Palma Bay: Boat Tour with BBQ, Snorkelling, & Sunset Option

Palma Bay: Boat Tour with BBQ, Snorkelling, & Sunset Option — An Honest Look

If you’re heading to Mallorca and looking for a way to see the coast from a different perspective, a boat tour like this might catch your eye. We’ve seen plenty of options, but this one from Sa Calma Boats stands out because it combines a laid-back vibe with some pretty impressive scenery, good food, and the chance to cool off with snorkeling. Whether you’re into relaxing in the sun or snapping photos of the coastline, it seems to hit the right notes for many travelers.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its versatility — it offers both a daytime and a sunset experience, so you can choose what suits your mood and schedule. Plus, the crew’s reputation for being friendly and professional gives a reassuring touch. The price, at $63 per person, appears reasonable for a three-hour trip that includes not just sightseeing but also food and drinks. That said, a potential downside is the crowd factor—some reviews mention that the boat can feel a bit packed, which might impact your comfort. Still, this tour feels well-suited for anyone wanting to enjoy Mallorca’s waters in a fun, social setting.

If you’re in Mallorca and want a balanced blend of relaxation, scenic views, and casual fun, this experience could be right up your alley. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with friends, couples, or even those who just want to unwind and soak up the sun with good company.

Key Points

• Includes food and drinks: Enjoy a tasty BBQ burger, fresh fruit, and a drink package, making it good value.
• Beautiful swimming stops: Snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters, with some reviews raving about gorgeous bays.
• Flexible options: Choose between a daytime or sunset cruise for different atmospheres.
• Friendly crew: Known for attentive, engaging staff that contribute significantly to the vibe.
• Scenic coastline views: Capture Mallorca’s stunning coast and natural reserves from the water.
• Crowded boat: Be aware that the boat might feel busy, especially during peak times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail: What You Can Expect

This boat tour offers a nice mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and light adventure. The starting point varies depending on whether you choose the morning or sunset option, but in either case, the journey begins from Can Pastilla or Palma. You’ll board the Super Delfin Verde, a vessel designed for comfort and fun, with plenty of space for a social atmosphere.

The core of the experience revolves around cruising near the Palma Marine Nature Reserve, a protected natural spot that’s perfect for appreciating Mallorca’s unspoiled coastline. After about 45 minutes of scenic cruising, you’ll arrive at a secret stop — a hidden bay like Cala Vella — where you can jump into the water, snorkel, or just relax on the boat.

The Swimming and Snorkeling Stop

This is often the highlight for many, as the waters are described as crystal clear and full of marine life. The reviews mention that when weather permits, the stop feels idyllic, with some guests jumping off cliffs or swimming in gorgeous bays. Snorkel gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

The Food and Beverage Offerings

The included catering is pretty straightforward but hits the spot: a tasty BBQ hamburger, a variety of salads and skewers, and fresh fruit for dessert. There’s also a bar offering water, beer, and sangria. Some reviews highlight that the food is good for what it is, with extra servings available if you ask. The drinks are reasonably priced, which adds to the feeling of good value for a three-hour trip.

The Scenic Cruising and Views

Cruising along Mallorca’s coast gives you plenty of photo opportunities. The route takes in spots like Illetas and Cala Mayor, with the coastline’s mix of Mediterranean vegetation and sandy beaches on display. For many, just lounging back and enjoying the scenery with some music and drinks is enough to make the trip memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sunset Option

Opting for the sunset cruise transforms the experience into something more romantic and relaxed. The golden hour light over the coast, combined with the gentle movement of the boat and a laid-back atmosphere, appeals to couples and sunset lovers. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, with some guests noting the incredible views and the calm, peaceful vibe.

The Itinerary: A Breakdown

The tour starts at one of three possible locations, which makes it flexible depending on where you are staying. From there, it’s about 45 minutes cruising to the Bay of Palma, setting the scene with beautiful coastal views. Then, the boat stops at a secret bay — like Cala Vella — for about an hour and a half, giving guests ample time to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun while enjoying the onboard BBQ.

After the swim, you cruise back along the coast, with another 45-minute scenic ride to wind down the trip. The last stop is back at your original meeting point, completing a well-paced three-hour adventure.

What the Reviews Say

Some of the most positive comments highlight the friendly staff, with Olivia noting “friendly staff, reasonable priced drinks, went swimming in gorgeous bay.” Others appreciate the vibe created by the crew, especially Vishal who called the staff “outstanding” and said they made the atmosphere fun.

Even when plans got slightly disrupted—like Taylor’s experience with a rescheduled tour—reviewers point out that the company handled it professionally and still left with a positive impression. One guest, Patrick, chimed in that “Roger makes this activity alive,” emphasizing how a lively crew adds to the enjoyment.

Food quality is another praised aspect, with guests mentioning that the BBQ and fresh fruit hit the spot. The included drinks, mainly water, beer, and sangria, are considered reasonable, with options to purchase additional beverages on board.

The overall sentiment is that this tour offers great value—a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and good company—at an accessible price point. A few reviews mention the boat feeling crowded, but most agree it’s a fun, social experience.

The Practical Aspects

The tour lasts for three hours, which is enough to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed. The price, at $63, for a trip that includes food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and scenic views, feels competitive, especially when you consider the quality of the experience.

It’s essential to arrive on time, as boarding closes 10 minutes before departure. The meeting points can vary based on your selected option, so make sure to check that out in advance. While hotel pickup isn’t included, finding parking nearby might be a consideration, especially during busy times.

The tour is conducted in English, German, and Spanish, so language isn’t likely to be a barrier for most travelers. Booking with a flexible option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance is available, which is handy if your schedule changes unexpectedly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is well-suited for travelers wanting a relaxed day on the water with friends, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a social vibe. It’s ideal if you enjoy light adventure—like snorkeling or jumping off rocks—and want to combine it with some good food and scenic views.

It’s not the best choice if you’re seeking a luxury cruise or a quiet, private experience, but if you’re after a lively, reasonably priced trip with friendly hosts, this tour hits the mark. Families with older children might also find it a fun way to spend part of a day, especially if they’re keen on swimming and exploring.

The Sum Up

This Palma Bay boat tour from Sa Calma Boats offers a solid blend of scenic cruising, swimming, and casual fun. The included BBQ and drinks add good value, and the friendly crew elevate the experience, making it feel more like a day out with friends than just a tourist activity. It’s perfect for those who want to see Mallorca’s coastline from the water without complicating things or breaking the bank.

While it can get crowded on the boat, most reviews highlight the positive atmosphere created by the crew and fellow travelers. The sunset option especially seems to be a popular choice for a more tranquil, romantic experience. Whether you’re after an active swim, some scenic photos, or just relaxing with good company, this tour seems to deliver.

If you’re happy to go with the flow, enjoy good food, and love the idea of exploring Mallorca’s coast from a boat, this experience will likely tick your boxes. Just arrive early, bring your towel, and get ready to enjoy the beautiful waters and friendly vibes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, snorkeling gear is provided and the trip involves swimming and relaxing, so older children who enjoy water activities might find it enjoyable. Always check with the provider if you’re unsure about specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Towels aren’t included, so bringing one is a good idea if you plan to swim or sunbathe. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended. The boat doesn’t include additional food or drinks beyond the set menu and drinks, so feel free to bring extra if you wish.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering some flexibility.

What’s the duration?
The entire trip lasts around three hours, including cruising, swimming, and return to the starting point.

Is the experience weather dependent?
Yes, the swimming stop depends on good weather conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, the operator might cancel or reschedule, but they generally notify you well in advance.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each guest gets one drink (water, beer, or sangria). Additional beverages can be purchased onboard if desired.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and laid-back way to enjoy Mallorca’s coast, this boat tour offers a lot for a reasonable price. Just be prepared for some crowds, arrive early, and keep an eye on the weather for the best experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: