Traditional Canarian street market and marine reserve of La Graciosa

Exploring Canary Islands and Mallorca: A Detailed Look at the Traditional Market and Marine Reserve Tour

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that combines a taste of authentic Canarian life with scenic sea views and a lively local market, this tour offers quite a bit. Set in Lanzarote, it takes you from the tranquil streets of La Graciosa to the bustling outdoor market of Andratx on Mallorca, making it ideal for travelers craving a mix of nature, culture, and local flavor.

What we love about this experience is the chance to cruise along the coastline, taking in stunning vistas of crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs—perfect for those Insta-worthy moments. The market visit is another highlight, offering ample time to soak in local sights, sounds, and flavors. However, keep in mind that the tour’s structure is quite packed, and if you’re not a fan of busy markets or early mornings, it might require some adjustment.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic cruising, culture, and leisurely shopping. If you’re keen to see La Graciosa’s natural beauty or want a taste of the lively Andratx market, this package is worth considering, especially given its balanced mix of activities and value.

Key Points

• Scenic coastline cruise offers breathtaking views of western Mallorca’s cliffs and waters.
• Visit to La Graciosa provides a unique chance to explore a quiet island known for its natural beauty.
• Market experience in Andratx offers authentic local shopping and dining opportunities.
• Comfortable transportation includes air-conditioned buses and boat trips, making the journey enjoyable.
• All-inclusive pricing covers meals, drinks, ferry rides, and free time, making it easy to budget.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides enhances the understanding of local culture and sights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Lanzarote: Setting the Scene

The tour begins in Lanzarote at the meeting point in Puerto del Carmen, with pick-up services available from key resorts like Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and Costa Teguise. Starting around 10:30 am, the group boards a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Cruise Along Mallorca’s Western Coastline

The first main activity is a 1-hour sightseeing cruise departing from Santa Ponsa or Paguera. Expect to see some of Mallorca’s most stunning vistas—jagged sea cliffs, shimmering waters, and possibly a few boats bobbing in the distance. Reviewers have noted that the cruise is a highlight, with Geraldine calling the views “lovely,” and the experience providing a calming contrast to the busy market later.

Ferry to La Graciosa

After the cruise, a brief bus ride takes you to the ferry terminal for a 25-minute boat trip across the water to La Graciosa. This island really does have a reputation for peaceful, untouched landscapes. Reviewers mention how beautiful the island is after the visit, and the guided free time allows for photography, a stroll, or just soaking up the quiet ambiance.

Free Time on La Graciosa

Once on La Graciosa, you’re granted around 2 hours to explore independently. This is your chance to enjoy the island’s natural scenery or grab a quick snack. The reviews note that the island’s serenity and scenic beauty are truly memorable, though some mention it might be a bit rushed if you want to explore extensively. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to breathe in the fresh sea air away from crowds.

Return Ferry and Travel to Andratx

Following the island visit, you’ll hop back on the ferry and bus, heading over to the old fishing port of Andratx. Here, you get around 3 hours to enjoy the town’s outdoor market, which is open on Wednesdays. Expect stalls laden with colorful produce, local crafts, and tempting food options. From reviews, we learn that the market is large enough to walk around comfortably, although some stalls do tend to be similar, which might lead to a feeling of repetition.

Market Exploration and Lunch

The highlight of the market visit is shopping for fresh fruits, vegetables, local products, and souvenirs. Geraldine mentions the market’s “huge” size and the pleasure of wandering through its stalls. The tour also includes a lunch featuring paella, which some find a bit different from their usual fare, but the bread served alongside was well-liked. The guided aspect adds value, as guides like Rachel share insights into local customs and produce.

Return and End of Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Puerto del Carmen, typically around 4:30 pm to 5 pm, giving you a full but manageable day of sightseeing and culture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of scenic sea trips, island exploration, and market shopping creates a well-rounded experience. The cruise along Mallorca’s coast is a peaceful, picture-worthy moment that many travelers find relaxing and beautiful. The visit to La Graciosa offers a rare glimpse of a quieter, less developed Canary Island, perfect for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

The market in Andratx stands out as an authentic taste of local life. It’s not a tourist trap; it’s a lively hub where you can pick up fresh produce, sample local delicacies, and perhaps find a unique souvenir. Having the opportunity to visit the Teguise market for two hours as part of the package adds even more value, giving you a taste of Lanzarote’s vibrant market scene.

From the reviews, guides like Rachel and Manalos are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, which enhances the experience and helps you get more out of your visit. The open bar with water, soft drinks, beer, and wine is a nice touch, allowing you to enjoy the day without worrying about additional costs.

Practical Considerations and Value

At $80.29 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions—transportation, lunch, ferry rides, and free time on two different islands. The fact that most travelers book this about a month in advance suggests it’s popular, and the small group size of up to 50 travelers helps maintain a more intimate feel.

The timing is well-placed to maximize daylight hours, and the pick-up services from central resorts streamline the logistics, making it easy for travelers to join the experience without stress. The availability of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a mix of natural scenery, authentic local markets, and cultural exposure. If you love boat rides and scenic coastal views, you’ll enjoy the cruise. For those interested in exploring small, quiet islands, La Graciosa provides a peaceful escape. Market enthusiasts will appreciate the lively stalls and fresh local produce.

However, if your preference is for a quiet day without busy markets or if you dislike rushing through multiple activities, this tour might feel a little hectic. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable guides, as reviews highlight their friendliness and insight.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a balanced blend of landscape, culture, and leisure. From the calming cruise to the vibrant market, it offers a well-paced escape that caters to a variety of interests. The inclusion of free time on La Graciosa allows you to soak in its natural beauty, while the market visit offers an authentic slice of local life.

The value for money is solid, considering all the inclusions and the opportunity to see both Lanzarote and Mallorca in one day. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add a layer of depth often missing from more generic tours, making this experience stand out for those eager to connect with the area’s natural and cultural charms.

In summary, if you’re seeking a lively, scenic, and authentic day out that combines stunning views with cultural discovery, this tour checks many boxes. Just be ready for a full day and some busy market browsing, but overall, it’s a compelling choice for curious travelers.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available from Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and Costa Teguise, making it convenient for most travelers staying in these areas.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise along Mallorca’s coast lasts approximately 1 hour, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers roundtrip transportation via ship and bus, lunch, an open bar with water, soft drinks, beer, and wine, ferry rides to and from La Graciosa, and free time on the island and at the market.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of bad weather or change of plans.

Is there any age restriction?
Babies from 0-2 years can join for free, making it suitable for families with young children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking at the markets, sun protection, and a camera. Since the tour includes outdoor activities, dressing in layers might be helpful depending on the weather.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this lively and scenic tour, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel plans.