Benalmádena: Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day on the water in Andalusia, this Benalmádena catamaran cruise might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-loved experience that combines comfort, scenery, and a touch of adventure. Think sipping complimentary drinks as you cruise the Mediterranean, catching glimpses of playful dolphins, and jumping into the cool sea for a refreshing swim.

What really shines about this cruise? Its small group size means you’ll likely feel more like a guest than just another tourist. Plus, the crew’s reputation for being friendly and knowledgeable makes the experience feel personal and authentic. The stunning coastline views, combined with the possibility of seeing dolphins right next to your boat, are definite highlights. However, it’s worth noting that dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, which can be a bit of a gamble. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic outing with chances for a swim, especially those seeking a more intimate boat experience rather than crowded excursions.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Free drinks are included, making the cruise enjoyable without extra costs.
• Dolphin sightings are possible but not guaranteed; the crew shares stories and info along the way.
• Swim stop allows you to jump in and cool off in the Mediterranean.
• Experienced crew like Captain Jason and Emily are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Price point offers good value for a 2-hour luxury experience with plenty of scenic and fun moments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from Your Catamaran Experience

This tour promises a blend of leisure, wildlife watching, and water fun—all packed into two hours. Meeting at the berth of Borrasca, next to the parasailing boats, the gathering point is straightforward and easy to find. You’ll hop aboard a 44-foot luxury catamaran with space for up to 12 guests, ensuring a cozy but comfortable setting that’s far from overcrowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The voyage kicks off with a one-hour cruise along the coast of Benalmádena and Torremolinos, offering sweeping views of the shoreline, cliffs, and resorts. As you glide over clean Mediterranean waters, keep an eye out for sightings of dolphins, whales, and sunfish, which are often spotted. The crew, like Captain Jason and Emily, are known for sharing stories and insights about the marine life and local tales, adding an educational touch to the trip.

Approximately 30 minutes are dedicated to dolphin watching, where many guests have reported seeing pods of dolphins swimming close to the boat, sometimes racing alongside or jumping out of the water. The reviews are filled with accounts of magical dolphin encounters, with some travelers lucky enough to see several pods, including baby dolphins.

Following the dolphin watch, there’s a 10-minute swim stop. The crew finds a calm, scenic spot where you can jump into the sea, paddleboard, or simply sunbathe on the boat. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated this break—a chance to cool off, take photos, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The last leg of the trip involves a 20-minute return cruise back to the marina, providing more opportunities for photos and relaxation. The entire experience wraps up at the Benalmádena Marina, where you can easily continue your day exploring or heading to local cafes.

What Makes This Experience Special

• Luxury and Comfort: The catamaran’s spacious deck is designed for relaxation, with plenty of room to lounge, chat, or sunbathe. Many reviewers comment on how immaculately maintained and clean the boat is, which adds to the overall enjoyment.
• Personalized Service: The crew’s attentive attitude makes guests feel valued. As one reviewer noted, “Jason and Emily were lovely and made the experience 5-star,” highlighting the crew’s friendly, engaging approach.
• Wildlife Encounters: While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests have reported seeing dolphins racing beside the boat or swimming underneath. Several reviews mention that seeing dolphins felt like a once-in-a-lifetime moment, thanks to the proximity and playful behavior of the marine life.
• Affordable Luxury: At $53 per person, the trip offers a lot, including drinks, a swim stop, and the chance to see marine animals—making it better value than many similar experiences in the area.

The Itinerary in Detail

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Starting Point and Boarding

The trip begins at C. La Fragata, 4, a convenient and easy-to-find location. Guests are greeted by friendly staff who offer a complimentary drink to kickstart the journey. The small group size means you’re not crammed in—this is a big plus for comfort and interaction.

Cruising the Coastline

The hour-long cruise along the coast provides breathtaking views of the shoreline, cliffs, and possibly some hidden coves. Many reviewers mention how relaxing and scenic the boat ride is, especially with the gentle breeze and sunshine. Watching the coast slide past, with the backdrop of the azure sea, makes for perfect photo opportunities.

Dolphin Watching

The second segment is dedicated to spotting dolphins, which many find to be the highlight. Reviewers describe the thrill of seeing pods of dolphins swimming alongside the boat, sometimes jumping out of the water. The crew, renowned for their knowledge, often narrate facts about the marine life, adding educational value. Keep your camera ready—these moments can be fleeting but spectacular.

Swimming and Relaxation

The 10-minute swim stop is widely praised. Guests jump into the calm, inviting waters, with some even trying paddleboarding, as many reviews mention. The crew provides life jackets and ensures safety, making it suitable for families and less confident swimmers. The chance to cool off in the open water with the coastline stretching around you is a significant perk.

Return and Reflection

The final 20-minute cruise back offers a last chance to relax and soak in the views. Many guests use this time for photos or simply enjoying the gentle motion of the boat. The trip ends back at the marina, where you can step off and continue exploring the area.

Why This Tour Works Well

Value for Money

Considering the price of $53 includes two hours of scenic cruising, drinks, a swim stop, and wildlife sightings, it’s a solid deal. Several reviewers mention how the boat, crew, and experience exceeded expectations for the price point. The inclusion of drinks and a comfortable boat sets this apart from more crowded or less inclusive tours.

Personal Touch and Small Group Vibe

Guests rave about the small group size, which fosters interaction and a more relaxed environment. Reviewers like Karen, Helen, and Jillian highlight how the crew made everyone feel cared for, sharing stories, answering questions, and ensuring a memorable experience.

Scenic and Wildlife-Focused Experience

The possibility to see dolphins is a major draw, and many guests describe it as “magical” when it happens. Even when dolphins don’t appear, guests enjoy the beautiful coastline and peaceful cruising. The knowledgeable guides enhance this by sharing insights about the marine environment and local landmarks.

Family-Friendly and Accessible

While not suitable for wheelchair users, the trip is great for families and small groups. Kids often love jumping into the sea or watching dolphins swim alongside. The paddleboarding option is a fun addition for those looking to add a bit of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Benalmádena catamaran cruise offers an intimate, scenic, and fun way to spend a couple of hours on the water. Its combination of luxury, wildlife sightings, and water activities makes it stand out among other coastal excursions. The friendly crew, especially guides like Emily and Jason, are consistently praised for making the journey engaging and enjoyable.

While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the overall experience—relaxing on a well-maintained boat, enjoying free drinks, and swimming in crystal-clear waters—is hard to beat for the price. This trip suits travelers who value small-group intimacy, scenic beauty, and a flexible, laid-back vibe. Whether it’s your first time in Benalmádena or your tenth, this cruise provides a memorable aquatic escape.

FAQs

Is there a minimum number of people required to book?
Yes, a minimum of 4 people is needed for the mixed trip to proceed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, two complimentary drinks are included in the price, and you can stay refreshed throughout the cruise.

Can I swim in the sea?
Absolutely. The crew will find a suitable spot for guests to jump in and swim in the cool waters of the Mediterranean.

Are dolphins guaranteed to be seen?
No, dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. However, many guests do report seeing pods swimming alongside or beneath the boat.

What is the trip duration?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, including cruising, dolphin watching, and the swim stop.

Is food provided?
No, food is not included in this tour, but drinks are available, and you can bring your own snacks if desired.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No, the trip is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Where exactly do I meet the boat?
Meet at the berth of Borrasca, next to the parasailing boats near the Benalmádena ferry departure point, which is easy to find.

Final Words

For anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic, and dolphin-spotting adventure in Benalmádena, this catamaran cruise delivers on multiple levels. With friendly guides, a cozy boat, and the chance to connect with nature, it’s a perfect escape from busy beaches or town sightseeing. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this trip is a solid choice for making lasting holiday memories on Spain’s beautiful Costa del Sol.

You can check if your dates are available here: