Half-day experience of the unspoilt coves of southern Menorca

Travelers seeking a taste of Menorca’s quieter, pristine beaches often turn to boat tours around the south coast. This half-day excursion promises to take you past some of the island’s most inviting coves, with a focus on natural beauty and peaceful scenery. While it offers a manageable 3.5-hour window to see multiple spots, it’s important to understand what the tour includes—and what it might leave out.

What we like most about this experience is how it provides a comfortable way to explore remote beaches without the hassle of driving or parking. The boat itself seems spacious and well-equipped, creating a relaxed atmosphere for sightseeing and swimming. A key highlight is the stunning vistas of coves like Cala Turqueta and Macarella, which most reviewers agree are breathtaking when viewed from the water.

However, some travelers have found the timing a bit rushed, especially at the beach stops, with limited time to really unwind or swim leisurely. Also, the tour’s focus on scenery over detailed explanations might not satisfy those craving deeper insights into the local spots. This tour suits visitors looking for a scenic, low-effort way to tick off some of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches in a few hours—ideal for those with limited time or preferring a relaxed, group outing.

Key Points

Scenic views of Menorca’s unspoilt coves from the water are the main draw.
Convenient access to beaches like Son Saura and Cala Turqueta, with an hour-long stop at each.
Limited time on each beach may feel rushed, especially if you love to relax or snorkel.
Price point around $40.52 per person provides a snapshot of the island’s beauty, but some think it’s steep for what’s offered.
Comfortable boat with amenities like snacks and drinks, as reviewed positively by guests.
Group size limited to a maximum of 170 travelers, keeping it relatively intimate.
Highlights include passing a black-and-white lighthouse and discovering coves like Es Talaier, with some reviewers noting the boat’s spaciousness and good organization.
Experience suitability for those wanting picturesque views and a straightforward way to see multiple beaches, not necessarily detailed guided commentary.

Exploring the itinerary in detail

Lighthouse of Far d’Artrutx

The tour kicks off with a glimpse at one of Menorca’s seven lighthouses—Far d’Artrutx. Recognizable by its black-and-white stripes and notable height, this lighthouse sets the tone for a scenic ride along the coast. It’s a good photo stop, and some reviews mention enjoying the view from the boat, making it more than just a quick pass.

Stop 1: Platges de Son Saura

The first actual beach stop is at Son Saura, which consists of Banyuls and Bellavista beaches. Known for their white sand and turquoise waters, these spots are a favorite among travelers for their natural beauty. Guests who have visited mention that the beach is absolutely stunning, but the one-hour stop can feel brisk if you’re eager to relax longer.

A reviewer, Mary, highlighted that “it was nice to get to the sandy beach when we finally did get there,” implying some delays or waiting times. The access from the boat to the beach is direct, making it easy to jump in for a swim or snorkel, but the limited time means you might feel hurried to enjoy the water fully.

Passing Es Talaier

Between stops, the boat cruise offers a view of Es Talaier, a small cove nestled between Cala Turqueta and Son Saura. While there’s no dedicated stop here, it’s appreciated as part of the scenic journey, with some reviewers noting they enjoyed observing the coves from the water.

Stop 2: Cala Turqueta

Next, the boat visits Cala Turqueta, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and delicate shoreline. The one-hour stop here is often praised for giving guests a chance to swim, relax, and soak in the scenery. Reviewers like Lucia D mention that it’s a “beautiful experience” to see the underwater flora like posidonia from the boat—something that photos can’t quite capture.

Several reviews pointed out that while the time here is limited, it’s enough to appreciate the beauty of the beach. Daniel highlighted that “a 1-hour stop at Cala Turqueta is a good choice if you only have 3 hours,” emphasizing its value within the limited schedule.

Coveted Macarella and Macarelleta

Throughout the cruise, the guide points out Macarella and Macarelleta—two of Menorca’s most iconic coves. Although the boat doesn’t stop here, travelers commented that the views from the water are spectacular. Some found it a bit disappointing that they couldn’t disembark, but most appreciated the opportunity to see these famous spots from a different angle.

Additional details

The boat trip is designed to be relatively stress-free with amenities like snacks and drinks, which reviewers appreciated, especially on warm days. Group sizes are capped at 170, balancing social interaction and comfort.

What travelers are saying

While the overall reviews are mixed—some rating it 3 out of 5, others 4 or 5—the common thread is the spectacular scenery. Guests consistently praise the stunning beaches and the ease of access via boat. Many noted the organized nature of the trip and the comfortable vessel.

On the flip side, some reviews complain about the short riding time and the limited beach time. For example, Mary felt the return journey was too long, and her time on the beach was “rushed,” making it tough to relax. Others, like Jorge, wished for more stops or longer beach visits.

Pricing has also been debated; at around $40.52 per person, some travelers think it’s a good value for such scenic views, but others feel it’s a bit steep considering the limited time at each stop.

Practicalities: what to expect

Duration and group size: The tour lasts about three and a half hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. With a maximum of 170 travelers, it’s a group that’s still manageable, and most reviews suggest the organization is smooth.

Meeting point and accessibility: The tour begins at Camí de sa Farola 17, Ciutadella. It’s accessible via public transport, and the boat departs and returns to the same spot, so there’s no confusing drop-offs.

What to bring: Given the short stops, packing light essentials like sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear is advisable. Since snacks and drinks are available on board, you won’t need to bring much.

The value of the experience

At first glance, cost might seem high for just a few hours, but considering the scenic vistas and hassle-free access to beaches that are often crowded or difficult to reach, many find it worthwhile. If your priority is seeing the natural beauty without the effort of driving or parking, this tour offers a straightforward, comfortable solution.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is best suited for visitors who want a quick, scenic overview of Menorca’s southern coves without dedicating an entire day. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers short on time but eager to snap photos of stunning beaches. Those looking for extensive beach relaxation, snorkeling, or detailed guided tours might find it a bit limited.

If you value comfortable transportation, scenic vistas, and efficient itinerary, this tour will deliver. However, if your priority is ample beach time or in-depth insights into local spots, you might want to explore longer or more customized options.

The Sum Up

This half-day boat tour around southern Menorca offers a beautiful, hassle-free way to glimpse some of the island’s most breathtaking coves. Its scenic views, direct beach access, and comfort make it a solid choice for travelers with limited time or those preferring a laid-back sightseeing experience. While the short stops can feel rushed for those eager to linger, the stunning beaches like Cala Turqueta and Son Saura justify the trip for many.

For photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting effortless access to Menorca’s pristine coastlines, this tour is a good investment. It balances value and convenience, making it a popular choice despite some critiques about the short duration and one-stop limit.

If you’re after a beautiful, straightforward tour that captures the essence of Menorca’s natural beauty, this experience is worth considering. Just be prepared for a brief visit to each spot—but rest assured that the views you’ll take home are well worth it.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Camí de sa Farola, 17, Ciutadella. The boat departs and returns to this same point.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the half-day boat cruise, stops at selected coves, and one-hour beach stops at Son Saura or Cala Turqueta. Snacks and drinks are available on board.

How many stops are there?
There is one main stop at the beach (either Son Saura or Cala Turqueta). The boat cruise also passes by coves like Es Talaier, Macarella, and Macarelleta, but they are viewed from the water.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers said it is accessible for most ages, especially since it involves minimal walking and no strenuous activity.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning views of coves and beaches, a visit to Far d’Artrutx lighthouse, and the chance to swim or relax at one of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches.

Is the boat comfortable?
Guests report the boat is spacious and well-organized, with amenities like snacks and drinks, making the journey enjoyable.

Can I see Macarella and Macarelleta from the water?
Yes, these coves are visible from the cruise, providing a fantastic photo opportunity, even if you don’t disembark there.

This tour offers a snapshot of Menorca’s natural treasures in a manageable, scenic package—perfect for those wanting to combine ease with beauty. Whether you’re after picture-perfect beaches or just a relaxing boat ride, this experience is well worth considering.