Tour of the beaches of southern Menorca with paella included

If you’re thinking about a day out on the water in Menorca, this beach-focused boat tour is worth considering. It promises a relaxed way to see some of the most beautiful coves and beaches on the island, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy a tasty paella lunch. We’ve looked into what you can expect to help you decide if this experience matches what you’re after.

What really stands out about this trip are the stunning coastal views and the well-organized stops that let you stretch your legs or cool off in clear waters. On the downside, some reviews mention that weather can impact the day, with wind or algae affecting the beach visits. Still, it’s a solid option for those who love scenic sailing combined with good food and a relaxed atmosphere.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure—it’s especially good if you’re after a manageable group size, delicious local food, and the chance to see multiple beaches in a single day. If you’re eager to relax, take photos, and enjoy Menorca’s coastline from the water, this cruise could very well be the highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery is the highlight, perfect for photography and relaxing.
• Swim and snorkel in clear waters at coves like Cala Turqueta, well-loved for its transparency.
• Good value for money considering the included paella and multiple stops.
• Weather can influence the experience, so flexibility is helpful.
• A well-organized itinerary balances travel time, beach stops, and lunch.
• Suitable for those looking for a laid-back day out in nature, with options to bring your own food if needed.

Why You’ll Love the Menorca South Coast Boat Tour

This experience offers a wonderful way to see parts of Menorca you might miss if sticking solely to land-based exploring. The boat cruise runs for around 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax on deck, take in the scenery, and enjoy the calm of the sea. For many travelers, the chance to see iconic sites like the Cap d’Artrutx lighthouse and the coves of Macarella and Macarelleta makes it a worthwhile day.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of structured stops and free time. You’ll get roughly two hours at Platges de Son Saura, where you can sunbathe or walk to Es Talaier Cove, and about an hour and a half at Cala Turqueta, famed for its crystal-clear water. The inclusion of snorkeling gear lets you explore underwater life easily—many reviews praise the quality of the water and the snorkel stops.

The lunch is another highlight, with a generous serving of mixed paella accompanied by sangria and orangeade. Several reviews mention how delicious the meal is, which adds significant value, especially considering the overall price of around $63.38 per person. For those with food sensitivities or dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that there is no paella alternative, but you may bring your own food on board.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The day kicks off at 10:00 am from the meeting point in Ciutadella. After a short safety briefing and settling onto the boat, you’ll head out along the coast, with the first notable stop being Platget de Son Saura. Here, you’ll have about two hours to enjoy the beach at your own pace. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or take a quick walk to nearby coves like Es Talaier, there’s enough time to unwind.

Next, the boat will navigate to the coves of Macarella and Macarelleta, which many consider some of the prettiest spots in Menorca. While you’re on the water, you’ll have opportunities to marvel at the cliffs and sea caves. These stops are ideal for taking photos or just soaking in the scenery.

The highlight for many is Cala Turqueta, one of the island’s most famous beaches. The water here is renowned for its clarity, making it great for swimming and snorkel exploration. If you’re a fan of underwater life, you’ll appreciate bringing your own snorkeling gear to see what’s beneath the surface. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable it is to jump from the boat and explore the underwater world directly.

Finally, the boat returns to the lighthouse near the start point, providing a scenic route back. The day ends around 5:00 pm, giving you time to reflect on all the beautiful sights you’ve seen.

What the Food and Drink Offer

The included meal is a mixed paella, accompanied by sangria and orangeade, and many travelers rave about how tasty it is. The food is served on board, and reviews mention it’s well-prepared and satisfying after a day of activity. If you’re not into paella or have dietary restrictions, you can bring your own food, but note that there’s no alternative provided by the tour.

Drinks are available for purchase from the onboard bar, but they are not included in the ticket price. Many reviews speak positively about the overall meal quality, making the lunch a true highlight of the trip. The relaxed setting where you can enjoy your meal with sea views adds to the experience.

Group Size, Duration, and Price: What Matters?

This tour caters to a maximum of 170 travelers, which is large enough to enjoy a lively atmosphere but still manageable for a group. The duration is approximately 7 hours, which includes time for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch. The price of $63.38 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions, especially the paella and multiple beach stops.

Many travelers comment that the trip is good value, though some mention that the boat can get busy, making it less conducive to socializing if you’re hoping for smaller groups. Still, most reviews agree the organized stops and scenic routes are worthwhile.

Weather and Safety Considerations

A common theme in reviews is the weather’s influence on the day. Windy or algae-affected beaches can impact the experience, especially if conditions are not ideal for swimming or exploring. The tour provider emphasizes that bad weather can lead to cancellations or route adjustments for safety reasons.

Safety is a priority, and the boat is well-maintained and clean. If weather conditions are unfavorable, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so there’s some flexibility built into the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic day out on the water, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy beaches and coastline. It’s great for those who want a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and good local food, without the need for complex planning. If you’re interested in taking photos, experiencing Menorca’s natural beauty, and eating well, you’ll probably find this tour satisfying.

While families with children have found it enjoyable, be aware that if you’re traveling with very young kids or those with specific needs, the boat’s layout and the weather-dependent nature of the stops might influence your decision.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour of Menorca’s southern coast offers solid value for money. The combination of scenic stops, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and a satisfying paella lunch makes it an attractive choice for many travelers seeking a relaxing day at sea. The real charm lies in the chance to enjoy the island from a different perspective—seeing its cliffs, coves, and lighthouse views from the water.

It’s a trip that balances adventure and leisure, suited best for those who enjoy a casual, scenic day with an emphasis on natural beauty and good food. If you’re looking for an easy way to explore some of Menorca’s most iconic beaches without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated schedules, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t like swimming?
Yes, you can enjoy the scenic boat ride and sightseeing even if you prefer not to swim. Stops are optional, and you can relax on deck instead.

Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely. The tour includes a paella meal, but if you have dietary needs or preferences, you’re welcome to bring your own food on board.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase from the onboard bar. The tour price covers the meal and sightseeing; alcohol and other beverages are extra.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or poor, the tour can be canceled or rerouted, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long are the stops?
Beach stops vary from about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you ample time to swim, sunbathe, or explore on foot.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Many reviews mention traveling with children, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, though always consider your kids’ comfort with boat rides and water activities.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 170, so expect a lively atmosphere but still enough space to enjoy the scenery comfortably.

How much does the tour cost?
The ticket price is approximately $63.38 per person, which includes the boat ride, stops, lighthouse views, and the paella lunch.

Can I leave early if I don’t want to stay the whole time?
The tour is structured to last around 7 hours, and it’s best to plan for the entire experience. Check with the provider if you have specific timing needs.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking in advance is recommended, often about 10 days ahead, to secure your spot and plan your day with confidence.

This boat tour offers a lovely way to enjoy Menorca’s coast, especially if good weather aligns with your plans. It’s a relaxed, scenic, and tasty day that many travelers find well worth it—just be flexible with the weather, and you’re in for a memorable experience.