gear Provided, Fish Isn’t Guaranteed

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, and you’ll have a chance to look underwater during the swim stops. In the best moments, you’ll see fish and enjoy clear water from the surface.

Here’s the honest expectation check: one person described there being not a lot of sea life, and that the snorkeling equipment felt minimal. That doesn’t mean snorkeling is bad—it just means you shouldn’t book this as your only Mallorca marine experience if you’re a serious snorkeler chasing rare sightings.

If you want better results on snorkeling days, keep it simple:

• Go in with patience and don’t expect a constant stream of fish.
• Use the ladder/stairs method and take your time getting oriented.
• If you’re picky about fit, consider bringing your own mask (since the provided kit may not match everyone’s comfort level).

Price and Value at $78.09: What You’re Buying

At $78.09 per person for roughly four hours, you’re paying for several things at once:

• A catamaran ride with multiple swim stops
• BBQ lunch cooked for you on board
• Included drinks
• Snorkeling gear
• A relaxed day on Mallorca’s coast from a location that’s easy to reach

Boat trips can get pricey fast when you add food and drinks. Here, the included meal and drinks are a big part of the value. It’s also good that the trip length is manageable—long enough to feel like an experience, short enough to fit into a day without stress.

If you’re traveling as a couple or small group, the included costs help you predict your spending. If you’re traveling with teens, it’s a nice mix of swimming time and onboard fun without needing to plan activities minute-by-minute.

Getting There from Palma or a Cruise Port: Plan for the Ride

Your meeting point is in S’Arenal, so getting there is usually about a short transfer from wherever you’re staying or docked.

If you’re coming from a cruise ship, budget time for the cab ride. One review suggested around 25 minutes by cab and 30+ euros each way. That may not be identical for every ship and every day, but it’s a good reality check: don’t assume the port is right next door.

If you’re using public transportation, the tour location being “near” transit is a plus. The practical move: confirm your exact pin for the meeting spot ahead of time. One negative experience involved a confusing map location, and that’s an easy way to lose a tour.

Who This Catamaran Trip Suits Best

This tour fits well if you want a swim-forward day with food included and a social onboard vibe. It also seems to work for families, including kids, because the crew is described as accommodating and the entry into the water is easier than on some boats.

It’s also a good match for:

• Friend groups who want music, jumping in, and a relaxed lunch
• Hen party energy or group celebrations (the vibe can get lively)
• Teens who want something active but still easy

It might be less ideal if:

• You want quiet, uncrowded deck time all day (shade and space can be tight)
• You expect snorkeling to be heavily focused on marine life
• You need very detailed communication from the start and hate last-minute confusion (double-check the meeting point)

Should You Book This Catamaran with BBQ in Palma Bay?

I think this is a strong booking if your priorities are swimming, a simple included meal, and a good chunk of time on a catamaran. The value is clear: you’re not paying extra for lunch and drinks on top of the boat ticket, and the day is built around water time rather than just scenic sailing.

Book it if you’re okay with a larger group and you treat shade as first-come, first-served. Skip or adjust expectations if you’re mainly chasing top-tier snorkeling or you want a calm, uncrowded experience.

If the weather is good, the schedule is simple, and you’re the type who likes to spend the day jumping in and out of the sea, this is the kind of Mallorca afternoon that feels worth it.

FAQ

How long is the Catamaran with BBQ in the Bay of Palma?

The tour lasts about 4 hours, from 10:00 am until it returns to the meeting point.

What’s included in the BBQ cruise?

You can expect a BBQ lunch prepared for you onboard, plus included drinks. Snorkeling equipment is also provided.

Do they stop for swimming and snorkeling?

Yes. The trip includes several swim opportunities in the Mediterranean, and you’ll have snorkeling equipment available to explore the underwater world.

Where does the tour start, and where does it end?

The meeting point is in S’Arenal, Mallorca (GP2X+RJ S’Arenal). The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What happens if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. If the trip is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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