Palma: Cueva Verde and Cala Vella Catamaran Cruise with BBQ

Palma Bay looks best from the water, and this 5.5-hour cruise gives you two proper swim stops rather than a quick photo pause. You’ll sail first to Cueva Verde, then continue to the clear waters of the Cala Vella marine reserve for swimming, paddleboarding, and time to relax on a modern catamaran.

I like the generous space on board, since Oasis Catamaran limits numbers to 55 even though the boat can carry 87. I also like the well-timed mix of sea time, food, music, and Palma views. The main consideration is that drinks cost extra, and cocktails can be expensive. The food is generally substantial, but the barbecue menu may feel more like casual boat food than a restaurant meal.

Key points to know before booking

• Two real swimming stops: Cueva Verde and Cala Vella give you time to swim instead of merely passing the coves.
• Limited passenger numbers: Up to 55 people are admitted on a catamaran built for 87, leaving more room to sit and move around.
• Food is included: Expect appetizers or snacks, a freshly prepared barbecue-style meal, and dessert.
• Paddleboards are provided: You can use them at Cala Vella, while snorkel gear may require a separate purchase.
• Afternoon trips can finish beautifully: The return often includes sunset views and a look toward Palma Cathedral.
• Value depends on your drinking habits: At $109 per person, the food and five-hour boat time are included, but cocktails and other drinks are extra.

A spacious catamaran from Palma Port

Your day begins at the Port of Palma, where you look for the Oasis Catamaran boat. Hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to make your own way to the port and allow time to find the correct vessel.

The boat is designed for comfort rather than maximum passenger numbers. Its official capacity is 87, but the operating limit is 55. That difference matters. You are more likely to find a decent place to sit, move around without squeezing past people, and enjoy the sea without feeling packed into a floating bus.

The catamaran has seating around the deck, a bar, paddleboards, and a shower. The front nets are a popular place to sit, but they are off limits while the boat is moving. The rear area remains available for sitting during the cruise. There are reportedly only two sunbeds, so do not expect a private lounger unless you arrive early and are prepared to wait.

Shoes are not allowed indoors, and the operator asks you not to wear high heels. Bring swimwear, a towel, and a sun hat. The waiting area before boarding may have little or no shade and no restrooms, so this is one place where arriving far too early can be uncomfortable on a hot day.

Cueva Verde: your first swim in Palma Bay

The first stop is Cueva Verde, a striking cove with turquoise water and time set aside for swimming. The appeal here is simple: you leave the busy port behind, step off the boat, and get a proper chance to cool down.

An aperitif or light snack is served around this part of the trip. The exact food can vary, but examples include meat, cheese, crackers, melon, and other small bites. If you expect a full first meal, adjust your expectations. Think of this as a pleasant snack service before the main barbecue.

The water is the star. You can swim close to the catamaran and enjoy the color of the cove from sea level. The stop is also useful for anyone who wants to test the water before committing to a longer swim at Cala Vella.

A practical warning: jellyfish can be present in the water. Crew members have helped people who were stung, but that does not make the risk disappear. Ask about life jackets if you are not a confident swimmer. The boat provides life jackets, though floating aids for children or weak swimmers are not clearly included, so bring your own approved float if needed.

Cala Vella and the marine reserve

The second stop takes you to Cala Vella, a marine nature reserve known for clear water and a more active water session. Paddleboards are provided, so you can move away from the boat and look back at the coast from the water.

This is the stronger stop for anyone who wants more than a swim. You can paddle, swim, and look for fish in the clear water. Snorkeling is part of the advertised experience, but the included equipment specifically lists paddleboards and not snorkels. Snorkels may be available to buy, so bring your own if snorkeling is important to you.

The length of the swim stops is one of the better features of the schedule. You are not rushed into a single five-minute dip. The available information indicates enough time for several swims, and the trip includes two separate water breaks. That spacing also helps non-swimmers, who can enjoy one stop from the deck and join the next if conditions feel right.

Sea conditions can change the route. The captain may alter the order of stops or destination depending on weather and waves. That is sensible, but it means you should treat the named coves as planned destinations rather than absolute guarantees.

Food on board: filling, casual, and not always a true barbecue

The included meal is described as appetizers, barbecue, and dessert. The food is served on board, and the main meal is freshly prepared during the cruise. Examples from the menu experience include chicken, hot dogs, corn, salad, quiche, cheese, and other simple items.

I would call this a generous casual boat meal, not a polished restaurant barbecue. Some people find it delicious and substantial, while others find the hot dogs and chicken underwhelming. The first snack service may even be the favorite part of the meal for some passengers.

There is also an important difference between the marketing language and the food experience. One account found that the barbecue did not feel like a traditional barbecue and that the advertised appetizers were closer to a meat, cheese, and cracker selection. That does not mean you will go hungry, but it does mean you should book for the boat day and swimming, with the meal as a useful bonus rather than the sole reason to pay.

Dessert is included. A vegan meal can be prepared when requested in advance, which is a useful detail if you have dietary needs. You should provide that information before the cruise rather than waiting until boarding.

