Snorkeling in Mallorca: Sunset Catamaran to Cala Vella

What makes a sunset catamaran different from a beach day: a boat that becomes the destination itself.

A 4.5-hour sunset catamaran cruise from Palma through the marine reserve to Cala Vella in Mallorca, with snorkeling gear, an onboard slide, drinks and catering included. Three deck zones let you choose your vibe—general seating, a reserved terrace with sea views, or the VIP lounge with sunbeds and premium service. The boat runs Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with a DJ on board.

The Experience

The catamaran leaves Palma and heads into the marine reserve, crossing the entire bay with clear water below. The boat itself is the draw here: three separate zones mean you're not packed in with everyone else, and the decks are built for lingering—chill-out music, a bar, and food that actually tastes like something. The slide on board is there if you want it; plenty of people just float and watch the light change.

At Cala Vella, the water stops and the choice starts. Snorkeling gear is ready if you want to go under; the slide is there if you'd rather stay on the surface and cool off. Either way, you're in the reserve's clearest water, and the boat holds position so you're not fighting a current. A drink comes with your ticket—water, beer, or sangria depending on which zone you booked—and the catering menu runs to chicken brioche, hummus, roast beef rolls and fruit, not the usual cruise-ship bread.

The three zones matter more than they sound. General admission is open deck, no reservation. Premium adds a reserved terrace with sea views, hammocks, and a second drink. VIP is the upper deck with personal sunbeds, towels, two beers or soft drinks per person, and a separate slide area—18+ only, same as Premium. All three include the same snorkeling gear and the same stop at Cala Vella; the difference is where you sit and what the bar pours. Pick the zone that matches your mood when you book.

What’s included

• Snorkeling glasses and tube.
• onboard slide.
• one drink per person (water, beer, sangria, or soft drinks depending on zone).
• catering menu with brioche, hummus, roast beef rolls, fruit and salad.
• government fees and insurance.
• 10€ deposit for snorkeling equipment (refundable).

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Sa Calma Boats

Is this one for you?Book Premium or VIP if you want reserved space and a second drink—the terrace and sunbeds fill up fast on sunset departures. General admission works just as well if you're happy on the main deck and don't mind the open seating; you get the same snorkeling stop, the same slide, and the same food.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What's the difference between the three deck zones?

General area is open seating on the main deck, included with all tickets. Premium adds a reserved terrace with sea views, hammocks, and an extra drink. VIP is the upper deck with personal sunbeds, towels, two complimentary drinks per person, and exclusive access to a separate slide area—Premium and VIP are 18+ only.

Does the catamaran run every day?

The boat runs Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with a DJ on board those days. Other departures may operate on different schedules; check the booking calendar for your preferred date.

What's included in the catering?

The menu includes chicken brioche with piripiri sauce, hummus, bread rolls with roast beef and arugula, fruit, and salad. One drink per person is included—water, beer, or sangria in General and Premium zones; water, beer, sangria, or soft drinks in VIP.

Is snorkeling gear provided, or do I bring my own?

Snorkeling material—glasses and tube—is included with all ticket types. A 10€ deposit is required for the equipment and returned when you give it back at the end of the cruise.

Can I bring children on this cruise?

The cruise is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Premium and VIP zones are restricted to 18+ only, but children can book General admission, which includes snorkeling gear, the slide, drinks and catering.