Charter Tour: By Boat in the Bay of Palma with Snorkeling and Paddle Surfing

Crystal water makes the best playground. SaltyTours’ 2.5-hour boat trip from Palma is appealing because you get a private-style outing for no more than nine people, plus snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and sea scooters at the swimming stop. I especially like the small boat size and the easy mix of active water time and quiet cruising. Cold water, soft drinks, beers, and some snacks are also provided.

The main caution is simple: this is a water activity, not a sightseeing cruise with a long list of landmarks. The snorkeling can be good, but sea life varies, and one family found fewer fish than expected. You also need to reach the port yourself, and the trip is not suitable for wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, or non-swimmers.

Key points at a glance

• Nine people maximum: The compact group keeps the boat more relaxed and gives you a better chance to use the equipment without waiting.
• A 25-minute coastal ride: The trip out to the swimming area offers views of Palma Bay, Ses Illetes, and the Mallorcan coast.
• Several ways to enjoy the stop: Swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or use the included sea scooter, sometimes described as a jet ski in the tour details.
• Friendly named guides: Francesca and Enrique receive repeated praise for their warmth, safety checks, and help with the equipment.
• Refreshments are included: Water, soft drinks, beers, and reported snacks help make the $77 price easier to justify.
• Flexible timing matters: A morning departure gives you more time in the sun ahead, while a late afternoon trip can be cooler and gentler.

Setting out from Club de Mar

Your meeting point is at the entrance to the port of Club de Mar-Mallorca, in front of MercaNautic New Palma. Pay close attention to the wording: it is not simply a place called Club de Mar. The guide meets you there and walks you to the boat.

Arrive about 30 minutes before departure. That buffer is useful because you need to find the correct entrance, meet the guide, and settle in before the boat leaves. You arrange your own transport to the port, but the area is accessible by public transport from Palma’s main districts.

The boat holds up to nine passengers. That number matters more than it might sound. Large excursion boats can turn a swim stop into a queue for masks, boards, and other equipment. Here, you are more likely to get personal help and a calmer spot on deck.

Several people particularly enjoyed the friendly approach of Francesca and Enrique. The guides give safety instructions, explain how to use the gear, and check that everyone is comfortable. English and Spanish are spoken.

The ride across Palma Bay

The first part of the trip is a scenic cruise rather than a rapid transfer. One family described the ride to the cove as about 25 minutes, with views along Palma’s coast. You get time to settle into the boat, look back toward the city, and enjoy the water before the swimming begins.

The captain also points out landmarks and coastal features along the way. That makes the ride more interesting than simply heading straight to a swim stop, although the main appeal remains the water rather than a detailed city tour.

Music is part of the atmosphere. On some outings, the group can connect to the boat’s Bluetooth system and choose its own soundtrack. That is a nice touch for a private group, though you should remember that the mood depends partly on the people sharing the boat with you.

The ride may be smooth, but conditions can change. One outing had fairly choppy water, and the captain adjusted the route around different coves. If you are prone to seasickness, choose a time when you feel comfortable on the water and avoid staring down at your phone during the crossing.

Ses Illetes and the coastal views

Ses Illetes appears on the route as a photo stop. The area gives you a chance to take in the bright Mediterranean water and the shore from offshore, where the view feels quite different from a beach visit.

This is not a long guided stop with an extended explanation. Think of it as a scenic pause during the boat ride. Keep your camera ready, but protect it from splashes and avoid letting photos distract from the captain’s instructions.

The bay’s appearance depends on light, wind, and sea conditions. On a clear day, the water can look strikingly turquoise. On a cloudy day, the colors will be less dramatic, but the boat ride still provides a pleasant way to see the coast from the water.

Swimming at Punta Negra

The main activity stop is Punta Negra. Here, the boat anchors or pauses for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and the motorized water equipment.

The water is described repeatedly as clear and calm, with plenty of room for a swim. You can jump in for a straightforward swim, float near the boat, or move farther out with a paddleboard. The crew gives instructions for the equipment and keeps an eye on the group.

Snorkeling is included, with masks and snorkels supplied. You may see fish clearly in the right conditions, and some outings offered very good marine life viewing. But keep your expectations sensible. The area is not presented as a major snorkeling site, and one family found that there were not many fish on the day they visited. The water and swimming time are the more dependable attractions.

If you do not feel confident in the water, speak to the crew before getting in. The activity is listed as unsuitable for non-swimmers, and minors must stay with an adult. A guest who could not swim still described receiving attentive help, but that should not be treated as a guarantee that the trip is suitable for every non-swimmer.

Paddleboards, masks, and sea scooters

The equipment gives this trip more energy than a basic sightseeing cruise. Paddleboards let you explore the cove at your own pace, and they are suitable for people who want a quieter activity than the sea scooter.

The boards were a hit with both adults and teenagers. One family also appreciated that the equipment was in good condition and available without an added charge. Since the group is small, you should have a reasonable chance to try several activities during the stop.

The tour details call the motorized attraction a jet ski, while the practical descriptions from the trip refer to sea scooters or water scooters. Expect a compact device for moving through the water, not a full-size personal watercraft excursion. These scooters were a major favorite with children and teenagers, and the captain explains how to use them safely.

Do not assume every person needs to try everything. You can spend the whole stop swimming, sit on the boat, or alternate between the activities. That flexibility is one of the strongest features for families and mixed-age groups.

