From Porto Cristo: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip

From Porto Cristo: East Coast Glass-Bottom Boat Trip
Location: Balearic Islands, Spain
Country: Spain
Rating: 3.7 out of 5 (based on 530 reviews)
Price: $32 per person
Supplier: MALLORCA SEA PARADISE
Similar Experiences: East Coast Catamaran, Cala Milor & East Coast Tours, and others.

Quick Overview:
A 1.5 to 5-hour boat trip from Porto Cristo offers a chance to take in Mallorca’s spectacular east coast scenery—think rocky sea caves, white-sand beaches, and charming coves—all from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. Depending on your chosen route, you might explore Cala Romantica, Cala Millor, or Cala de Mallorca, with options for swimming stops and cave visits.

What we really like about this tour is the combination of great scenery and the chance to see marine life through the transparent boat floor—it’s both fun and educational. Plus, the small group feel gives you plenty of space to relax and enjoy the ride, unlike the often crowded alternatives. The two different routes cater to various interests, whether you want a shorter cruise or a longer exploration.

The only caveat is that the swimming stop depends on weather conditions, so on windy or choppy days, you might find yourself just admiring the views from the boat. It’s also worth noting that food and drinks aren’t included, so bring water or snacks if you need a boost.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to see Mallorca’s coast from a relaxing vantage point without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning. Families, singles, or couples looking for a scenic, calm day on the water should find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: You’ll see a variety of caves, beaches, and coves, making it a visual treat.
• Marine Wildlife & Snorkeling: The glass bottom provides a peek into underwater life, and there’s an optional swimming stop.
• Flexible Options: From quick 1.5-hour cruises to longer trips with more sights, there’s a route for everyone.
• Small Group Experience: With less crowding and more space, you can relax and enjoy the scenery comfortably.
• Cost-Effective: At $32, it offers good value, especially considering the scenic highlights and marine viewing.
• Weather-Dependent: The swimming stop and some parts of the trip depend on favorable weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review

Getting There and Setting Off
Starting from Porto Cristo, one of Mallorca’s charming coastal towns, this tour is easily accessible, especially if you’re staying nearby. The meeting points can vary depending on the route you select, but generally, you’ll meet at a designated pier ready to board the vessel. The boats are equipped with glass bottoms, giving you a clear view of the seabed as you cruise along the coast.

The group size is typically moderate, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with the crew. The trip’s price of $32 is reasonable, especially when you consider the included scenic vistas and marine wildlife sightings. That said, food and drinks are extra, so plan accordingly—bring your own water or snacks, or explore options in Porto Cristo before setting off.

Itinerary Details & Highlights

1. The 1.5-Hour Tour
This shorter option is perfect if you’re pressed for time or prefer a quick but beautiful introduction to Mallorca’s east coast. Starting from Porto Cristo, you’ll head towards Cala de Mallorca, passing notable sites such as Cala Romantica and Calas de Mallorca. Of course, the highlight is the Pirate’s Cave—imagine the stories those rocks could tell. The boat then returns to Porto Cristo, arriving by 11 a.m.

2. The 2-Hour North Route
Departing at 11:00 a.m., this route takes you from Porto Cristo to Cala Bona, with scenic views of Sa Coma and Cala Millor. The swimming stop at Cala Morlanda is a major perk, giving you a chance to dip into the water and see the seabed through the glass floor. This route offers more time to relax, with a return around 1 p.m.

3. The 2-Hour South Route
This option, starting at either 12:45 p.m. or 3:30 p.m., focuses on the southern coast, including Cala Romantica, Calas de Mallorca, and Cala Varques—known for its pristine white sands. The snorkeling and swimming stop here is especially appreciated, as it allows you to enjoy the clear waters and observe underwater life. The later tour ends around 5:30 p.m.

4. Shuttle to Calas de Mallorca
For those who want a mix of boat ride and leisure on land, this shuttle includes a trip from Porto Cristo to Calas de Mallorca with stops at multiple coves en route. The return includes a swimming stop at Cala Varques, and you’ll have some free time to explore the beaches and local shops.

What We Love
The scenic coastline and sea caves are genuinely breathtaking. The views of Cala Romantica and Cala Millor are postcard-worthy, and the boat’s glass bottom lets you peek underwater without getting wet. The crew, as noted by a reviewer, is polite and knowledgeable, which enhances the experience—especially if you’re interested in hearing about local sites or marine life.

Another highlight is the small-group feel—you’re not jostling with hundreds of travelers. Instead, you get more space, which makes for a more relaxed, enjoyable trip. Plus, the opportunity to see marine wildlife—including mentions of Short Finned Pilot Whales—adds a layer of excitement.

Considerations
Weather plays a critical role here. The swimming stops are only permitted if conditions are favorable, meaning on windy or stormy days, the trip might be limited to just sightseeing. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, travelers should plan ahead if they want snacks or water onboard. Accessibility is somewhat limited at certain piers for wheelchair users, though available at some locations.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This trip is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a laid-back day exploring Mallorca’s coast. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy marine sights and scenic vistas but prefer a quieter, less crowded boat ride. History buffs might find some interest in the caves, but the main draw is the natural beauty and relaxing boat ride.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective, scenic overview of Mallorca’s east coast, this glass-bottom boat trip hits the mark. The spectacular views, combined with the chance to see marine life through the transparent bottom and enjoy a relaxing swim stop, make it a well-rounded experience. The dedicated crew and manageable group sizes add to its appeal, ensuring a comfortable and personal journey.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a gentle day of sightseeing without the crowds, and who are OK with weather-dependent stops. For those seeking a more immersive or adventurous experience, other options like kayaking or diving tours might be better, but this cruise offers a reliable taste of Mallorca’s coastal charm.

In essence, it’s a wonderful way to see the coast at a relaxed pace—perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy Mallorca from the water while soaking in its natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The length varies from 1.5 hours up to 5 hours, depending on the route you choose.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring your own water or snacks.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair access is available at some piers, such as Cala Millor and Sa Coma, but not at Calas de Mallorca, Cala Romántica, and Font de sa Cala.

What if the weather is bad?
The swimming stop and some parts of the trip depend on weather conditions. If weather is unfavorable, the trip may be limited to sightseeing from the boat.

Can I see marine wildlife?
Yes, passengers have reported seeing marine animals like the Short Finned Pilot Whales and enjoying views of seabeds through the glass bottom.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. Since food isn’t included, consider packing a small picnic if you plan to stay longer.

Where do I meet the boat?
Meeting points depend on your selected route but will be at designated piers in Porto Cristo.

Is there a child discount or family rate?
The tour price listed is per person; check with the provider for any family discounts or children’s rates.

This glass-bottom boat tour offers a combination of natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and leisurely exploration, making it a worthwhile addition to your Mallorca itinerary if you appreciate relaxed outdoor experiences and stunning coastal scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: