Benalmádena: Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Swim Stop

Imagine sailing through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, with a glass of something cold in your hand, dolphins swimming beside the boat, and the warm Spanish sun overhead. That’s exactly what this Benalmádena catamaran cruise promises — a relaxing, scenic, and fun-filled day out. While we haven’t personally tried it, reviews and descriptions reveal a trip that combines comfort, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure, all at a very reasonable price.

What draws many to this experience are the stunning views along the coast, the friendly and knowledgeable crew, and the opportunity to spot dolphins, whales, and sunfish in their natural habitat. Plus, the swim stop offers a refreshing break in the cool Mediterranean waters, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends.

One thing to keep in mind is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, which is a common disclaimer for wildlife tours. If you’re hoping for a specific wildlife encounter, this might be a bit of a gamble, but the overall atmosphere and scenery tend to make this trip worthwhile regardless.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a laid-back, scenic cruise with a touch of wildlife and the chance to cool off in the sea. It’s also a great pick for those who enjoy social drinks and a small, intimate group experience without feeling crowded.

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Key Points

Comfortable and Spacious Boat: The 44-foot luxury catamaran provides plenty of room to relax.
Wildlife Encounters: Hope to see dolphins and whales — sightings can happen but aren’t guaranteed.
All-Inclusive Drinks: Complimentary drinks are served throughout, making the trip feel indulgent.
Swim Break: An optional swim stop allows you to jump into the sea or sunbathe.
For Small Groups: With a maximum of 12 guests, the experience feels personal and non-rushed.
Value for Money: At $53, this includes a cruise, drinks, and the swim stop — making it a good deal in the area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Catamaran Cruise Might Be Just Your Thing

If you’re after a relaxing day on the water, this Benalmádena catamaran cruise stands out. It’s a chance to unwind, enjoy spectacular coastal views, and maybe even spot some playful dolphins.

Three things we really like about this trip are the focus on comfort, with a spacious boat designed for relaxation; the quality of the crew, who are described as friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable; and the inclusive drinks service, which keeps you refreshed without extra fuss.

Having said that, a potential consideration is the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. While many reviews celebrate dolphins swimming right next to the boat, others note that sightings aren’t guaranteed — which means if your main goal is to see dolphins, you might want to temper expectations. Still, even without guaranteed wildlife, the overall vibe and scenery tend to make this outing worthwhile.

This experience suits anyone looking for a laid-back, scenic cruise with chances of wildlife spotting, ideal for families, couples, or friends wanting something more intimate than a big group tour.

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What to Expect: From Boarding to the End of the Trip

Meeting Point and Starting Details

Your adventure begins at the Benalmádena port, specifically at the berth of Borrasca, next to parasailing boats near the ferry departure point. It’s easy to find, especially if you plan to arrive a little early. The crew, led by experienced guides like Emily and Jason, greets you warmly and offers a complimentary drink to get you settled.

The Boat and Group Size

The 44-foot luxury catamaran has been described as both beautiful and cozy — the perfect size for a small group. Most reviews mention no more than 12 guests, which makes the trip feel intimate, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery and interact with the crew comfortably. The boat is well-maintained, tidy, and designed to offer plenty of space for lounging, sunbathing, or chatting.

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The Cruise Route and Coastal Views

Once underway, you’ll sail along the Benalmádena and Torremolinos coastline. Expect spectacular views of cliffs, beaches, and the vibrant shoreline. The water is crystal-clear, ideal for photos and just soaking in the beauty of the Mediterranean.

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Wildlife Watching: Dolphins, Whales, and Sunfish

One of the main highlights, based on reviews, is the potential to spot dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The crew, including guides like Emily and Jason, are known for their enthusiasm and dedication to wildlife encounters. They share stories and facts about the animals, making the experience both fun and educational.

The truth is, wildlife sightings depend on the day, and reviews reflect this. Some guests have been lucky enough to see pods of dolphins right next to the boat, often swimming underneath or jumping around. As Jade mentions, “Saw lots of dolphins, however I know this isn’t guaranteed,” which is a common but honest disclaimer.

