Five hours of sea air makes Mallorca slow down. I love the cove-hopping swimming from Port d’Alcúdia, and I love that the crew cooks a real BBQ lunch on board (not a sad boxed meal). The only real drawback is that wind and weather can shift the exact route and timing.

This is the kind of trip that’s simple in the best way: you board the Anacaona catamaran, anchor in secluded bays, and spend the day doing what the Mediterranean does best. It’s also the kind of day that can feel crowded on a full boat, so if you want total quiet, plan your expectations.

Key things I’d mark on your map before you go

Cala Murta stop is the longest window, built around lunch/dinner and extra time in the water

Snorkeling gear and kayaks/paddle gear are there for free use during the swim-friendly portion

Aucanada lighthouse area adds quick photo time, plus a final dip if there’s space

Formentor is mostly a sight-from-the-water moment, not a “hop off and explore” stop

Two drinks are included with the BBQ, with a bar available for extra drinks all day

Sailing From Port d’Alcúdia: The 5-Hour Flow That Works

This cruise is set up for easy vacation pacing. You’re looking at about 5 hours on the water, running from the Port d’Alcúdia marina area back to the same meeting point. The schedule isn’t built around long bus rides or nonstop activities—it’s built around stops where you can actually get into the sea.

You’ll depart from Passeig Marítim, 18, 07400 Alcúdia. Expect a day under open skies with a lot of time spent sunbathing on deck nets/benches and then jumping in when you see an inviting cove. If you’re the type who likes photos, bring your camera—this coastline delivers.

Because it’s weather-dependent, the crew may adjust timing or stops. That matters in Mallorca, where a breezy day can change the plan fast. Still, you can count on the core idea: anchoring in scenic spots and enjoying a BBQ meal onboard.

The Anacaona Catamaran Experience: Space, Crew, and Getting In Safely

The boat here is the Anacaona, a catamaran sized for a good mix of people—up to 110 on board. That size is big enough that you won’t feel like you’re on a private charter with just a few people, but small enough that you can still move around and find space for sun.

Practical takeaway: plan for a bit of a “day-on-board” vibe. There’s usually a relaxed rhythm—crew assistance, swim stops, then food—rather than a loud party atmosphere. One thing I appreciate is that the day is designed for people who want to swim without complicated logistics.

Getting in and out of the water is a big part of the appeal. The boat stops are short enough to keep things fun, and the longer lunch stop is where the action concentrates. If you’re nervous about water entry, you’ll likely find it manageable because the plan assumes frequent, repeated dips—not one giant swim trial.

Bathrooms are described as basic but clean. Pack accordingly: if you need “nice and fancy,” you’ll have to find that elsewhere on shore.

Stop by Stop: Coll Baix, Cala Murta, and Aucanada’s Lighthouse Area

This trip is basically a string of anchor points, with each one doing a different job.

Stop 1: A quick start with Transports Maritims BRISA

The route begins with a brief stop at Transports Maritims BRISA (about 5 minutes). Think of it as part of the departure flow—short, quick, and focused on getting everyone on track before the catamaran really settles into the cruise portion.

Stop 2: Platja Des Coll Baix for secluded swimming (about 20 minutes)

Your first meaningful anchoring stop is Platja Des Coll Baix, a small cove described as tough to reach by foot or car. That’s part of the charm: you’re arriving by sea, so it feels more private than most beaches around busy areas.

Time is about 20 minutes, so it’s perfect for:

• A first dip to cool off
• A quick snorkel loop if you want to see what’s nearby
• Sunbathing while you still have energy

Short stop = you’ll feel the urgency in a good way. Don’t overthink it: jump in, take in the water, then move on when the time ends.

Stop 3: Cala Murta / Cala d’Engossalba for the long lunch + swim block (about 1.5 hours)

This is the heart of the day. The catamaran anchors at Cala Murta (listed alongside Cala d’Engossalba in the route description), and the stop lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes—including the BBQ prep and meal service.

This is where you get the most flexibility:

• Use the snorkel equipment (no extra charge is stated for the onboard snorkel gear)
• Use kayaks and paddle boards
• Swim near the catamaran or relax onboard while the crew handles food

The vibe here is “stay as long as you want within the time window.” It’s the stop where a busy day stays enjoyable because the sea time keeps coming in waves. If you only swim once, make it here.

Stop 4: Aucanada Beach and the lighthouse photo break (about 20 minutes)

After lunch and unwinding, there’s a final short stop near Aucanada Beach and by the lighthouse. Expect about 20 minutes—just enough time to cool off and grab photos of the coastline and the light station.

This stop is smaller by design. Don’t expect another long “swim-and-snorkel” block. It’s more like a bonus reset before heading back.

Formentor views: what you can expect (and what you shouldn’t assume)

You’ll also enjoy views of the Formentor beach from the catamaran. Here’s the key caution: some people come in thinking they’ll reach Formentor itself. Based on the route info you have, what you should count on is seeing it from the water, with no promise of a full land visit like an on-foot hike.

So if your dream is to stand on Formentor, you may want a different type of trip. If your dream is scenic coastline shots plus water time, you’re in the right place.

