Seeing the island from the sea
Mallorca's coastline is long and intricate, with countless coves, caves and cliffs that are difficult or impossible to reach by land. Getting out on the water opens up a different island, and the clear Mediterranean makes it a great place to snorkel.
Boat trips range from short glass-bottom cruises to full-day sailing excursions, and many include time to swim and snorkel from the boat.
Boat trips to consider
From Palma, catamaran and sailing trips head out into the bay and along the southwest coast, typically with a swimming stop in a sheltered cove. Sunset sailing trips are popular too. In the north, boats from Port de Pollença and Port d'Alcúdia explore the Formentor peninsula, with its towering cliffs and the beach at Cala Formentor.
On the east coast, boats from resorts such as Porto Cristo and Cala Millor visit coves along the shore. If you prefer to be your own captain, small motorboats that don't require a licence can be rented in some harbours for short trips close to shore, though rules and conditions apply.
Where to snorkel
Many coves around the island have good snorkelling, especially where rocks meet sand or seagrass. Posidonia seagrass meadows, which are protected in the Balearics, are vital to the clear water and support plenty of marine life, so avoid anchoring on them or damaging them.
The coves of the Mondragó nature park in the southeast, the rocky shores around Cala Ratjada in the northeast, and the area around Sant Elm in the southwest are often recommended. Off Sant Elm, the protected island of Sa Dragonera can be visited by boat and has clear waters around it. For an even richer experience, the Cabrera archipelago, a national park off the south coast, is visited on boat trips from Colònia de Sant Jordi.
Good habits
Choose reef-friendly sunscreen, don't touch or collect marine life, and stay aware of boat traffic. Calm mornings usually offer the best visibility. If you bring your own mask and fins, a checked bag gives you space; on a Classic fare, a 23 kg bag is included, and you can add one online for €29 on other fares.
If you are new to snorkelling, start in shallow, sheltered water close to shore and practise breathing through the snorkel before heading further out. Wearing a brightly coloured swim cap makes you easier for boats to spot.
Good to know
- Book popular boat trips a few days ahead in summer.
- Never anchor on posidonia seagrass.
- Morning trips usually have calmer seas and better visibility.