11 Coves and Spots to Reach by Boat from Palma

Palma sits in the middle of a wide bay, which makes it the perfect base: calm coves to the west, long beaches to the east and islands to the south. These are the 11 routes our captains sail most, from short to long. Each one has a fixed fuel price on Cienfuegos, so you can plan the budget in advance.

Short trips — perfect for a half day

1. Illetes / Punta Negra

The closest turquoise water to Palma, about 20 minutes out. Small islets, sandy bottom, beach clubs on shore. Ideal for a first swim stop or a sunset half day.

2. Cap Rocat / Cala Blava

East of the city, under the cliffs of an old military fortress. Wilder and quieter than the west side, with clear water on rocky ground.

3. Portals Vells

A classic. A sheltered cove near Cap de Cala Figuera with pine trees down to the water and a cave carved into the rock. Busy at midday in August — go early or late.

4. Palma Bay Triangle

A relaxed loop across the bay with views of the cathedral and the old town from the water, plus a swim stop. Great for groups who want a bit of everything without long crossings.

Medium trips — full-day favourites

5. Cala Fornells, the Malgrats islands and Caló d’en Monjo

Around the corner past Santa Ponsa. The Malgrats are a protected marine reserve with excellent snorkelling; Caló d’en Monjo is a narrow, beautiful inlet. Anchoring rules are strict here, so let your captain choose the spot.

6. Camp de Mar

A small bay with a tiny island connected by a footbridge and a restaurant. Good shelter from northerly winds.

7. Port d’Andratx

One of Mallorca’s most beautiful harbours, framed by villas and mountains. Combine it with a swim stop along the rugged coast on the way.

8. Cala Pi

On the south coast beyond Cap Blanc: a deep, narrow cove with high cliffs and bright blue water. Best with calm seas.

Long trips — the big days

9. Dragonera

The dragon-shaped island off Mallorca’s western tip, a natural park with dramatic cliffs. A long, spectacular coastal run past Andratx.

10. Es Trenc

Mallorca’s famous long white beach with Caribbean-coloured shallows, southeast of Palma. Plan a full day and bring snacks — it is a nature area.

11. Cabrera

The national park island south of Mallorca, with a castle, a quiet harbour and the clearest water around. Needs a permit and calm weather. Read the full Cabrera guide.

Fuel prices at a glance

Tips from our captains

• Watch the afternoon breeze. In summer a sea breeze builds over the bay after lunch. Sheltered coves on the lee side stay calm — that’s why the captain may change the plan.
• Anchor on sand, never on seagrass. Posidonia meadows are protected in the Balearics.
• Arrive early at popular spots like Portals Vells in July and August.

Ready to choose? See live availability or read when the sea is best in Mallorca.