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 instead of a quick photo pause. You sail from Palma to Cueva Verde, then on to the Cala Vella marine reserve, with time for swimming, paddleboarding, snacks, and a cooked meal.

I like the low passenger limit, which leaves room to sit, move around, and enjoy the catamaran without feeling packed in. I also like the mix of quiet water time, music, food, and the chance to see Palma Cathedral from the sea on the way home. The main consideration is the extra cost of drinks, especially cocktails, and the BBQ menu may feel more like a casual hotdog and chicken meal than a full grill feast.

Key points to know before booking

• Two swim stops: Cueva Verde offers a refreshing first break, followed by paddleboarding and snorkeling conditions near Cala Vella.
• Comfortable group size: The catamaran can hold 87 people, but the operator limits bookings to 55.
• Food is included: Expect appetizers, a prepared hot meal, and dessert, with menu items such as chicken, hotdogs, cheese, salad, corn, quiche, and fruit reported during the season.
• Drinks cost extra: Water is included, while beer, cava, cocktails, mixed drinks, and other beverages are sold at the bar.
• Afternoon timing can pay off: The return to Palma may include sunset views and a close look at the cathedral.
• Bring the basics: Pack swimwear, a towel, and a sun hat. Shoes are not allowed indoors, and high heels are forbidden.

A stylish start from Palma Port

You meet the boat at OASIS CATAMARAN in the Port of Palma. Hotel pickup is not included, so you need to make your own way to the marina and allow enough time to find the correct boat.

The catamaran is designed for 87 people, but only up to 55 are admitted. That difference matters. On a boat, comfort depends less on the total size than on how many people are actually aboard. A limited group gives you more choice of seating and makes it easier to reach the swim platforms, food service, bar, and paddleboards.

The boat has been praised for its modern, clean appearance and spacious layout. You can sit toward the front, find room at the back, or move around during the cruise. The front nets are not available while the boat is moving, so you should not expect to lie there under sail. The rear area remains suitable for sitting while underway.

The setting is social, but this is not presented as a party boat. Music plays throughout the day, and the mood can be lively, yet the rules exclude party groups, bachelor and bachelorette parties, speakers, intoxication, and outside food or drinks. That makes the cruise a better fit for couples, families, and mixed-age groups looking for a polished day at sea.

Cueva Verde, the first swim stop

The first major stop is Cueva Verde, a cove known for its clear turquoise water and sheltered feel. The name suggests a cave-like setting, but the key appeal here is the water itself. You get free time to swim, cool off, and enjoy an aperitif before the boat continues.

This is the part of the trip where you should have your swimwear and towel ready. You are not simply sailing past a scenic cove. The schedule gives you enough time for repeated swims, according to the published experience, rather than forcing everyone back aboard after a few minutes.

The first stop also tends to include light food. The offering has been described as cheese, meat, crackers, melon, and other snack items. This early service is useful because it takes the edge off your appetite before the main meal, especially if you choose a morning or early afternoon departure.

Bring realistic expectations about snorkeling. Paddleboards are included, but snorkeling equipment is not clearly listed as included. Snorkels may be available to buy, and some passengers bring their own. The water can be clear enough to see fish, but the experience is not sold as a dedicated snorkeling expedition.

You should also keep an eye on sea conditions. Jellyfish have been present at times, and crew members have helped people who were stung. That does not mean you should expect a problem, but it is sensible to watch where you swim, follow crew instructions, and use care when entering the water.

Cala Vella and the marine reserve

After Cueva Verde, the catamaran continues to Cala Vella, a marine nature reserve. The second stop is the more active of the two, with paddleboards available for use in the clear water. You can paddle along the cove, swim near the boat, or simply stay aboard and enjoy the view.

I like the way this stop gives you options. You do not have to be a strong swimmer or a keen paddler to enjoy it. Life jackets are available, and the crew can help with the equipment. Still, floating aids for people who cannot swim are not specifically supplied, so families should bring suitable inflatables if needed.

The water is the main attraction here. The reserve setting adds a sense of care and protection, but you should not expect a formal wildlife talk or a guided nature walk. This is a relaxed water stop, not a structured lesson.

The second break also helps the 5.5-hour schedule feel well spaced. You get time to settle into the boat, stop for swimming, cruise again, then enjoy another water break before the food service and return. The pace avoids the common problem of a long boat trip with one short swim stop.

What you actually eat on board

Food is included in the $109 price. The meal is listed as appetizers, a barbecue, and dessert, with water provided throughout the trip.

The menu can include chicken, hotdogs, corn, salad, quiche, cheese, crackers, and other cold items. Dessert is homemade, although the exact dish can change. Several meals have been described as plentiful and freshly prepared, and vegetarian or vegan arrangements may be possible if you notify the operator in advance.

Here is the practical point: do not picture a formal restaurant meal or a large steak cooked to order. One menu description called the main course a BBQ, while another passenger felt the hotdogs and chicken did not match that label. I would treat it as a generous, casual boat lunch or dinner rather than a gourmet barbecue.

The food service is spread through the cruise, which works well. Light snacks arrive earlier, the hot meal follows the swimming activities, and dessert rounds things off. You are less likely to feel rushed, and the meal becomes part of the rhythm of the day instead of an interruption.

If you have dietary needs, contact the operator before departure. A vegan meal has been prepared when requested in advance. Do not assume special meals can be arranged at the last minute.

The bar, cocktails, and the real cost

Water is included, but other drinks cost extra. The onboard bar serves beer, cava, cocktails, mixed drinks, wine, and other beverages.

Prices receive mixed reactions, though the pattern is fairly clear. Beer and cava have been described as reasonable by some, while cocktails can reach about €20. That is closer to a resort-bar price than a casual café price. If you plan to order several cocktails, add a meaningful amount to the advertised cost.

You can keep the trip more economical by sticking with the included water and buying only one drink for the return cruise. If you want wine or cava with the meal, factor it in before booking. The cruise is still fairly priced for a half-day catamaran trip with food, but the final bill depends heavily on your bar choices.

Outside food and drinks are not allowed. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited, and the crew can refuse service to anyone who is intoxicated. This keeps the atmosphere more relaxed and prevents the boat from turning into an uncontrolled party.

Sailing back toward Palma

The return is one of the strongest parts of the outing. You cruise along the Palma coastline, and afternoon departures may reach the bay around sunset. The changing light gives you a different view of the city than you get from the waterfront.

The boat may sail part of the way back when conditions allow. On the approach to Palma, the route can include a close view of the cathedral and harbor. This is a good time to keep your phone ready, but do not spend the whole return looking at a screen. The view from the water is the point.

Sunset timing is not guaranteed because the route can change with weather and sea conditions. The operator may also alter the itinerary if the sea is rough or conditions make one of the planned stops unsuitable. You should see the named locations as the intended route, not an absolute promise.

The afternoon option seems especially appealing if you want a scenic finish. Morning departures may suit you better if swimming in bright sunlight matters most or if you prefer to return to Palma with the evening free.

Comfort, rules, and small practical details

The catamaran has a shower, which is useful after swimming and makes the long return more comfortable. Seating is generally plentiful, but there are only two sunbeds, so you would need to arrive early if one matters to you.

Shoes are not allowed indoors, and one account noted that the toilet floor could be cleaner. This is a boat, not a hotel, so bring footwear that is easy to remove and expect marine conditions rather than polished indoor flooring.

There is no shade or restroom at the waiting area before boarding, according to one experience. In the hot months, arrive prepared with a hat, water if permitted before boarding, and sun protection. Once on board, the boat offers more comfort, but the marina wait can be the least pleasant part of the day.

Pets are not allowed. High heels, sprays, aerosols, fishing equipment, speakers, costumes, and party props are also prohibited. These restrictions may sound fussy, but they match the aim of keeping a clean, safe, shared boat.

The crew speaks English and Spanish. Their role is practical rather than theatrical: explaining the plan, helping with paddleboards, watching the swimming stops, serving food, and assisting if someone needs help in the water.

Who will enjoy this cruise most

You should consider this trip if you want several Mallorca experiences in one outing: coastline views, swimming, a marine reserve, casual food, music, and sunset scenery. It is especially suitable for couples, families with older children, and groups who want comfort without hiring a private boat.

The experience also works well for people who do not want a tightly packed excursion. The 55-person limit is a major advantage, though the boat can still feel active during food service and water stops.

You may want a different trip if your priority is serious snorkeling, secluded sailing, or a completely quiet boat. The music and social atmosphere are part of the package. You should also choose another option if you expect a high-end grilled meal, unlimited drinks, or hotel pickup.

The boat can suit families, but younger children and non-swimmers may need extra support. Life jackets are available, yet additional floating equipment is not clearly included. Bring what your family needs, if allowed by the operator.

Is $109 good value?

At $109 per person, the price is reasonable for a 5.5-hour cruise that includes the catamaran, two swim stops, paddleboards, water, snacks, a main meal, and dessert. You are also paying for a newer, comfortable vessel and a passenger cap that keeps the boat from being filled to its legal capacity.

The value is strongest if you plan to spend much of the day at sea. A short scenic cruise with one drink would not offer the same return, but this itinerary gives you several hours of actual use: swimming, paddling, eating, relaxing, and sightseeing.

The value falls if you want to avoid all extra costs. Drinks are not included, cocktails can be expensive, and transportation to the port is your responsibility. I would budget for at least one paid drink only if it matters to you, rather than assuming the advertised price covers the whole day.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and the option to reserve now and pay later add useful flexibility. Starting times vary, so check the available departure before planning your Palma day around it.

Should you book the Oasis Catamaran?

I would book this cruise if you want a comfortable, social day on the water with two genuine swim breaks and a sunset return. The best features are the limited passenger count, attractive catamaran, attentive crew, well-spaced schedule, and included food.

I would book with two clear expectations: the BBQ is casual rather than lavish, and drinks are extra. Bring your swimwear, towel, sun hat, and perhaps your own snorkel. Choose an afternoon departure if the cathedral and sunset are high on your list, or an earlier sailing if swimming is your main goal.

For the right type of day, this is a strong Palma choice. You get more than a boat ride, but you do not need to treat it like an all-inclusive luxury cruise.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran cruise depart from?

The meeting point is at OASIS CATAMARAN in the Port of Palma. Hotel transfers are not included.

How long is the cruise?

The experience lasts 5.5 hours. Starting times vary, so check availability for your chosen date.

Are food and drinks included?

Appetizers, a barbecue-style meal, dessert, and water are included. Cocktails, beer, cava, wine, mixed drinks, and other beverages cost extra at the onboard bar.

Can I use a paddleboard?

Yes. Paddleboards are included and are available during the Cala Vella stop. Life jackets are also available.

What should I bring?

Bring a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel. Shoes are not allowed indoors, and high heels are not permitted.

Can the route change?

Yes. The route may change depending on weather and sea conditions. The planned stops are Cueva Verde and Cala Vella, but the operator may adjust the itinerary for safety.