For us, no holiday ever feels truly complete without at least one boat trip. There’s something uniquely relaxing and thrilling about being out on the water, whether it’s exploring hidden coves or watching a magical sunset. Here in Los Alcázares, we’re fortunate to have Cruceros Mar Menor, a company that has been offering scenic boat tours since the 1980s. Their boat, the Joven Ana Belen, is an iconic wooden vessel designed for shallow, calm waters like those found in the Mar Menor. With a capacity for 120 passengers and a cruising speed of around 8 knots, this boat provides an unforgettable experience for everyone on board.
Our Grosa Island Adventure
One of our most memorable excursions was the trip to Grosa Island. This 3-hour tour starts at the fishermen’s jetty in Los Alcázares and heads across the calm waters of the Mar Menor. The journey takes you through the Estacio Canal, a passage into the Mediterranean Sea, where the adventure truly begins. Though Grosa Island belongs to the municipality of San Javier, it’s quite close to La Manga and offers stunning volcanic landscapes, with its peak rising more than 90 meters above sea level.
What makes this trip even more special is the 30-minute swimming break halfway through. The crew tosses inflatables into the water, and passengers can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. The brief respite is refreshing and filled with fun before we head back through the canal to Los Alcázares. For just 25 euros per person, this trip is not only affordable but also packed with beautiful scenery and relaxing moments. The boat has a well-stocked bar with very reasonable prices, perfect for a refreshing drink as you sail along.
The 5 Islands Sunset Tour
Another must-do trip is the 5 Islands of the Mar Menor excursion, often referred to as the Sunset Tour. We’ve done this tour twice, once in August and again in October, and each time, it has been an unforgettable experience. Our October trip set sail at 5 pm, returning just in time to catch the breathtaking colours of the setting sun.
The tour takes you around the five main islands of the Mar Menor—Barón Island, Perdiguera Island, Ciervo Island, Sujeto Island, and Redonda Island. The boat skirts close to the shores of La Manga, and a recorded narration, available in multiple languages including English, gives you interesting historical and geographical insights into the area. This 2-hour trip costs just 20 euros per person, and once again, a reasonably priced bar and clean toilets are available on board.
We had an unexpected twist during our most recent sunset tour. The coastguard called us to assist a smaller boat that had run out of fuel and was stranded some distance from shore. Our boat had to tow them back slowly to avoid creating a wake, which meant our tour was extended—giving us an even longer view of the sun sinking into the horizon. Watching the fiery sun disappear while gently cruising on the calm waters of the Mar Menor was a magical way to end the day.
Why a Boat Trip Should Be on Your Holiday Agenda
Both of these boat trips are perfect for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Mar Menor and its surroundings. Whether you’re an adventurous traveller eager for a swim in the Mediterranean or someone who enjoys a peaceful sunset cruise, these tours offer something for everyone. The calm, shallow waters of the Mar Menor make for smooth sailing, and the expert crew aboard the Joven Ana Belen ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.
So if you’re planning a holiday in Los Alcázares, make sure to reserve a day for one of these boat trips. Not only do they offer a great way to see the area from a different perspective, but they also provide moments of relaxation, fun, and unforgettable scenery. A trip with Cruceros Mar Menor is the perfect way to make your holiday complete.
The boat, Joven Ana Belen:
Helen
October 2024
Links: