Manilva Catamaran Sailing: Tapas, Swim Stop & Dolphins

Summary

Catamaran sailing along Manilva’s coast with dolphins, tapas and swim stop

You’ll sail from Manilva’s marina along the Costa del Sol on a small catamaran with local crew—tasting homemade tapas, sipping cava or beer, maybe spotting dolphins if luck’s on your side. There’s time for swimming or snorkeling in quiet coves before heading back sun-warmed and smiling. It’s relaxed, personal, and leaves you feeling lighter than when you started.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the gentle clinking of glasses as we stepped onto the catamaran at Marina de la Duquesa. There were only a handful of us—ten at most—and our skipper greeted everyone by name, which felt oddly comforting. The salt in the air mixed with the faint smell of sunscreen and cava. We drifted out past the breakwater and suddenly everything got quieter except for the soft slap of water against the hull. Someone pointed—dolphins! Not close enough to touch or anything, but you could see their fins arching in and out of the water. I didn’t expect to actually see them, honestly.

Our hostess brought out homemade tapas—little bites that tasted like someone’s grandmother had made them (in a good way). I tried to ask what one dish was called in Spanish but totally butchered it; she just laughed and poured me another glass of wine. The Costa del Sol looks different from the water—like you’re sneaking a peek behind the usual postcard views. Sunlight glinted off whitewashed houses up on the cliffs. At some point, we anchored in a quiet cove where you could hear nothing but distant gulls and people’s laughter echoing off the water.

I hesitated before jumping in—the water looked so clear it almost didn’t seem real—but then it was cool and salty and woke me right up. Some folks snorkeled around while others just floated next to the boat. I remember lying back and watching clouds drift by overhead, thinking how rare it is to feel that weightless (not just from swimming). On the way back, everyone seemed a little sun-dazed and happy. Our guide said something about “leaving with a smile,” which sounded cheesy at first but… yeah, he was right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran sailing and swim stop

• Depart from Marina de la Duquesa
• Sail along Costa del Sol coastline
• Look out for dolphins
• Anchor for swim stop if possible
• Swim in crystal clear water
• Return to the marina

Top questions

How many people are on the Manilva catamaran sailing tour?

The tour has a maximum of 10 people per trip.

Does this Manilva sailing trip include food and drinks?

Yes, homemade tapas and one welcome drink (cava, wine, beer or soft drink) are included.

Is there a chance to swim during this catamaran experience?

Yes, if wind and waves allow it, there will be an extensive swim stop with snorkelling equipment available.

Where does the catamaran depart from?

The tour departs from Marina de la Duquesa in Manilva.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this day trip?

No, dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed—they depend on luck.

Is this sailing experience suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at Marina de la Duquesa.

What’s included

Your day includes a round-trip sailing from Marina de la Duquesa with an experienced skipper and friendly hostess; homemade tapas served onboard; one welcome drink (choose cava, wine, beer or soft drink); use of snorkelling gear during swim stops; plus all fuel costs, insurance and taxes are covered so you can just relax into it all.