Menorca: Coves and Beaches Boat Trip w/ optional Paella

Explore the southern coast of Menorca with a boat trip from Ciutadella that takes you to some of the island’s most beautiful coves and beaches. Priced at $41 per person, this tour offers both half-day (3.5 hours) and full-day (up to 7 hours) options, allowing flexibility for different itineraries and interests.

This cruise from Menorca Blava highlights stops at Son Saura, Cala Turqueta, Macarella, and Macarelleta—each famous for their vivid waters and natural surrounds. The full-day trip includes a delicious Mediterranean paella and sangría served onboard, making it a popular choice among visitors wanting a combination of scenic beauty and local cuisine. The tour is especially suitable for those eager to see remote beaches and enjoy crystal-clear waters, although it’s not designed for those with mobility challenges due to rocky paths and beaches.

Key Points

• Two options available: a full-day (7 hours) with paella and drinks, or a half-day (3.5 hours) without food.
• Departure point is Passeig des Moll in Ciutadella, with multilingual guides onboard.
• Highlights include swimming and snorkeling at Cala Turqueta, exploring Macarella and Macarelleta, and relaxing at Son Saura.
• Food: Paella, sangría, and orange juice are included in the full-day trip; the half-day offers no meals.
• Timing: stops at beaches range from 1 to 2 hours, providing ample time for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring.
• Booking flexibility: free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, with options available from May through September.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure and Meeting at Passeig des Moll

The tour departs from Passeig des Moll in Ciutadella, where Menorca Blava staff welcome guests at pontoon number 1. The meeting process is straightforward, with friendly staff ready to assist. The boat capacity can accommodate over 200 people, so expect a lively but organized environment. Remember, cash is required for on-board purchases, and no card payments are accepted.

Setting Sail to Menorca’s Most Notable Beaches

The cruise begins with a scenic sail along the west and south coasts of Menorca. The full-day itinerary involves two major stops: Son Saura and Cala Turqueta.

Son Saura offers 2 hours of free time, where the white sand and shallow waters invite you to relax or take a dip. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing or enjoying the peaceful surroundings. You can also walk 15 minutes along the Camí de Cavalls to reach Es Talaier, a more secluded, untouched beach.

Cala Turqueta is renowned for its blue waters and pine-fringed shoreline. Here, swimmers can dive straight into the clear sea, and snorkel gear allows exploration of the seabed and marine life. The 75-minute stop provides enough time to unwind or snorkel, making it a highlight for water lovers.

Discovering Macarella and Macarelleta

The tour includes a visit to Macarella and Macarelleta, among Menorca’s most photographed coves. These beaches are famous for their white sands and turquoise waters, set against a backdrop of green cliffs and pine trees.

While the stops are brief, 1.5 hours at Cala Turqueta and similar time at Macarella/ Macarelleta give plenty of opportunity to swim, relax, or take photos. The boat allows for snorkeling if you bring your gear, and the calm waters make for easy swimming.

The Full-Day Experience: From Relaxation to Gourmet Lunch

The full-day trip balances beach stops with scenic sailing. After Son Saura, guests enjoy a Mediterranean paella lunch with a glass of sangria and orange juice. The meal is served onboard, and many reviews highlight the deliciousness of the paella as a standout feature.

Following lunch, the cruise continues to Cala Turqueta, where passengers have 75 minutes of free time for swimming or relaxing. Afterward, the boat heads back along the coast, offering continuous sea views and opportunities to snorkel or take photos of the rugged shoreline.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Half-Day Option: Quick Highlights with No Food Included

The half-day tour lasts about 3.5 hours and involves a single stop at either Son Saura or Cala Turqueta, depending on weather conditions.

Guests have an hour to enjoy the beach or swim from the boat’s rear platform. The tour then proceeds directly to Macarella-Macarelleta for a quick visit before returning to Passeig des Moll. Since this option does not include meals or drinks, visitors should plan to bring their own snacks if desired.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The sailing experience offers a chance to see Menorca’s coast from the water, with stunning views of cliffs, caves, and beaches. The live multilingual guides provide commentary on the island’s geography and highlights, enhancing the experience.

The boat features washrooms and a bar onboard, making the trip comfortable. Free parking is available, simplifying logistics for visitors arriving by car. The trip is designed for most ages but is not suitable for people with reduced mobility due to rocky paths and beaches.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, especially for walking to beaches or exploring rocky paths. Swimwear, sunscreen, goggles, and snorkeling gear are recommended for enjoying the water.

The activity runs from May to September, so plan your visit within this window. Cash is necessary for on-board purchases, and no cooler is allowed on the boat. In case of bad weather, the trip may be canceled, so check weather forecasts.

Real-World Feedback on the Menorca Boat Trip

The reviews for this tour are largely very positive, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 2,100 reviews. Many appreciate the friendly and helpful crew, beautiful scenery, and delicious paella.

Guests mention how the beaches—such as Son Saura and Cala Turqueta—are crystal clear and perfect for swimming. The timing of stops generally offers ample time to relax or snorkel.

Some reviewers note that crowds can get large, especially at popular beaches, and rocky paths may be inconvenient for those with mobility issues. The food is praised but is not suitable for vegetarians or those with specific dietary restrictions, unless bringing your own food.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

The tour stands out for its combination of scenic sailing, beach visits, and included paella, offering good value at $41. The full-day option provides a more comprehensive experience, while the half-day is a quick, scenic snapshot.

Other similar excursions include shorter trips, cave explorations, or alternative beaches, but few combine typical Menorca beaches with onboard dining and flexible timing like this one.

Final Thoughts on the Menorca Coves and Beaches Boat Trip

This boat trip from Ciutadella delivers value, scenic beauty, and a taste of local cuisine. The full-day option especially suits visitors wanting to spend time in nature, swim in pristine waters, and enjoy a tasty meal onboard.

The friendly guides, beautiful stops, and accessible logistics make this a reliable choice for most visitors. However, travelers should be prepared for rocky terrain and bring their own snorkel gear if they want to maximize water activities.

This tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delight, making it a great way to see Menorca’s coast from the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the boat trip?
The tour costs $41 per person, with options for full-day or half-day outings.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Son Saura, Cala Turqueta, and Macarella/Macarelleta.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the full-day tour includes paella, sangría, and orange juice. The half-day does not include food or drinks.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour begins at Passeig des Moll in Ciutadella, with boarding at pontoon number 1.

Are meals suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
No, the included paella is not suitable for vegetarians, seafood, or gluten-free diets. Guests should bring their own food if needed.

How long are the stops at each beach?
Stops typically last about 1 to 2 hours, offering time to swim, sunbathe, or explore.

What is the duration of the full-day trip?
The full-day option lasts approximately 7 hours, while the half-day is around 3.5 hours.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, due to rocky paths and beaches, it is not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, goggles, and snorkeling gear for the best experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.

Is the trip affected by weather?
Yes, bad weather may result in cancellation. The tour runs from May to September.

How do I recognize the boarding staff?
Look for Menorca Blava signs and staff at pontoon 1 for check-in.

This Menorca boat trip offers a memorable way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastlines and beaches, with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and indulge in delicious local food.

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