Half-Day Visit to Formentor Beach by Catamaran

A Practical Look at the Half-Day Catamaran Trip to Formentor Beach in Mallorca

If you’re considering a boat trip to Playa de Formentor from Port d’Alcudia, this half-day catamaran tour offers an easy, laid-back way to combine sailing with some beach downtime. While it’s not the most polished experience out there, it brings some lovely views and a taste of Mallorca’s coastline — perfect if you’re after a relaxed outing rather than a luxury cruise.

What we like about this tour? First, the scenic sailing along Mallorca’s northern coast is genuinely pretty and provides plenty of photo opportunities. Second, the free time at Formentor Beach is a great chance to kick back on white sands and enjoy the clear waters. But, a key consideration is that the boat tends to fill up quickly, and reviews suggest it can get crowded, which might make the experience less comfortable, especially for families or those seeking a quieter escape.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking to combine a bit of sea air, scenic views, and beach time without overpaying or committing to a full-day adventure. It’s ideal if you’re okay with some crowds and shorter beach stops, and it suits those who want a straightforward, no-fuss way to see a famous Mallorca spot.

Key Points

• Relaxed way to reach Formentor Beach: Enjoy a scenic catamaran cruise rather than a long drive.
• Great photo opportunities: The coastline and sail itself provide plenty of chances for memorable pictures.
• Limited beach time: The time at Formentor Beach is free but reportedly quite short.
• Crowding concerns: Some reviews mention boat overcrowding, which can impact comfort.
• No included transfer or food: You need to organize your own transportation and bring snacks if needed.
• Affordable price point: At just under $47 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option for a half-day adventure.

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point and Timing
The tour kicks off at Port d’Alcúdia around 11:00 am. You’ll meet at Passeig Marítim, a location accessible by public transportation, making it straightforward to reach. The journey lasts approximately four and a half hours, which includes sailing and beach time.

The Cruise to Formentor
As you board your catamaran, expect a lively, friendly crew ready to set sail. The route takes you along Mallorca’s northern shoreline, offering panoramic views of the coast, cliffs, and perhaps the iconic lighthouse near Formentor. Many reviewers comment positively on the scenery — “Incredible views,” as one said, and a nice way to get a different perspective of the island.

Onboard Atmosphere
The boat is designed for comfort, with space to relax and soak up the sun. You’ll be on deck, enjoying the breeze and taking plenty of photos. However, some guests have noted that the boat can feel crowded, with limited seating. One reviewer specifically mentioned standing for four hours because there was no available seat, which isn’t ideal, especially with kids or older travelers.

Arrival at Playa de Formentor
Once you arrive, you’re given some free time to enjoy the beach. The sands are white and inviting, and the waters are clear — a classic Mallorca postcard scene. But, depending on the day, the beach can be very busy, and the short stop means you might not get much time to truly unwind or explore.

Beach and Ancillary Experience
While the main focus is on the cruise, some reviews highlight the added benefit of delicious food and tapas available for purchase on board. This makes the experience somewhat more enjoyable — a little snack or drink can elevate the trip. Still, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included in the price.

The Pros and Cons

Pros
– The scenic sailing provides lovely views and photo opportunities.
– The price point is reasonable for a half-day activity.
– You get a chance to relax on the deck and enjoy the sea breeze.
– The beach at Formentor is beautiful and worth the visit.

Cons
– Overcrowding is a common complaint; some passengers have had to stand or sit uncomfortably.
– The short beach stop means you might not get enough time to enjoy the sands peacefully.
– No hotel transfers included, so you need to arrange your own transport.
– The GPS info was reportedly inaccurate for some guests, causing last-minute stress to find the boat.
– No food or drinks included, though available for purchase onboard.

How It Compares and Who It’s For

In terms of value, at just under $50, the tour is quite accessible, especially considering the scenic views and beach access. But the potential for overcrowding and short stops mean it might not be suitable if you’re after a tranquil or more exclusive experience.

This trip is best suited for travelers who prioritize seeing Mallorca’s coast from the water and are okay with a bustling atmosphere. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful day or want more time at the beach. If you enjoy photo opportunities, a laid-back sailing experience, and don’t mind the crowds, this could be a good option for a half-day outing.

In The Sum Up

This Half-Day Visit to Formentor Beach by Catamaran offers a straightforward, affordable way to see one of Mallorca’s most iconic beaches from the water. The touring experience is relaxed, with plenty of chances to snap photos and enjoy the sea breeze. However, the crowd levels and limited beach time may take away from the tranquility you might be craving.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic boat rides, love Mallorca’s rugged coastline, and don’t mind sharing space with other travelers, this tour could be a good fit. Just be prepared for the possibility of a crowded boat and shorter beach stop, and plan to bring your own snacks or organize transportation.

Overall, it’s a convenient, budget-friendly choice for a fun, scenic half-day, especially if you’re hoping to tick the Formentor Beach off your list without committing to a full-day tour.

FAQ

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
No, the tour starts at Passeig Marítim in Port d’Alcúdia, which is accessible by public transportation, but you’ll need to arrange your own transfer.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable clothing, a swimsuit if you want to swim, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or drinks since these aren’t included.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including sailing time and beach stop.

Will I have enough time at the beach?
The free time at Formentor Beach is relatively short, and some reviews suggest it’s not enough to fully relax. Be prepared for a quick visit.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 3 and above can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Some reviews mention families, but overcrowding might impact younger kids more.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and in case of poor conditions, it may be canceled, with the option for a full refund or rescheduling.

If you’re after a laid-back way to see Mallorca’s coast, enjoy some beach time, and don’t mind crowded boats, this trip hits the mark. For those wanting more peace and quiet, consider other options or shorter, less busy tours.