Traditional boat 10 beaches in the south of Menorca. Snorkeling, SUP and drinks

A Memorable Day on Menorca’s South Coast: Traditional Boat Tour of 10 Beaches with Snorkeling and Paddling

Imagine setting sail from Cala Galdana aboard a charming Menorcan boat, with the promise of discovering some of the most untouched, stunning beaches in the south of Menorca. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll glide past coves, caves, and pristine sands, stopping at 10 different beaches, including famous spots like Son Saura, Turqueta, Macarella, and Macarelleta. This tour is priced reasonably, with a focus on small groups of just 12 people, making it a more intimate, relaxed experience.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to see lesser-visited coves that are often only accessible by boat. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling and paddleboarding gives you a chance to splash around in the clear waters—something many island visitors miss out on when only sticking to land. Another big plus is the knowledgeable captain, who shares engaging stories about the island’s history and landscape, turning a scenic boat ride into an educational adventure.

One small consideration is the duration of swim and snorkeling stops—at about 30 minutes each, some might feel a bit rushed if they’re eager for more water time. Also, if your primary goal is extensive swimming or snorkeling, you might find this tour offers more scenery and storytelling than hours in the water. Still, the overall value and authentic vibe make it perfect for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with light water activities and local flavor.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, enjoy small-group intimacy, and want a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy guided insights into the island’s natural beauty and local traditions without the crowds or commercialism.

Key Points

• Explore 10 virgin beaches and coves along the south coast of Menorca.
• Enjoy snorkeling and paddleboarding, with equipment provided.
• Small group size of only 12 participants ensures a personal experience.
• Authentic Menorcan snack featuring local cheeses, sobrasada, and peasant bread.
• Knowledgeable captain shares stories about the island’s history, culture, and natural features.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Menorcan Boat Experience

When we first read about this tour, we immediately appreciated the chance to see Menorca’s unspoiled beaches from a different perspective. The south coast is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and hidden coves, and this tour offers a curated route that maximizes scenic beauty and authentic encounters.

Starting from Cala Galdana, you’ll board a traditional boat, which adds a touch of local charm. The boat itself isn’t a large cruise liner; it’s more of a classic, smaller vessel that lends a cozy, personal atmosphere. This setup means fewer crowds and more opportunity for interaction with your guide—an important aspect for those who value storytelling and local insights.

The Itinerary: A Journey Through Nature and Culture

The trip begins with a sail towards the eastern and southern coves. First, you’ll visit Cala Mitjaneta and the caves around pont de N’Aleix, where the captain may point out interesting geological formations. These less-visited spots are prized for their peacefulness and unspoiled beauty—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery without the hustle.

The highlight of this part is the stop at Cala Fustam, where you can snorkel in crystal waters or try your hand at paddleboarding. The guide prepares an authentic Menorcan snack, with cheese, sobrasada, and typical island bread, providing a taste of local flavors. It’s a simple but meaningful gesture—this isn’t just a sightseeing trip, but an immersive slice of island life.

Next, the boat heads westward, cruising toward Son Saura. Here, travelers get the chance to visit several coves like Es Talaier, Turqueta, Macarelleta, and Macarella—some of the most iconic beaches in Menorca. These beaches are renowned for their turquoise waters and soft sands, and the tour allows for 30-minute stops to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the sands.

Water Activities and Authentic Flavors

The snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included, so you can cool off in the inviting waters. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling is limited to about 30 minutes, which is enough for a taste but not a full water session. One guest noted, “Super fun activity, not much swimming time, 10 mins 2x,” meaning you’ll get several opportunities but should manage expectations if you’re eager for hours in the water.

The local snack is a true highlight—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a nice touch that the captain takes time to share stories about the island’s traditions while offering drinks—local wine or soft drinks—that complement the experience.

The Guide and Atmosphere

The captain is a key part of this tour’s appeal. From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a big difference. One reviewer mentioned that the captain let them drive the boat and shared stories about the calanques and beaches, making the trip more engaging and interactive.

The small group size (limited to 12) enhances this personal touch, allowing for more casual conversations and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid large, impersonal tours and prefer a more intimate experience with genuine local insight.

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Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour departs from Passatge Riu, 8 at Ca’n Toni Bar Restaurant Pier No. 85. You’ll want to arrive a little early, especially in peak season, to get settled and ready for departure. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, which is enough time to visit multiple beaches without feeling rushed.

The group size is capped at 12 participants, so bookings tend to fill up quickly—it’s worth reserving ahead. The activity is available in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Included in the price are the guiding service, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, snack, and drinks. The free cancellation policy gives flexibility, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours before if your plans change.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour offers a good mix of scenery and activities, those wanting more extensive swimming or snorkeling might find the allotted time somewhat limited. Also, if you prefer to spend more time in the water, you might consider supplementing this experience with additional water-based activities on your own.

Value and Who It’s Best For

In terms of value, this tour strikes a good balance—reasonable price for a guided experience that combines sightseeing, light adventure, and cultural insights. The small-group format means you’ll enjoy more personalized attention and a less crowded experience, which is a noticeable difference from larger boat excursions.

This tour is particularly well-suited for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, authentic day exploring Menorca’s coast. It’s ideal for those who appreciate stunning scenery, local flavors, and engaging guides. If you’re seeking a leisurely way to see unspoiled beaches and enjoy some water fun without the chaos of large resorts, this trip is a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with specific start times available based on availability.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts from Passatge Riu, 8, at Ca’n Toni Bar Restaurant Pier No. 85, and returns to the same spot.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided visit, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, a local snack, and drinks.

How many people are on each boat?
The group size is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is snorkeling available for everyone?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and a 30-minute stop allows for water exploration, but the duration is somewhat limited.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, swimwear, and perhaps a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but you should check with the provider if traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of authentic Menorcan scenery, small-group intimacy, and the local storytelling by your captain create an experience that feels both genuine and memorable.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small-group setting makes it easy to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a friendly atmosphere.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, light water activities, and cultural insights, all in a small-group setting that prioritizes personal experience. It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore Menorca’s most beautiful beaches without the crowds, and who enjoy authentic touches like local snacks and engaging guides. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and slightly adventurous day out on the water, this tour will give you lasting memories of Menorca’s south coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: