Reviewed · SNORKELING TRIPS

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca

4.9 · 7 reviews 3.5 hours From $648 Operated by Arenal Boat Charter · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Book on GetYourGuide →

A private boat in Palma Bay is interesting because you can skip the crowded beach scene and go straight to the coves, cliffs, and caves that make Mallorca feel wild. I love the fact you get a captain and a flexible run to the sunset, not a rigid schedule. I also love that this trip centers on the Cala Blava Marine Reserve for swimming and snorkeling in clear water. One consideration: reviews note the boat can feel tight, and shade may be limited, so if you hate small spaces, plan accordingly and pack for a sunny day.

In at least one booking, the captain was Laura, and she was described as friendly and good at finding standout swimming spots. You’ll have snorkeling masks and single floating tubes, plus onboard extras like a solarium area, a fresh-water outdoor shower, a cooling box, and a bathing ladder. Just be ready for Mediterranean chop, and if you’re not a confident swimmer, ask about life jackets for everyone in your party.

Key highlights I’d plan around

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Key highlights I’d plan around

  • Private boat time through sunset, with a captain who takes you to the best spots in southern Palma Bay
  • Cala Blava Marine Reserve swimming and snorkeling, including caves and rock-jump areas
  • Sunset drink on board while you watch Palma Bay turn into gold light
  • Photo-friendly views of Palma Bay waters with the sunset behind the mountains
  • Snorkeling gear included (masks and single floating tubes), plus easy water entry with the ladder
  • Onboard comfort touches like Bluetooth and a fresh-water shower

Why this private boat trip in Palma Bay feels more “Mallorca”

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Why this private boat trip in Palma Bay feels more “Mallorca”
Most boat tours in Mallorca work like a moving showroom. You visit, you swim, you move on, and you hope the timing lines up with nice light. This trip is different because it’s private and built around your group staying at the water long enough to actually enjoy it.

You’re not just going from Point A to Point B. You’re living in the water for part of the 3.5-hour outing. You’ll swim, snorkel, and explore caves in the Marine Reserve, then you get the slower, scenic part: relaxing onboard with a drink as the sun drops and Palma Bay turns cinematic.

That private aspect matters for comfort. You can take your time at each stop and adjust to how your group handles snorkeling. It also means your captain can aim for the best hidden spots, not just the most obvious ones.

More snorkelling trips in Mallorca:

The 3.5-hour rhythm: swim stops, cave time, and sunset cruising

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - The 3.5-hour rhythm: swim stops, cave time, and sunset cruising
You’re out for about 3.5 hours, which is a sweet spot on a vacation day. It’s long enough to include multiple water moments, but short enough that you don’t feel like you’ve traded your entire day for the sea.

Here’s the rhythm I’d expect:

  • You set out from the meeting point and head toward the Marine Reserve area.
  • You hit swimming and snorkeling time, with opportunities to see sea life and visit cave areas.
  • You add in the more adventurous option: jumping from the rocks (only if your group is up for it).
  • After the water time, you settle in for the sunset with a drink onboard, taking in wide views across Palma Bay.

Even better, reviews suggest you may get several different swim spots during the outing, not one long stop. That’s why this feels like value: you’re paying for time on the water, not a single photo moment.

Cala Blava Marine Reserve snorkeling, caves, and that first clear-water feeling

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Cala Blava Marine Reserve snorkeling, caves, and that first clear-water feeling
Cala Blava Marine Reserve is the heart of the experience. The focus is on swimming and snorkeling in calmer, clear water, with cave areas you can explore while staying in the shallows. Your captain should point you toward the best places to enter caves and swim around the rock formations.

What I like about this setup for your day is that it gives you multiple ways to enjoy the same area:

  • If you’re a snorkeler, you can spend time looking for life and exploring the cave spaces.
  • If you’re not, you can still enjoy swimming and soaking up the views, then join the more casual water moments.
  • If you are comfortable with a little adrenaline, rock jumps are part of the plan.

Practical consideration: the sea can be choppy. One review specifically called out that the Mediterranean waves were highly choppy, so swim-smart matters. If your group includes kids, weaker swimmers, or anyone who gets nervous in wind, take it seriously. Ask about life jackets for each person in your party, since at least one group recommended requesting them.

Sunset in Palma Bay: the drink, the views, and why timing matters

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Sunset in Palma Bay: the drink, the views, and why timing matters
The sunset portion is not just a bonus. It’s one of the selling points. The captain stays with you until sunset, and that means the last chunk of the trip is about views and atmosphere, not rushing back before light fades.

You’ll enjoy a drink onboard while you watch Palma Bay with the sunset behind the mountains. That backdrop detail matters. It’s what turns a normal “we went on a boat” story into a “we got pictures” memory, especially if your timing lines up with clear skies.

If you care about photos, this is the part to lean into. Make sure you’re ready to grab shots as the mountains darken and the water brightens. Bring sunglasses, keep your phone protected, and plan to stand where the wind is least annoying.

More boat trips from Mallorca:

Onboard comfort and included gear: what you get, what you should bring

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Onboard comfort and included gear: what you get, what you should bring
This trip includes some key items that make water time easier:

  • Snorkel masks
  • Single floating tubes
  • Drinks
  • Fuel and a captain
  • Boat rental

The boat also has practical onboard features, including a solarium area, sun shade (availability may vary by how the boat is set up), Bluetooth, a fresh-water outdoor shower, a cooling box, and a bathing ladder for getting back on board.

One review noted that the boat is a pontoon style and that room can be limited, plus shade can be minimal. So, I’d think of this as a “relax outside, water in, then settle” trip, not a lounge-for-hours situation.

What I’d bring to make your life easier (not listed as included):

  • Sunscreen and a hat, since a boat trip offers constant sun.
  • Water shoes or sandals with grip for safer footing if you’re near rocks.
  • A small towel, because you’ll want something to dry off after snorkeling and the shower.
  • A dry bag for phones and extra layers.

One more option: stand up paddle surf is available on request. If that’s your thing, message ahead so the captain can plan for it.

Capacity and group size: getting the real value out of $648 per group

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Capacity and group size: getting the real value out of $648 per group
The price is $648 per group up to 11, and that’s why this can be strong value. If you fill the group, the per-person cost drops fast compared to individual snorkeling cruises.

But here’s the balanced take. One review suggested the pontoon boat felt best for about six adults max, with limited room and no shade. That doesn’t cancel the value, but it changes expectations for comfort if you have a large group.

So how do you judge value smartly?

  • If you’re traveling with 6 to 10 people who are comfortable outdoors and don’t need lots of shade, this is likely a great deal.
  • If you’re a smaller group that still wants space to move around and rest, you’ll probably feel happier.
  • If you’re planning for 11, confirm how the captain will handle seating and shade so nobody feels packed in.

Either way, the value logic is simple: you’re buying a private captain, fuel, and multiple water experiences in a single half day. That’s hard to match with group tours.

The meeting point at Avinguda Miramar 24, and how not to waste time

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - The meeting point at Avinguda Miramar 24, and how not to waste time
Time on the water is the point of this tour, so I’d keep your arrival stress low.

You meet at Avinguda Miramar 24. Look for Restaurante La Marina and the beach to its right. Walk to the beach access, take a few steps down, then walk on the sand toward the sea for about 200 meters, keeping the port fence on your left. You should see orange posters on the fence pointing you toward the meeting point, including one with contact information.

If you’re traveling with a group, decide on a regroup spot near the orange posters so nobody wanders off while the others are still finding the beach.

