Two swims and a buffet—yes please. This shared catamaran outing is a smart way to see Palma Bay without turning your day into a logistics project. You’ll sail out of Palma, cruise past the old-city shoreline, and get time in the water with an onboard lunch break.

I especially like the balance: real time on the water plus two chances to swim and snorkel. And I really enjoyed how the food is handled as a buffet lunch, with a wide spread that works for different tastes (even if you’re traveling with picky eaters). If you’re coming for a laid-back vibe, do note one possible drawback: the boat can feel crowded, so prime spots like good seating and sunbathing areas are the first things to go.

Key things I’d plan around

• Two swim/snorkel stops that actually break up the sail time
• Buffet lunch on board with lots of choices and room to graze
• Drinks aren’t included (food yes, extras no)
• Snorkel gear may cost extra, so don’t assume it’s free
• It’s a shared catamaran with up to 70 people, so expect a busy feel

Why Palma Bay on a catamaran feels worth it

Palma Bay is made for a boat. From the water you get that open-horizon view of Mallorca’s coast, and you don’t have to bounce between viewpoints like you would on land. A half-day format also helps: you get the “I’m on holiday” feeling without losing your whole day.

I like that this cruise is structured enough to feel like an experience, but flexible enough to fit real life. There are departure options to suit your schedule, and the timing still leaves you time after the cruise to explore Palma on foot. If your goal is scenery plus swimming, you’ll get both.

Getting to Las Golondrinas: where the day starts

Your meeting point is Attraction Catamarans Mallorca, Muelle Golondrina on Av. de Gabriel Roca (near the Ponent area), at the pier called Las Golondrinas. It’s right by the Auditorium of Palma de Mallorca on the Paseo Marítimo, so you’re not hunting down some hidden dock in the dark.

Plan to arrive a little early if you want an easier boarding. Even with a smooth check-in, the dock area can feel like a mini traffic jam as people gather. You’ll also want to come prepared for sun and salt air, since you’ll be in and around the water. Bring towels and sun cream, and keep an extra dry layer in mind for after you swim.

This is also a meeting point near public transportation, which is a lifesaver if you’re not renting a car. The cruise ends back at the same meeting point, so you avoid the common end-of-tour scramble.

The 5 hours: a practical flow of sights and sea time

This is a daytime cruise of about 5 hours, with a start time listed as 10:00 am. The route is designed for quick orientation from the water and then a steady rhythm of sailing and swimming.

You begin near the Auditorium de Palma de Mallorca area, with a short 15-minute stop where you’re close to the pier sights (and you don’t need any special ticket to be there). Then the day shifts into cruising past major coastal landmarks, including the waterfront area around the cathedral and onward toward Cala Vella.

The key thing for your planning: this isn’t a slow “shore excursion” day. It’s built around what you can see and feel from the sea—boats move at a different pace, and the coast comes at you in layers. If you enjoy watching the shoreline change as you sail, the route makes sense.

Swim and snorkel stops: how to get the best water time

You’ll cool off with two swim and snorkel stops. This is the heart of the trip, and it’s why the catamaran format is such a good value. When the boat reaches the water spot, you’ll have time to jump in and explore just enough to make it feel like more than a quick splash.

One thing I’d take seriously: current and water conditions matter. Some swimmers have reported that getting back to the boat can require effort when conditions are rougher than expected. Listen closely to the crew’s safety guidance, and don’t treat the water stop as optional training for a strong swim.

Also, snorkeling gear isn’t guaranteed to be included, and that can add cost if you need to rent or buy it on site. If you already have your own mask and snorkel, bring it. If you don’t, be ready for the possibility that you’ll pay for it and plan your budget accordingly.

Lunch on board: the buffet that keeps you fueled

The cruise includes a lunch buffet, and it’s not just a token sandwich setup. The menu is broad and varied, with items like fresh bread with homemade ali-oli, focaccia with pesto, and options that lean into Mediterranean comfort food. You can expect fresh salads such as smoked quinoa and beetroot, plus choices like smoked salmon wrap, caprese skewers, and eggplant parmesan.

If you need something more classic or simple, there are heartier options too, including mini beef burger and piadina with ham, arugula, and cheese. There’s also a chicken tikka masala skewer for a change of pace. For dessert, it’s mini-crème brûlée with red fruits, plus a chocolate brownie.

Here’s the practical part: a buffet works best when you eat in batches. If you wait until everyone rushes at the same time, you might find the serving line slow. Also, once people are in the water, food lines can shift. If you want a calmer lunch, start earlier rather than right at the peak.

Drinks, sunbeds, and the reality of a shared boat

Food is included, but drinks are not in the sense that you’ll be paying for them. The cruise includes soft drink options and water on board only in the broader description, but multiple experiences point to drinks being at your own expense. Alcohol and sodas are commonly treated as add-ons rather than free extras.

This matters for budgeting. If you plan to have multiple drinks during the cruise, set aside extra money. Some people have also had surprises about charges for beverages, so it’s smart to assume the buffet is the included part, and everything drink-related is where costs can creep up.

Now for the other big factor: space. The boat is shared, and the maximum group size is listed as 70 travelers. Even if it’s not always packed to the ceiling, you should plan for limited prime seating and a limited number of sunbeds. If you’re the type who wants a guaranteed spot in the sun or you hate feeling boxed in, choose your expectations carefully.

Who this catamaran works best for

This is a great match if you want a relaxing half-day that includes sailing, a good lunch, and actual time in the water. Families often like it because it’s not an all-day commitment and the vibe is more about the sea than a strict sightseeing checklist. If you enjoy being active without getting exhausted, two swim stops on a half-day cruise hits a sweet spot.

It’s also a good pick if you’re staying in Palma and want a “do something different” day. The meeting point is central to Palma’s waterfront action, so you can go straight from city wandering to boat mode.

If you’re traveling with very high expectations for quiet or personal space, you might want to compare options. A shared catamaran can be lively, and the onboard setup can feel busy during lunch and swimming windows. If your priority is solitude, that’s the main reason people end up disappointed.

Should you book this Palma Bay catamaran?

I’d book it if your top goals are coast views from the water, two swim/snorkel opportunities, and a real included lunch at a predictable time of day. The price can feel fair for what you’re getting, especially once you factor in that food is provided and the cruise is designed as a complete half-day experience.

I would hesitate if you’re extremely sensitive to crowds, or if you’re counting on drinks being free and snorkel gear being provided. Those items can turn into extra spending or extra stress. Also, be aware that some passengers feel the boat can be packed enough that seating and comfort become a factor.

In short: if you’re okay with shared-boat energy and you’re mainly there for sailing plus swim time, this is a solid way to spend a half day in Palma.

FAQ

How long is the Palma Bay catamaran half-day cruise?

The cruise runs for about 5 hours (daytime).

What time does it depart from Palma?

A start time of 10:00 am is listed, and there is also a choice of departure times to match your schedule.

Where do I meet, and does the tour end back there?

You meet at Attraction Catamarans Mallorca, Muelle Golondrina (Av. de Gabriel Roca, s/n, Ponent, 07014 Palma). The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What is included in the lunch?

Lunch is a buffet. It includes a selection like fresh bread with homemade ali-oli and focaccia, salads (such as smoked quinoa and beetroot), multiple mains (including eggplant parmesan and burger options), and desserts like mini-crème brûlée and a chocolate brownie.

Are drinks included?

Food is included, but drinks are listed as at your own expense. Expect to pay extra for sodas/water/alcohol as applicable.

Is snorkel equipment included?

Snorkel gear is not clearly listed as included, and some experiences indicate you may need to buy it. If snorkeling is a priority, consider bringing your own gear.

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

This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience start time.