Mallorca: Boat tour to Dragonera Island + Sant Elm

If you’re looking for a scenic, laid-back way to experience some of Mallorca’s most beautiful spots, this boat tour to Dragonera Island and Sant Elm might just be perfect. Running from Andratx, it combines a cruise through crystal-clear waters, a visit to a stunning natural park, and free time in a quaint seaside village—all for a reasonable price.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances structured sightseeing with enough freedom to explore at your own pace. The boat is comfortable, the crew knowledgeable, and the views definitely unforgettable. However, one consideration is the limited time on Dragonera Island, which some previous reviewers felt was just enough for a quick taste rather than a deep exploration.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, scenic boat rides, and charming coastal towns. If you’re after a relaxing day with a touch of adventure, this is a solid pick to add to your Mallorca itinerary.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat trip with scenic views of Mallorca’s coast
• Visit to Sa Dragonera, a natural park with walking trails and beautiful scenery
• Free time in Sant Elm for exploring, relaxing or dining
• Includes entrance to the island and a knowledgeable skipper and crew
• Optional lunch in Sant Elm available for those wanting a sit-down meal
• Good value considering the duration and inclusions

An Overview of the Experience

This boat tour offers a smooth, relaxing way to enjoy Mallorca’s coastal beauty. Starting from the sculpture of Barbara Weil, you’ll hop aboard a boat operated by Sa Calma Boats, renowned for their friendly and professional crew. The journey begins with a roughly 1-hour ferry ride from Puerto de Andratx, providing a chance to soak in the views and settle into the rhythm of the sea.

The highlight is undoubtedly the stop at Dragonera Island, a natural park that’s perfect for nature lovers. You’ll get about 2.5 hours on the island, allowing enough time to explore its trails, observe wildlife, or simply relax on the rocks and take photos of the dramatic cliffs. Previous visitors mention that the scenery is breathtaking with rugged coastlines and lush greenery, especially for those who love walking or just soaking in nature’s quiet beauty.

On the way back, there’s a 15-minute ferry ride to Sant Elm, a small village known for its laid-back vibe and scenic waterfront. Here, you’ll have about 1 hour and 55 minutes of free time, which is enough for a quick stroll, a coffee, or a snack. Some travelers mentioned that they wished for longer on the island, but it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite tight to keep the tour flowing smoothly.

You also have the option to enjoy a lunch in Sant Elm, with a menu including starter, main, dessert, and a drink. If you’re hungry after exploring or just want to relax, this is a nice add-on. Keep in mind that meals are pre-booked and take up a good chunk of your free time, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point:
The tour kicks off from the sculpture of Barbara Weil, a central landmark in Andratx. The meeting point is easily accessible, just across a blue-railed bridge, making logistics straightforward.

Ferry to Dragonera:
The one-hour boat ride takes you along the coast, offering excellent views of Mallorca’s rugged shoreline and the opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze. This part is smooth and comfortable, making it suitable for most travelers, although those prone to seasickness might want to take precautions.

Visit to Sa Dragonera Natural Park:
Once at Dragonera, you’ll disembark for a 2.5-hour stay. The island is a protected natural park, so expect a peaceful environment with scenic trails, rocky coves, and abundant birdlife. While some reviews suggest that the time on the island is just enough for a quick walk or a few photos, others appreciated the chance to browse the natural beauty without feeling rushed.

Return to Sant Elm:
The boat makes a quick 15-minute ferry crossing to Sant Elm. This charming village is a highlight for many, with its waterfront cafés and relaxed atmosphere. Travelers often use this time to grab a coffee or just enjoy the views.

Free Time in Sant Elm:
With around 1 hour and 55 minutes here, you can stroll along the promenade, explore shops, or sit down for a meal. Some reviews indicated that more time would be preferable for a proper walk or dining experience, but the scheduled free time allows a quick look around.

Optional Lunch:
For an extra cost, you can opt for a lunch in Sant Elm, with a set menu that includes a starter, main, dessert, and a drink. This meal can be a good way to unwind after the island visit, though it does cut into your free exploration time.

Return to Andratx:
The tour concludes with a 30-minute ferry ride back to the starting point, arriving around 3:45 pm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Natural Beauty and Wildlife
Dragonera Island is a standout feature, offering unspoiled landscapes and a natural park setting. Its rugged cliffs and greenery provide ample opportunities for photos and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Knowledgeable Guides and Crew
Previous reviewers highlight the friendliness and expertise of the skipper and crew, who are attentive and informative, adding context to the sights and ensuring smooth logistics.

Comfort and Convenience
The boat itself is comfortable for a half-day trip, with the entire experience designed to minimize hassle. The meeting point is easy to find, and the schedule is tight enough to maximize what you see without feeling rushed.

Authentic Small Village Experience
Sant Elm provides a real taste of Mallorca’s coastal charm, with fewer travelers and a relaxed atmosphere. You can easily picture yourself sitting by the water, enjoying a drink or a quick bite.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Limited Time on Dragonera
Some travelers expressed that 2.5 hours on the island felt just enough for a quick walk or a few snapshots. If you’re planning to hike or explore in depth, you might find this schedule restrictive.

Tight Schedule in Sant Elm
The 1 hour and 55 minutes of free time is enough for a quick look around but might not satisfy those wishing for a leisurely meal or longer exploration. Longer stays or flexible return times are not part of this tour.

Meal Option Takes Up Time
The optional lunch menu is pre-booked and can take a significant portion of your free time. If you prefer a relaxed meal or want to explore more, you might opt to skip this or plan for a quick snack instead.

Not Suitable for Mobility-Impaired Travelers
The tour explicitly mentions that it isn’t accessible for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if that applies.

The Value of the Experience

At $47 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic day out. The inclusion of entrance to Sa Dragonera and the services of a knowledgeable crew add to its value. It’s a particularly good choice for those who want to experience Mallorca’s natural side without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tickets.

While the schedule is packed, most reviews reflect satisfaction with the overall experience. For travelers interested in nature, photography, and charming coastal villages, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Mallorca’s coastal charm.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, nature photography, and outdoor exploration. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time, especially if you appreciate discovering natural parks and small villages.

If you’re someone who prefers longer explorations or needs accessibility accommodations, you might want to look for alternative options. However, for most visitors seeking a taste of Mallorca’s rugged beauty in a manageable half-day, this tour will hit the mark.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, starting from the meeting point in Andratx and returning around 3:45 pm.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers round-trip transportation, entrance to Sa Dragonera, the boat crew, fuel, VAT, and insurance. The optional lunch in Sant Elm is an additional expense.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour’s nature suggests it’s suitable for most ages, provided children can handle a boat ride and walking on trails. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, though the ticket is non-refundable if canceled later.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, clothes suitable for being outdoors, a bathing suit if you want to swim, towels, and some snacks are recommended.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the skipper and crew are present to guide you and answer questions during the trip.

How long is the ferry ride to Dragonera?
The ferry ride from Andratx to Dragonera takes approximately 1 hour each way.

What is the time spent in Sant Elm?
You’ll have about 1 hour and 55 minutes for exploring or relaxing in the village.

Can I extend my time on the island?
The schedule doesn’t include an option to stay longer on Dragonera; the tour is structured with specific departure and return times.

To sum it up, this Mallorca boat tour to Dragonera Island and Sant Elm offers a balanced, scenic experience that captures the natural beauty of the area. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle cruises, outdoor walks, and charming seaside villages, all at an affordable price. While the schedule is tight, the views and authentic moments make it a worthwhile addition to your Mallorca holiday.