REVIEW · MALLORCA
S’Arenal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by LIFE & SEA MALLORCA, S.L. · Bookable on GetYourGuide
A sunset cruise that feels like a mini holiday. This one sails Palma Bay, with stops near Cap Enderrocat and Cala Vella, then anchors so you can swim and snorkel in calmer water as the light turns golden. I especially like the easygoing pace on a modern catamaran and the BBQ-on-board setup that makes the whole evening feel complete. One thing to consider: if you’re expecting a quiet, silent cruise, the music and party energy won’t be that.
You’ll get that “be out on the water without the stress” feeling right from departure near the Arenal area. The protected-coast scenery comes with big photo moments, and the snorkeling gear means you’re not stuck just watching from the deck. The vibe is relaxed, and the timing is built around enjoying the sunset rather than rushing through it.
Logistics are simple, but there’s no hotel pickup, and you start at Playa del Arenal. Go in with swimwear and a towel, and plan to carry your things to the kiosk area before you board at the LIFE & SEA meeting point.
In This Review
- Key moments that make this cruise worth your time
- Palma Bay at golden hour: what the sailing time actually feels like
- Where you board and how to not waste your time
- The “before sunset” sail: Palma Bay, Cap Enderrocat, and the view setup
- The stop for swimming and snorkeling: why the anchoring matters
- BBQ onboard: what you actually eat and how it fits the evening
- The sunset moment: when it hits and why timing feels right
- Drinks, music, and onboard energy: fun without chaos
- What’s included versus what you might still need
- Cost and value: is $88 a fair deal?
- Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)
- Small details that can make or break your evening
- Should you book S’Arenal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ?
- FAQ
- How long is the sunset catamaran cruise?
- Where do I meet for the S’Arenal cruise?
- What’s included in the price?
- Do I need to bring snorkeling gear or a towel?
- Is hotel pickup included?
- Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Key moments that make this cruise worth your time
- Sunset photos at Cap Enderrocat: the golden-hour views are the main event, and you get time to enjoy them.
- Real water time, not just a quick stop: you’ll anchor and have a chance to swim and sunbathe.
- Snorkeling gear included: you can borrow equipment and explore the water around the boat.
- BBQ served on board: pasta salad and local bread come with a hot meal, paired with included drinks.
- Space to stretch out: deck nets help you find a comfortable spot without feeling crowded.
- A lively soundtrack: music runs during the cruise, with an upbeat feel rather than a stiff, formal tour.
Palma Bay at golden hour: what the sailing time actually feels like
This cruise is built for a simple idea: you shouldn’t spend your Mallorca trip planning logistics during the best part of the day. Instead, you meet near the beach at Playa del Arenal, step onto a modern catamaran, and let the water do the entertaining.
You sail through Palma Bay and along the area toward Cap Enderrocat and Cala Vella, both described as protected environmental zones. That matters because it usually means the coast you’re seeing tends to feel more “kept” and scenic than the kind of shoreline that’s constantly packed with development. In plain terms: you get nicer views and fewer distractions, which helps when your goal is sunset.
The catamaran itself makes a big difference. Compared with small boats that feel like you’re balancing all evening, a catamaran is more stable for lounging, and the deck setup makes it easier to move between sunbathing and shade. If you like being comfortable while you watch the sky change color, this is the right style of boat.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Mallorca
Where you board and how to not waste your time
You’ll meet at Playa del Arenal. Look for a sign that says LIFE & SEA, then travel down to the beach where the kiosk is. There’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll want to build in a little buffer if you’re coming from elsewhere on the island.
Practical tip: wear comfortable shoes for the walk on sand or uneven paths around the kiosk area. When you board, you’ll be dealing with your swim stuff, so it’s easier if you can move quickly without ankle pain.
Because the cruise is only 3 hours, you don’t want to cut it close. Plan to arrive early enough that you can use the time to settle your towel and sunscreen rather than rushing to get on board.
The “before sunset” sail: Palma Bay, Cap Enderrocat, and the view setup
The timing is what makes this feel special. You’re not just “on a boat” for three hours. You’re sailing while the day turns, and the itinerary is arranged so the visuals keep improving as the sun goes down.
On the way, you’ll pass the Cap Enderrocat area, which is one of the best spots for views around this part of the coast. If you care about photos, this is where your best angles usually happen: the coastline looks sharp, the water reflects light, and the sky gives you that warm tone that makes even ordinary waves look dramatic.
Even if you’re not the type to take dozens of pictures, you’ll still notice the difference in comfort. Cooler evening air tends to feel nicer on your face than the heat you get mid-day, and the sail gives you a break from the busy parts of town.
The stop for swimming and snorkeling: why the anchoring matters
Once you head out far enough, the cruise anchors at a beautiful location. That anchoring step is not just a formality. It’s what creates the most comfortable setup for swimming and snorkeling because the boat isn’t constantly drifting.
From there, you can do two main things:
1) Swim and sunbathe
This is the easiest part. You can jump in when you want, then climb back up and relax. The deck is set up for lounging, and you’ll find spots to chill without having to claim a tiny patch of sun.
2) Snorkel using the provided equipment
Snorkeling gear and life vests are included. That means you don’t have to rent anything separately, and you’re not stuck waiting for a guide to hand you gear after you’re already on the water.
A quick reality check: snorkeling is always weather- and visibility-dependent. The good news is you’re in a protected, coastal cruising zone, so conditions are often workable for casual exploring. Still, if you want the best experience, go at a calm, comfortable pace and follow the flow around the boat rather than fighting currents.
If you’re nervous about snorkeling, the “try it for fun” format helps. You’re already on vacation, not in a training session, and the included gear makes it low-pressure.
