Denia/Jávea: a day at sea with paella on Isla Portitxol

A Relaxing Day on the Costa Blanca with a Seafood Feast

This boat trip along the Valencian coast offers a gentle escape from the busy beaches and tourist spots. From the meeting point at Puerto Deportivo, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable catamaran with friendly guides, setting out to explore some of the most scenic parts of Dénia and Jávea. What I like most about this experience is how it combines easy sailing with genuine leisure—there’s no rush, just time to soak in the stunning views of cliffs, coves, and clear waters. Plus, the highlight of tucking into a traditional Valencian paella on Isla Portitxol makes it a tasty, memorable outing.

Two things stand out in this offering. First, the natural beauty of the coast—crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations—gives you a true sense of the Mediterranean’s charm. Second, the meal on board, featuring a hearty paella and seasonal fruit, hits all the right notes for a relaxed, flavorful lunch. The only consideration is that the exact boat and specific swimming spots aren’t guaranteed, so flexibility is key. Still, with friendly crew members and a laid-back vibe, it’s an experience designed more for unwinding than exploring every hidden corner.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic sailing offers a relaxed way to see the coast without large crowds or busy beaches.
• Portitxol Island provides a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing in calm, turquoise waters.
• Authentic Valencian cuisine, especially the paella, makes the meal memorable and flavorful.
• Flexible hop-on, hop-off stops let you enjoy swimming and relaxing at your own pace.
• Family-friendly and suitable for those looking for a laid-back day at sea.
• Informative guides help create a friendly atmosphere, though specific boat models aren’t guaranteed.

If you’re craving a break from the usual sunbathing or sightseeing, this three-hour sea adventure offers a lovely way to experience the coastline with a touch of local flavor. From the moment you arrive at Puerto Deportivo, you’ll notice the cheerful buzz of fellow travelers waiting to set sail. The meeting process is straightforward: just show your reservation at the BORAMAR ticket booth, which is right opposite the boat, ready for you to exchange your voucher for a ticket. The boat itself is comfortable, and the crew tends to be friendly and multilingual, speaking both Spanish and English.

The trip kicks off with about an hour of sailing along the coast, giving you stunning views of coves, jagged cliffs, and the calm, clear waters of the Mediterranean. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and scenic this segment is—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the sun while listening to good music. The guides often share interesting tidbits about the coastline, adding a touch of local color to the journey.

Exploring Portitxol Island: Swimming and Sunbathing

After about an hour at sea, you’ll anchor near Portitxol Island, a small but picturesque spot where the water turns a mesmerizing turquoise. This is the highlight for many: a chance to swim in the calm sea, lounge on the rocks, or just enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Some reviews mention that the anchor point isn’t always in the same place—so you might find yourself enjoying the waters in different spots depending on the captain’s decision.

You’ll love how gentle the waters are here, making it suitable for families or less confident swimmers. The island itself is pretty unspoiled and perfect for stretching your legs or capturing photos of the rugged coastline. During your roughly three-hour stop, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, swim, or simply soak up the sun in this peaceful setting.

The Star of the Show: Valencian Paella and Good Food

Come midday, everyone hops back on board for the main event—a traditional Valencian paella. This dish arrives fresh and fragrant, made with rice, fresh vegetables, and presumably some seafood or chicken, depending on the day. Accompanying your meal is a seasonal fruit platter and a drink of your choice—water, soft drink, or beer. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, describing it as authentic and satisfying, with some noting that the paella is generously portioned.

The relaxed ambiance of eating on a boat, with the gentle sea breeze and views of the coast, makes this a memorable part of the trip. You’ll appreciate how the guides keep the mood lively without being intrusive—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. The meal is included in the price, which adds great value considering the quality and the setting.

The Return Voyage and Final Views

After your feast, you’ll spend some more time enjoying the sun and music as the boat leisurely makes its way back to Puerto Deportivo. The return leg offers more stunning vistas and a good chance to reflect on the day. Many reviewers mention how the combination of a beautiful coast, clean waters, and good company makes this a worthwhile outing—especially if you’re looking for a calm, scenic experience rather than high-energy adventure.

The whole trip wraps up after about three hours, leaving you with plenty of time to explore more of Jávea or Dénia afterward. The crew generally ensures everyone gets back safely and comfortably, making it an easy, hassle-free activity.

Price, Logistics, and Suitability

This experience, offered by BORAMAR, provides excellent value for those seeking a relaxed, scenic sea day. The price includes the boat trip, the swim stop at Portitxol, and a hearty Valencian lunch, making it a package that highlights both scenery and local flavor. It’s perfect for travelers who want a gentle pace—families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of light activity, good food, and beautiful views.

Note that the boat model isn’t fixed, and the anchorage location is at the captain’s discretion, so expectations should be flexible. Also, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, given the nature of boat boarding and swimming.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

If you love crystal-clear waters, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and prefer a relaxed, scenic day at sea, this trip fits the bill. It’s ideal for those wanting a taste of the Mediterranean without the fuss of large tour groups or complicated logistics. Families with children, couples celebrating a special day, or solo travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty will find this a good fit.

However, if you’re looking for a more active or adventurous tour, or want guarantees about specific swimming spots or boat models, you might find this experience a bit too laid-back. It’s all about unwinding and enjoying the coast at a gentle pace.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran trip along the Costa Blanca offers a peaceful, picturesque escape with good food and a chance to swim in the Mediterranean’s inviting waters. The views are stunning, the boat crew friendly, and the paella a delicious highlight. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value authenticity, relaxed pacing, and a taste of local cuisine. While it’s not a high-adrenaline activity or a deep dive into hidden coves, its simple charm lies in its unhurried ambiance and scenic setting.

If you’re craving a day of sunshine, sea breezes, and authentic flavors, this experience will likely leave you with fond memories—and perhaps a new appreciation for Valencian cuisine and coast.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including sailing, swimming stops, and the meal. Make sure to check the available starting times.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins at Puerto Deportivo, where you exchange your reservation at the BORAMAR ticket booth. It ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the boat suitable for children?
While the experience is family-friendly, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, mainly due to boarding and swimming aspects.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Avoid bringing drinks or coolers in the vehicle.

Can I buy additional drinks on board?
Yes, there’s a bar on the boat where you can purchase extra drinks, such as soft drinks or alcohol.

Is the specific boat model guaranteed?
No, the type of boat and exact anchorage spot depend on the captain’s discretion, which can vary day by day.

Will I visit a particular swimming spot?
While the tour includes a swim stop at Portitxol Island, the exact location may change depending on weather and captain’s decisions.

Is vegetarian or special diet available?
The standard meal is Valencian paella with salad and fruit. Special dietary requests are not specified, so check with the provider if needed.

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

How does the pricing compare to other coastal tours?
Including the boat trip, swim stop, and a traditional meal, this offers good value for a scenic, laid-back experience. It’s ideal for those seeking relaxation rather than high-energy adventure.

This relaxed yet scenic day at sea on the Costa Blanca is a delightful way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and savor authentic Valencian flavors—all from the comfort of a comfortable catamaran. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, it’s likely to leave you with both great photos and a satisfied appetite for more coastal adventures.