From Cala Ratjada: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip

Discover the beauty of Mallorca’s east coast with a glass-bottom boat trip from Cala Ratjada. This excursion offers a relaxed way to see the coastline’s stunning beaches, caves, and crystal-clear waters without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple activities. The boat’s glass floor adds a fun twist, giving you a peek into the underwater world while sailing along picturesque landscapes. With options ranging from short 2-hour rides to full-day adventures, there’s a tour suited for different travel styles and schedules.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in Mallorca’s inviting waters, often highlighted as a key highlight by previous travelers. The chance to see marine life through the boat’s glass bottom or take a dip in the refreshing sea makes this more than just a sightseeing cruise; it’s an interactive experience. However, it’s worth noting that the swimming stops depend on weather conditions, so if the sea is rough, that part might be shortened or canceled.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, active water experiences, and want to explore Mallorca’s coastal charm without committing to a lengthy or overly crowded activity. It’s a good choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for stunning views and a taste of local marine life.

Key Points

• Scenic coastline: Sail past iconic beaches and caves, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Underwater views: The glass-bottom boat provides a clear look at Mallorca’s vibrant underwater world.
• Flexible options: Multiple tour lengths and destinations cater to different interests and schedules.
• Swim and snorkel: Enjoy stops for swimming and exploring marine life (weather permitting).
• Extra free time: Shuttle options allow you to relax on local beaches or visit attractions like the Drach Caves.
• Authentic experience: See Mallorca beyond the typical tourist spots, with a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Organization
Your journey begins at the Mallorca Sea Paradise ticket office in Cala Ratjada harbor. Here, you exchange your voucher for your ticket and then board your boat. The process is straightforward, but it’s good to arrive a little early, especially during peak season, to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure a smooth start.

The Boat and Its Features
The boat itself is designed with comfort and engagement in mind. The glass bottom offers a fascinating view of the marine environment below, which is especially captivating for families and kids eager to spot fish and sea creatures without getting wet. The boat’s open deck ensures you can feel the sea breeze and take in unobstructed views of the coastline.

The Itinerary and Stops
Depending on the tour length chosen, your route varies. The shortest 2-hour Sea Odyssey covers Font de sa Cala and Canyamel, with a swimming stop that’s perfect for a quick dip and snorkeling if the weather allows. It’s ideal for those with limited time or seeking a brief but scenic experience.

The 2.5-hour Tour extends the journey to include more areas like Cala Bona and Cala Millor, with an additional stop in Canyamel. This offers a slightly deeper look into the coast and more opportunities for underwater exploration. Reviews mention that “the boat sailed past stunning landscapes,” and the longer trip provides a more thorough experience of Mallorca’s east coast.

For those seeking a longer adventure, the 3-hour cruise adds Sa Coma into the mix, allowing travelers to see more beaches and enjoy varied scenery. The longer cruise also includes a snorkeling stop at Canyamel, which reviewers appreciate as “a chance to see the seafloor up close.”

The 5-hour Sea Adventure is the most comprehensive, taking you past the famous Pirate Cave and Cala Romantica. The highlight is the stop at Cala Morlanda for snorkeling, which travelers describe as “refreshing and fun,” though weather conditions are crucial here. The cruise continues to Porto Cristo, where you can visit the Drach Caves or relax on the beach if you prefer.

Optional Shuttle Services
To enhance your experience, the tour offers two shuttle options. The Porto Cristo shuttle allows you to hop off and enjoy 3.5 hours on the beach or explore local attractions, including the famous Drach Caves. The Cala Millor shuttle offers three hours of leisure, shopping, and exploring the lively promenade. These options are perfect if you want a mix of boat sightseeing and beach relaxation.

What Travelers Say
One reviewer notes that the experience is “less touristy, could be more personal,” highlighting that while it’s a well-organized outing, it may lack some personalized touches. Others love the stunning views of the coastline and the marine life seen through the glass floor. The boat crew, usually multilingual, helps create a relaxed atmosphere, although some mention that interactions could be more engaging.

Pricing and Value
At $36 per person, the tour offers a decent value, considering the scenic routes, multiple stops, and the chance to snorkel. It’s particularly appealing for those who want an easy, all-in-one way to explore Mallorca’s east coast without extra costs for separate excursions or transport. The fact that you can choose from different durations and destinations helps tailor the experience to your budget and time constraints.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at the ticket office to avoid last-minute rushes, especially during peak times.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as poor weather can affect swimming stops and overall enjoyment.
• Bring waterproof sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself during the open deck portion.
• Snorkel gear isn’t provided, so if you want to explore underwater more extensively, bring your own or rent locally.
• Wear swimwear under your clothes if you plan to swim or snorkel, and bring a towel.
• Consider the length of the tour: shorter trips are quicker and easier if you’re on a tight schedule, but longer cruises give a more complete experience.
• Take advantage of the free time if you opt for shuttle options, and explore local beaches, markets, or caves at your leisure.
• Be mindful of weather conditions – the swimming stops aren’t guaranteed if the sea is too rough.
• Bring a waterproof phone case for photos during swimming or snorkeling.
• Book in advance if you’re traveling during high season, as trips can fill up quickly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This glass-bottom boat trip from Cala Ratjada is ideal for travelers who want a scenic, relaxed day on the water with the chance for underwater exploration. It suits those who appreciate stunning coastlines and marine wildlife without the hassle of multiple bookings or long drives. Families with kids, couples looking for a romantic outing, or solo travelers keen on sightseeing and swimming will find this a good fit.

While it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the activity’s accessibility and multilingual hosts make it friendly for most other travelers. It’s also perfect for anyone eager to see Mallorca’s coast from a different perspective—sailing past caves, beaches, and the Pirate Cave makes for a memorable day.

The Sum Up

For those seeking an easy, picturesque way to explore Mallorca’s east coast, this glass-bottom boat trip is hard to beat. It combines the joy of sailing with the thrill of underwater discovery and the flexibility of optional free time on the beach. With options ranging from quick cruises to full-day adventures, it caters to a variety of schedules and interests.

The experience is especially valuable for its stunning views of Mallorca’s coastline and the chance to snorkel in clear waters, often highlighted by travelers as one of the top highlights. The boat’s glass floor provides a unique perspective that adds a fun, interactive element to the voyage, perfect for families or marine enthusiasts.

Though weather can sometimes influence the swimming stops, the overall value lies in its scenic routes, relaxed atmosphere, and the ease of exploring multiple beaches and caves in one trip. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a low-stress, visually captivating day out on the water.

FAQ

What is the starting point for this tour?
You begin at the Mallorca Sea Paradise ticket office at Cala Ratjada harbor, where you exchange your voucher for your ticket before boarding.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 2.5 to 5.5 hours depending on the option you select. Check availability for specific starting times.

Are there snorkeling stops?
Yes, most longer tours include snorkeling opportunities at Canyamel or Cala Morlanda, weather permitting.

What routes are covered?
The routes include areas like Font de sa Cala, Cala Bona, Cala Millor, Canyamel, Sa Coma, Porto Cristo, and Cala Romantica, with some tours visiting the Pirate Cave.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or water (though check if local rules apply).

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind that the activity involves boat rides and swimming, so children should be comfortable with water and boat travel.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable casual wear, swimwear underneath if you plan to swim, and sun protection are recommended.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, but it caters to most other travelers with multilingual staff.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and waterproof cases if you plan to take photos underwater.

This glass-bottom boat trip from Cala Ratjada offers a charming glimpse of Mallorca’s coast, making it an enjoyable and visually rewarding way to spend part of your holiday. Whether you’re after quick sightseeing or a full-day adventure, the blend of scenic views, marine exploration, and optional beach time make this a versatile choice for many travelers.