Palma de Mallorca: Sailing Boat Trip with Skipper & Tapas

If you’re dreaming of exploring Mallorca’s stunning coast by boat, this sailing trip from Palma offers a fantastic blend of scenic views, relaxed sailing, and authentic Spanish tapas. Led by a professional skipper on a well-equipped Beneteau Oceanis 390, this private excursion promises intimacy, comfort, and plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine.

What really stands out about this tour is its flexibility—you can choose between a half-day or full-day experience—plus the warm, friendly guides who put a lot of effort into making your day special. On the downside, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or seasickness, but if you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized adventure, this trip can deliver some memorable moments. It’s especially suited for those wanting a private, family-friendly outing or a small group of friends who value quality time on the water.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a professional skipper and a maximum of 8 guests
• Flexible durations from 3 to 8 hours, allowing for tailored adventures
• Includes delicious tapas, drinks, and snorkeling gear, adding value to the experience
• Stops at scenic spots like Cala Vella, Magaluf, Illetas, and Portals Vells for swimming and relaxing
• Comfortable, well-designed boat with spacious deck and interior, perfect for groups
• Suitable for most travelers except those with mobility issues or seasickness

An Authentic Mallorca Sailing Experience

This tour offers an engaging and well-organized way to see Mallorca’s coast from the water. The star of the experience is the Beneteau Oceanis 390, a yacht renowned for its spaciousness and smart design. It’s clear that the focus is on comfort and safety, with a boat equipped for group excursions, and a skipper who is both knowledgeable and friendly.

During your time onboard, you’ll appreciate the well-thought-out itinerary. You start with a safety briefing that takes about 10 minutes, then set sail from one of six convenient meeting points around Palma. The route varies based on weather but typically includes a scenic sail along the bay, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in beautiful coves. The hosts are known for their warm hospitality, putting guests at ease right away, and many reviews mention how attentive and kind Jorge and his mother are, making the experience feel like a day out with friends.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meeting Point and Safety Briefing

The adventure begins at a choice of six meeting locations around Palma, making it easy to hop on from various parts of the city. Once onboard, your skipper provides a concise safety briefing—important for peace of mind and ensuring everyone is comfortable before setting sail.

Scenic Sail and Scenic Views

The first two hours typically involve sailing along the bay of Palma. Guests can enjoy scenic vistas of Palma’s shoreline, often accompanied by welcome drinks—beer, wine, or cava—and local snacks. As one reviewer joyfully noted, the whole journey is very relaxed, with the hosts blending expert navigation with warm hospitality.

Swim, Snorkel, and Relax

The highlight for many is the anchor stop, where guests can jump into the water with snorkel masks and tubes provided. One reviewer shared how their family enjoyed snorkeling and swimming in a quiet cove, away from the busy crowds of larger tour boats. The boat also provides paddleboards for those who want a different way to stay afloat.

The “Secret Stop” and Lunch

The day’s most praised feature is the “secret stop”, a secluded spot for swimming, marine life viewing, and relaxing. After working up an appetite, guests are treated to delicious tapas and beverages prepared onboard. According to reviewers, Jorge’s mother, often called the ‘Captain’, makes tasty Spanish omelette, cold meats, and a variety of tapas, which guests can enjoy with a glass of local wine or sangria. Many found the onboard food to be a highlight, with some noting they could customize their meal requests, including vegetarian options.

Sunset and Scenic Return

As the sun starts to dip in the late afternoon, the boat heads back toward Palma, offering more scenic views, sailing in a gentle curve that makes you appreciate the island’s rugged coastline. The experience concludes with drop-offs at the original boarding points, leaving guests with fantastic memories of a day well spent.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $651 per group (up to 8 people), this trip offers a rare opportunity for a private, tailored day on the water. When you consider the inclusive nature—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and the expertise of a local skipper—the experience feels like a good deal, especially for small groups seeking exclusivity and comfort.

Many reviews highlight how attentive Jorge and his mother are, making guests feel like part of the family, which adds to the overall value. The possibility of customizing the trip (e.g., requesting vegetarian tapas) and the flexible timing—anywhere from 3 to 8 hours—means you can tailor your Mallorca adventure to your preferences.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sailing trip is ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends who want an authentic and relaxed day on the water. It’s perfect for those who appreciate good food, scenic views, and personalized service. The tour’s intimate setting means it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or Seasickness-prone guests, although those who are comfortable on boats will find it a delightful escape from the busy shores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the designated meeting points around Palma.

Can I bring my own food or drinks onboard?
Extra food or drinks are not included in the price, but you can request special dietary options such as gluten-free, lactose-free, or vegetarian dishes. The tour provides water all day and one soft drink per person as a welcome.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a towel are recommended. Bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer, although masks and tubes are supplied.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly guests?
The experience is not suitable for people with mobility issues, electric wheelchairs, or those prone to seasickness. It’s best for those who are comfortable on boats and enjoy outdoor activities.

How long does the trip last?
You can choose between a 3-hour half-day or an 8-hour full-day trip, depending on your schedule and preferences. Check availability to see the specific starting times.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 guests can join for a private experience, making it ideal for intimate celebrations or family outings.

Final Thoughts

This Palma de Mallorca sailing trip offers a gentle, personalized escape on the water, combining scenic sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and tasty tapas in a cozy setting. The knowledgeable guides, especially Jorge and his mother, create a friendly atmosphere that makes guests feel cared for without feeling rushed.

The ability to customize the experience and enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine onboard makes it stand out from larger, more generic tours. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day with beautiful views and good company—without sacrificing comfort or quality.

If you’re after a quiet day of sailing, swimming in secluded coves, and savoring delicious local food, this trip is a fantastic way to see Mallorca’s coast from a different perspective. Just be sure you’re comfortable on a boat and ready to enjoy the simple pleasures of the Mediterranean.

Experience Provider

Velas de Palma S.L.

Source: GetYourGuide