BBQ onboard: what you actually eat and how it fits the evening
The BBQ is served on board with pasta salad and local bread. That’s an underrated detail. Simple food wins on boats because it’s easy to eat without feeling heavy.
You’ll also have included drink options: water, beer, or sangria. This is a great match for an evening cruise because you can keep it casual. You’re not stuck with only one drink choice, and you don’t have to pay separately for your first round.
Now the balanced view: one person rated the food as amazing, and another said it was okay. That doesn’t mean it’s bad. It often means BBQs on boats can be “good and filling” more than “fine dining.” If your goal is to have a satisfying meal while you watch the coastline, the BBQ checks that box.
My practical advice: eat during the BBQ window, then keep the next stretch for swimming or relaxing. If you try to cram too much swimming right after a big meal, you might feel sluggish. In other words, let the evening be a flow, not a schedule.
You can also read our reviews of more evening experiences in Mallorca
The sunset moment: when it hits and why timing feels right
The cruise is marketed around sunset, and the best feature here is that the experience isn’t purely “three hours on paper.” You’re given time to settle in and actually watch the sky change.
The evening builds toward the golden-hour payoff, and you get the chance to enjoy the sunset views on the way back. Even if you’re not glued to your camera, you’ll likely find yourself slowing down once the light softens.
A small detail that matters: you’re not crammed in shoulder-to-shoulder the way some crowded boat trips can be. Many people like this one because it feels just right—enough energy to be fun, but not so packed that you can’t move, sit, or breathe.
Drinks, music, and onboard energy: fun without chaos
This cruise has music on board, and the overall mood is upbeat. Some riders talk about dancing to the soundtrack and enjoying the open vibe, and that matches what you can expect from a sunset party-style cruise without it turning into a club.
Where to be careful: drinks beyond the included options may cost more. If you’re the type to order a lot or switch drinks often, plan for that. If you stick mostly with the included water/beer/sangria, you’ll likely feel the value more clearly.
Also note the rule: alcohol and drugs are not allowed. That doesn’t clash with the included drink options, but it does mean the cruise has a standard approach to safety and conduct.
What’s included versus what you might still need
Included:
- Boat cruise
- Stop for swimming
- Snorkeling equipment
- Life vests
- BBQ (pasta salad and local bread)
- Water, beer, or sangria
Not included:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
What you should bring:
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable shoes
One practical trick: bring sunscreen you can reapply easily, and consider wearing something that dries fast if you plan to switch between swimming and lounging. Boats turn your “normal” sun habits into “why am I burning?” faster than you expect.
Cost and value: is $88 a fair deal?
At $88 per person for a 3-hour sunset cruise, you’re paying for a bundle: catamaran sailing, a swim stop, snorkeling gear, an onboard BBQ, and included drinks. Many day cruises around the Balearics separate these costs, so getting the meal and snorkeling equipment folded into the price makes the total feel more reasonable.
Where the value shows up:
- You don’t need to rent snorkeling gear elsewhere
- You get food and drinks without a second bill for the core experience
- You get time for sunset, not just a daytime sail
Where you should think twice:
- If you’re extremely price-sensitive and you expect a quiet, low-key sail with no extra spending, the onboard drink situation might feel annoying depending on what you order.
- If you want long, in-depth snorkeling guided lessons, the format here is more “do it yourself with equipment,” not a training session.
Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)
This cruise is ideal if you want:
- A relaxed evening with sun, water, and views
- A casual meal that doesn’t slow you down
- Snorkeling you can try without extra rentals
- A sunset experience with energy, but not total chaos
It may not fit you if:
- You need a fully wheelchair-accessible boat setup (this one isn’t suitable for wheelchair users)
- You want a silent, formal nature cruise rather than a music-backed sunset outing
- You dislike swimming in open water and don’t plan to use the snorkeling gear at all
Small details that can make or break your evening
A few things that matter more than they sound:
- Bring your towel and swimwear. If you forget, your options get annoying fast.
- Plan for sun. Even when the air feels cooler, you can still burn while you’re sitting on deck.
- Use the nets. People like this boat for having plenty of deck net seating, so you can find a comfortable spot without fighting for space.
- Show up on time. With no hotel pickup and a short total duration, being late reduces your chance to relax before sailing.
And if anything goes wrong with your booking date or your plans shift, there’s a real human factor in the operation. One rider specifically thanked Sara at the ticket desk for helping correct dates quickly. That’s the kind of support you appreciate when travel plans wobble.
Should you book S’Arenal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ?
If you’re spending time in the Balearic Islands and want one evening that blends views + water time + an easy meal, I think this is a strong choice. The value is clear when you look at what’s included: sailing on a catamaran, snorkeling gear, a swim stop, BBQ food, and included drinks for your sunset hour.
Book it if:
- You want a sunset cruise that’s not stuffed to the gills
- You’ll actually use the swimming and snorkeling time
- You like a relaxed, music-on-board atmosphere
Skip or consider another option if:
- You’re only interested in the scenery and won’t get into the water
- You prefer a very quiet, no-music sail
- You want hotel pickup or special accessibility support
If that sounds like you, grab your spot and plan a towel-and-sunscreen bag. This is the kind of evening that turns into a simple favorite memory without needing complicated planning.
FAQ
How long is the sunset catamaran cruise?
The cruise lasts 3 hours.
Where do I meet for the S’Arenal cruise?
You meet at Playa del Arenal. Look for a LIFE & SEA sign and go down to the beach where the kiosk is.
What’s included in the price?
The experience includes the boat cruise, a stop for swimming, snorkeling equipment, life vests, BBQ, and water plus beer or sangria.
Do I need to bring snorkeling gear or a towel?
No snorkeling gear is needed since equipment is provided. You should bring a towel and swimwear for the swimming stop.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No, the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.
