From Cala Ratjada: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip

Exploring the East Coast of Mallorca by Glass-Bottom Boat

If you’re planning a day trip from Cala Ratjada, the East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Tour offers a charming way to soak up Mallorca’s stunning coastline without overloading your schedule. For $36 per person, this tour lasts between 2.5 and 5.5 hours, depending on the option you choose. You’ll glide past beaches, caves, and coves, all while peering beneath the surface through the boat’s glass floor. It’s a straightforward, scenic cruise that combines light adventure with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views.

What we particularly like is how accessible this experience is — no strenuous hiking or complicated arrangements needed. The boat’s glass bottom provides an instant window into the crystal-clear waters that Mallorca is famous for, giving you a peek at the vibrant marine life without getting your hair wet. Plus, the option to add free beach time at Cala Millor or Porto Cristo makes this more than just a boat ride — it becomes a full mini-vacation.

One thing to keep in mind: weather conditions can impact the swimming stops, so if it’s windier or rainy, those moments might be shortened or skipped altogether. Also, this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth considering if mobility is a concern. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic, relaxing outings with the opportunity to snorkel or swim in inviting waters, and those wanting a taste of Mallorca’s coast without a long or complicated excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible options make this tour accessible for many travelers.
• Scenic views of beaches, caves, and landscapes are a highlight, especially through the glass-bottom feature.
• Multiple tour lengths and destinations allow customization based on your interests and available time.
• Snorkeling and swimming stops enhance the experience, offering a chance to enjoy the water.
• Optional free time gives you the flexibility to explore beaches or visit nearby attractions.
• Weather-dependent swimming stops mean your plans could change if conditions aren’t ideal.

The Experience in Detail

The Typical Itinerary and What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at the Mallorca Sea Paradise ticket office in Cala Ratjada, the atmosphere is relaxed. After exchanging your voucher for a ticket, you’ll board your boat, usually a comfortable vessel equipped with glass floors—not a gimmick, but a clever way to see underwater without getting wet.

Depending on the tour you select, the cruise will take you past different spots along the east coast. For the shorter 2-hour Sea Odyssey, you’ll visit Font de sa Cala and Canyamel, with a swimming and snorkeling break if weather permits. The 2.5-hour version expands on this, sailing through Font de sa Cala, Cala Bona, and Cala Millor, with an opportunity to snorkel in Canyamel.

For those opting for the 3-hour cruise, Sa Coma is added to the itinerary. The longer 5-hour cruise is the most comprehensive, taking you past Porto Cristo, where you can see the famous Pirate Cave and Cala Romantica, and includes a swim stop at Cala Morlanda.

What Makes Each Stop Special

• Font de sa Cala: This small bay offers calm, clear waters perfect for a quick swim or snorkel.
• Canyamel: Known for its rocky coves and underwater visibility, it’s a favorite for marine life viewing.
• Cala Millor and Cala Bona: Popular beaches with long stretches of sand, ideal for relaxing or grabbing a quick snack after your boat trip.
• Sa Coma: A lively resort town with shops and cafes, great for those wanting a bit of local flavor.
• Pirate Cave and Cala Romantica: A chance to see Mallorca’s hidden caves and rugged coastline, providing a memorable photo backdrop.

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The View and Underwater Experience

The real selling point here is the view through the glass floor. We loved the way it gave us a window into Mallorca’s underwater life—colorful fish and seaweed, all without the hassles of snorkeling gear or water shoes. As mentioned in a review, the scenery is “stunning,” making it perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.

Snorkeling and Swimming

While the boat makes stops for swimming or snorkeling, these depend on weather conditions. If it’s windy or rainy, the crew may skip or shorten these stops. Still, travelers have found the experience enjoyable, with one reviewer noting the “refreshing and clear water” as a highlight.

Free Time Options and Additional Visits

Two shuttle options allow you to extend your day at leisure. The Cala Millor shuttle provides three hours on the beach, ideal for sunbathing, shopping, or grabbing a bite. The Porto Cristo shuttle offers about three and a half hours to explore, visit the famous Drach Caves, or browse local markets on certain days.

These free time options are great if you prefer a blend of sightseeing and relaxing, but keep in mind that they involve a transfer to another boat, which might extend your overall time on the water.

Practicalities and Value

The price of $36 per person strikes us as quite reasonable, especially considering the length of the tour and the scenic value. You won’t get a gourmet meal or drinks included, but the focus on views and water activities makes this a straightforward, budget-friendly outing.

Note that food and drinks are not included, so if you’re hungry or thirsty, plan to bring your own or buy locally at the stops. Also, no hotel pickup or drop-off is provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Cala Ratjada.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking relaxing scenic views, some underwater exploration, and flexible timing. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy being on the water, appreciate natural beauty, and don’t mind weather-dependent activities. If you’re looking for a more personalized experience or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts on the East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip

This tour offers a beautiful and uncomplicated way to experience Mallorca’s coast. The combination of scenic views, the thrill of underwater sights through the glass floor, and optional beach time creates a well-rounded outing. While weather can occasionally impact the swimming stops, the overall experience remains engaging, especially for those who love being on the water and exploring rugged coastlines.

The value for money is evident when you consider the duration, the scenic and aquatic experiences, and the flexibility of the options. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a laid-back, natural experience without the fuss of more structured or crowded excursions.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, enjoyable boat trip with plenty of opportunities for photos, swims, and relaxing, this experience from Cala Ratjada should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for kids, most children enjoy the boat ride and the chance to see underwater sights through the glass floor. However, check with the operator if you have very young children or specific needs.

Can I see marine life through the glass bottom?
Yes, many travelers have enjoyed glimpses of colorful fish and seaweed beneath the boat. The clarity of the water makes this a visual treat, especially in calm weather.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water. If you plan to swim, pack your snorkeling gear, towel, and possibly a change of clothes. Remember, food and drinks are not provided.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, no. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Swimming stops are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the crew might shorten or cancel swimming and snorkeling, but the scenic cruise usually proceeds.

How long is the free time at each shuttle stop?
At Cala Millor, you get about 3 hours; at Porto Cristo, about 3.5 hours. These allow for relaxing on the beach, exploring, shopping, or visiting local attractions like the Caves.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot in advance with the option to pay later, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Are there any language options?
Yes, the tour host or greeter speaks Spanish, English, French, and German.

Do I need to bring cash for extras?
While the tour is all-inclusive in the sense of the cruise, any additional purchases at stops, such as souvenirs or snacks, will require cash or cards.

In short, the East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip from Cala Ratjada offers a practical, scenic, and relaxing way to enjoy Mallorca’s coast. It’s a favorite for those wanting a taste of the sea, with enough flexibility to tailor the day to your preferences — all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: