Discovering Mallorca from the sea is a transformative experience. The views, the freedom and the chance to anchor in front of hidden coves make a boat trip one of the most special plans you can enjoy during your stay on the island.
Although there are many ways to explore Mallorca, few compare to the feeling of cruising along its southwest coast, leaving the noise behind and getting closer to what really matters: untouched nature, crystal-clear water and corners only reachable by sea.
If you're thinking about a boat getaway, here are the best coves you can reach by boat from Palma, all departing from Puerto Club de Mar.
Why discover coves by boat?
Total freedom
No outside schedules, no rush, no crowds. You choose the plan and the coves you want to see, and the skipper takes you there. If you'd like to linger a little longer in one spot or improvise along the way, just say so: the day belongs to you and your private group.
Access to exclusive spots
Many of the island's most beautiful coves can't be reached by road or require difficult hikes. Arriving by sea lets you get there in comfort and privacy.
A complete sensory experience
The sea has something special: its sound, its smell, its rhythm… Cruising around Mallorca lets you experience it with all five senses.
The sea as a one-of-a-kind setting
Celebrating a birthday, a marriage proposal or simply spending the day with friends or your partner in the middle of the Mediterranean is something that stays with you forever.
What kind of trip to choose
To explore the coves near Palma, the ideal choice is a nimble, easy-to-handle boat that can anchor close to the shore and move comfortably between spots. With Holiboats you set off on a private boat just for your group, with a professional skipper included: you don't have to steer or worry about a thing, just enjoy.
You don't need any licence or experience: the skipper takes care of the navigation and brings you to the best coves while you relax. And since everything is included (fuel and skipper), there are no surprises or extra costs. You can see the experiences and prices or book directly, departing from Palma, hassle-free and with personalised attention.
The 7 must-see coves to visit by boat from Palma
Below is a curated selection of coves you can easily explore on a boat trip from the port of Palma. Some are perfect for short outings; others are worth dedicating a whole day to.
1. Cala Blava
📍 About 35 minutes' sailing from Palma
Cala Blava is a small, peaceful cove south of the Bay of Palma. From the sea it looks like a natural pool of turquoise-blue water with a sandy bottom. Ideal for anchoring nearby and enjoying a long swim.
Best for: Its calm and the colour of the water Perfect for: Couples and families Extra tip: Arrive early to enjoy it without other boats around
2. Cala Pi
📍 About 1 hour from Palma
One of the best known and most photographed coves in the south. From the sea, it's framed between pine-covered cliffs, and its narrow entrance makes it look like a Mediterranean fjord.
Best for: Its enclosed shape and the feeling of being in a secluded spot Perfect for: A full day on the boat Extra tip: A great option for eating on board or quiet snorkelling
3. Portals Vells
📍 25 minutes from Palma
Portals Vells isn't a single cove but three in one: Sa Caleta, Platgeta de Portals Vells and Playa del Mago. The setting is protected, the water has spectacular visibility and it's ideal for stopping several times and moving between little coves.
Best for: Sea caves and a relaxed atmosphere Perfect for: Groups or full-day routes Extra tip: Snorkel in the rockier area at the eastern end
4. Cala Falcó
📍 Very close to Portals Vells
Small and sheltered between cliffs, Cala Falcó is a gem best reached from the sea. Its pale sandy bottom turns it into a natural pool.
Best for: The sense of intimacy Perfect for: Short stops and a swim Extra tip: Lovely at sunset
5. Cala Bella Dona
📍 Opposite Palmanova
A hidden, little-known cove, perfect for a quick escape. Access by land is tricky, so arriving by sea practically guarantees a space all to yourself.
Best for: It's usually empty Perfect for: Couples looking to disconnect Extra tip: Bring cold drinks and fruit to make the most of it
6. Cala Comtessa
📍 Near Illetes
One of the closest to Palma, but also one of the prettiest. Perfect for short outings. Its shallow, transparent waters are ideal for children.
Best for: Very close and visually stunning Perfect for: Half a day or spontaneous outings Extra tip: Spectacular for anchoring at sunset
7. Cala Figuera
📍 On the edge of the Sa Dragonera Natural Park
A more adventurous option, ideal for those seeking untouched nature. Not to be confused with the village of the same name. Cala Figuera has deep water, rugged cliffs and a very wild beauty.
Best for: Untouched scenery Perfect for: Adventurers, free diving Extra tip: Perfect for those who want to "get lost"
Which coves to choose for your kind of plan?
- Couple — Cala Blava, Cala Falcó, Cala Bella Dona
- Family with kids — Cala Comtessa, Portals Vells
- Group of friends — Cala Pi, Portals Vells, Cala Figuera
- Adventure/disconnecting — Cala Figuera, Cala Pi
- Quick route (half day) — Cala Comtessa + Illetes
- Full day — Cala Pi + Cala Blava
What to bring for a boat trip
- Sunscreen + cap
- Swimsuit, towel
- Cold drinks (or add the Mallorcan picnic on board, drinks included)
- Phone with battery or a camera
- Snorkelling goggles
What if I have no experience?
No problem at all! With Holiboats there's always a professional skipper on board, included in the price. All you have to do is relax, enjoy the scenery and dive into paradise: the skipper handles the navigation and takes you to whichever coves you fancy. You don't need a licence or any prior experience, just the desire to have a great time.
In short: discovering Mallorca from the sea is a different story
Visiting coves by boat from Palma is much more than an excursion: it's an experience that blends beauty, calm, freedom and adventure. Whether for a few hours or a whole day, being out on the water lets you connect with the purest side of the island.
So if you want to see the real Mallorca and experience the sea as it deserves… book your trip and set sail.
🌊 Your next cove is waiting… and the only way to reach it is by sea!