End: Port d’Alcúdia sightseeing and wrap-up (about 2 hours 45 minutes)

The final portion includes time around Port d’Alcúdia with scenic views, and the activity ends back near where you started.

If you like shorelines and you want a calmer way to finish the day, that wrap-up helps. If you’re prone to getting sun-worn quickly, this is also when you can slow down, hydrate, and let the day settle in your body.

BBQ on Board: What You Get, Drinks Included, and How to Plan

Let’s talk food, because it’s the main reason this cruise feels like a “day trip” instead of just a sightseeing boat ride.

During the main stop, the crew serves BBQ lunch or dinner onboard. The included menu is described as:

• Grilled meats (chicken, pork, and sausages)
• Fresh pasta salad made with mallorcan tomatoes and vegetables
• Bread
• Seasonal fruit for dessert

You’ll also get two drinks during the meal, listed as orange, water, and sangria. After that, a bar service is available for extra drinks throughout the day.

If you’re trying to budget, this matters. Extra drinks are not included, and one person shared that beer was about €5 for a 400 ml serving. Prices can vary, but it gives you a realistic sense of the bar’s cost level.

Vegetarians: the data doesn’t list a vegetarian BBQ option. One person noted limited options and relied on bread and pasta. If you eat vegetarian most of the time, I’d plan for:

• Bread + pasta salad as your backup
• Bringing a small snack from shore if you’re picky about protein

Also, remember that this is “eaten at sea” food. It’s good, practical, and filling—not a fine-dining production.

Price and Value: Is $86.51 a Smart Trade for Your Time?

At about $86.51 per person for roughly 5 hours, the value comes from three things working together:

1) Water time in multiple coves, including the longer lunch stop

2) Onboard equipment use (snorkel + kayaks/paddle items are stated as available during the swim portion)

3) A cooked onboard BBQ, with drinks included during the meal

If you’ve ever paid for boat days where you get only a few quick minutes near the water and then spend most of the time stuck aboard, this one is set up differently. The schedule gives you real “get in the sea” time—short swims at the first cove, then a longer stop that covers lunch plus extended activities.

The one value trade-off: drinks outside the included meal cost extra, and a full boat can feel busy. Still, for a half-day plan where you can swim, snorkel, eat hot food, and avoid driving from beach to beach, this is often priced fairly for Mallorca.

Who Should Book This Mallorca Catamaran Cruise (and Who Should Skip)

This works best for people who want:

• Swim-first day trips with minimal planning
• A casual BBQ meal without finding a restaurant
• Scenic coastline time around the Alcúdia area

You’ll probably enjoy it if you’re flexible and you don’t need every photo to come with a land stop.

You might skip it if:

• You need guaranteed Formentor access on foot (the route states views from the catamaran)
• You’re extremely sensitive to crowds on a larger boat
• You require specific meal accommodations beyond what’s described

Solo travelers often like trips like this because the boat makes it easy to share space without needing constant conversation. Families can also work well here, as long as kids are comfortable with boat movement and the swim stops are supervised to your standards.

Small Details That Make the Day Better (Not Harder)

I’d pack like you’re going to the beach for a while, because you are—just with a boat involved.

Bring:

• Sun cream
• A camera or phone for lighthouse and bay shots
• Water-resistant flip-flops or sandals for moving on and off deck

Also consider:

• If you’re prone to getting cold in wind after swimming, bring a light layer for late afternoon.
• If you’re set on snorkeling, you can bring your own mask/fins if you want full control. The trip states snorkel equipment is available, but one person mentioned paying for snorkeling equipment. So don’t assume perfect availability of every item for every person.

You can also bring your own food and drinks, but there’s bar service onboard with inexpensive drink purchases. If you’re trying to keep costs down, bring water snacks and then use the included meal as your “main event.”

Should You Book This Mallorca Catamaran Cruise?

I’d book it if your ideal Mallorca day looks like: anchor in a pretty cove, swim and snorkel a bit, eat a hot BBQ onboard, then do one more photo stop before heading back. The combination of multiple swim windows plus an included meal is the real draw, and the timing is solid for people who don’t want a long, exhausting excursion.

I wouldn’t book it if your main goal is a guaranteed land visit to Formentor or Cap-style viewpoints. Based on the route details, you’re mainly getting views from the catamaran, not a walk-on adventure.

If you want easy value with real time on the water, this is a strong choice from the Alcúdia side. If you want precision land stops, look for a different itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the Mallorca catamaran cruise?

The cruise lasts about 5 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Passeig Marítim, 18, 07400 Alcúdia, Illes Balears, Spain and ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s included with the BBQ lunch or dinner?

The included meal includes BBQ items (meats), pasta salad, bread, and fresh fruit, plus 2 drinks during the meal (orange, water, and sangria).

Are snorkeling and water activities included?

Snorkel equipment and the catamaran’s kayaks are described as available during the main stop without extra charge, and you can also swim near the boat or relax onboard.

Does the itinerary ever change?

Yes. The route may change depending on wind, time, or weather for safety reasons.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What are the cancellation terms?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid isn’t refunded.

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