Palma Electric Catamaran Cruise with Snorkelling and SUP Mallorca

Paseo Marítimo and the Muelle de Golondrinas

Your Palma boat trip starts on the Paseo Marítimo, the long seafront avenue that curves around the harbour of the Mallorcan capital, lined with palm trees, yacht berths and promenades. The boat leaves from the Muelle de Golondrinas, the small passenger pier in front of the Auditorium, a few minutes by taxi from the old town and close to the busy marina where sailing yachts and fishing boats share the water.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before the 10:00 departure. The nearest paid parking is about a 300-metre walk away, and the schedule is strict, so allow time for traffic. While boarding, the crew explains the safety rules and how the morning will run, and you settle into the shaded lounge or the sunny trampolines at the bow as the catamaran slips out of the harbour.

Cruising the Bay of Palma

The Bay of Palma is a wide, sheltered bay on the south-west of Mallorca, framed by the Serra de Tramuntana foothills to the west and the long beaches of Can Pastilla and s'Arenal to the east. From the water you see the round Gothic Bellver Castle on its wooded hill above the city, the harbour breakwaters, the lighthouse at Portopí and the pastel facades of the waterfront, a view of Palma that few visitors get from the shore.

The catamaran's electric motors make no engine noise and leave no fumes, so you hear only the wind and the hull on the water during the cruise of roughly an hour to the anchorage. The best time to visit the Bay of Palma by boat is from May to October, when the sea is warm and calm; mornings usually bring the smoothest water.

Swimming, Snorkelling and Paddle Boarding at Anchor

The heart of the trip is the stop of about 2 hours at an anchorage with clear, turquoise water chosen by the skipper for the day's wind and sea. Snorkelling masks and fins are ready on board, and beneath the surface you often see seagrass meadows of Posidonia, sandy patches and small Mediterranean fish such as bream and wrasse. Life jackets are available for less confident swimmers.

Stand-up paddle boards let you explore the calm water around the boat, floating mats are perfect for simply drifting in the sun, and the slide from the top deck sends you splashing straight into the sea. Those who prefer to stay dry relax on deck with the tapas-style snacks made with local produce, including vegetarian and vegan options. Underwater scooters can be hired on board at extra cost.

Palma Cathedral from the Sea

On the way back the catamaran pauses facing La Seu, Palma Cathedral, the Gothic giant that rises above the old sea walls and the Parc de la Mar lake. Built over several centuries from the 13th century onwards on the site of the city's former great mosque, it has one of the widest Gothic naves in Europe and an enormous rose window over the main altar.

Seen from the water, with the Almudaina Palace beside it and the city stacked behind, the cathedral looks exactly as sailors have seen it for centuries, and it is one of the best photo moments of the morning. If you want to visit the interior later, the cathedral is a short walk from the Paseo Marítimo; check the cathedral opening hours on the day, as they change by season and for services.

The Electric Catamaran Experience

This is an eco catamaran tour in Mallorca: the boat uses the latest electric propulsion, so the ride is smooth, quiet and free of diesel smell, which also makes it pleasant for anyone who worries about seasickness. Twin hulls give stability, with shaded seating, sun areas and nets at the bow for lying above the water.

The professional skipper and crew handle safety, the water activities and the snacks, and they are happy to share tips about Palma and the island. A small number of VIP seats can be bought on board at extra cost, and additional drinks are on sale; bringing your own drinks is not allowed. The trip returns to the Paseo Marítimo about 4 hours after departure.