Menorca: Full-Day Boat Tour with Paella Lunch

A full-day boat tour in Menorca offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s south coast, combining scenic cruising, beach stops, and a tasty paella lunch—all for $63 per person. This 7 to 9-hour adventure departs from Ciutadella and takes visitors to some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches the island has to offer, such as Cala en Turqueta, Son Saura, and Cala Macarella-Macarelleta. While the tour is packed with highlights, it’s worth noting that lunch does not include vegetarian options and additional drinks and snorkeling equipment are extra. This experience appeals most to those who enjoy relaxing by the sea, soaking up scenic views, and savoring authentic local cuisine.

The tour’s emphasis on visiting unspoilt bays, swimming, and taking in the coast’s natural beauty makes it a strong choice for nature lovers and beach fans. With guided commentary in multiple languages and a delicious paella lunch served on board, guests can enjoy a comfortable, organized day out. The only practical consideration is to bring personal supplies such as swimwear, towels, and snacks, since no shops are available during the stops.

Key Points

• Full-day boat tour starting in Ciutadella de Menorca lasting 7 to 9 hours
• Visits to unspoilt beaches like Cala en Turqueta, Son Saura, and Cala Macarella
• Free time for swimming and relaxing at each bay, with up to 2 hours at Cala en Turqueta
• Includes a traditional Menorcan paella lunch with meat and seafood (not pork), plus a glass of sangria or soft drink
• Guided commentary available in Spanish, English, French, Italian, and Portuguese
• Departure from Ciutadella port around 9:30 am with optional pickup depending on accommodation
• Price: $63 per person, with no included extra drinks or snorkeling gear
• Highly rated experience with an average 4.4 out of 5 from 626 reviews

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Starting from Ciutadella: The Launch Point for Menorca’s Best Beaches

This boat tour begins at Ciutadella port, where travelers are guided to find a distinctive red boat marked with “Fiesta”. The departure time is typically around 9:30 am, giving plenty of daylight for a full day on the water and at beaches. The pickup service is available depending on your accommodation, with the local operator confirming the exact time beforehand. The meeting point is easy to locate via Google Maps, and free parking is available nearby.

Once on board, the cruise lasts about an hour as the vessel departs from the port and heads south along Menorca’s coast, offering a first chance to enjoy the scenery and get ready for the stops ahead.

Visiting Cala en Turqueta: Two Hours of Beach Relaxation and Swimming

The first major stop is Cala en Turqueta, where guests enjoy a generous 2-hour period for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the sand. Known for its crystal-clear waters and calm atmosphere, this bay is often highlighted as one of Menorca’s most picturesque beaches. Visitors should note that there are no food or drink options available on the beach itself, so bringing essentials is recommended.

During this time, travelers can swim in the unspoiled bay, take photos of the scenery, or just soak up the sun. The long stop allows ample opportunity to unwind before heading back to the boat for more sightseeing.

Seaview of Cala Macarella and Macarelleta from the Water

After leaving Cala en Turqueta, the boat cruises along the coast to Cala Macarella, offering spectacular views of this renowned spot from the sea. The vessel remains in motion for about an hour, giving a different perspective of the coast and the tiny coves.

This part of the journey is ideal for those who enjoy coastal scenery and want to see the hidden nooks of Menorca without disembarking. The boat’s vantage point provides perfect photo opportunities of the craggy cliffs and turquoise waters.

Son Saura: An Hour and a Half of Beach Time and Swimming

Next, the itinerary takes guests to Son Saura, where 1.5 hours are allocated for relaxing or swimming. Known locally as a beautiful, sandy beach, Son Saura offers more secluded tranquility compared to busier tourist spots.

Here, visitors can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe, or enjoy the peaceful environment. Since there are no shops or cafes, it’s wise to bring enough refreshments and snacks for this stop.

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Paella on Board: Local Flavors and Refreshments

At lunchtime, the boat is anchored in a calm bay where guests enjoy a freshly prepared Menorcan paella. The paella includes meat and seafood but not pork, served on board with a glass of sangria or soft drink.

The paella is frequently praised as delicious, with reviews highlighting how well it complements the day’s activities. The service is smooth, and guests appreciate the authentic taste of this traditional dish. Be aware that additional drinks are not included and snorkeling equipment is not provided, so plan accordingly.

Exploring Cala Macarella and Macarelleta from the Sea

After lunch, the boat heads to Cala Macarella, where seaviews of the tiny, pretty coves are a highlight. The vessel stays nearby for about an hour so that guests can appreciate the scenic coastline from the comfort of the boat.

While there’s no time to disembark at Macarella or Macarelleta, the boat’s vantage point offers a unique perspective of these iconic beaches, perfect for photography and appreciating Menorca’s natural beauty.

Return Journey and Drop-offs at Multiple Locations

Following the last scenic cruise, the boat returns to Ciutadella port, completing the approximate 7-hour experience. The tour makes up to 18 drop-off points if the pickup is arranged from specific accommodations or locations around Menorca, including popular hotels and resorts.

The return trip is a relaxed cruise along the coast, giving travelers further chances to enjoy coastal views and listen to guided commentary in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, Italian, and Portuguese.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour’s cost includes the 7-hour cruise, a guide speaking several languages, free time at Cala en Turqueta and Son Saura, and the paella lunch with a drink. Snacks and extra beverages, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers are not included.

Travelers should bring swimwear, towels, and any personal supplies needed for a comfortable day. Since no shops are available during stops, packing essentials is advised. The boat is described as comfortable, though not particularly new, with friendly staff and helpful guides.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Customer Satisfaction

Reviews highlight the friendly crew and well-organized schedule. Many reviewers praise the quality of the paella, describing it as delicious, and appreciate the ample time at beaches to swim or relax. The views along the coast are often described as stunning, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Some mention minor issues, such as the lack of vegetarian options for lunch or the absence of shops at stops. However, overall, guests rate the tour highly, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 based on 626 reviews.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day boat trip suits beach lovers, families with children, and anyone seeking a relaxing escape full of beautiful scenery and coastal charm. It is ideal for those who value authentic local cuisine and are comfortable bringing their own supplies for the day. The guided commentary and organized stops make it suitable for travelers looking for a structured, scenic day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The lunch menu includes meat and seafood but no vegetarian options are available. Travelers can bring their own food if needed.

Are snorkeling equipment or extra drinks included?
Snorkeling gear and additional drinks are not included. These can be purchased on board at extra cost.

What should I bring for the trip?
Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and personal snacks or drinks are recommended. Since no shops are available at beaches, pack everything needed for a comfortable day.

Does the tour accommodate hotel pickups?
Pickup options depend on your accommodation, with confirmation provided before the trip. The boat departs from Ciutadella port at 9:30 am.

How long is the free time at each beach?
Cala en Turqueta enjoys about 2 hours, Son Saura gets around 1.5 hours, while Cala Macarella is viewed from the boat for about an hour.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as comfortable, with friendly staff and helpful guides, though some reviews mention it is not brand-new.

Can I bring extra drinks or food?
Yes, extra drinks and snacks are available for purchase during the trip, but they are not included in the ticket price.

Are the beaches suitable for children?
Yes, the beaches are family-friendly, and the trip is considered suitable for kids, especially given the organized nature of stops and activities.

Is there a maximum number of participants?
The reviews and descriptions imply a group size that is manageable, though exact numbers are not specified. The organized schedule suggests a comfortably sized group.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, allowing flexibility in planning.

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