Catamaran ride -Costa Brava with barbecue and drinks. Familiar.

From Lloret de Mar, this catamaran heads north past rocky inlets and the Castle of Sant Joan before anchoring in a cove for a swim and barbecue. It’s an easy way to leave the crowded beach behind and see a quieter stretch of Costa Brava from the water. I like the coastline views and the chance to swim in a sheltered cove.

The four-hour outing also includes lunch and drinks, so you won’t need to plan a separate meal. One caveat: the sea can be rough, and the water may feel cold, while the food is simple rather than a highlight. Check the departure time before you go, and consider motion-sickness medicine if you’re prone to seasickness.

Key points before you book

• The route passes a string of coves: Look for Sa Caleta inlet and its castle, Cala Trons, Cala Gran, Canyelles, and other bays on the way toward Tossa.
• The swim stop is the main event: The boat anchors near a sheltered cove, where you can swim and, if conditions allow, snorkel.
• Lunch and drinks are included: Expect a casual barbecue with burgers and marinated gluten-free chicken, plus pasta, salad, fruit salad, beer, sangria, and soft drinks.
• The mood can turn festive: Music and dancing are part of the experience on some sailings, though the atmosphere depends on the group and crew.
• Pack for a beach launch and open water: Wear comfortable shoes to board, then remove them, and bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a warm layer in cooler weather.

Leaving Lloret de Mar behind

The trip starts at Passeig d’Agustí Font, 5, in Lloret de Mar, and returns to the same meeting point. The boat departs from the shore, so this is not a dockside boarding where you can simply stroll up in sandals. Wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in and easy to take off before you step aboard.

The advertised start time is 11 a.m. However, the departure has reportedly been closer to noon on at least one occasion. If timing matters for your plans, confirm the exact time with the operator before the day of the trip. The experience lasts about four hours, which makes it a substantial half-day outing without taking up the entire day.

The listed maximum is 95 people. That is a sizeable group, so don’t expect a private cruise or a quiet, small-boat outing. Still, the catamaran’s broad layout offers more room than a narrow boat, and the open-air setting gives you space to shift between sun and shade. If you prefer a peaceful sail with only a few passengers, this is probably not your best match.

North along the Costa Brava

Once underway, the boat follows the coast toward Tossa, passing a succession of rocky bays and inlets. The route includes Sa Caleta, with its castle, and names such as Cala Trons, Cala Gran, Sa Goita, Canyelles, Rajols, Morisca, Llorell, and Llevadó. You get a different view of this stretch of coast from the water: cliffs, headlands, and pockets of beach that can be hard to appreciate from a road or a busy resort shore.

The first hour or so is spent sailing north. Think of this as scenery time, not a guided history tour. The available details focus on the places the boat passes, rather than on a running commentary about each cove. If you enjoy looking out at the coast, listening to music, and letting the ride set the pace, that works well. If you want detailed local interpretation, this outing may feel light on explanation.

The sea can make a real difference to this part of the trip. In calm weather, the sail can feel smooth and restful. In rain, wind, or choppy water, it can become uncomfortable, and seasickness is a real possibility. Take any motion-sickness medicine you normally use before boarding, rather than waiting until you feel unwell. The trip depends on good weather, and the operator may offer another date or a refund if conditions force a cancellation.

A cove stop for swimming and lunch

After roughly an hour of sailing, the catamaran anchors in a cove near the rocks, sheltered from the wind. This is the heart of the outing: time to get into the water, cool off, and enjoy a less crowded setting than Lloret’s main beach. The water has been described as clear, with fish visible around the boat. You may also find nearby caves to explore from the water, depending on the conditions and how far you choose to swim.

The length of the stop can vary. Some accounts describe around an hour and a half in the water, while others wished they had more time. The overall tour lasts about four hours, and that time must cover sailing out, the stop, and the return. If swimming is your top priority, be ready to make the most of the break rather than assuming you’ll have a long, leisurely afternoon in the cove.

Snorkeling masks are available with a returnable cash deposit of €10. Bring your own mask if you prefer not to leave a deposit or want a familiar fit. A towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essentials. The sea may feel cold, even on a sunny day, and wetsuits are not listed as included, so don’t count on being provided one.

What’s on the barbecue

The meal is a buffet barbecue served on board. The menu lists beef burgers, marinated gluten-free chicken cubes, pasta, salad, and fruit salad. It’s straightforward fare suited to a day on the water, not a destination meal. The strongest reason to value it is convenience: you can eat without arranging a restaurant stop or packing a full lunch.

Expect mixed results if food quality matters to you. The meat has earned praise, while the pasta sauce and overall food quality have drawn criticism. Some people have also found portions limited. I’d treat lunch as a useful included meal, not a culinary reason to book. If you’re a light eater or have specific dietary needs, bringing an extra snack is sensible. The menu identifies gluten-free chicken, but it does not provide full details about other dietary requirements or food preparation.

Beer, sangria, and soft drinks are included. That makes the package feel better value than a bare boat ride, especially if you expect to have a drink or two during the outing. The information does not specify unlimited service, so don’t assume there is no limit. Drink sensibly, particularly if you plan to swim afterward.

Music, crew, and the mood on board

This is not a silent sightseeing cruise. Music is a regular part of the atmosphere, and the return trip can turn into an informal singalong or dance session. On some sailings, a lively host helps get people involved. A crew member named Greg has been singled out for bringing the party energy, but the exact host may vary.

That upbeat style is a plus if you want a sociable afternoon with friends or family. Groups have sung, danced, and chatted with people nearby, and solo passengers have also found ways to enjoy the trip. But the atmosphere isn’t guaranteed to be a full-on party. It depends on the crew, the passengers, and the weather. If you want low-key conversation and quiet time, music and a large group may wear thin.

Families are welcome on the morning trip, and the experience can work for children who enjoy boats and swimming. A four-year-old has enjoyed time on the catamaran’s nets, though parents should keep in mind that this is an open-water outing, not a dedicated children’s activity. The crew has been described as friendly and able to speak English, French, and Spanish, which can help mixed-language groups feel included.

Is $60.34 good value?

At about $60.34 per person, you’re paying for a four-hour boat trip, the coastal views, a swim stop, a barbecue lunch, and included drinks. That is a reasonable package if you plan to spend the afternoon on the water and make use of the food and drinks. It is less appealing if you mainly want a quiet, carefully guided cruise or a high-quality meal.

The value also depends on the sea and the length of the stop. In fine weather, you can get a scenic sail, time in clear water, and a convivial ride back. Bad weather can change the mood quickly, and rough conditions may make the crossing unpleasant. The operator requires good weather and may offer a different date or full refund if it cancels for poor conditions.

This outing is booked, on average, about 20 days ahead. If your dates are fixed, planning in advance is wise. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations or changes made inside that window are not accepted for a refund, and the activity can also be called off if the minimum number of participants is not met.

Who will enjoy this catamaran trip?

I’d choose this for a group of friends, a couple wanting a lively half-day out, or a family with children who are comfortable around boats and water. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already spent time on the beach and want to see the coast from a new angle. The combination of swimming, music, lunch, and drinks makes the outing feel more like a social day at sea than a formal cruise.

I’d think twice if you’re highly prone to motion sickness, dislike loud music, or expect generous swimming time and a polished meal. The sea is not under the crew’s control, and the food is simple. For the best chance of a good day, check the departure time, take seasickness medicine if you need it, and bring your own snack and swim gear.

FAQ

Where does the catamaran trip start and finish?

It starts at Passeig d’Agustí Font, 5, in Lloret de Mar, Girona, and returns to the same meeting point.

What time does the trip start?

The stated start time is 11 a.m. One account described a noon departure, so confirm the exact time with the operator before you go.

How long does the experience last?

The trip lasts about four hours.

What food is included?

The buffet barbecue includes beef burgers, marinated gluten-free chicken cubes, pasta, salad, and fruit salad.

Which drinks are included?

Beer, sangria, and soft drinks are included.

Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?

Yes. The catamaran anchors in a cove for swimming. Snorkeling masks are available with a returnable cash deposit of €10.

What should I bring?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes that are easy to remove for boarding. Warm clothes are advised on off-season days.

Are children welcome?

Yes. Families with children are welcome on the morning trip.

Are pets allowed?

No. Pets and companion animals are not allowed.

What happens if bad weather cancels the trip?

If poor weather causes a cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.