Drinks, snacks, and comfort on board

Water, soft drinks, and beers are included. Several outings also had chips or other simple snacks available, though meals are not part of the package. Bring your own food if you need something more substantial, especially if you are booking around lunchtime.

Towels and sunscreen are not supplied. Bring both. Sunscreen is particularly important because you will spend time exposed on the boat and in the water, where it is easy to underestimate the sun.

A freshwater rinse is available on board, which is useful after swimming. Families appreciated being able to wash off salt water before returning to Palma, especially when children are sensitive to seawater.

There are no baby seats, and baby carriages are not allowed. The activity is also not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. Those limits are worth checking before you pay, since boarding a small boat can be difficult even when the crew is helpful.

How the timing changes the experience

The duration is 2.5 hours, which feels long enough for a boat ride and a proper swimming stop without taking over your entire day. You get a taste of Palma Bay, active time in the water, and a little space to relax.

Morning departures are useful if you want to continue sightseeing afterward. The water equipment is available early, and cooler temperatures may make the ride more comfortable before the strongest midday sun.

A late afternoon departure can be appealing in summer. One family chose a 5 p.m. trip and enjoyed the softer temperature and reduced heat. The best time depends on your plans, but avoiding the hottest part of the day can make a real difference.

Cloudy weather does not automatically spoil the trip. The colors may not be as bright, but the boat ride and water activities still work. Choppy conditions are a different matter. The captain may adjust the route, but anyone who dislikes boat movement should consider the forecast before going.

Is $77 a fair price?

At $77 per person, this is not the cheapest way to reach the water in Palma. Its value comes from the combination of a small group, a boat charter atmosphere, several included activities, and refreshments.

You are not paying just for a cruise. The price includes snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, the sea scooter, water, soft drinks, beers, and the captain’s guidance. Renting these items separately, while also paying for a boat ride, could easily narrow the price gap.

The nine-person limit is especially valuable if you are traveling with family or friends. A group of six can enjoy a private-feeling outing without filling every seat. If only one booking is made for a departure, the company has sometimes operated it as a private trip rather than canceling, though you should not book on the assumption that this will always happen.

The value is weaker if you mainly want a long coastal sightseeing cruise or a serious snorkeling session. The outing is built around a pleasant swim stop and active fun, not a full day at sea or a specialist marine excursion.

Who will enjoy this boat trip most?

I would recommend it most to families, couples, and small groups who want several choices in a short period. Teenagers tend to have plenty to do, while parents can choose to swim, paddle, or simply sit with a drink.

It also works well for a mixed group. One person can snorkel, another can use the board, and someone else can stay on deck. The captain and crew receive strong praise for making the experience feel comfortable and organized.

The tour can suit older adults who are happy boarding a small boat and entering the water, too. One outing included a 75-year-old family member alongside children. Still, physical access is limited, and the company does not recommend it for people with mobility impairments.

Non-swimmers should choose another activity. Even though an attentive guide may help someone feel more at ease, the outing is centered on getting into the sea, and there are no baby seats or special flotation arrangements listed.

Practical tips before you book

Arrive 30 minutes early and confirm that you are at the Club de Mar-Mallorca entrance by MercaNautic New Palma.

Bring sunscreen, a towel, a swimsuit, and any food you may want beyond the included drinks and simple snacks.

If you want a cooler outing, look at early morning or late afternoon departure times.

Tell the crew if you are nervous about the equipment. The guides provide instructions and safety help, and Francesca and Enrique are praised for paying close attention to comfort.

Protect phones and cameras from spray. The boat ride is scenic, but it is still a working water outing.

Keep snorkeling expectations moderate. You could see fish clearly, but the quality of marine life varies by location and conditions.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. Check the available starting times before making plans around the trip.

Should you book SaltyTours?

Book it if you want a compact, friendly boat outing with real time in the water. The strongest reasons are the nine-person limit, the number of included activities, the helpful crew, and the chance to tailor the stop to your group.

I would especially choose it for a family with active children or teenagers, a couple wanting more than a standard harbor cruise, or a group of friends who value a relaxed boat rather than a packed excursion vessel.

Skip it if you cannot swim, need wheelchair access, want a full meal included, or expect a serious snorkeling expedition with guaranteed marine life. For everyone else, $77 buys a well-rounded half-day slice of Palma Bay, with enough variety to keep the water lovers busy and enough calm time for everyone else.

FAQ

Where does the boat trip start?

The meeting point is at the entrance to the port of Club de Mar-Mallorca, in front of MercaNautic New Palma. It is not at a place simply labeled Club de Mar.

How early should I arrive?

You should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

How long does the activity last?

The boat trip lasts 2.5 hours.

How many people can join each boat?

Each boat accommodates a maximum of nine participants.

What activities are included?

The activity includes swimming, snorkeling with mask and snorkel, paddle surfing, and use of the included sea scooter or water scooter.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Water, soft drinks, and beers are included. Meals and snacks are not formally included, although simple snacks may be available on board.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Masks and snorkels are provided for the swimming stop.

Is transport to the port included?

No. You need to reach the meeting point on your own.

Is the trip suitable for children?

Children may join, but minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Baby seats are not available, and baby carriages are not allowed.

Can I cancel for a refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, subject to the booking terms.