Sail, Swim, Repeat: A Two-Hour Catamaran Escape from Torrevieja
Two hours on a catamaran—swim, sunbathe, and watch Torrevieja’s coastline unfurl
The marina smells like diesel and salt and something sweeter—sea breeze warmed by sunbaked asphalt. On a clear morning the Catamaran Apaelo rocks gently against its berth, black trampolines taut between twin hulls like invitations. You step aboard, feel the give of the deck beneath your feet, and the city slips away: Torrevieja’s strip of low-rise hotels and palm trees shrinks into a row of rooftops, then dissolves behind the curve of the coast. For 120 minutes the Adriatic—no, the Mediterranean—becomes a personal playground. The captain turns the wheel, and the coastline becomes a slowly changing painting of cliffs, beaches, and fishermen’s coves.
Trail Wisdom
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment—apply before boarding to avoid greasy hands on railings.
Hydrate and snack
The sun is deceptive at sea; bring water and light snacks even if the crew offers refreshments.
Use non-slip water shoes
Decks and ladders get wet; shoes with grip make boarding and swimming safer.
Time your sail
Choose morning for calm water, afternoon for steady breeze, or evening for sunset views.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet coves east of Torrevieja marina that are accessible only by boat
- •The pink salt ponds (Laguna Rosa) visible from coastal viewpoints at certain times of year
Wildlife
Dolphins, Mediterranean seabirds (gulls, terns)
Conservation Note
The coastal seagrass meadows (Posidonia) are vital habitat—avoid anchoring on them and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce local impacts.
Torrevieja grew around salt production; the salt lakes and fishing economy shaped the town’s layout and culture from the 18th century onward.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calm seas, Wildflower-scented coastal walks, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Occasional chilly mornings, Unsettled spring winds
Spring offers mild conditions and fewer crowds; mornings can be cool but the sea is generally calm—ideal for easy swimming and clear photos.
summer
Best for: Warm water swims, Long daylight, Evening sunset sails
Challenges: Full tourist season, Strong midday sun
Summer is peak season for swimming and sunbathing—bring shade and sun protection, and book in advance to secure preferred sail times.
fall
Best for: Warm sea lingering from summer, Quieter marinas, Clear light for photography
Challenges: Shortening days, Autumn storms can bring windier seas
Early fall retains summer warmth with fewer crowds, making it a sweet spot for afternoon sails; watch forecasts for windy days.
winter
Best for: Calmer marinas, Lower prices, Crisper air and views
Challenges: Cooler water—swims less appealing, Occasional service reductions
Winter sails are quieter and inexpensive but cooler—best for a brisk scenic cruise rather than swimming.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
SwimsuitEssential
You’ll want to jump in—bring a suit for swimming and sunbathing on the trampoline.
Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 30+Essential
Protects skin and marine life—apply before boarding.
Light windbreaker
Blocks chill on the return leg when sea breeze picks up.
Non-slip water shoes
Helps navigate wet decks and ladder entry/exit points safely.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The standard tour is 120 minutes (two hours), with morning, afternoon, and evening departures available.
Can I swim from the catamaran?
Yes—stops include time for swimming; the crew provides ladder access and usually chooses sheltered coves for calmer water.
Is food or drink included?
The crew supplies refreshments, but guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks.
Are there changing rooms onboard?
Yes—the Apaelo has private changing rooms so you can change comfortably after a swim.
Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes—families often book this trip; non-swimmers can stay on deck and enjoy views while others swim.
What is the cancellation policy?
This tour typically offers free cancellation per booking platform terms—check your confirmation for exact timing and conditions.
What to Pack
Swimsuit (for swimming), Reef-safe sunscreen (protects you and marine life), Light windbreaker (cool on return), Water bottle (stay hydrated)
Did You Know
Torrevieja’s salt lagoons include Laguna Rosa, whose pink hue is caused by halophilic microalgae like Dunaliella salina; the town’s name comes from an old coastal watchtower (torre vieja).
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Alicante–Elche (ALC) and drive ~45 minutes; book sunset sails in advance; bring cash for small purchases; check wind forecast for comfort
Local Flavor
After your sail, walk the Paseo Marítimo for seafood restaurants and tapas bars—try arroz a banda (local rice and fish dish) or fresh grilled catch at the marina-side restaurants; finish with a cold cerveza at a beachside bar.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández (ALC) ~45 minutes by car; Departure point: Torrevieja Marina; Driving distance from town center: <5 minutes; Cell service: generally good along the coast; Permits: none required for this commercial tour
Sustainability Note
Avoid single-use plastics, use reef-safe sunscreen, and respect Posidonia seagrass by not anchoring or standing on meadows—these practices protect local marine biodiversity.