REVIEW · MALLORCA CATAMARAN SWIM DAYS
S’Arenal: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with BBQ
Sunset sailing in Palma Bay feels easy. On this 3-hour catamaran cruise from Playa del Arenal, I love the relaxed atmosphere and the fact you actually get time to swim and snorkel, plus the warm BBQ on board. One heads up: included drinks are limited, and extra drinks can cost more than you expect.
The big payoff is the timing. You sail toward Cap Enderrocat at sunset, with good chances to grab photos from the water before the light fades.
Logistics are simple. There is no hotel pickup, and it is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan to get yourself to Playa del Arenal and pack swimwear and a towel.
Key Things to Know Before You Go

- Playful sunset sailing, not a packed party boat: You get music and a fun vibe without feeling completely crammed in.
- Cap Enderrocat photo stop: The views during golden hour are the star moment.
- Swim and snorkeling time from an anchor stop: You jump in when conditions are right and use the provided gear.
- BBQ meal on board: Pasta salad and local bread, served while you enjoy the ride and the sunset.
- Drinks are part of the experience, extras cost more: Water, beer, or sangria are included, but buying more can add up.
- Meet right at Playa del Arenal: Look for the LIFE & SEA sign near the kiosk area.
Meeting at Playa del Arenal, and Getting Set for a Smooth 3 Hours

This cruise starts at Playa del Arenal, near the beach area where you’ll see a sign with LIFE & SEA. You head down to the beach kiosk location and get checked in there, with no hotel pickup included. That actually helps. You avoid the half hour detours that can eat your evening.
Once you’re on board, the mood is easy. Think sun on your skin, a light breeze off the water, and room to stretch out. The catamaran setup is a big part of why people rate this so highly, including the way it feels spacious compared to some other Mallorca boat options.
One small practical note: you’ll want comfortable shoes for the beachside start, but you should treat this as a swim-first evening. Wear what you can move in, and keep your towel and sunscreen handy.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Mallorca.
Sailing Route: Palma Bay, Cap Enderrocat Views, and Protected Cala Vella

After you sail out, the route moves through the Palma Bay area, then toward Cap Enderrocat and Cala Vella. Cala Vella is listed as a protected environmental area, which matters because it tends to mean the vibe stays calmer and the natural surroundings are treated more carefully.
Cap Enderrocat is the visual highlight. This is where the sunset moment earns its reputation. Plan to spend a bit of time on the deck when the light starts to shift. The angles are better from the water than from the shore, and you’re not fighting crowds or fences.
Then you head toward Cala Vella. While you’re not doing a shore visit, it’s part of what makes the sailing feel like a real route rather than just a loop. You get the sense you’re moving through the coastlines, with different viewpoints from the boat as the evening progresses.
The Swim Stop and Snorkeling Gear Time That Actually Feels Worth It

This is the part that turns a sunset cruise into an activity. At some point, the crew will drop anchor at a good spot, and that’s when you get time to swim or sunbathe.
You also get snorkeling equipment included, along with life vests. The gear loan is a simple setup, but it’s the difference between watching the sea and using it. If you’re new to snorkeling, this is a friendly way to try. You are not stuck in deep planning, and you get a dedicated window to look around and float with the current.
If you want comfort, keep your routine easy:
- Put on sunscreen before you go in.
- Bring your towel and do a full change after.
- Use the provided life vest and take it slowly if you’re not a strong swimmer.
One reason this cruise gets strong feedback is timing. People talk about having just enough time to swim, eat, and watch the sunset without rushing every minute. That balance is rare on evening cruises.
BBQ and Drinks During Golden Hour, What You Really Get

The on-board meal is BBQ with pasta salad and local bread. It’s freshly cooked on the boat, and it comes at a pace that lets you keep enjoying the view rather than turning the trip into a long wait for dinner.
Drinks included are water, beer, or sangria. That means you’re not empty-handed the moment you board, and the included options make the evening feel like a complete package.
A balanced way to think about it:
- If you stick to the included drinks, this is good value for the full 3-hour experience.
- If you plan to buy a lot of extra alcohol, budget for it. Some reviews call out that drinks can be expensive once you go beyond what’s included.
Music also plays a role. You’ll hear upbeat tracks, and some people mention dancing to the music as a favorite part. Even if you don’t dance, the soundtrack helps the evening feel lighter and more social.
If food is your main priority, the overall message is positive. Most feedback is “amazing” or “good,” and a couple of comments suggest the BBQ was okay rather than exceptional. Either way, it’s more than chips and a cup of something. You’re eating a real meal while the light changes outside.
What the Experience Feels Like On Board, Plus a Key Crew Detail

The tone on this cruise is friendly. People highlight warm welcomes and staff who are smiling and helpful. You also get the sense the crew keeps things organized without being overly strict, which is exactly what you want when you’re floating on water for hours.
There’s also a nice human detail that comes up. Someone who had an issue with booking dates got help changing them, and they specifically thanked Sara at the ticket stage for making it easy. That doesn’t change the sailing, but it does say something about how the company handles real-world travel problems.
Another practical detail: the boat offers spots to relax, including netted areas where you can lie down. That matters on catamarans. You want somewhere comfortable to sit while you watch the sunset and avoid having to move every ten minutes.
Price and Value: Why $88 Can Still Feel Fair

At $88 per person for about 3 hours, this is not the cheapest option around Playa de Palma. But you are paying for several things at once:
- a modern catamaran ride on open water
- a swim and snorkeling stop
- snorkeling equipment and life vests included
- a cooked BBQ meal
- water plus beer or sangria included
So when you compare it to cheaper “sunset only” cruises with no food or no water time, the math starts to make sense. You’re getting the main ingredients of a great evening on the coast.
The main value watch-outs are straightforward:
- Extra drinks cost more.
- If you want a loud party vibe, this may feel more relaxed than you expect.
- The boat is not set up for wheelchair users.
Still, a lot of people are impressed that it does not feel too full. That matters, because overcrowding turns a sunset cruise into shoulder-to-shoulder waiting.
Who Should Book This Cruise (And Who Might Want Another Option)

This is a strong fit if you want:
- a calm, friendly evening rather than a rigid tour schedule
- real time in the water, not just a quick dip
- a BBQ plus drinks while you watch the sunset fade
- a comfortable catamaran layout with space to relax
It may not be the best fit if:
- you need wheelchair accessibility
- you expect hotel pickup, because there is none
- you’re very price sensitive about alcohol beyond the included drinks
If you’re traveling as a couple or a small group, this style usually works well. If you’re solo, the relaxed music and deck time make it easy to enjoy without feeling like you are stuck doing a group activity every few minutes.
What to Bring, What Not to Do, and Simple Tips That Help

Plan for a warm evening on open water. What you bring makes the difference between comfortable and rushed.
Bring:
- comfortable shoes for the start
- swimwear
- a towel
- sunscreen
Know the rules:
- alcohol and drugs are not allowed
Even if alcohol is part of the included drink list, follow the rules the crew sets for what’s served and when. Keep things simple, enjoy the sunset, and you’ll have a much smoother experience.
If you’re photographing, put your phone or camera away from sandy hands before you swim. After your snorkel, rinse your hands and take time to dry off before you start photographing again.
Should You Book This S’Arenal Sunset Catamaran With BBQ?

I’d book this if you want a true sunset evening with time in the sea. The combination of Cap Enderrocat sunset views, an anchor stop for swimming, snorkeling gear included, and a proper BBQ meal is exactly what turns a “nice ride” into a memorable night.
Skip it, or consider alternatives, if you’re mainly chasing the cheapest ticket or you’re counting on hotel pickup. Also think ahead about drinks: included beer or sangria is part of the deal, but extra drinks can add cost.
If you time your arrival well at Playa del Arenal and show up ready to swim, this cruise is the kind of Mallorca experience that feels worth the money.
FAQ
Where is the meeting point for the cruise?
The meeting point is at Playa del Arenal. You’ll see a sign with LIFE & SEA as you travel down to the beach where the kiosk is.
How long is the sunset catamaran cruise?
The duration is 3 hours. Starting times depend on availability.
What is included in the price?
The cruise includes the boat ride, a stop for swimming, snorkeling equipment, life vests, BBQ, and water plus beer or sangria.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
Do I get snorkeling equipment?
Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, along with life vests.
What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen.
What drinks are included?
You can have water, beer, or sangria as part of the included drinks.
Are there any rules about alcohol or other substances?
Yes. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.
Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
No. It is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.
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