Water is included throughout the trip. Other drinks are not. The bar sells beer, cava, wine, cocktails, mixed drinks, and soft drinks. Prices depend on the item: beer and cava have been described as reasonable by some, while cocktails are often considered costly. If you want to keep the day close to the advertised price, drink water and budget separately for bar purchases.

Music, service, and the feel of the day

Music plays a real part in the atmosphere. This is not a silent sightseeing cruise. The playlist helps turn the return journey into a relaxed social outing, and the mood can feel romantic, especially on an afternoon trip with a sunset finish.

The crew handles food service, water activities, and general safety. Their style is friendly and attentive, with particular care needed when passengers are swimming or dealing with jellyfish stings. The operation appears well organized, but it is still a group excursion, not a private yacht charter.

The passenger mix can be broad, including couples, families, and multigenerational groups. Some departures may feel more adult-oriented, but you should not book on the assumption that children will be absent. The operator specifically does not accept party groups, bachelor or bachelorette groups, intoxicated passengers, or outside food and drinks.

The boat is cleaned and maintained to a high standard, according to the information available. The shower is a welcome feature after swimming. The one recurring practical complaint is the toilet floor, which may be uncomfortable when shoes are prohibited. Bring a towel and use the shower, but do not expect private-yacht facilities.

The return to Palma and sunset views

The cruise back to Palma is not just dead time. The catamaran may return under sail, and the route can provide wide views of Palma Bay and the city. Afternoon departures are especially appealing if you want a sunset on the water.

The approach to Palma can include a close view of Palma Cathedral from the harbor. That final city view gives the trip a satisfying finish: you spend the day looking out toward coves and open sea, then return with the city rising ahead of you.

The sunset element depends on the departure time and season, so check the available start times rather than assuming every sailing includes the same light. In late summer, the timing may work especially well. Earlier departures can still offer the two swimming stops, food, and coastal views without the sunset finish.

Is $109 a fair price?

At $109 per person, this is not the cheapest way to get on the water around Palma. You are paying for 5.5 hours, a modern catamaran, two swim locations, paddleboards, water, snacks, a barbecue-style meal, dessert, crew service, and a less crowded setup.

The value improves if you would otherwise book separate transport, a beach club, lunch, and water equipment. You get a full half-day program without having to plan each part. The limited passenger number is especially important because cheaper boat trips can feel crowded when everyone heads for the same swimming platform.

The value is weaker if you mainly want a short cruise or if you plan to buy several cocktails. Drinks are extra, and cocktail prices have been described as high. You also need to arrange your own transport to the port.

For a five-hour outing with food and two swim stops, I consider the price reasonable for people who value comfort and space. It is less suitable for anyone seeking a budget sailing or a quiet, private experience.

Who will enjoy this cruise most?

I would recommend it to couples, small groups, and families who want an easy day at sea with a little activity built in. The paddleboards give you something to do beyond swimming, while the seating and food allow less active passengers to relax.

It also suits first-time visitors to Mallorca. You see the coast from a different angle, enjoy two coves, and finish with Palma views without needing to know which beaches are easiest to reach.

This is not the best choice if you dislike music, shared excursions, or swimming from a boat. It may also disappoint serious food lovers who expect a charcoal-grilled feast. Snorkeling fans should bring their own mask and snorkel if possible, since the included equipment clearly lists paddleboards but not snorkel sets.

People with limited tolerance for sun should bring strong sun protection and a hat. There may be limited shade while waiting at the port, and much of the boat day takes place outdoors. Anyone sensitive to motion should remember that the route can be affected by sea conditions.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure, and the booking option allows you to reserve now and pay later. The crew speaks English and Spanish. These details make the trip easier to fit into a flexible Mallorca schedule.

Should you book the Oasis Catamaran cruise?

I would book this cruise if you want a polished, social half-day on the water with two worthwhile swim stops, decent space, and food included. The combination of Cueva Verde, Cala Vella, paddleboards, music, and a possible sunset return gives you more variety than a simple harbor ride.

I would skip it if your priority is a private boat, a quiet deck, or a serious barbecue meal. For everyone else, $109 is a fair spend when you use the swimming stops and enjoy the full five-and-a-half-hour schedule. Arrive ready for sun, bring a towel, budget for drinks, and bring snorkeling gear if you want to explore below the surface.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from the Port of Palma. Look for the Oasis Catamaran boat. Hotel transfers are not included.

How long does the cruise last?

The experience lasts 5.5 hours. Starting times vary, so check availability for the date you want.

Are swimming stops included?

Yes. The planned route includes stops at Cueva Verde and Cala Vella, where you can swim and relax in the water.

Are paddleboards included?

Yes. Paddleboards are provided for use at Cala Vella.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Paddleboards are specifically included. Snorkeling is part of the advertised activity, but snorkel gear is not listed among the included items. Snorkels may be available to purchase, so bringing your own is sensible.

Is food included?

Yes. The package includes appetizers or snacks, a barbecue-style meal, dessert, and water. Drinks other than water are available to buy on board.

Can the route change?

Yes. The route may change based on weather and sea conditions.

What should I bring?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel. High-heeled shoes, outside food and drinks, pets, speakers, fishing equipment, aerosols, and party-group behavior are not allowed.