The Swim Stop and Sunbathing

Midway through the cruise, the crew will find a good spot for those who want to jump into the sea for a swim. The waters are described as cool and inviting, perfect for a quick dip to cool off or to relax on a float. If you prefer to stay dry, the deck offers plenty of space to sunbathe or enjoy a drink while taking in the coastline.

Kelly notes, “We were very lucky to see dolphins literally right next to the boat. The staff were amazing and so friendly,” highlighting how some guests experience close encounters. Others, like Georgia, appreciated the sunset views and the chance to see dolphins underneath our feet during the late afternoon.

The Return and End of the Trip

After about two hours, the boat will head back towards Benalmádena Marina. The crew often shares stories about their sea adventures, making the return trip both relaxed and engaging. The whole experience is designed to end on a satisfying note, leaving you with memories of a scenic day and maybe some wildlife surprises.

The Experience of the Crew and Atmosphere

Throughout the trip, reviews rave about the friendly and professional crew. Emily, Jason, and Maria are frequently praised for their attentiveness, knowledge, and ability to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Many mention feeling well cared for, whether it’s being served drinks, enjoying the stories about marine life, or simply relaxing on deck.

The small group setting adds to the feeling of exclusivity and calm, allowing everyone to connect more easily, and making it easier for guides to spot dolphins or assist with swimming.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $53 per person, this cruise packs a lot into a short, two-hour trip. Included are the cruise itself, licensed crew, complimentary drinks, and the swim stop.

Considering the typical cost of dolphin-watching tours or boat trips of similar quality, this is good value. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the boat, the personalized attention, and the free drinks — features that enhance the overall experience without adding extra costs.

A notable positive from travelers is the small group size and the attentiveness of the crew, which make the trip feel special rather than touristy or rushed.

How to Make the Most of Your Trip

Arrive early at the port to find the meeting point easily.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear if you plan to jump in.
Keep your camera or phone ready for wildlife sightings and scenic photos.
Remember, dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, so enjoy the journey regardless.
Consider bringing some snacks, as food isn’t included, but drinks are.
If you’re prone to seasickness, a little medication might help, as the waters can sometimes be choppy.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is perfect if you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic boat trip with the chance of wildlife sightings. It’s ideal for families with children, groups of friends, or couples who want a calm, intimate outing.

If you love nature, photography, or relaxing in the sun with a drink in hand, this experience hits the mark. However, if your main goal is guaranteed wildlife sightings or a longer adventure, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is dolphin or whale sighting guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on the day’s marine activity. Many guests see dolphins, but it’s not guaranteed.

What is included in the price?
The cruise, licensed crew, complimentary drinks, and the swim stop are all included. Food is not.

How long is the trip?
The trip lasts about two hours, providing a relaxed, manageable window for sightseeing, swimming, or sunbathing.

Where do I meet the boat?
You meet at the berth of Borrasca, next to parasailing boats near the Benalmádena ferry point.

Are there any age restrictions?
The reviews suggest it’s suitable for most ages, but it’s not ideal for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Drinks are included, but snacks aren’t, so bring some if you wish.

Is this activity family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those with children who enjoy ocean views and wildlife.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed, though assistance dogs are permitted.

What language is the crew fluent in?
The guides speak English and Spanish.

Final Thoughts

This Benalmádena catamaran cruise offers a balanced mix of comfort, stunning scenery, wildlife potential, and a relaxed atmosphere. For a modest price, you get a personalized experience in a small group, served with free drinks and the chance to swim in the Mediterranean.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the crew’s enthusiasm and the boat’s comfort make this a worthwhile outing. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a peaceful, scenic escape with friends or family, and who appreciate the possibility of playful dolphins swimming alongside.

For anyone visiting Andalusia and craving a fun, relaxing marine adventure, this cruise provides excellent value and genuine moments of joy. It’s a straightforward, authentic experience that perfectly combines scenery, wildlife, and leisure—exactly what a day by the sea should be.

You can check availability for your dates here: