Valencia: Catamaran Cruise, Paella Lunch and Swim Stop

When considering a fun, relaxed way to enjoy Valencia’s seaside scenery and local flavors, a catamaran cruise with paella and a swim stop might just fit the bill. This 2.5-hour outing offers a taste of the Mediterranean’s beauty alongside a delicious Valencian meal—ideal for those who love ocean views, good food, and a bit of adventure. We’ve looked at this experience in detail, weaving together reviews, itinerary insights, and practical tips to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Two aspects stand out: First, the delicious Valencian paella served on board—a true highlight for food lovers eager to savor authentic local cuisine in a scenic setting. Second, the opportunity to swim in Port Saplaya’s calm, crystal-clear waters offers a refreshing break from sightseeing. That said, one consideration is the relatively short time allocated for swimming, which some may find limiting. This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy relaxed outings, stunning coastal views, and a taste of Valencia’s culinary traditions.

If you’re seeking a leisurely, scenic experience that combines the sea, a tasty meal, and a splash of adventure, this cruise fits the bill nicely. It’s especially well-suited to those who don’t mind a group setting, want to avoid the hassle of organizing their own boat trip, and enjoy casual, authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Valencian paella served onboard offers a genuine taste of local cuisine.
• The scenic views of the Valencian coast from the deck make for memorable photo opportunities.
• The swimming stop allows for a refreshing dip in calm waters, perfect for relaxing after lunch.
• The group size and crew provide a friendly, laid-back atmosphere with knowledgeable guides.
• The price point of $44 provides good value for a scenic, gastronomic experience with included drinks and activities.
• Weather conditions can affect the trip’s schedule or availability, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary & Setting

Starting at the Valencia Marina, right next to the iconic clock tower, the tour begins with anticipation. The meeting point at shed Tinglado #2 is easy to find, and arriving 30 minutes early ensures smooth check-in and a relaxed start. Once onboard, you’ll immediately notice the stunning views of the coastline and the clear waters of the Mediterranean. The boat itself is a comfortable setting, ideal for soaking up the sun, enjoying a drink, or simply gazing at the scenery.

The boat navigates smoothly along the coast, providing sweeping vistas of Valencia’s shoreline. The deck space is open enough for everyone to find a good spot, whether to lounge, take photos, or chat with fellow travelers. As the boat heads toward the swim stop, the gentle rocking of the water and the salty breeze create the perfect relaxing atmosphere.

The Food Experience

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the lunch onboard. You’ll be served a fresh salad, followed by the hallmark of Valencian cuisine: paella. The chicken paella, seasoned carefully and cooked to tender perfection, is the star of the meal. Many travelers comment on how delicious and generous the servings are, making it excellent value for the $44 price. Fresh fruit rounds out the meal, offering a sweet, juicy finish.

The food quality tends to impress, especially considering this is a packaged tour. Several reviews mention the great service and the deliciousness of the meal as highlights. As one reviewer noted, “Good was delicious!! Great service. So much fun we got to jump off the boat and swim if we wanted to,” emphasizing the casual, enjoyable vibe.

Swimming & Relaxation

The highlight for many is the swimming stop at Port Saplaya, a calm stretch of water ideal for cooling off. This stop offers an opportunity to reconnect with the sea, whether through a quick dip or sunbathing on the boat’s deck. The reviews echo this sentiment—people love the long time to swim in the sea and the chance to jump off the boat.

However, some travelers feel the swimming time is a bit short or that the timing after the meal isn’t ideal. A reviewer mentioned wishing for a longer swim or for swimming to be before the meal, as digestion can sometimes deter from jumping right after eating.

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Scenic Views & Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, you’re treated to panoramic views of the Valencian coast. From the deck, you’ll see the colorful buildings, the rugged coastline, and perhaps some distant boats. The music and drinks on board add to the relaxed vibe, making it a perfect way to unwind. The reviews highlight how “fantastic, very relaxed, and with great service” this experience is, making it clear that the atmosphere is convivial and laid-back.

Duration & Group Size

At 2.5 hours, this trip is short enough to be a delightful addition to your day but long enough to enjoy the scenery and meal without feeling rushed. The trip requires a minimum of 15 participants, which helps keep the atmosphere lively yet manageable. The group size tends to be comfortable, allowing for easy mingling or quiet reflection if preferred.

Cost & Value

For $44, you get a meals, a drink, swimming time, and the scenic boat ride—pretty good value considering the included food and activities. The reviews generally agree that the experience offers good value for money, especially given the high-quality food and beautiful views.

Practicalities & Tips

• Arrive early at the meeting point to exchange your voucher and settle in comfortably.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as moving around on the boat could be challenging.
• Expect weather-dependent scheduling, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan your transportation to the Valencia Marina.
• Be aware that wearing costumes is not allowed, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel for swimming.
• If you want extra drinks or gear, you’ll need to purchase them separately onboard.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic escape from the hustle of city sightseeing. If you enjoy authentic local food, especially paella, and your idea of fun includes sailing, swimming, and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a casual day on the water without fuss.

People who appreciate good service, friendly guides, and a laid-back atmosphere will also enjoy this trip. However, those with mobility issues or seeking a longer swimming experience might want to consider other options. It’s an activity that pairs well with a day of exploring Valencia’s beaches or coastal villages afterward.

Final Thoughts

This Valencia catamaran cruise with paella and a swim stop offers a straightforward yet charming way to experience the Mediterranean. You’ll enjoy authentic Valencian cuisine in a breathtaking setting, with the added thrill of a quick dip in calm waters. The friendly crew, scenic views, and relaxed pace make it a good value for about $44 per person.

While the short swim time and weather dependence are points to consider, these are minor compared to the overall fun and authenticity of the experience. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a taste of local culture, topped with fresh seafood and a splash of saltwater.

If your idea of a perfect day involves lounging on a boat, enjoying good food, and soaking up coastal scenery, this cruise is likely to be a highlight of your Valencia trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour involves swimming and a relaxed boat ride, which can be enjoyable for families. However, children should be comfortable around water and boat movement.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a towel for swimming, and your voucher for easy check-in.

Can I join if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, the tour is hosted in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to most travelers.

How long is the swimming stop?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but many reviews mention “long time to swim,” so you should have some time to enjoy the water after lunch.

Is the food included in the price?
Yes, the price covers lunch—salad, chicken paella, and fresh fruit—as well as one drink.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, a drinks service is included, with additional drinks available for purchase.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; it may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Valencia Marina, near the clock tower, and you should arrive 30 minutes early.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The activity requires a minimum of 15 people and will proceed with that minimum.

Can I book last minute?
Advance booking is essential, so check availability ahead of time to secure your spot.

This Valencia catamaran cruise offers a nice balance of scenery, flavor, and fun, making it a solid choice for travelers looking to enjoy the city’s coast in a relaxed, memorable way.

You can check availability for your dates here: