Mallorca’s south-east coast is hard to beat. This RIB speedboat tour from Cala Figuera strings together Santanyí coves, dramatic rocks, and turquoise swimming spots you just can’t reach comfortably from land.

What I like most is the mix of scenery and water time: you get multiple photo stops plus snorkeling gear when the boat anchors. I also like the vibe of a small-group trip on a boat that’s just the right size for getting into tight shoreline areas.

One thing to think about: it’s a fast RIB, so rides can feel bumpy on windier days, and the swim depends on conditions (including whether you’re stopping at Caló de Moro or S’Almunia).

Key things to know before you go

• South-east Mallorca route: Santanyí coves, Es Pontàs rock formation, Caló des Moro, S’Almunia, and Es Màrmols (on the longer option)
• Snorkeling gear included and you’ll have real time in the water from the boat
• Swim timing changes with wind: Caló des Moro vs S’Almunia, and the Marmols option swaps swim stops
• Small-group feel on a compact RIB (reviews mention small groups, and the boat is short, about 7.5 meters)
• Shade helps in summer since the boat design includes covered space
• Bring your sea-legs mindset: on choppier water, the ride back can be rougher than the outbound cruise

Cala Figuera to Santanyí: why this stretch of coast works so well

Starting from Cala Figuera puts you right on the action. Within a short ride, you’re skimming along the coast toward the Santanyí area, where cliffs, tiny beaches, and rock formations look very different from the road. From the water, you get that “how is this even here?” feeling—especially around spots like Es Pontàs, a striking rock formation linked to the idea of an old cave entrance.

This route also makes sense for time. You’re not spending the whole trip just traveling to one beach. Instead, the day flows like a highlight reel: quick scenic stops, then anchoring where it’s worth getting wet.

And if you care about atmosphere, Cala Figuera fits. It’s not trying to be a theme park. You’re dealing with real harbor energy, then switching to sea mode fast.

RIB speedboat reality check: comfy shade, but expect movement

This is a RIB speedboat experience, and that’s part of the point. It’s small enough to slip into coves and near rock walls where bigger boats can’t go. Reviews also mention that the boat is compact (around 7.5 meters), which means you might feel more motion than on a big ferry-style tour.

The good news: the boat has shade, and that matters when Mallorca is hot. You’re not stuck under harsh sun for the whole cruise. Also, many departures run as a small group, so you’re not squeezed shoulder-to-shoulder.

The main drawback is the one you should plan for: weather. On windier or choppier days, the return can feel bumpy. If you’re prone to seasickness or you have back issues, this is the part where you decide if you want to roll the dice. I’d treat the sea conditions as the deciding factor.

Es Pontàs, Cala Santanyí, and Cala Llombards: getting the dramatic views early

The first stretch focuses on seeing the coast as a moving panorama. You head out at cruising speed, and the tour slows where it counts. Es Pontàs is one of those landmarks that reads instantly from the water—an eye-catching rock formation tied to the area’s cave history.

Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards are more than just names. They’re where you start noticing the pattern of this coast: pale sand, steep rock edges, and pockets of water that look calm even when the surrounding sea isn’t. Those early stops are short, but they’re timed well so you can photograph without feeling like you’re constantly changing locations.

One practical note: because the stops are short, you’ll want your phone ready and your camera strap sorted before you get there. You’ll want a clean shot quickly—then move on.

Sa Cova des Fum and Es Caló des Macs: quick hits, big rock shapes

Between the bigger anchor points, the route passes spots like sa Cova des Fum and es Caló des Macs. These are the “look at that rock wall” sections. You might not get long walks on land (because this is a boat tour), but you still get the visual payoff.

What makes these stops useful is the angle. From land, caves and cuts in the shoreline can look vague. From the boat, you see how the coastline was carved and how the water sits against the stone. It’s the kind of detail that makes the later swim stops feel even more special—you understand the place, not just the color.

Caló des Moro and S’Almunia: swimming where the coast feels untamed

Now we get to the heart of the experience: swim time. The tour gives you the chance to jump in from the boat at either Caló des Moro or S’Almunia, depending on wind direction. The swim window is about 40 minutes, and this is where your trip goes from pretty views to actual water time.

Caló des Moro is the one many people picture first: clean, turquoise-leaning water and a shoreline vibe that feels private and protected. The boat positioning matters here. You’re anchored in a way that keeps the swim accessible from the water, but you’re still in a natural setting. Reviews highlight that the water is very clear and that snorkeling can be fun with fish visible in the swim area.

S’Almunia brings a different kind of curiosity. Instead of focusing on the beach shape, it leans into maritime character—huts and fishermen’s barracks tied to the coast’s working past. Even if you only snorkel, you’ll still feel like you’re in a place with a story.

My practical tip for this stage

Be honest with yourself about the water. Some stops can be deeper than a casual postcard swim. If you’re not confident about getting in and out smoothly, I’d choose carefully between swim options—or at least tell the crew you’d like help before the water time starts.

Es Màrmols option: 45 minutes at a boat-access beach

If you pick the option that extends to Cala Màrmols, the tour stretches farther toward this “virgin beach” vibe. It’s accessible only by boat or by hiking, and that access limitation is exactly why it feels special from the water.

Here’s the key trade-off: on the longer option, there’s no swim stop at Caló des Moro. Instead, you’ll get about 45 minutes once you arrive at Es Màrmols, so you can plan your energy around one main swim/bath window.

The payoff is that the final place feels like the climax of the route. Reviews mention that the water color here can be crystal clear, and people tend to love this stop because it combines white-sand beach scenery with the ease of getting there by boat.

If you’re the type who hates rushing, this option often fits better. You get a longer “stay and float” feel at the end instead of splitting your swimming between multiple spots.

Es Bauç quarries: the working-coast detail most people miss

One of the most interesting small bits on this route is seeing the maritime quarries of Es Bauç. You’ll pass the places where blocks of sandstone were cut and then transported by sea.

You don’t need a geology degree to appreciate it. From the boat, you can look at the stone-cutting marks and think about how this coast wasn’t only for tourism—it was for work. That adds texture to the trip, especially if you like travel that’s not just scenic. You’re seeing how people used the same coastline for practical reasons.

Snorkeling setup and how to time it well

Snorkeling gear is included, and the best use of it comes down to timing and expectations. You’ll have limited anchor time at the swimming stops, so don’t waste your best minutes fumbling with straps.

A few ways to improve your odds:

• Get your mask position right before you fully commit to the water.
• Start with a calmer breath rhythm so you can actually look around.
• If you want fish, keep your movements steady. Thrashing is not your friend.

I also recommend bringing a mindset for “snorkeling as a bonus,” not a guaranteed underwater photo shoot. Conditions can vary, and on some days the water clarity is the main event. Still, many people feel the snorkeling is worth it because the sea life is visible in the right light.

Drinks on board and the value math for about $48

At around $48 per person, the price starts to make sense once you list what’s included. You’re paying for a small RIB boat excursion (with two different duration options), a professional skipper, snorkeling gear, fuel, insurance, and at least one drink (soft drink or beer).

That’s a lot bundled. The biggest “value” driver for me is that you’re not just touring views—you’re getting multiple chances to swim from the boat. For a short-ish Mallorca outing, that’s where your money turns into real time on the water.

What you don’t get is food. So if you’re doing this in the middle of the day, eat before you go (or plan snacks afterward). Also skip the idea that you’ll find extra extras for purchase on board; the trip is set up around drinks, not meals.

Who should book this RIB tour, and who should pass

This is a strong choice if you want:

• Crystal-clear coastal swimming and a boat-based view of Santanyí
• A relaxed small-group day on a compact RIB
• Snorkeling gear provided without extra ticket steps
• A route that includes famous rock scenery plus calmer coves

It’s a shaky choice if you:

• Get seasick easily or struggle with rougher returns (bumpy conditions are part of the gamble)
• Have trouble getting in and out of deeper water (some anchoring spots can be farther/steeper than you expect)
• Need a very calm, slow boat experience rather than a fast RIB ride

If you’re unsure, do this one simple thing: tell the crew your needs early. One review notes quick help when someone had difficulty in the water, but don’t rely on luck. If you want extra support like a life vest, ask ahead or during check-in so the crew can plan.

Should you book the Cala Figuera boat tour to Caló des Moro and Cala Màrmols?

I think you should book if your idea of Mallorca is a hands-on day at sea: jumping in, snorkeling a bit, and cruising along coves that look unreal from the road. The route fits well, and the included snorkeling gear plus drinks make it feel like more than just a sightseeing cruise.

I’d hesitate if your top priority is comfort over movement, or if you’re dealing with seasickness. Check sea conditions when you can, and if you’re sensitive to boat motion, consider a calmer activity instead.

If you do book, pick the option that matches your swim preference: Caló des Moro and S’Almunia for a split approach, or the Es Màrmols extension if you want one bigger end-of-day swim window.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The duration runs from about 110 to 170 minutes, depending on the option you choose.

Where do I meet the tour?

Meet at the RedstarTours Excursiones office at Carrer Virgen del Carme, 34, Cala Figuera, Santanyí.

What does the tour include?

You get a RIB boat excursion (duration depends on option), a professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, drinks (1 soft drink or 1 beer), insurance, and fuel.

Is food included?

No. Food is not included.

Is there snorkeling?

Yes. Snorkeling gear is included, and you’ll have swim time from the boat at the stops.

Where will I be able to swim?

You’ll have the chance to swim from the boat at Caló des Moro or at S’Almunia. Which one you swim at can depend on wind. On the option that extends to Es Màrmols, you won’t stop for a swim in Caló des Moro.

How long is the swim time?

The swim time at Caló des Moro or S’Almunia is about 40 minutes. At Es Màrmols, you’ll have about 45 minutes.

What route highlights are included?

You’ll cruise along the Santanyí coast and see areas like Es Pontàs, Cala Llombards, sa Cova des Fum, es Caló des Macs, Caló des Moro, S’Almunia, and Es Màrmols (on the longer option).

What languages is the live guide in?

The live tour guide speaks Spanish, Catalan, and English.

Can the itinerary change?

Yes. The skipper can change the itinerary or cancel the excursion exclusively to guarantee passenger safety.

Is this activity refundable if my plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.