From Porto Cristo: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip

Exploring Mallorca’s East Coast by Glass-Bottom Boat: An Honest Look

Mallorca’s east coast is celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sea caves—perfect scenery for a boat trip. The From Porto Cristo: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip offers a chance to see these sights from the water, with options ranging from short 1.5-hour jaunts to longer five-hour excursions. With a generally solid rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on over 530 reviews, it’s a popular activity for visitors eager to combine relaxed sightseeing with a touch of marine adventure.

One of the things we really like about this tour is its versatility. Whether you have just a quick morning to spare or a full afternoon, there’s an option suited for your schedule. The highlight for many is the clear glass bottom providing a glimpse into the underwater world without getting wet, combined with scenic stops that let you soak in the beautiful coastline. However, a potential drawback is that weather conditions can impact the swimming stops or the overall experience, especially the underwater views. This tour is best suited for travelers who love coastal scenery, want a leisurely way to explore Mallorca’s marine environment, and are okay with a group setting without hotel pickups.

Key Points

Flexible options for different timeframes and interests
Beautiful views of Mallorca’s coastline and sea caves
Marine wildlife sightings possible through the glass bottom
Swimming stops included when weather allows
No included food or drinks—bring your own or plan to buy locally
Accessible piers at certain locations, but check specifics if you use a wheelchair

An In-Depth Look at the East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip

Starting Point & Accessibility

The tour departs from Porto Cristo, a charming fishing village on Mallorca’s east coast. The meeting points can vary depending on the chosen option, so it’s important to double-check your booking details. For travelers with mobility considerations, the boat can be accessed at certain piers—like Cala Millor and Sa Coma—where wheelchair-friendly facilities are available. However, some boarding points, such as Calas de Mallorca, lack wheelchair access, so it’s best to plan accordingly if you have specific mobility needs.

Different Tour Options & What They Cover

The tours are segmented into various durations and routes, each offering distinct highlights:

• 1.5-Hour Tour from Porto Cristo:
  This quick trip allows you to relax on the boat as you pass by key sites like Cala Romantica, Calas de Mallorca, and the Pirate’s Cave. The focus here is on scenery and a brief glimpse of the coastline, arriving back by 11:00 a.m. This option is great for those with limited time or wanting a quick taste of Mallorca’s eastern charms.

• 2-Hour North Route:
  Departing at 11:00 a.m., this journey takes you from Porto Cristo to Cala Bona, with views of Sa Coma and Cala Millor along the way. The highlight is the swim stop at Cala Morlanda, where you can dip in the sea and observe the seabed through the glass bottom. Reviewers appreciated the chance to swim, especially on hot days, with Michelle noting, “Fabulous trip along the coast and really enjoyed the chance for a swim as it was boiling!!”

• 2-Hour South Route:
  Starting at either 12:45 p.m. or 3:30 p.m., this route takes you to Calas de Mallorca. You’ll see scenic spots like Cala Romantica, Cala Varques, and the Pirate’s Cave, with the chance to snorkel and observe underwater life. Reviews highlight the peaceful scenery and the opportunity to enjoy beaches like Cala Varques for a relaxing break.

• Shuttle to Calas de Mallorca:
  This full journey from Porto Cristo to Calas de Mallorca includes stops at several coves and beaches, with a swimming stop at Cala Varques. The return is around 2:00 p.m., and this option provides ample time for beach exploration and local shops. Many reviewers loved this route for its combination of scenic cruising and free time ashore.

What to Expect Onboard & During Stops

The boat itself is equipped with a glass bottom, allowing you to see a variety of marine life and seabeds without needing to snorkel. Onboard, you’ll enjoy the views, with many passengers commenting on how picturesque the coastline is. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, helps enhance the trip—some reviews specifically mention guides like “very polite and knowledgeable,” making the experience more engaging.

Swimming and snorkeling stops depend heavily on weather conditions; if it’s too windy or stormy, these may be canceled for safety reasons. When they do happen, they’re a highlight, giving you a chance to cool off and see the underwater world up close. Michelle’s review captures this well: “Really enjoyed the chance for a swim as it was boiling!”

Price & Value for Money

At around $32 per person, the tour offers a reasonable price point for how much scenery and activity you get—especially considering the inclusion of the glass-bottom viewing, scenic routes, and swimming stops. The reviews confirm that many find the experience worth the cost, particularly when they see the value in the friendly crew, well-organized itinerary, and the chance to relax and enjoy Mallorca’s spectacular coastline.

If you compare it to other similar excursions, the extra few dollars might buy you more space on the boat, better guides, and a more relaxed experience, as noted by Desiree, who mentioned, “We had so much space and great snacks on board.” Keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing your own or purchasing locally is recommended.

Crew & Service

Guests consistently praise the staff for their kindness and professionalism. Desiree called the crew “knowledgeable and doing their best to give all guests an amazing time,” which is high praise. Having guides who are friendly and informative makes a big difference, especially when they share interesting facts about the caves or marine life.

Weather & What to Pack

Weather plays a significant role in the experience. Good weather means better visibility through the glass bottom and a more enjoyable swim stop. Reviews mention that swimming is only permitted if conditions are safe, so flexibility is key. Bring sun protection, water, and a towel if you plan to swim. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, so you’ll need to reach the meeting point independently.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who love coastal scenery and marine views without the hassle of diving or snorkeling. It’s perfect for those with limited time but still eager to see Mallorca’s iconic sea caves and beaches. Families with children, seniors, or anyone with mobility considerations will appreciate the accessible piers and the non-strenuous nature of the tour. The scenic routes and oceanic views appeal to nature lovers, while the opportunity to swim and explore makes it ideal for hot days.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise that combines comfort with the thrill of ocean views, this is a reliable choice. Keep in mind that weather dependency and the absence of food or transport services** might be considerations for some.

Final Thoughts

The From Porto Cristo: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip provides a relaxed and scenic way to explore Mallorca’s stunning eastern coastline. It’s a good value for the price, especially with options to customize your journey’s length and route. The friendly crew and beautiful views make it a memorable outing, whether you’re looking to see caves, spot marine wildlife, or simply enjoy a peaceful cruise.

If you’re a fan of coastal scenery with a touch of marine adventure, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable experience. Just remember to check the weather forecast beforehand and bring essentials like sun protection and swimwear. With its balance of scenic beauty, marine highlights, and flexibility, it’s a solid choice for a Mallorca day out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity, especially since it involves calm boat cruising and the chance to see marine life through the glass bottom. Just keep in mind that swim stops depend on weather.

Are there food and drinks on board?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can bring your own or buy snacks and beverages locally at the stops or in Porto Cristo.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Partially. Certain piers like Cala Millor and Sa Coma have wheelchair boarding facilities, but others like Calas de Mallorca do not. Check your specific departure point if accessibility is a concern.

How long does the tour last?
Duration varies from 1.5 hours to 5 hours, depending on the option you choose. Be sure to check availability for your preferred times.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming stops are included when weather conditions permit. Many guests enjoy swimming at Cala Morlanda or Cala Varques.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
You’ll pass by Cala Romantica, Calas de Mallorca, the Pirate’s Cave, and other sea caves, plus virgin beaches like Cala Varques.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and route.

Is there a free cancellation option?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, water, and possibly a camera. If you plan to swim, pack your swimwear and goggles.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You’ll need to make your way to Porto Cristo, as there’s no hotel pickup included. Check your booking details for specific instructions.

This glass-bottom boat trip from Porto Cristo offers a well-rounded taste of Mallorca’s eastern coast, blending scenic views, marine encounters, and relaxing stops—perfect for a memorable day on the water.