Paguera or Santa Ponsa: Speedboat Cruise to Palma

Planning a day trip from Mallorca’s southwest coast? This speedboat cruise to Palma offers a quick, scenic escape that balances adventure with free exploration. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural sights, or just a fun day on the water, this tour has a lot to offer.

What we like most: First, the breathtaking vistas along Mallorca’s coast as you cruise past lighthouses and islands; second, the plenty of free time in Palma, allowing you to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration? The trip is mainly about the journey and free roaming — if you’re looking for structured guided tours or meals included, this might not be your ideal choice.

This experience suits travelers who want a flexible day, love scenic boat rides, and enjoy spending some hours exploring a lively city like Palma on their own.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal cruise: Enjoy views of the southwest coast of Mallorca, passing notable sights like Cabo de Cala Figuera and islands.
• Flexible free time: Over 4 hours to explore Palma’s sights, shops, and eateries at your own pace.
• Convenient transportation: Return trip included by shuttle bus, easing logistical worries.
• No meals included: Bring your own snacks or plan to dine in Palma.
• Duration and timing: Around 9 hours total, with specific start times depending on your booking.
• Language options: Tours are available in Spanish, English, German, and French.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Speedboat Trip to Palma

The Start: From Paguera or Santa Ponsa

Your day begins at one of the designated meeting points in Paguera or Santa Ponsa. The exact location can vary, so check your booking details closely. The trip is structured for convenience, with the boat trip itself being the highlight. You’ll board a spacious speedboat—designed for comfort, but also for catching those Instagram-worthy views as you slice through the Mediterranean.

Travelers consistently praise the scenic ride. One reviewer mentions, “a lovely scenic ride,” which perfectly captures the essence. The boat’s speed and open design let you feel the wind and soak in the sun — a refreshing way to begin your day.

The Coastal Route and Highlights

As you cruise along the southwest coast of Mallorca, you’ll pass several notable sights. Expect to see Cabo de Cala Figuera lighthouse, islands, and charming bays like Cala Portals Vells and Illetes. These sights aren’t just pretty; they help you understand why Mallorca’s coastline is so celebrated.

The boat ride isn’t just about the views. It’s a chance to relax, chat, and maybe snap a few photos of the Islote de Sa Porrassa or the Isla del Toro. One guest notes, “We thoroughly enjoyed our boat trip to Palma, a lovely scenic ride,” confirming the ride’s appeal.

Reaching Palma: The Old Town and Beyond

Around midday, the boat docks in Palma’s Old Town, providing easy access to notable sites like the Cathedral of Mallorca (La Seu). From here, you have over four hours of free time to explore Palma’s vibrant streets.

This is where the tour really shines — you can wander historic alleys, visit museums, or simply relax at a café. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility. One reviewer mentions, “It was lovely, really reasonable price,” highlighting the value of this more autonomous approach.

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What to Do in Palma

Palma is a city of contrasts — ancient architecture and lively modern shops. You might explore the Gothic cathedral, which is an iconic sight visible from many parts of the city, or stroll through narrow streets filled with boutique stores and cafes.

For food lovers, Palma offers diverse options. You could try local tapas or sit down for a leisurely lunch — just keep in mind that food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

The Return Journey

At 3:00 PM, a comfortable shuttle bus picks you up to bring you back to your original meeting point. The bus ride is typically air-conditioned and hassle-free, giving you time to relax after your exploring. Travelers have praised this aspect, with one review noting the “lovely air-conditioned bus back.”

The Value of This Experience

Considering the cost, the tour offers good value for those keen on combining a scenic boat ride with flexible city exploration. The price includes the boat trip, free time, and shuttle bus, so no surprises there. Remember, you’ll need to budget separately for meals and any souvenirs or extras.

While it doesn’t include guided tours or meals, the free time is a big advantage. Many travelers appreciate the chance to customize their Palma visit — whether to see the cathedral, shop, or relax.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

One guest summed it up well: “We thoroughly enjoyed our boat trip to Palma, a lovely scenic ride and then just over four hours free time in Palma and a lovely air-conditioned bus back.” That highlights the balance of scenic adventure and personal exploration.

Another simply said, “Sehr gut!” — a reminder that the tour’s straightforward, relaxed style appeals across language barriers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who love scenery and flexibility. If you enjoy boat rides and want some free time in Palma to explore on your own, this is a great option. It’s perfect if you’re traveling on a budget but still want a comfortable, well-organized day with gorgeous views.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking guided sightseeing or included meals, or those with mobility issues who might find the boat and walking around Palma more challenging.

FAQs

How long is the entire trip?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including the boat ride, free time, and return by shuttle bus.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point varies depending on your option, but it’s in either Paguera or Santa Ponsa. Be sure to check your booking details.

What is included in the tour?
Your package covers the boat trip to Palma, over 4 hours of free time, and the return by shuttle bus.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included. Travelers should bring their own snacks or plan to eat in Palma.

Is there a guided tour of Palma?
No, the tour offers free time to explore Palma at your own pace, without guided excursions.

Is this suitable for children or pregnant women?
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, likely due to safety concerns on the boat.

What languages are available?
The tour host or greeter speaks Spanish, English, German, and French.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are recommended for walking and sun protection.

Final Thoughts

This speedboat cruise from Paguera or Santa Ponsa to Palma offers a delightful combination of scenic beauty and independent exploration. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to enjoy Mallorca’s coastline without the fuss of guided tours, and who appreciate the freedom to set their own pace in Palma.

The trip’s highlights — stunning coastal views, a comfortable boat ride, and ample free time in Palma — make it a value-packed option. You’ll love the way the trip mixes adventure with personal discovery, especially if you enjoy a bit of sunshine and the freedom to wander.

On the downside, if you prefer guided commentary or inclusive meals, you might find this tour a bit too freeform. But for those looking for a relaxed, scenic, and flexible day, this speedboat trip hits the right notes.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Mallorca’s coast and city life — without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: