Valencia: Catamaran Cruise, Paella Lunch and Swim Stop

Paella tastes better on open water. I love the Valencian chicken paella onboard, and I also like the Port Saplaya swim stop where you can jump in and cool off. The main catch is that the water time can feel a bit short, especially if you want to swim longer before or after the meal.

The catamaran ride is timed well for a half-day plan, and the vibe stays relaxed. You meet at the BORAMAR ticket booth, switch your ticket, then settle in for lunch, sea views, and a drink included in the price. One heads-up, this trip is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Key points before you go

• Onboard Valencian paella plus salad and fresh fruit, served during the cruise
• Swim stop at Port Saplaya, with a chance to jump off the boat
• Modern catamaran, with a comfortable setup for a group of about 30 people
• Friendly hosts you might hear names like Ulysses, Javi, Álvaro, Marco, and Pepe el capitán
• Music at a good volume that keeps the mood upbeat without taking over
• Real time for the sea, but don’t expect an all-day beach session

Valencia by Catamaran: What This 2.5 Hour Sea Day Feels Like

This is the kind of Valencia outing that hits two needs fast. You get Mediterranean water time, then you get a proper sit-down lunch without having to change plans or track down a restaurant.

The whole experience runs about 2.5 hours, and it’s structured around sailing, eating, then a mid-trip stop for swimming. You step on board, feel the breeze right away, and settle into views of the coast as the catamaran cruises on clear water.

The boat itself matters. A catamaran feels stable and airy, and one rider counted roughly 30 people on board, which kept things from feeling like a cattle car.

The Cruise Part: Views, Breezes, and a Relaxed Pace

You should expect a calm rhythm rather than a rushed sightseeing sprint. The trip includes a catamaran sail on the Mediterranean, with panoramic coast views from the deck.

This is not a “race to the best photo spot” tour. Instead, it’s more like a floating break from land. You can stay seated with a drink, move around for better angles, and enjoy the sea air while the meal is working its way into the schedule.

One practical tip: think about where you like to watch from. If you prefer deck views, hang near the areas with open sight lines early. If you want shade or a calmer breeze, position yourself accordingly before the lunch rush.

Port Saplaya Swim Stop: The Part Everyone Talks About

The swim is the headline moment for a reason. There’s a strategic stop in the middle of the trip to enjoy a refreshing dip, sunbathe, and enjoy the quiet feel of the sea.

At Port Saplaya, you can jump in from the boat if you want. People like the excitement of being able to go straight from the deck into the water without arranging anything complicated.

Now the balance. Many people love it, but the timing can be tricky. One common complaint is that the swim can feel a bit quick after lunch, so you may end up spending less time in the water than you hoped.

What I’d do if swimming is your priority: plan your energy so you’re ready to go when the boat stops. If you know you get cold fast, don’t wait until you feel hungry or tired. Go when the chance opens, then enjoy the rest of the sail after.

Onboard Lunch: Salad, Chicken Paella, and Fresh Fruit

The meal is straightforward and built for sea time. You start with a salad, then move into a chicken paella with tender rice and spices that fit the Valencian style, and finish with fresh fruit for dessert.

This is one of the best values in a boat tour like this, because you are not paying extra for a full lunch elsewhere. You also avoid the usual problem of eating on land before you head out, then feeling heavy during the cruise.

One detail that stands out is how people describe the paella experience. It’s repeatedly called out as delicious and satisfying, and it’s often paired with the included drink options like sangria, beer, and soda. Bread and fruit also show up as part of the lunch setup for many people.

Small downside possibility: if you’re sensitive to the order of events, the lunch may come before you get as much swim time as you want. That’s not a problem for everyone, but if you’re a swim-first person, mentally plan for the fact that the meal has the steering wheel.

Drinks and Music: Included Refreshment Plus a Party-Friendly Mood

You get 1 drink included as part of the tour price, and there’s a drinks service on board if you want more. In practice, this keeps things simple while you enjoy the sea and the meal.

People also talk about the music. It’s described as very good, and at a volume that feels comfortable, not blasting. That matters on a sail, because you want the soundtrack to support the vibe, not drown out conversation.

If you’re trying to pace yourself, remember this is a short tour. The best move is to treat the included drink as the “settling in” moment, then decide after lunch if you want another.

The Crew and the Human Touch

In a short tour, your crew can make the difference between nice and unforgettable. This one seems strong on personality.

You may meet hosts with names like Ulysses, and you might also hear support from Javi, Álvaro, Marco, and the captain, Pepe el capitán. That kind of hands-on hospitality helps the day feel smooth, especially around swim time and meal service.

What I like about a crew like this is how they keep the experience feeling relaxed. You’re not being rushed through steps. Instead, you get a calm plan, then room to enjoy the sea once you’re moving.

Price and Value: Is $41 Worth It?

At $41 per person, you’re buying a package, not just a ride. What you get included is the catamaran tour, lunch with salad, Valencian chicken paella, fruit, swimming time, the crew and fuel, plus one drink.

For many people, that’s the real value equation. Boat tours can get expensive fast when you add food and drinks. Here, the meal is part of the core experience, and the swim stop is included.

Also, the time is efficient. 2.5 hours fits into a day without forcing you into a full-day schedule. If you’re in Valencia with limited time, this is the kind of activity that gives you a full “sea day feeling” without stealing your whole day.

Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Might Skip It)

This works best if you want three things in one: a catamaran ride, a Valencian meal, and a swim. If you’re traveling with friends, couples, or solo, the group size feels manageable, and the onboard atmosphere is friendly and fun.

It’s also a good pick if you like structure but not rigid schedules. You know when lunch happens and when the swim stop will likely occur, so you don’t have to think too hard.

It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The boat setting and access to the water can be difficult, and the tour provider lists it as not fitting that need.

Timing, Weather, and What to Bring for Comfort

Tours like this are subject to weather conditions. If the sea is rough or conditions are unsafe, the excursion may change, so build in a bit of flexibility for your day.

Plan for sun and salt air. Even though the ride is only a couple of hours, you can feel the sun quickly on deck. Bring:

• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• A towel if you use one on water days
• Swimwear under your clothes so you’re ready when the boat stops
• Simple shoes you can handle on a boat surface

If you’re thinking about outfits, note that costumes are not allowed. Keep it simple and comfortable.

One more timing note that helps: because the swim can be after lunch, you may want to eat at a pace that still leaves you feeling good when it’s time to jump in.

Meeting Point at BORAMAR: Quick Logistics That Save Stress

You do need to handle check-in in person. You go to the meeting point and exchange your tickets at the BORAMAR ticket booth, located at the same meeting point.

No hotel pickup is included, so you’ll want to plan transport to the dock area. If you like everything easy and door-to-door, you might prefer a tour that includes pickup, but for many visitors, meeting on-site is fast and straightforward.

A good mindset: arrive a little early, use the time to find the booth, then relax once you’re on board. The whole day runs smoother when you’re not sprinting to the dock.

Should You Book This Valencia Catamaran for Paella and Sea Time?

Book it if you want a short, good-value sea day with lunch included and a real chance to swim. The combination is hard to beat, especially at this price, because paella onboard plus a drink plus a swim stop covers most of what people usually add to a coastal outing.

I’d also book it if you like the idea of a lively but not chaotic atmosphere. The music is often described as well-balanced, and the crew names that come up suggest a team that keeps things friendly and organized.

Consider skipping or choosing something else if your top priority is long, uninterrupted swimming time. The swim stop can feel quick for some people, and if you’re hoping for extra water time before eating, this might not match your schedule in the way you want.

If you’re happy with a half-day plan, enjoy paella, and want Mediterranean water views from a catamaran deck, this is a solid, easy yes.

FAQ

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The tour duration is about 2.5 hours.

Where do I meet, and how do I exchange my ticket?

Go to the meeting point and exchange your tickets at the BORAMAR ticket booth. It is located at the same meeting point.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included with salad, Valencian paella, and fruit.

Is there a drink included?

Yes. The tour includes 1 drink, and there is also a drinks service on board.

Is swimming included, and where is the stop?

Swimming is included. There is a stop at Port Saplaya so you can enjoy a refreshing dip.

What is included in the price?

Included are the catamaran tour, lunch (salad, Valencian paella, and fruit), swimming, crew and fuel, and 1 drink.

What is not included?

Not included are extra drinks, diving gear, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Is hotel pickup available?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?

No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Do I need to consider weather conditions?

Yes. All excursions are subject to weather conditions.