Sal Island Catamaran Cruise: Lounge Decks, Swimming & Drinks

Summary

Catamaran day trip from Palmeira with swimming stops, drinks and snacks

You’ll sail from Palmeira on Sal Island aboard a spacious catamaran with open lounge decks and plenty of room to relax. Enjoy unlimited drinks, fresh snacks, swimming stops—including a floating pool—and maybe even spot turtles or whales depending on the season. It’s an easygoing day where comfort comes first and time slows down just enough for you to notice.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not going to want to get up,” Li grinned at me as I sank into the bean bag netting, the sea just inches below my toes. I’d never been on a catamaran this roomy—plenty of space to flop down, stretch out, or wander over to the bar (which, by the way, never seemed to run out of cold beer). We left Palmeira’s painted houses behind in a blur of music and chatter, the crew already joking with us about our sunscreen technique (“not enough!” they laughed). The breeze smelled faintly salty but warm—hard to describe unless you’ve felt it yourself.

The main keyword here is “catamaran cruise Sal Island” but honestly, what stuck with me wasn’t just the boat. It was when we drifted near Murdeira bay—the guide pointed out Monte Leão, looking exactly like a sleeping lion if you squint (I tried and sort of saw it). Someone spotted turtles bobbing up near the surface; apparently summer’s their big moment here. I missed snapping a photo because I was too slow—classic—but it didn’t really matter. The water was so clear you could see right down to the bottom when we stopped and they set up this inflatable pool thing off the back. Kids squealed; adults kind of did too.

On the way back toward Palmeira again, I caught sight of Serra Negra off in the distance—the “Black Mountain.” The guide said it’s part of a natural reserve and sometimes you can spot whales in February or March if you’re lucky (we weren’t, but that’s nature for you). The snack came out just as everyone started getting hungry—a simple thing but fresh, and for some reason food always tastes better at sea. There were towels for everyone who swam and USB ports for charging phones (not that anyone wanted to look at theirs much). I still think about that lazy feeling after swimming, sun-warmed and happy—like you could stay out there forever.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour from Palmeira to Murdeira Bay

• Depart from Palmeira fishing village
• Admire Serra Negra mountain and lunar landscape
• Stop at Murdeira Bay near Monte Leao mountain
• Enjoy unlimited drinks and freshly prepared snack
• Relax on open sitting areas and lounge beds
• Use private inflatable pool when boat stops

Top questions

Does this Sal Island catamaran cruise include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Are drinks included on the catamaran day trip?

Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included during the cruise.

Can I swim during the catamaran tour from Palmeira?

Yes, there are swimming stops with access to a floating pool if weather allows.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on board?

Snorkeling gear is available for guests to use during swim stops.

Are there chances to see turtles or whales?

Turtles may be seen June–October; whales February–March. Sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is this cruise suitable for families with children?

The tour welcomes all ages; infants can ride in strollers or sit on laps. Specialized seats are available.

How many people are allowed on board?

The catamaran holds up to 75 guests per tour for comfort.

Are towels provided during the trip?

Towels are provided for all guests who wish to swim or relax on deck.

What’s included

Your outing includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation on Sal Island, all-day access to a spacious catamaran with lounge beds and open seating areas, unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks throughout the cruise, freshly prepared snacks served onboard, use of snorkeling equipment if you want to explore in the water, towels for drying off after swimming stops (including time in the inflatable floating pool if weather allows), plus live entertainment from the friendly crew before heading back in comfort.