Puerto Pollença: Ferry to Formentor Beach

If you’re exploring Mallorca, a ride on the ferry to Formentor Beach from Puerto Pollença offers a relaxing way to see the coastline and enjoy a pristine stretch of sand. This trip, operated by Lanchas la gaviota, combines a comfortable boat ride with ample free time at one of the island’s most celebrated beaches. With a friendly guide, flexible return options, and an easy booking process, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a laid-back day out with picturesque scenery.

What we particularly like about this experience is its simplicity — it’s straightforward, affordable, and offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, some travelers might find the lack of commentary during the cruise a minor drawback if they’re hoping for a detailed narrative about the coastline. Still, if you’re after a relaxed outing with the opportunity to swim and sunbathe, this tour fits the bill well. It’s especially suitable for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a quick escape to a stunning beach without the fuss.

Key Points

• Affordable and straightforward: With just $19 per person, this trip offers good value for a scenic boat ride and beach time.
• Flexible return options: You can choose your departure time from Formentor Beach, making it easy to tailor your day.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views of rugged coastline, rock formations, and sea life.
• Limited onboard commentary: The trip is a direct service with no detailed guiding commentary during the cruise.
• Ideal for swimmers and sunbathers: Ample free time at the beach allows for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkelling.
• Weather-dependent: The trip is subject to sea and weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking.

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour begins at the meeting point behind the “Stay Restaurant” in Puerto Pollença, a location that’s easy to find and close to the main beach area. After exchanging your voucher, you’ll board a spacious, clean catamaran operated by Lanchas la gaviota. The boat trip itself lasts around 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.

What makes this boat journey stand out is the stunning coastline views. As the vessel glides past rocky outcrops and lush plant life, you’ll get a glimpse of the rugged beauty that makes Mallorca’s north coast so unique. Although the boat’s glass bottom isn’t open—thanks to its speed—some operators have a non-glass-bottom version, so if underwater viewing is your goal, it’s worth confirming with the tour provider.

The Return Flexibility

Once at Formentor Beach, you’re free to spend as much time as you like in the sun or water. The beach itself is described as beautiful but also busy during peak season, especially in August. Several reviews note that loungers are pricey—around 30 Euros each, with even more expensive options like double loungers—so bringing your own beach gear might be wise if you’re on a budget.

You have multiple return times to choose from, starting at 11:30 am, with subsequent options at 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, and later in the afternoon, including a 6 pm departure during July and August. This flexibility allows you to customize your day; if you prefer a shorter visit, you can leave earlier, or linger longer if the weather and your mood permit.

What You’ll Experience at Formentor Beach

The beach’s highlight is its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming or snorkelling. Reviewers mention that bringing your own snorkelling gear can enhance the experience, as the underwater environment is reportedly vibrant. Be aware that some visitors found the beach crowded, especially in high season, so arriving early might help secure a shady spot or a lounger.

A key insight from the reviews is that the beach is very family-friendly, with many young children enjoying the shallow, warm waters. The coastline features beautiful rock formations and sea defenses built with sand walls—some visitors initially thought they were personal space barriers but later learned they were sea defenses.

The Boat Ride: Relaxing with Brief but Beautiful Views

The cruise itself is described as comfortable and scenic, lasting just over 30 minutes. Passengers enjoy the gentle breeze and fresh sea air, with the boat providing a great vantage point for photography.

Notably, the cruise offers the chance to admire the coastline’s rock formations and flora, with some reviewers mentioning the presence of abundant marine life beneath the water. Although the glass bottom isn’t open during this trip, the views are still striking from the deck.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler, Tom, praised the easy process from booking to disembarkation. He highlighted that the online booking was cheaper than paying on the day and appreciated the clear instructions. He summed up the trip as a simple A-to-B service, ideal if you’re just looking to get from Puerto Pollença to Formentor without added frills but with the bonus of a beautiful beach.

Jane’s review pointed out how busy the beach can get, especially in August, and that some built sand walls to protect their space—turning out to be sea defenses rather than personal boundaries. She also noted that the sea is great for swimming and that the trip is worth doing even for just half a day.

Another guest, Christopher, mentioned the gorgeous views on the boat and the good quality cafe at the beach, although he noted that loungers are expensive and fill up quickly, so early arrival might be necessary if you want one.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Trip

Booking and Pricing: At $19 per person, this trip offers good value for a scenic ride and beach time. You can reserve in advance to secure your spot, and the flexible payment option means you don’t have to commit fully upfront.

Meeting Point: Located behind the Stay Restaurant, the exchange of vouchers is straightforward, and the boat leaves promptly, so arriving a little early is recommended.

Timing: While the trip lasts just half an hour, the overall experience depends on your chosen return time. The later trips, like the 3:30 pm or 4:30 pm, give you extra time at the beach, which can be particularly valuable if you want to swim or relax without feeling rushed.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and water are essentials. Given the weather can be hot and sunny, dressing comfortably and bringing hydration is important.

Weather Considerations: The trip relies on favorable sea and weather conditions. If the forecast looks stormy or windy, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, so checking closer to your planned date is wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ferry trip is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free way to visit Formentor Beach without the need for a full-day tour or expensive boat charters. It’s especially suitable for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a relaxed day with beautiful views and beach time. If you enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a straightforward, budget-friendly experience, this trip will suit you well.

However, if you’re hoping for detailed commentary or a more curated guide experience, this might feel a little too bare-bones. Also, those who prefer quieter beaches might want to arrive early or visit during less busy times, as August can be crowded.

The Sum Up

This ferry-to-Formentor Beach experience offers excellent value for money, with the flexibility to set your own schedule and plenty of chances to relax and enjoy one of Mallorca’s most photogenic spots. The straightforward nature of the trip — a comfortable boat ride followed by free time on the beach — makes it ideal for travelers who prioritize simplicity and scenic beauty.

The combination of stunning coastline views, easy booking, and the option to snorkel or lounge in the sun makes it a worthwhile addition to any Mallorca itinerary. It’s especially well-suited for those seeking a casual, budget-friendly adventure that balances relaxation with scenic exploration.

While the lack of in-depth commentary might leave some craving more info about the coastline, the overall experience delivers exactly what it promises: a breezy boat ride and a beautiful beach day. In the end, if your goal is to enjoy the natural beauty of Mallorca’s north coast without fuss, this trip hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. The beach at Formentor is great for kids, with shallow waters ideal for swimming and playing.

Can I buy food and drinks on the boat?
The tour includes a bar where you can purchase soft drinks during the cruise, but food and other beverages are not included.

Do I need to bring snorkel equipment?
While snorkelling gear is not supplied, many reviewers recommend bringing your own to explore underwater. The waters are clear and inviting.

What happens if I miss my scheduled return time?
You can take the next available boat during the scheduled return times, so missing one does not mean you’re stranded.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, this experience is subject to favorable sea and weather conditions. If weather is bad, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled.

How long does the whole experience take?
The boat cruise itself lasts around 30 minutes, but your total time depends on when you choose to return from Formentor Beach. The full day can be flexible based on your plans.

Is there any guide commentary during the cruise?
No, the trip is a straightforward transportation service with no guided commentary, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.