Mahon Harbour Boat Tour with Mahon Market and Gin Distillery

Key Points

• Explore Mahon Harbour on a glass-bottom boat, viewing fortified islets and opulent waterfront villas.
• Visit Mahon Old Town, with its Georgian townhouses, baroque churches, and lively Plaza del Carme market.
• Tour the historic Xoriguer gin distillery, established in 1736, with a tasting session included.
• Guided by an expert local guide, gaining insights into Mahon’s British influences and cultural heritage.
• Duration of 8 hours, with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Not suitable for guests with mobility issues or motion sickness, and distillery visit is self-guided.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Mahon Harbour Glass-Bottom Boat Experience

The tour begins with an exciting glass-bottom boat ride in Mahon Harbour, which is the second-largest in the world. This 1-hour cruise takes you between fortified islets and past opulent villas along the waterfront, some dating from the 18th century when Menorca was under British rule. The viewing windows offer a glimpse of underwater life, adding a special touch to the experience.

This boat trip offers a unique perspective on Mahon’s impressive maritime defenses and architecture. The boat glides smoothly, allowing ample time to admire the harbor’s scale and beauty. It’s a highlight for those interested in Mahon’s naval history and seaside charm.

Exploring Mahon Old Town and Plaza del Carme Market

After the boat trip, the tour provides free time for wandering around Mahon’s historic old town. The area is known for its Georgian townhouses, baroque churches, and cobbled streets, which reflect a blend of British, Spanish, and local influences.

A key stop is Plaza del Carme, a bustling square lined with palm trees and shaded by a 17th-century convent. Here, vendors set up a weekly market, selling cured meats, fresh fruit, and local cheeses, including the renowned square-shaped cheese celebrated across Spain. This setting offers a vibrant atmosphere and an authentic taste of local life.

Discovering the Xoriguer Gin Distillery

No visit to Mahon is complete without exploring the historic Xoriguer gin distillery, which has been producing Menorca’s favorite tipple since 1736. The tour does not include a guided visit of the distillery, but guests can explore at their own pace and enjoy a tasting session of the famous gin.

The distillery’s long-standing recipe and traditional methods highlight Menorca’s British heritage. The red-painted houses and historic buildings in the area offer a visual reminder of the island’s colonial past.

Cultural Heritage of Mahon

Throughout the tour, an expert local guide shares insights about Mahon’s cultural influences, especially its British colonial history. The guide points out architectural details like sash windows, panelled doors, and lunettes, which are evidence of this period.

This focus on heritage helps deepen the understanding of Mahon’s distinctive character and how past eras shape the present-day town.

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Practical Details and Logistics

The 8-hour tour departs with a live English-speaking guide, ensuring clear explanations and cultural context. The visit to the gin distillery is self-guided, so no guided commentary is provided there, but ample time is given for tasting and exploring.

Participants are advised to bring a hat and wear suitable footwear for walking and boat excursions. It’s recommended to carry money for extras or gratuities. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or individuals prone to motion sickness.

Booking Flexibility and Cost

Booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans. You can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to secure your spot without immediate payment. The price reflects a comprehensive experience blending boat rides, exploration, and tasting, valued by many for its good value.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour combines a scenic boat ride, cultural exploration, and culinary heritage in a single package. The glass-bottom cruise stands out for its underwater views and impressive harbor scenery. The visit to the historic distillery adds a flavorful, authentic touch that connects Mahon’s history directly to its local products.

The guided commentary enriches the experience with stories about Mahon’s architecture and British influence, making it more than just a sightseeing outing. The free time in Mahon allows for personal discovery, perfect for those who enjoy exploring at their own pace.

Limitations to Consider

The distillery visit is not guided, which may be a drawback for those seeking detailed explanations during the visit. The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility restrictions or those sensitive to motion sickness. The pacing is moderate, allowing enough time at each stop but requiring some walking and standing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and food lovers interested in Menorcan gin. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides combined with culture and local tasting experiences. Those seeking a relaxed yet informative overview of Mahon’s highlights will find this tour engaging and rewarding.

Mahon Harbour, Market, and Gin: A Well-Rounded Day in Menorca

This 8-hour tour from TUI Spain offers a diverse look into Mahon, balancing sea views, historical sights, and local flavors. The combination of a glass-bottom boat, free time in the old town, and a historic distillery visit makes for a memorable day out.

While the cost is justified by the variety of experiences included, travelers should note the self-guided distillery visit and plan for walking around Mahon. The flexible booking options and full refund policy add peace of mind.

In summary, this tour is a strong choice for those seeking a comprehensive yet laid-back exploration of Mahon, emphasizing heritage, scenery, and local traditions. It offers a good balance of guided and independent activities, making it suitable for many types of travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation details are not specified; the focus is on the boat trip, walking exploration, and distillery visit.

How long is the boat trip in Mahon Harbour?
The glass-bottom boat cruise lasts approximately 1 hour.

Can I visit the distillery with a guided tour?
No, the visit to Xoriguer gin distillery is not guided; you explore at your own pace and enjoy a tasting.

Is this tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants are advised to bring a hat, suitable footwear, and money for extras or gratuities.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a boat cruise, free time in Mahon, and a gin tasting session. The distillery visit itself is un-guided.

How flexible is the booking?
Reservations can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with reserve now, pay later options.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic harbor views, heritage exploration, and local gin tasting creates a well-rounded experience unique to Mahon.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby