A day on the water can be this simple. This 5 hour catamaran cruise out of Port d’Alcúdia mixes easy sailing with planned swim time, a lunch stop in a sheltered cove, and hands on water activities while the crew handles food. I like how the pacing is built around short breaks from planning, not long stretches of waiting, and you get a clear sense of the Alcúdia coastline in one outing.

What I especially like is the mix of anchored swimming spots and photo friendly stretches of coast, including views toward Aucanada. I also like that during the longer cove stop in the Bay of Pollensa, you can use snorkel gear and a kayak on board with no extra charge while lunch is prepared. My one caution: this is a popular half day style boat, and several comments point to crowding on board, limited space in shade, and limited equipment at peak times.

If you go in with realistic expectations, this cruise can feel like a smooth Mallorca “day at sea” without the hassle of making separate beach plans. Just remember, you are paying for the water time and the route, and onboard food and drinks are more basic and more budget sensitive than some people hope for.

Quick Key Points Before You Go

• Two planned swimming anchorages: Coll Baix for about 20 minutes, then a longer Bay of Pollensa stop for about 1 hour
• Snorkel and kayak time during the lunch stop at Puerto de Pollensa, included with no extra charge
• Scenic sailing route along the bay of Alcúdia, including lighthouse of Aucanada and nearby cliffs for photos
• Lunch is simple and not designed as a fancy menu, so plan around that
• Bring your own water if you want control since drinks can cost extra outside lunch time
• Max 110 people means expect a lively boat, especially in hot months

Leaving Port d’Alcúdia at 10:00: what the first hour is really like

You meet at Transports Maritims BRISAP, Passeig Marítim, 07410 Port d’Alcúdia and the cruise runs from 10:00 am for about 5 hours total. The departure is relaxed in the way good water days usually are. You sail along the bay of Alcúdia right away, so you get moving views fast instead of spending your morning stuck dockside.

This “starter sailing” matters because it sets the tone. You are not just cruising in a straight line, you’re traveling along the coast so you can spot the coastline character from the water. One review described smooth sailing and good weather, and that’s exactly the kind of comfort you want before your swim stops.

Also, pay attention to timing if you’re the type who hates rushing. The schedule includes short and fixed swim windows, so being on time at the start helps you enjoy the whole arc of the day rather than missing the best light for photos.

Sailing past Aucanada: easy photo time without a long scenic slog

One of the nice pieces here is that the route is already designed for sightseeing. As you continue along the coastline, you pass the lighthouse of Aucanada and nearby cliffs, with a chance to grab photos while the boat keeps moving.

This part is valuable for two reasons. First, it lets you build a quick mental map of this side of Mallorca. Alcúdia is big enough that land travel can feel like puzzle pieces, but from the water, the coastline is clear. Second, you get a scenic “in between” moment, not just swim stop then food then swim stop.

If you like photography, bring your phone on a lanyard or in a secure pocket. Catamaran movement plus salty air equals the kind of moment you never plan for, and it’s the small stuff that keeps the day stress free.

Stop at Platja Des Coll Baix: short swim, real-water feel

Your first anchored swim stop is Platja Des Coll Baix. You drop anchor and you can swim and sunbathe in the clear Mediterranean water for about 20 minutes. The big advantage of a short stop like this is freshness. You’re not tired from a long wait, and you can treat it like a quick reset, rinse, and swim.

The drawback is also obvious: 20 minutes goes fast. If you want a deep snorkel session or you need time to change, take it slow on board before you arrive. Think of this as a “dip and enjoy the water” stop, not a full beach day.

If you’re traveling with people who hate crowds, this stop can feel calmer than the busy shore because it’s anchored time on the water. Still, you’ll be in the general channel of a group cruise, so expect a shared vibe rather than total solitude.

Bay of Pollensa stop with lunch: where snorkel and kayak time happen

The most important part of the day is your longer stop at Playa del Puerto de Pollensa in the Bay of Pollensa. The boat anchors here for about 1 hour while the crew prepares lunch. This is where the cruise becomes more than sightseeing.

During this stop, you can use snorkel equipment and a kayak on board with no extra charge. That single detail changes the value. You’re not just paying to be near the water, you’re getting the chance to move in it, look under the surface, and try something active without signing up for an additional add on.

A practical way to maximize your hour: get your swim gear ready before the lunch prep period fully ramps up. When crews are busy, it can be harder to track equipment and timing, and you don’t want to waste your best water window looking for the snorkel.

Also keep expectations realistic. Even with included equipment, multiple comments mention limited sharing when the boat is crowded. If you’re set on kayak or snorkel, go early in the stop window and don’t wait until everyone else has already changed.

Lunch on board: simple food, plan around diet needs and drink costs

Lunch is part of the Bay of Pollensa stop, and several comments describe it as basic. One comment notes everyone gets the same lunch, and another says the selection was poor and listed items like pork, chicken, and a sausage with pasta salad. Others mention gluten free options were available, which is a good sign, but the overall message is that this is not a customizable buffet.