Who this private snorkeling boat suits best (and who might not love it)

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Who this private snorkeling boat suits best (and who might not love it)
This is a strong fit if you want:

  • Private time at sea, with a captain who can show you spots
  • Snorkeling plus caves, not just one beach swim
  • A mix of water activities and a relaxed sunset drink onboard
  • A small-group vibe where you can move at your pace

It may be less ideal if:

  • Your group hates sun and needs lots of shade, since reviews mention limited shade
  • You or anyone in your party struggles with choppy conditions, since waves can be rough
  • You’re expecting a huge roomy cabin. It’s a boat outing with outdoor living as the main comfort

Should you book this private boat trip to Cala Blava Marine Reserve?

Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca - Should you book this private boat trip to Cala Blava Marine Reserve?
I’d book it if your idea of a perfect Mallorca day includes real time in the water, cave exploration while snorkeling, and a payoff at sunset when you’re already tired enough to truly enjoy the calm. The value works best when you can share the cost across a group, and the experience stays memorable because it mixes adventure and scenery in one continuous outing.

Skip it or at least ask extra questions before you go if you’re worried about space, lack of shade, or comfort in choppy water. Confirm how many people will be comfortable on board, and request life jackets for each person if your group includes anyone who needs extra reassurance.

FAQ

How long is the Private Boat Trip & Snorkel to Marine Reserve Mallorca?

The duration is 3.5 hours.

What is the price and group size for this boat trip?

The price is $648 per group, up to 11 people.

Is this a private experience?

Yes, it is a private group experience.

What does the trip include?

It includes boat rental, a captain, fuel, drinks, snorkel masks, and single floating tubes.

Do you snorkel in Cala Blava Marine Reserve?

Yes. The trip is described as including swimming and snorkeling in the Cala Blava Marine Reserve, including caves.

Is there a sunset part of the experience?

Yes. The captain takes you until sunset, and you can enjoy a drink on board while watching the sunset over Palma Bay.

Where do we meet for the boat trip?

You meet at Avinguda Miramar 24. Look for Restaurante La Marina and the beach to its right side, then walk down to the sand and head about 200 meters toward the sea, following the orange posters.

What languages are spoken by the captain or driver?

English and Spanish.

What if I need to cancel my booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there stand up paddle available?

Stand up paddle surf is available upon request.

More like this

Snorkeling Trips, compared.

The full Snorkeling Trips list →
Catamaran Cruise with Swimming and Snorkelling
★★★★★★★★★★4.3· 2,859 reviews· from $47

Catamaran Cruise with Swimming and Snorkelling

Read our review →
Quad Bike Tour, Snorkeling, and Cliff Jumping
★★★★★★★★★★4.8· 2,294 reviews· from $62

Quad Bike Tour, Snorkeling, and Cliff Jumping

Read our review →
Palma Boat Tour & Snorkeling with Drink Included
★★★★★★★★★★4.4· 1,875 reviews· from $40

Palma Boat Tour & Snorkeling with Drink Included

Read our review →
Kayaking, Sea Cave, Cliff Jumping & Snorkel Tour
★★★★★★★★★★4.8· 1,447 reviews· from $80

Kayaking, Sea Cave, Cliff Jumping & Snorkel Tour

Read our review →
Bay of Palma Boat Tour with Snorkeling
★★★★★★★★★★4.2· 1,248 reviews· from $32

Bay of Palma Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Read our review →
Boat Tour with BBQ, Snorkelling, & Sunset Option
★★★★★★★★★★4.4· 1,047 reviews· from $69

Boat Tour with BBQ, Snorkelling, & Sunset Option

Read our review →
3.5-Hour Boat Trip with Swimming and Snorkeling
★★★★★★★★★★4.0· 847 reviews· from $40

3.5-Hour Boat Trip with Swimming and Snorkeling

Read our review →
Kayaking, Sea Cave, Cliff Jumping & Snorkel Tour
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 769 reviews· from $83

Kayaking, Sea Cave, Cliff Jumping & Snorkel Tour

Read our review →

Browse the lists this tour appears in

Scroll to Top

Explore Mallorca

Every kind of day out on the island, and the best of each.