Can Picafort: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour, Swimming stop

Can Picafort: Dolphin Watching Boat Tour, Swimming Stop
Location: Balearic Islands, Spain
Country: Spain
Rating: 4.8/5 (762 reviews)
Price: $82 per person
Supplier: North Coast Adventure

Few things beat the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural environment, especially when done from the deck of a comfortable boat cruising along Mallorca’s northern coast. For around $82, you can join this half-day adventure that promises dolphin sightings, scenic views, and a chance to swim in pristine waters. Departing from Can Picafort, the tour is designed for those who love nature, wildlife, and a dash of local discovery.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are two aspects: First, the small groups—most reviews mention around 12 people—allowing for a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Second, the knowledgeable guides and captains, like Sebastian and Toni, who not only make you feel welcome but also enrich the journey with stories about the caves, cliffs, and wildlife.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—if the seas are rough, some stops like swimming or cave visits might be limited. Also, this tour is not suitable for children under six, or those with limited mobility or back issues. But overall, if you’re after an authentic, well-organized adventure with plenty of chances to see dolphins and enjoy the outdoors, you’ll find this tour suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Spot dolphins in their natural habitat with expert guidance
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mallorca’s rugged northern coastline
• Multiple Stops: Visit a cave, a cove, and enjoy the option to swim and snorkel
• Small Groups: Experience a more personal, relaxed atmosphere on a boat with just about 12 people
• Expert Guides: Guides like Sebastian and Toni are praised for their friendliness and knowledge
• Weather Dependence: Some activities, like swimming or cave visits, depend on sea conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Mallorca Sea Adventure

This boat tour from Can Picafort offers a chance to see Mallorca from a different perspective—out on the water, surrounded by nature’s best. For just over an hour’s drive from Palma, you’ll board a fast, comfortable boat at the marina, ready for a morning or early afternoon trip.

What to Expect During the Trip

The experience opens with a scenic cruise along Mallorca’s coast, where the views of Cap de Formentor and other landmarks are striking, especially if you opt for the sunrise trip. The guides are attentive and eager to point out features like caves, rock formations, and tell stories about the local landscape. As we sail, the anticipation builds—many travelers have already shared how “Sebastian was a great guide,” making the journey educational and fun.

Dolphin Sightings:

The main highlight is undoubtedly the chance to see playful dolphins. Reviewers frequently mention loads of dolphins swimming close to the boat, jumping, and frolicking—an experience described as “magical” and “incredible.” Guides help spot the dolphins and give insight into their behavior, making it more than just a visual delight. One visitor recalled, “the dolphins got very close to the boat,” which is a true treat for photographers and animal lovers.

Caves and Coastal Highlights:

On the return leg, the boat visits a natural cave and a nearby cove, offering a change of scenery and a chance to explore. These caves, often highlighted as “beautiful” and “stunning,” provide photo opportunities and a break to appreciate Mallorca’s rugged coastline. The guides also share interesting tidbits about these formations, enhancing the experience.

Swimming and Snorkeling:

Weather permitting, you’ll get the opportunity to swim in clear, calm waters—a favorite among many reviews. One traveler noted, “the water was warm and calm, and it was so refreshing,” emphasizing how relaxing and invigorating a swim in such surroundings can be. The stop at the uninhabited beach or secluded cove is one of the trip’s biggest draws, especially for those looking to cool off or snorkel among fish.

Duration and Group Size:

At around 3-4 hours, this tour strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, but not so long as to tire you out. The small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, which makes for a more personalized experience and easier interactions with guides.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Sebastian and Toni, who go out of their way to explain what you’re seeing and keep everyone comfortable. One reviewer wrote, “we felt very welcome and relaxed,” which is essential when you’re out at sea.

Seeing so many dolphins is a recurring theme in reviews—some said they saw dolphins “frolicking around the boat,” and others mentioned how close the dolphins got. Such encounters are often described as “the highlight of the trip,” making it clear why this tour is popular.

The value for money is also frequently praised. Considering the small group size, nature experiences, and the chance to swim in such pristine waters, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment. One review sums it up: “Well worth the money spent, really great experience.”

Other travelers especially appreciated the photo opportunities—capturing dolphins jumping, caves, and landscapes—along with the relaxed atmosphere, which makes the whole outing feel more like an adventure than a commercialized spectacle.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring sunscreen and a jacket—the sun can be strong, and it’s wise to be prepared for wind or cooler moments.
• Beachwear and towels are a must if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Waterproof your electronics—many reviews suggest protecting your phone or camera, especially if you want to capture the dolphins close-up.
• Arrive early at the meeting point, which is at the private parking of Can Picafort Yacht Club, to avoid missing the boat and to soak in the atmosphere.
• Weather can impact plans—rough seas might limit swimming or cave visits, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for animal lovers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxing yet active outdoor experience. If you enjoy wildlife and beautiful scenery, you’ll love the chance to see dolphins up close. It’s also suitable for travelers keen on small-group experiences where guides can give personalized attention and storytelling.

However, it’s not suitable for children under six or those with mobility or back issues, as the boat ride can be bumpy, and some stops might involve walking or swimming. Adventure seekers who want a quick, nature-rich escape will find it well worth the time and money.

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FAQs

• How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on sea conditions and time spent at each stop.
• What is included in the price? The fare covers the boat trip, captain, and fuel. Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Can I swim or snorkel? Yes, weather permitting, you’ll have the chance to swim and snorkel in calm, clear waters at a secluded cove.
• Are children allowed? Children under 6 are not suitable for this tour, and it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.
• Where do I meet the tour? The meeting point is at the private parking of the Can Picafort Yacht Club.
• What should I bring? Sunscreen, a jacket, beachwear, and waterproof your electronics.
• Is alcohol allowed? No, alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the boat for safety reasons.
• How many people are on the boat? The typical group size is about 12 people, fostering a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
• What if the weather is bad? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; some activities like swimming may be limited if seas are rough.
• Is the guide bilingual? Guides speak Catalan, English, and Spanish, making communication easy for most travelers.

To sum it up, this boat tour from Can Picafort offers a well-rounded experience: dolphin sightings, scenic coastlines, caves, and swimming in calm waters. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine wildlife observation with a relaxed day out on the sea. The small-group setting and friendly guides keep it personal and engaging.

If you’re after authentic encounters with nature, love the idea of seeing dolphins in the wild, and enjoy a bit of adventure with a splash of relaxation, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Mallorca trip. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, waterproof gear, and an open mind for a memorable day on the water.