Menorca: Coves and Beaches Boat Trip w/ optional Paella

Travelers looking to explore Menorca’s coast from a different perspective will find this boat trip from Ciutadella both practical and delightful. Covering some of the island’s most famous beaches and coves, this experience offers a chance to relax, snap photos, and enjoy authentic Mediterranean scenery — all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. Whether you opt for the half-day or full-day version, this excursion promises a mix of stunning views, good food, and insider access to otherwise hard-to-reach spots.

What we appreciate most about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with comfort. The knowledgeable guides, the relaxed pace, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters make it feel both curated and spontaneous. That said, some travelers may find the larger group size and rocky stops less suited for those with limited mobility or seeking a more exclusive experience. This trip is best suited for those who love a mix of scenic cruising, beach lounging, and authentic local flavors, all at a very reasonable price.

Key Points

• Versatile options: Choose between a 3.5-hour half-day or a 7-hour full-day trip, fitting different schedules.
• Stunning stops: Visit top beaches like Son Saura, Cala Turqueta, Macarella, and Macarelleta.
• Food and drink: Full-day trip includes a delicious Mediterranean paella with sangria, making it great value.
• Authentic experience: See Menorca from the water, gaining access to beaches and coves that are tricky to reach otherwise.
• Relaxed pace: Plenty of swim and free time at beaches, with only a handful of scheduled stops.
• Practical details: The tour is well-rated, with a 4.4/5 score from over 2,100 reviews, and runs from May to September.

What to Expect on the Menorca Coves and Beaches Boat Trip

This tour is a classic way to see some of Menorca’s most breathtaking coastlines without the hassle of driving or hiking. Departing from Ciutadella’s old port, the boat makes its way along the rugged southern coast, revealing an array of beaches, coves, and caves. The experience is led by a multilingual guide, ensuring visitors from different backgrounds can enjoy the commentary and learn about local sights.

The Full-Day Adventure (7 hours)

The full-day option is perfect for travelers who want a more immersive experience. It begins with a scenic cruise from Ciutadella, taking you along the west and south coasts of the island. The first stop is Son Saura, a gorgeous stretch of white sand and calm waters. Here, you’ll have about two hours of free time, ideal for unwinding on the sand or taking a dip.

One of the highlights is the optional 15-minute walk along the Camí de Cavalls trail to reach Es Talaier, a remote and largely untouched beach. According to reviews, this walk is rustic and can involve rocky paths, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Returning to the boat, you’ll enjoy a mediterranean paella served with a glass of sangria and fresh orange juice — a highlight for many who mention the meal as delicious and generous.

Next, the boat cruises to Cala Turqueta, a small beach famous for its vivid blue waters. Guests rave about the clarity of the water here, perfect for snorkeling if you bring your gear. The 1.5-hour stop allows plenty of time to swim, relax on the sand, or take photos.

The final stops on the route are Macarella and Macarelleta, two iconic coves with turquoise waters and pine trees that frame the beaches beautifully. These spots are typically visited from the boat, giving you a different vantage point, and offer more opportunities for swimming.

The Half-Day Experience (3.5 hours)

This shorter version is more streamlined but still delivers the key sights. After departing from Ciutadella, the boat heads straight to either Son Saura or Cala Turqueta, depending on weather. Passengers get about an hour to enjoy the beach or swim from the boat’s rear platform, which many reviews highlight as a fun and flexible way to cool off.

The second part focuses on Macarella-Macarelleta with a quick visit, and the tour typically includes a stop in a cave (if weather allows). The shorter trip is ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience Menorca’s stunning coastline.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For the full-day option, the paella lunch with sangria and orange juice** is included — a hit among travelers for its authenticity and generous portions. The tour also provides a multilingual tour guide, onboard washrooms, a bar, and free parking, making logistics straightforward.

On the half-day, food isn’t included, so bringing snacks or drinks may be necessary if you’re hungry or need hydration during the trip. It’s also worth noting that snorkeling gear isn’t provided, so if you want to explore underwater, bring your own.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk to remote beaches like Es Talaier, as reviews mention rocky paths.
• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, goggles, and snorkeling gear to make the most of swimming stops.
• Cash only seems to be the payment method for some on-board purchases, so carry some Euros.
• Arrive early at Passeig des Moll where the boat departs; look for the Menorca Blava sign at pontoon number 1.
• Be prepared for busy beaches; some reviews mention crowded coves if multiple boats arrive simultaneously.
• Weather conditions matter: the trip can be canceled or altered if the weather turns bad, so check the forecast.

The Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins at the Passeig des Moll, a lively spot where boats usually depart in the morning or early afternoon. From here, the magic unfolds as you cruise along the coast, with the first major stop at Son Saura. This beach is praised for its easy access and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming or just lounging. The two-hour window is ample for soaking up the sun, taking photos, or exploring nearby rocky outcrops.

If you’re on the full-day trip, you might enjoy the optional walk along the Camí de Cavalls to Es Talaier, which reviewers describe as rustic and somewhat remote. They recommend sturdy shoes because of rocky terrains, and some mention that the walk adds a touch of adventure to an otherwise leisurely day. The reward is reaching a beach less visited, with fewer crowds and more pristine surroundings.

Returning to the boat, lunch is served—a hearty paella, which many find tasty and filling. It’s paired with sangria or orange juice, both of which guests describe as refreshing and generous. Several reviews point out the value for money here, considering the quality and quantity of the meal.

The cruise then heads towards Cala Turqueta, where guests can spend about 75 minutes swimming and relaxing. Many reviews highlight the clarity of the waters here, making it ideal for snorkeling if you bring your gear. The beach is small but stunning, with pine trees providing natural shade.

Next, the boat visits Macarella and Macarelleta, two coves that are postcard-perfect. These stops are usually from the water, offering a different perspective and some fantastic photo opportunities. They are often praised for their beauty, and guests love having time to swim or take in the scenery.

The journey back to Passeig des Moll caps off a day filled with natural beauty, memorable swims, and good food. The full-day trip’s pacing allows for a relaxed yet comprehensive exploration of Menorca’s coastline, making it a worthwhile investment for those eager to see the best beaches without the hassle of land-based travel.

Authentic Experiences and Notable Tips

One reviewer describes the crew as attentive and caring, noting that they helped everyone stay safe and comfortable. Others mention the lively atmosphere, especially when the boat crew sings happy birthday or serves extra drinks. Many travelers appreciate the local guides who offer informative commentary, sometimes sharing interesting tidbits about the beaches and caves.

However, some reviews have highlighted practical considerations. For example, the rocky access points and walking paths to certain beaches may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues. The size of the boat and the number of travelers onboard can also influence comfort—some mention the boat being quite full, which can make finding seats or space for your belongings a challenge.

The food quality generally receives praise, especially the paella, which several say exceeded their expectations. Still, vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions should note that the paella contains seafood and meat, and special meal options aren’t available. Customers with intolerances are advised to bring their own food.

In terms of value, many reviewers feel the experience is well worth the price, particularly because it includes multiple beaches, a generous meal, and the chance to see parts of Menorca that are difficult to access otherwise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for those who love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and relaxing beach days. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive tour of Menorca’s best coves without the hassle of organizing individual transport or boat rentals. It works well for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to escape the crowds and explore the island’s coastline in comfort.

However, if you have mobility limitations, rocky paths, or prefer a more private or exclusive experience, you might find the larger group size and certain stop locations less accommodating. Also, for vegetarians or those with specific dietary needs, the included paella may require planning ahead.

The Sum Up

This boat trip around Menorca offers a practical yet scenic way to see some of the island’s most stunning beaches and coves. With options for a half or full day, it caters to different schedules and interests, providing plenty of swimming, photo opportunities, and authentic local flavors. The inclusion of a flavorful paella lunch and the accessibility of renowned beaches from the water make it a strong choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

While it’s not the most exclusive or private experience, the combination of good value, beautiful scenery, and friendly service makes it worthwhile for most visitors. Just bring your swim gear, wear sturdy shoes for rocky paths, and prepare to soak up the natural beauty of Menorca from its most picturesque vantage point.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour involves rocky paths and access points that are not recommended for those with mobility limitations, according to reviews and activity notes.

Does the full-day trip include food?
Yes, it includes a delicious Mediterranean paella with sangria and orange juice. This is a highlight for many travelers, offering good value and a tasty meal.

Can I snorkel during the stops?
While snorkeling gear isn’t provided, many reviews mention the clear waters at Cala Turqueta as perfect for snorkeling if you bring your own gear. The beaches are praised for their visibility and marine life.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walks, swimwear, sunscreen, goggles, and snorkeling gear if desired. Carry cash for onboard purchases, as some reviews noted only cash is accepted.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
The tour’s paella contains seafood and meat, and no vegetarian options are offered. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s advised to bring your own food.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour runs from May to September, when weather conditions are generally suitable for sailing and swimming. Outside of these months, it’s unlikely the experience is available.

In essence, this boat trip offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, making it a very worthwhile addition to your Menorca itinerary if you’re after a memorable day on the water.