Coves and Beaches Boat Trip with Optional Paella Menorca

Ciutadella, the historic port of western Menorca

Ciutadella was the capital of Menorca until the 18th century, and it is still the island's most elegant town. Its narrow harbour cuts deep into the old quarter, lined with fishing boats and terraces under the town walls. Above the port you find the Gothic cathedral, the arcaded street of Ses Voltes and noble palaces of golden sandstone, all easy to explore before or after your Menorca boat trip.

The boat leaves from Ciutadella port, and the exact boarding point is confirmed after booking. If you are wondering how to get to Ciutadella, it lies at the western end of the island, about 45 minutes by car or bus from Mahón along the main road. There is free parking near the port for passengers, so driving is easy.

The wild south coast of Menorca

Leaving Ciutadella, the boat rounds the southwest corner of the island and follows a coastline of white limestone cliffs, caves and pine forest. Unlike many Mediterranean islands, this part of Menorca has almost no buildings, because the whole island has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993 and much of the coast is protected. The old Camí de Cavalls footpath runs along the clifftops above you.

Your guide points out the coves, caves and rock formations along the way and explains the island's history and nature in several languages. Seen from a boat, the south coast reveals beaches that can only be reached on foot after a long walk, which is why a south coast Menorca cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Menorca in summer.

Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta

Cala Macarella is perhaps the most photographed beach in Menorca: a deep cove of fine white sand framed by pine-covered cliffs, with water so clear that the boats seem to float in the air. Just next to it, through a narrow rocky point, lies its little sister Cala Macarelleta, smaller and even more secluded. Together they are the image most travellers have of Menorca before they arrive.

In high summer access by car is restricted and the car parks fill early, so a Macarella boat trip is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the view. The boat slows down in front of both coves so you can admire them and take photos. The best time to visit Cala Macarella is June or September, when the sea is warm and the beaches are a little quieter.

Swim stop at Cala Turqueta

Cala Turqueta takes its name from the colour of its water, a bright turquoise over pale sand surrounded by pine trees and rocks. It is one of the best-known virgin beaches on the south coast, with no buildings at all, and the shallow, sheltered water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling among small fish and sea grass.

On this trip the boat anchors near the cove so you can jump in from the deck and swim for a while. Bring your own mask and snorkel, as snorkelling gear is not included. On the full-day option there is a second swim stop at another cove chosen by the crew according to the wind and sea conditions of the day.

Paella lunch on board

The full-day cruise includes lunch on the boat: a generous paella, the famous rice dish of Spain cooked with saffron, served with orange juice. Eating at anchor in a quiet cove, with the turquoise water below and the cliffs around you, is one of the most memorable parts of the day, and it means you do not have to bring a picnic.

If you choose the half-day option, the trip is shorter, with one swim stop and no meal included, which suits families with young children or travellers with other plans in the afternoon. Other drinks are not included, so bring water. Let our team know about any dietary needs when you book, and we pass them on.