Menorca is a fantastic place to experience sailing, thanks to its clear waters, rugged coastlines, and quiet coves. Unlike some of the more crowded destinations, Menorca offers a more relaxed and authentic maritime vibe, whether you’re cruising on a spacious catamaran or exploring secluded beaches by yacht. We particularly love the half-day catamaran trips, like the one from Fornells that includes snorkeling in calm waters and enjoying unlimited drinks. Or, if you’re after a personalized experience, the private catamaran rental gives you the chance to set your own pace and visit inaccessible spots. For a magical moment, the sunset cruise offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.
The list below covers a variety of sailing tours, from short trips perfect for a quick taste of the sea to full-day adventures that explore remote bays. Each offers a different way to enjoy Menorca’s coastline, whether you prefer group cruises, private charters, or learning to sail yourself.
1. From Fornells: Half-Day Menorca Catamaran Trip w/ Snorkeling
At number 1, this half-day catamaran trip from Fornells stands out for its balance of comfort, simplicity, and adventure. For around $85 per person, you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring the northern coast, with the option to snorkel in the Mediterranean’s calm, clear waters. The trip includes unlimited drinks and tasty snacks, making it an ideal choice for a laid-back outing. The highlight is visiting unspoiled beaches and coves that are impossible to reach by land, offering a true escape from crowds.
What makes this tour special is the friendly atmosphere and the fact that it’s highly rated, with a 4.7 out of 5 based on 174 reviews. Travelers frequently mention Alfredo, the captain, who “showed us amazing bays and unexplored beaches” and made the trip memorable. This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of sailing with minimal fuss, especially if snorkeling and scenic views are priorities.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a short, relaxing, and well-reviewed experience with plenty of opportunities to swim and unwind in pristine waters.
2. Half-Day Catamaran Trip in Menorca
Positioned at number 2, this half-day catamaran trip offers a slightly longer experience—about 3.5 hours—sailing from Fornells around Menorca’s northern coasts. For $81.40, you’ll enjoy cruising aboard a modern, spacious catamaran with a professional skipper and crew. The route varies depending on the day, with options to follow an easterly or westerly course, taking in rugged cliffs, pine-covered headlands, and hidden beaches.
One of the tour’s strengths is the opportunity to drop anchor at secluded coves for swimming or snorkeling using the supplied equipment. The trip also includes complimentary snacks and beverages, which keeps things simple and enjoyable. Tour reviews highlight the landscapes, sea life, and helpful skippers, with one noting, “The landscapes are amazing, and the sealife is wonderful.” This tour suits travelers who want a bit more flexibility and access to less-visited areas, all aboard a reliable vessel.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed cruise with plenty of swimming and snorkel stops, all on a modern boat with good amenities.
3. Fornells: Catamaran Sunset Cruise of Menorca’s Coast
Positioned at number 3, this sunset cruise offers a romantic, two-hour escape from the daytime crowds. For $74, you’ll sail out from Fornells as the sun begins to dip, with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Snacks and drinks are provided, and you’re encouraged to jump into the warm waters for a swim or snorkel beneath the surface.
The real draw here is the scenery—watching the sunset over the coast, capturing photos, and enjoying the quiet beauty of Menorca’s shoreline. Reviews note the relaxing vibe and the chance to see marine life below the surface, especially as the sun sets. This tour is particularly suited for couples, anyone celebrating a special occasion, or travelers seeking a mellow end to their day.
Bottom Line: A short, memorable experience perfect for sunset lovers and those wanting a gentle, scenic cruise.
4. Private Catamaran Rental in Menorca
Number 4 on our list, the private catamaran rental is all about exclusivity. Priced at roughly $802.47 per person for about 8 hours, this tour is best suited for groups or couples looking for total privacy and a personalized itinerary. With your own skipper, you can explore inaccessible marine areas of the Menorca Marine Reserve, with stops for swimming and snorkeling using the provided equipment. The experience is tailored to your interests, whether it’s relaxing, exploring, or learning about local marine life.
Guests consistently mention the value of private attention and the ability to visit parts of the reserve not reachable via land. The flexibility to customize the trip makes this ideal for special occasions or travelers wanting a more intimate connection to the sea. The downside: at a higher price point, it’s less suited for casual, budget travelers.
Bottom Line: Best for those who value privacy, customization, and a tailored experience in Menorca’s most beautiful waters.
5. Half-day Catamaran Tour from Fornells, Menorca
Coming in at number 5, this half-day catamaran tour offers a relaxed exploration of the northern coast, with a focus on comfort and small-group intimacy. For $96.31, you’ll enjoy about 3.5 hours on a spacious shared vessel, with a route that often includes Cala Pregonda or Cala Mongofre. You can lounge, take the helm, or simply enjoy the scenery, all while sipping free drinks and soaking up the sun.
What stands out is the number of positive reviews, with travelers praising the boat’s equipment, the swimming stops, and the friendly captain. One reviewer raved, “The waters in the coves are like being in the Caribbean,” which speaks to the quality of the snorkeling and swimming spots. This tour caters well to those seeking a balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and relaxing.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, comfortable cruise ideal for small groups wanting an authentic, scenic day on the water.
6. Full Day Sailing Yacht Trip in Menorca
Number 6 offers a full-day sailing adventure priced at around $183.23. Limited to ten passengers, this trip takes you to remote beaches such as Cala Pregonda and Cala Pudent, with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. The focus is on exploring Menorca’s least accessible and most pristine spots, making it a perfect choice for those who want a comprehensive day on the water.
Guests describe this as “private and attentive,” emphasizing the visit to beaches with “blue waters” and unspoiled surroundings. The trip is ideal for travelers who want to spend more time in nature, away from crowded spots, and enjoy the tranquility of Menorca’s most beautiful bays.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups seeking an all-day escape, exploring remote beaches with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
7. Sailboat Sunset Trip in Menorca
Number 7, the sailboat sunset trip, is a shorter, 2-hour cruise that captures the magic of Menorca’s coast at dusk. Priced at $74, it’s a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy the changing colors over the water. The experience is casual, with opportunities to relax, snap photos, and feel the evening breeze.
While reviews are limited, the focus is on the experience of watching the sun set over the horizon, making it an ideal addition to any sunset or romantic getaway. It’s suited for those short on time but wanting that special moment on the water.
Bottom Line: An affordable, short sunset cruise perfect for rounding off a day or celebrating a special occasion.
8. Dinghy Sailing Lesson in Menorca
Finally, number 8 offers a dinghy sailing lesson that combines learning with the stunning environment of Fornells Bay. For $82, you’ll spend 1.5 hours learning the basics of dinghy sailing in a practical, hands-on setting. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to try something new and gain confidence on small boats.
Reviews praise the quality of instruction, with one saying, “We had a wonderful sailing class,” emphasizing the practical, engaging teaching style. This experience is ideal for those who want to actively participate rather than just relax on a boat.
Bottom Line: Great for beginners or those wanting to pick up sailing skills in a beautiful setting.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience
When choosing among these options, consider your budget, available time, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a quick taste of the sea with snorkeling, the half-day catamaran from Fornells is a solid pick. Want a private, tailored day? The private catamaran is unmatched for exclusivity. Looking for romance or a peaceful sunset? The sunset cruise offers stunning views with minimal fuss.
Budget-conscious travelers should note that group tours typically start around $74, while private rentals are more expensive but offer complete control over the itinerary. If you enjoy hands-on experiences, the dinghy sailing lesson is an excellent way to learn a new skill.
Plan ahead—many tours fill quickly, especially in peak season. Booking early guarantees your spot and allows you to pick the perfect time for your trip.
Final Thoughts
Menorca offers a rich variety of sailing experiences suited to different interests and budgets. For a taste of local beauty, the half-day catamaran trips are reliable and well-loved. If privacy and customization matter most, the private rental provides a tailored adventure. And for those seeking a romantic or tranquil moment, a sunset cruise might be just what you need.
Whether you want to explore remote beaches, learn to sail, or simply relax with a drink as the sun sets, Menorca’s waters won’t disappoint. Book early, choose the experience that matches your style, and prepare to enjoy some of the most beautiful sailing around the Balearic Islands.