What this means for you:

• If you eat a standard Mediterranean style menu, you’ll probably be fine with a simple meal.
• If you have dietary restrictions, you should treat the lunch as potentially limiting and plan extra snacks.
• If you care about vegetarian variety, expect less choice based on feedback.

Drinks are another budget factor. Multiple comments say drinks, including water, cost extra, and that beer might not be included as some people expect. One detail that comes up is that drinks can be free only during lunch time, often described as one drink per person. So if you’re trying to keep the day’s total cost predictable, bring your own water when allowed or budget for onboard purchases.

And here’s the slightly humorous truth about boat food: it tastes better after a swim, but you still want enough fuel. If you know you get hungry, pack a snack or two for the gap between the morning departure and the lunch stop.

Crowds, shade, and equipment sharing: the main tradeoff

This cruise is designed for a group, with a stated max of 110 travelers. That’s not automatically bad. In fact, one positive comment specifically liked having the day at sea with only about 50 other people, and said opportunities to swim and use equipment were good.

But another side shows up in the feedback: some people felt the boat was overcrowded, with not enough space for sunbathing and limited shade. The equipment can also become a bottleneck if everyone wants snorkel, kayak, or other water time at once.

So I suggest you plan like this:

• If shade matters, get to the most shaded spots early during the cove stop.
• If you want to use the kayak or snorkel, head out early in the anchored window.
• If crowds stress you out, go in knowing you are not booking a private charter.

This is the one consideration that can turn a “great day” into a “wasted day” for some people. The scenery can still be beautiful, but comfort and access determine whether you enjoy the trip while it’s hot and busy.

Comfort and timing: what 5 hours gets you (and what it doesn’t)

Five hours is a sweet spot for many Mallorca itineraries because it fits between other plans. You’re not committing to an all day bus tour, and you’re still getting meaningful water time: short swim at Coll Baix and a longer lunch and activity stop at Puerto de Pollensa.

The timing is also tight enough that you’ll likely spend less time sitting and more time moving. In good weather, that feels great. In rougher conditions or in intense sun, it can feel like you’re always either preparing or waiting for the next anchored moment.

Weather matters here. This experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. I strongly recommend choosing this on a day when you can afford to reschedule.

Price value check at about $86.50 per person

At $86.50 per person, you’re paying for a packaged half day: boat ride plus curated swim stops and onboard lunch. The value depends on how you compare it.

If you’re trying to avoid planning beach transfers and you want simple swim access, this can feel like good value. It’s also easier than renting your own boat or building a day around multiple coves.

If you’re comparing it to buying food and drinks yourself, it’s a mixed bag. Lunch is described as basic, and drinks are often extra. Several comments call out that the final cost can feel high once you add drinks. So if you like beer, cocktails, or water you sip constantly in heat, this price can climb.

Bottom line from a value point of view:

• Great value when you fully use the water time (snorkel and kayak) and keep drinks simple.
• Less value when you expect a more varied lunch menu or lots of included refreshments.
• Worth it if your goal is coastline orientation plus a couple swims, not a luxury meal and private cove time.

Who should book this cruise, and who should skip it

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A low effort half day from Port d’Alcúdia with planned swim time
• A chance to try snorkel and kayak during the longer cove stop
• A straightforward way to see sections of Mallorca coastline quickly

Skip it or think twice if you:

• Want lots of vegetarian choices or dietary customization at lunch
• Easily get annoyed by crowds and limited shade
• Expect drinks to be included beyond lunch

If you’re traveling with kids, one comment said the boat included young children without ruining the experience for everyone, and staff worked to keep the day smooth. Still, crowded decks can be a reality in summer, so bring patience and plan for simple fun.

Should you book the Catamaran Cruise From Port d’Alcúdia?

Book it if your priority is time on the water, a couple of curated swim moments, and included snorkel and kayak during the Bay of Pollensa lunch stop. I also think it’s a good match if you like your Mallorca days structured but not intense.

Don’t book it if you’re hungry for a standout lunch experience, you need many dietary options, or you know you hate crowds and limited deck space. This cruise can look and feel great from the water, but it’s still a shared boat day with real limits on shade and equipment.

If you do book, go in with a plan: bring your swim stuff ready, arrive on time for the 10:00 am departure, and budget for drinks. With that mindset, you’ll get the best parts of the trip without letting the tradeoffs take over your day.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The tour lasts about 5 hours.

What time does the cruise depart?

It starts at 10:00 am.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Transports Maritims BRISAP, Passeig Marítim, 07410 Port d’Alcúdia, Illes Balears, Spain.

Does the cruise include lunch?

Yes, lunch is served during the longer stop at Playa del Puerto de Pollensa while the crew prepares it.

Where do the swim stops happen and how long are they?

The schedule includes Platja Des Coll Baix (about 20 minutes) and Playa del Puerto de Pollensa (about 1 hour).

Are snorkel gear and a kayak included?

At the Playa del Puerto de Pollensa stop, snorkel equipment and a kayak on board are available with no extra charge.

What language is the experience offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

How big is the group?

The maximum group size is 110 travelers.

Is cancellation free?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What happens if the weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.