Half-day experience of the unspoilt coves of southern Menorca

Experience the Unspoilt Beauty of Menorca’s South Coast in a Half-Day Boat Tour

This half-day excursion takes you along the southern shores of Menorca, offering a chance to see some of the island’s most stunning and untouched beaches. For approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll travel aboard a comfortable boat, visiting dazzling spots such as Son Saura, Cala Turqueta, and Macarella, with a convenient 1-hour stop at either Son Saura or Cala Turqueta—where you can swim, relax, or simply soak up the scenery. Priced at around $40.52 per person, it’s a flexible option that suits travelers looking for a quick but scenic escape.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines beautiful coastal landscapes with the ease of boat access—eliminating the hassle of parking and busy roads. The highlight for many is the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches that look like they belong in a travel magazine. Plus, the chance to get close enough to the coves, admire a lighthouse, and glimpse the rugged coastline makes for an immersive experience.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s duration on the boat can feel a bit long for some. As several reviews point out, the single stop means less time on the actual beaches than some might hope for, especially if you’re eager to swim or relax. It’s best suited for those who want a scenic overview of Menorca’s coast rather than an all-day beach outing.

This tour is ideal for scenery lovers, short-stay visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of Menorca’s wild coast without the effort of hiking or driving. It’s perfect if you cherish iconic views and want to experience the island’s natural beauty in a relaxed, guided setting.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views: The tour offers close encounters with some of Menorca’s most beautiful coves and cliffs.
• Convenient access: No need to worry about parking or long hikes—views are accessible from the boat.
• Limited beach time: The 1-hour stop is short but enough to swim or take photos at key spots like Son Saura or Cala Turqueta.
• Relaxed pace: Long boat ride with a focus on scenery, not multiple stops.
• Cost-effective: For around $40, you get a scenic overview without high prices or multiple days.
• Ideal for short visits: Perfect if you only have a few hours and want a quick, scenic experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The meeting point is located at Camí de sa Farola 17, Ciutadella de Menorca, a spot accessible by public transport, making it easy for most travelers to join. Once aboard, the total duration is roughly 3 hours 30 minutes, which includes the boat ride, sightseeing, and the 1-hour stop.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a scenic cruise along the southern coast, where you get sweeping views of Menorca’s rugged cliffs and pristine waters. A notable highlight is a visit to Far d’Artrutx, a lighthouse distinguished by its black and white stripes. As many reviews mention, it’s a striking feature, often pointed out from the boat, giving you a sense of the island’s maritime history.

Next, the boat approaches Platges de Son Saura, a pair of beaches with classic white sands and turquoise waters. This is the main stop, where you can disembark for about an hour to swim, sunbathe, or explore. Several reviewers remark that this spot is well worth the visit, with comments like “the beach was beautiful, and the 1-hour stop was perfect for a quick dip.”

A second stop is at Es Talaier, a tiny cove nestled between Cala Turqueta and Son Saura. Although you only observe it from the boat, its beauty is evident in photos and descriptions. Notably, many travelers find Cala Turqueta the most impressive—its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand make it feel like a Caribbean paradise, albeit much closer to home.

What About Macarella and Macarelleta?

While the tour primarily features Son Saura and Cala Turqueta due to their accessibility and natural beauty, the tour also passes nearby Macarella and Macarelleta. These coves are often praised for their spectacular scenery and are visible from the boat, offering a glimpse of what makes Menorca famous among beach lovers.

The Experience on Board

Passengers generally ride on large, comfortable boats with plenty of space. Several reviews mention the boat’s size as a positive, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere. Drinks and snacks are available onboard, with many noting they were reasonably priced, adding to the comfort of the trip.

Authenticity and Scenic Value

What sets this tour apart is the authentic coastal scenery—not just photographs but actual views of rugged cliffs, lighthouse beacons, and unspoiled beaches. Many reviews highlight how the crystal waters and scenic coves look even more breathtaking from the boat than from land, making this a great choice for photographers and scenery enthusiasts.

The Drawbacks

While the scenic beauty is undeniable, several reviews point out the limited beach time and the long boat ride. For some, the hour at Son Saura or Cala Turqueta feels rushed, especially if the boat ride is long or the weather is hot. If you’re looking for a more relaxed beach day, this might not be the best fit.

Pricing and Value

At around $40.52, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see multiple coves in a short period. Compared to arranging personal boat rentals or multiple taxi trips, it’s quite reasonable. The inclusion of the boat cruise, certain shore stops, and lighthouse views means you’re paying for a scenic overview rather than a full day at the beach, which is reflected in the reviews.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value scenery over extensive beach time. It’s perfect for those on a short schedule or travelers who prefer guided tours with minimal planning. If you love spectacular coastal vistas and want to avoid the hassle of parking or hiking, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re after extended beach relaxation or multiple beach stops, you might find this a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a quick but memorable taste of Menorca’s pristine coves and dramatic coastline. It’s a great option if you want to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without dedicating an entire day or dealing with logistical hassles. The scenic views, comfortable boat, and short, focused stops make it a solid choice for those eager to combine sightseeing with a touch of relaxation.

While the limited beach time and longer boat ride might not satisfy everyone, the tour’s value lies in the accessibility of first-rate scenery and the chance to experience the coast from a vantage point few visitors see. It’s especially suitable for scenic lovers, first-time visitors, or those with limited time. Just be prepared for a brisk pace and pack your swimwear and camera!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes, including the boat ride, scenic stops, and the 1-hour beach access.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Camí de sa Farola, 17, Ciutadella de Menorca, and returns there at the end of the trip.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the half-day boat tour, visits to coves like Son Saura and Cala Turqueta, and access to the beach for about an hour. Drinks and snacks are available onboard but are not included.

Are there multiple stops on this tour?
In this half-day version, there is only one main stop, either at Son Saura or Cala Turqueta, as indicated in the itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Most travelers say yes, as the tour is generally suitable for most ages, especially those interested in scenery and swimming. Group size is limited to 170 travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and water. Since the stops are brief, packing light is best to maximize your time on land.

Is there good accessibility for public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach without a car.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, this half-day boat tour offers a scenic, hassle-free way to glimpse the rugged beauty of Menorca’s coast. It’s a fine pick for those who adore maritime views and iconic beaches but should be considered as a quick overview rather than a full, relaxed beach day. With a balance of spectacular scenery and practical convenience, it’s a memorable way to experience Menorca without overextending your schedule.