Mallorca Marine reserve: Visit caves, cliffs and snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of a day that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and a splash of relaxation, this Mallorca Marine Reserve tour might be just what you need. Offered by Sa Calma Boats, this 3.5-hour speedboat trip promises a mix of exhilarating rides, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the island’s most beautiful natural sights. It’s a great way to see Mallorca’s southern coast from the water, with plenty of opportunities to get your hands wet and your camera ready.

What we really like about this experience is how modern and comfortable the boat is—crucial for a smooth ride along the coastline—and the chance to visit multiple snorkeling spots within a single trip. Also, the inclusion of paddle surfing on board means you can add a bit of fun to your water adventure without needing extra gear or arrangements.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing and logistical details: the tour has specific start points and times, and the boat departs promptly, so arriving early is advisable. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of water activities and natural scenery, but not necessarily for travelers with mobility constraints, as it’s not wheelchair accessible.

This tour caters well to active travelers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying Mallorca’s coast from the water. It’s an authentic way to experience the island’s marine beauty without straying far from Palma.

Key Points

• Stunning coastline views on a modern speedboat
• Two snorkeling stops at some of Mallorca’s best underwater sites
• Cliffs, caves, and coves to explore along the route
• Paddle surfing included for added fun
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before
• Timely departures require arriving early for parking and check-in

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Overview: A Closer Look at the Mallorca Marine Reserve Experience

If you’re searching for a way to see Mallorca’s coast that combines comfort, adventure, and natural beauty, this tour ticks many boxes. The journey begins aboard the latest, most modern speedboat on the island, which makes for a smooth and comfortable ride across the bay of Palma. As you leave the marina, you’ll get a good sense of the island’s rugged charm and the sparkling waters that surround it.

The first stop is the Cueva Verde (Green Cave)—a highlight for many. Here, you get about 30 minutes to snorkel in the waters, paddle surf, or simply relax and soak in the scenery. The cave’s name hints at its vibrant hues, and the opportunity to swim into such a natural wonder is a memorable way to start your aquatic adventure. The crew is friendly and attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable whether they’re experienced snorkelers or trying it for the first time.

After the initial stop, the boat cruises along the coast, offering vistas of impressive cliffs, caves, and picturesque coves. The route includes passing through Cala Blava, Bellavista, and Cap Rocat, each with their own unique charm. This part of the trip is ideal for photography, as you can capture rugged rock formations and the shimmering water.

The second snorkeling stop is at Cala Vella, a tranquil cove with transparent waters perfect for a swim. Here, again, you’ll get around 30 minutes to snorkel, paddle surf, or relax on deck. Several reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is—an ideal place to cool off after the boat’s scenic cruise.

Finally, the boat heads back to the starting point, leaving you with a sense of having experienced Mallorca’s marine wonders firsthand. The entire trip lasts about three and a half hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well even on a busy itinerary.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Sa Calma Boats

Most tours depart from Sa Calma Boats, conveniently located close to Palma’s city center. The early departure from Palma at 10:30 am or 2:30 pm and Can Pastilla at 11:00 am or 3:00 pm offers options for different schedules. The ease of pickup and drop-off adds to the trip’s appeal, especially if you’re staying in Palma or nearby.

First Stop: Cueva Verde

After setting sail, your first destination is the Green Cave, a unique site that combines natural beauty with an adventurous snorkel. The 30-minute stop allows enough time to explore the waters, take pictures, or simply unwind on the boat.

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Second Stop: Cala Vella

The second stop at Cala Vella is equally scenic, with crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim. This tranquil spot is a favorite for those wanting a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The 40-minute snorkeling window is ample for most swimmers looking to explore underwater life.

Route Highlights

During the cruise, you’ll pass by Cala Blava, Bellavista, and Cap Rocat—famous for their stunning coastlines and cliffs. The boat’s route offers a good balance of sightseeing and swimming opportunities, with some reviewers noting that the crew sometimes extends stops beyond the scheduled time if weather and conditions allow, enhancing the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers a 3-hour boat trip, including insurance, snorkeling equipment, and paddle surf gear. If you’re hoping for food or drinks during the trip, you’ll need to bring your own, as those aren’t included.

This setup makes the experience very straightforward and stress-free—everything you need for snorkeling and paddling is provided, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and water. The flexibility to reserve now and pay later also adds to its appeal, especially if your plans are still taking shape.

The Experience on the Water

Travelers consistently mention the friendly crew and the impressive views as the main highlights. One reviewer noted, “The crew was super friendly and did 3 stops instead of the initially planned 2,” which shows their commitment to providing a memorable trip.

The boat itself is described as modern and spacious, with enough room for the small groups typical of this tour—usually around 15-20 people. This smaller size enhances the feeling of intimacy and makes it easier to interact with the crew and fellow travelers.

The snorkeling gear is generally well-rated, enabling even beginners to enjoy the underwater sights. The paddle surf boards are a nice touch, giving you a different way to experience the water without needing extra equipment or lessons.

Value for Money

Compared to other boat tours around Palma Bay, this experience offers great value, considering the included gear, multiple stops, and personalized feel. While it’s not a full-day cruise, the 3.5 hours covers plenty of scenery and activity, making it a worthwhile half-day escape from the city.

Travelers appreciate the flexibility of booking and the smooth logistics—from pickup to timely departure—ensuring you make the most of your limited time. You might find that the quality of the boat and staff, combined with the natural beauty of the sites visited, make this tour a standout option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers, families, or couples who enjoy water-based activities and want to see Mallorca’s coast from a different perspective. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, underwater exploration, and a bit of paddling fun.

However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those who prefer a less active experience, as the tour involves swimming, snorkeling, and paddling. Also, since the boat departs promptly, punctuality is essential to avoid missing out.

The Sum Up

This Mallorca Marine Reserve tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation on the water. The modern vessel, friendly crew, and well-chosen stops make it a solid choice for those seeking a memorable half-day exploring Mallorca’s stunning coastline. The opportunities to snorkel at two different sites and paddle surf onboard add a fun, interactive element that keeps the experience lively.

If you love being on the water and want to see some of Mallorca’s most beautiful caves, cliffs, and coves without a long commitment, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers looking for a more intimate, flexible boat experience with plenty of natural beauty.

In short, whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a family, or a couple wanting a scenic adventure, this trip has enough charm and activity to make your Mallorca visit a little more special.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including the stops for snorkeling and paddle surfing.

What time does the tour depart?
From Palma, departures are at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm; from Can Pastilla, at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. Check availability for exact times.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if desired. The focus is on water activities and scenery.

What should I bring?
A towel and a sense of adventure. The tour provides snorkeling gear and paddle surf boards.

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

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally suitable for those comfortable in the water. Check with the provider if unsure about age restrictions.

Does the boat accommodate large groups?
The boat typically hosts around 15-20 people, offering a relatively intimate experience. Larger groups may need special arrangements.

Are the stops flexible?
The crew sometimes extends stops if conditions permit, which can make your experience more enjoyable.

This trip offers a lively, scenic, and engaging way to explore Mallorca’s marine landscapes—perfect for active travelers eager to see the coast from a different angle.

You can check availability for your dates here: