Cala Vella looks unreal from the water. This Palma deluxe catamaran tour on the Oasis keeps things relaxing and scenic, and I especially like Cala Vella for the clear coves and jump-off spots, plus the max 36 guest limit for a calmer, more comfortable ride.

One thing to watch: the meeting point can be hard to spot, and you won’t get snorkeling masks or tubes rented for hygienic reasons—plan to bring your own or buy a set onboard for €25.

Key things I’d clock before you go

• Only 36 guests max on a 57-person catamaran means you’re not battling for space
• Cala Vella swim stop with time to paddle, snorkel, or just float and recharge
• Day tour BBQ vs sunset tapas keeps the meal matched to the vibe
• Unlimited water is included, while cocktails and mixed drinks cost extra
• SUP equipment included, plus you can usually snorkel if you have the gear

The Oasis catamaran: “deluxe” that feels practical on the water

The ship here is the Oasis, a sleek catamaran built for comfort and easy movement. With up to 57 people in theory, it matters a lot that they cap your tour at 36 guests. That one choice changes the whole feel: you get real room to sit, move around, and take photos without feeling packed like a day-trip bus.

Onboard, you’re not just sitting on a bench watching the coast. The catamaran setup makes it easy to hang out in the sun, cool off near the water, and get ready for the swimming stop without long waits or cramped lines. I also like that the bathrooms are described as clean and well cared for, with two bathrooms onboard, so you’re not making a slow shuffle whenever nature calls.

Palma catamaran in daylight vs sunset: BBQ lunch or tapas with views

This tour comes in two flavors, and picking the right one really depends on what you want the food and atmosphere to be.

Daytime option: sail out, swim, then BBQ on board

You typically leave Palma and head toward Cala Vella, a natural reserve known for coves with clear water. There’s a swimming stop built into the itinerary, then the day tour includes a BBQ prepared onboard. After that meal, you get more water time with paddle boards and snorkeling options.

Day tours can feel like the best fit if you want:

• solid daylight for swimming and photos
• a full lunch without thinking about extra costs
• a relaxed return before evening plans kick off

Sunset option: swim first, then tapas as the old town lights up

The sunset cruise also goes toward Cala Vella for a swim, but the meal changes. Instead of BBQ, you’ll enjoy tapas and canapés while you watch the Mallorca sunset unfold. The return sail is part of the show too, with views back toward Palma’s old town and the Cathedral.

One key detail: the sunset option is adults only (+18). If you’re traveling with teens or kids, you’ll want the daytime tour.

Cala Vella swim stop: your time to jump, paddle, or snorkel

The real center of gravity on this trip is the swim at Cala Vella. This is where you trade land heat for open-water cool air and where the water-activity options actually matter.

Plan to arrive ready to move. You’re sailing in a relaxed rhythm, then you get a swim stop with time to:

• jump off the boat
• use paddle boards (SUP)
• snorkel if you have the mask and tube

A useful heads-up: snorkeling masks and tubes can’t be rented due to hygiene rules. You can bring your own, or buy a snorkeling set onboard for €25. If you forget yours, you’ll still be able to enjoy the swim and paddle boards, but snorkeling specifically will be on you.

Also, keep an eye on your comfort. The ride can be a little choppy at times, and if you’re sensitive to motion, it’s smart to bring your own travel sickness tablets.

Food and drinks onboard: what’s included, what costs extra

This is one of the better-value parts of the tour because the meal is actually part of the experience, not an afterthought.

What’s included

• Day tour: appetizers and BBQ at lunchtime
• Sunset tour: tapas and canapés
• Unlimited water throughout the trip
• SUP equipment
• Insurance

From the way the trip is run, the food is designed to be eaten while you’re already in “vacation mode.” The day tour BBQ is prepared onboard, and the portion size is described as plentiful enough that you won’t feel like you got a token bite and then paid for lunch later.

What costs extra

A bar onboard stays open during the excursion, so you can order drinks whenever you want. But don’t expect alcohol to be free. Water is included, while cocktails and mixed drinks are extra. Based on recent pricing shared with the tour team, cocktails tend to land around €15–€18, and some reviews mention €18–€20 depending on the drink.

If you want to budget, think this way: the tour fee covers the sailing, the core meal, and the included water activities; you’re paying for the fun-to-sip extras.

SUP, snorkeling, and the little “wait your turn” truth

The tour includes SUP equipment, and it’s one of those inclusions that actually gets used. With a smaller group (max 36), you’re not stuck watching everyone else paddle around. Still, you may need to wait for your turn when multiple people want to use the boards at the same time. That’s normal—especially during the swim window when everyone hits the water.

Snorkeling is also available, but again, the mask and tube situation is strict. You can bring your own gear, or buy a set onboard for €25. That means you should pack thoughtfully if snorkeling is your priority, because the boat won’t hand it to you.

If you’re not into snorkeling, you’ll still have plenty to do. The boat-jump time plus SUP gives you two very different ways to enjoy the water without needing to be a strong swimmer or a gear expert.

Getting on and off in Palma: meeting point tips that prevent stress

Logistics can make or break a short tour like this, and this one has a small quirk. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked, and reviews highlight that there isn’t always a clear sign.

Here’s how I’d handle it to reduce stress:

• Use the map pin if it’s provided
• arrive early enough to calmly locate the correct pier
• wait by the quay near the stairs and parked cars area
• watch for crew members to check you in

Once you’re there, it usually runs smoothly. The boat also comes to pick you up from the same spot, so if you’re standing in the right place, you won’t miss it.

For timing changes, your best tool is message updates. Some departures have location updates shared through WhatsApp, not necessarily just through the app.

Onboard comfort rules: why it stays relaxed

Part of what makes this feel “deluxe” is that it doesn’t turn into chaos. The rules are clear: no party groups, and they discourage disruptive behavior. There are also restrictions like no pets and no drones, plus limits around things like outside food or drinks.

It’s not just about being strict. It directly affects the vibe:

• less noise
• more space on deck
• better overall experience for people who just want to sail, swim, and eat

One more comfort note: casual attire is recommended, and swimwear is expected. You’ll want practical shoes too, since high-heeled shoes aren’t allowed and indoor shoes are treated as a no-go. In practice, light sandals or water-friendly footwear are usually your best bet.

What weather can do to your itinerary

This is the Mediterranean, so the sea state matters. The trip can be amended due to weather conditions, which is normal for sailing. If the forecast looks rough, the good news is that you’re still in a professional setup on the Oasis, and a smaller group limit helps keep things manageable.

If you go in shoulder season, you might also catch small comfort touches. For example, some evenings include things like blankets when it gets chilly on the return.

Who this tour fits best (and who should skip it)

This is a strong pick if you want a mix of:

• scenic sailing from Palma
• real time in the water at a place like Cala Vella
• a plated meal experience onboard (BBQ lunch or sunset tapas)
• fewer people and more breathing room thanks to the 36-guest cap

It’s also a good fit for couples and anniversaries. The sunset option in particular is described as romantic, with many people leaning into the relaxed evening feel rather than turning it into a party.

You might want to choose something else if:

• you’re traveling with minors and want sunset (sunset is adults only)
• you’re hoping snorkeling gear is provided (it isn’t; masks/tubes aren’t rented)
• you want an all-inclusive bar package (alcohol is available, but you’ll pay extra)

Price and value: what $97 buys you on the Oasis

At $97 per person, the value comes from the bundle, not just the sailing. You’re paying for:

• the luxury catamaran cruise experience
• a meal that matches the tour (BBQ or tapas)
• unlimited water
• SUP included
• insurance

If you compare it to cheap day trips that are basically “ride + snack + surprise costs,” this one is more predictable. The onboard food is part of the rhythm of the trip, not a separate purchase you forget until it’s too late.

Yes, drinks like cocktails cost extra, but that’s common on boats. If you keep alcohol spending reasonable, you’ll still feel like you got your money’s worth—especially because the tour is intentionally not overcrowded.

Should you book the Oasis catamaran tour?

I’d book this if your Mallorca trip includes water time and you want it to feel comfortable and grown-up. The big reasons are simple: a swim stop at Cala Vella, included SUP, and a real meal onboard—plus the fact that they keep group sizes small at max 36.

Skip it (or switch to another option) if snorkeling is your must-do and you don’t plan to bring a mask and tube, or if you need a family-friendly sunset slot. And if you’re prone to motion sickness, pack your travel tablets before you ever leave Palma.

If you want a smooth few hours on the water with the right amount of food and play, this is the kind of catamaran day you’ll still remember when the beach gets crowded again.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran tour?

The duration is about 4 to 4.5 hours, depending on the option and conditions.

Where does the tour go for swimming?

The main swimming stop is at Cala Vella.

What food is included on the day vs sunset tours?

The daytime option includes a BBQ onboard with appetizers and lunch. The sunset option includes dinner-style tapas and canapés.

Are drinks included?

Unlimited water is included. A bar onboard is open during the trip, but drinks like cocktails and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options are not included.

Can I rent snorkeling mask and tube on board?

No. Snorkeling masks and tubes can’t be rented for hygienic reasons. You can bring your own or buy a snorkeling set for €25 on the boat.

What water activities are included?

SUP equipment is included, and snorkeling is available.

Is the sunset cruise suitable for children?

No. The sunset option is adults only (+18 years old).

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