One sail day in Palma’s Bay can feel like a whole vacation. This private 4-hour boat trip pairs a skipper-led route with two anchored snorkeling stops near Palma, plus drinks and snacks to keep things easy. I like the small-group setup (up to 5 plus skipper) and the fact that you get the snorkeling gear and floats included, so you don’t have to plan extra purchases. The main drawback to consider is that the navigation time to the coves is estimated at around 2 hours, so your snorkeling time is fixed and weather can affect comfort.

Aboard the boat Pájaro (7 meters long), you’ll have seating and solariums at both the bow and stern, which is great for alternating between shade and sun without “doing chores.” The schedule includes two options—half day (4 hours) and sunset (2 hours)—so you can match it to your energy level. One more practical note: this is private, so it’s best when your group is ready to commit to the set departure times.

If you’re staying near Palma and want a day that feels local—quiet coves, anchored time in the water, and no waiting around for other groups—this is a strong pick. With the skipper and crew handling the driving, you spend your mental energy on relaxing, not routing.

Key things to know before you go

• Private charter for up to 5 people plus skipper means more control of the pace
• Two snorkeling stops (Cala Comtesa and Playa Punta Negra), each with about an hour anchored time
• Snorkeling equipment and floats included, along with snacks and soft drinks
• Boat Pájaro is set up for sun and downtime, with bow and stern solariums
• Half-day timing is tight because the coves include an estimated 2 hours of navigation
• Fuel, bottled water, and soda/pop are included, so you don’t get nickel-and-dimed on the water

A Private 7-Meter Boat Day Around Palma’s Bay

This trip is built for people who want the Bay of Palma experience without the chaos of big tour groups. You’re on a compact 7-meter boat, Pájaro, with room for up to 5 passengers plus the skipper. That size matters: it helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and makes it easier to find a comfortable spot on deck.

The boat design also helps. There are seats and solariums at the bow and stern, so you can hop between sunbathing and shaded resting without climbing over people. If you like the idea of spending a few hours mostly relaxing, then getting a turn in the water, the layout fits that rhythm well.

One detail that’s easy to overlook until you’re on the water: the skipper-led route is part of the value. You’re not trying to figure out where to anchor or which coves are best that day. The crew handles the driving and timing, and you focus on enjoying the sea time.

Price, Group Size, and When to Book

The price is $729.29 per group for up to 5 people. That pricing can look steep at first if you compare it to per-person bus tours. But the math changes when you spread it across friends, family, or a couple plus one extra. For a private boat, you’re paying for the skipper, fuel, and the boat itself—not just a seat.

It also helps that snorkeling gear and floats are included. Many “cheap” options charge extra for equipment, or they leave you responsible for getting set up. Here, you start with what you need, and that reduces planning friction.

Booking timing is also worth your attention. This tour is often booked about 23 days in advance on average. If you’re traveling in peak weeks or want a very specific departure time, it’s smart to reserve sooner rather than later.

As for tips: tip is not included, so decide on what feels fair for your group. (If you’re the type who tips based on service, you’ll likely find it easy to do.)

Getting to D-Marin Palma Cuarentena and Staying on Time

The meeting point is D-Marin Palma Cuarentena, 07014 Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain. The good news is that it’s noted as being near public transportation, so you’re not trapped into taking a taxi if you’d rather keep costs down.

Because the tour is timed (half day options at 10:00–14:00 or 14:30–18:30, plus a sunset option 19:00–21:00), show up early enough to feel calm. Private tours run on schedule, and you don’t want a late arrival to cut into your onboard time.

What to bring depends on your snorkeling comfort and weather. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and something that you can rinse afterward. Since the trip includes bottled water and soda/pop, you don’t need to pack drinks. You can keep the bag light and just focus on comfort.

The Half-Day Route: Cala Comtesa and Playa Punta Negra

This is the classic structure: two anchoring stops, both near Palma. The stops are Cala Comtesa and Playa Punta Negra, and each includes about an hour for water activities.

Here’s why that structure is nice. You get a chance to see more than one cove without making the day so long that everyone loses energy. You also get breaks: sailing between stops, then anchored time, then sailing back.

Cala Comtesa is typically the kind of cove people hope for in Mallorca—one of those places where you anchor and the sea time suddenly becomes the plan. Expect you’ll have a solid block to put on the snorkeling gear, float around, and look at what’s in front of you.

Playa Punta Negra is a second cove stop that keeps the day from feeling repetitive. The biggest practical point: both are anchored stops, so you’ll spend more of your time “staying in the swim zone” rather than constantly moving.

A consideration: with an estimated 2 hours of navigation to the coves, the day can feel like more sailing than swimming. That’s not a problem if you actually enjoy the boat ride. If you’re chasing long snorkeling sessions, you might feel you want more than two one-hour blocks.

How Snorkeling Works Here (Gear, Floats, and Real Expectations)

Snorkeling is included, with snorkeling equipment and floats provided. That inclusion is a big deal. You’re less likely to arrive without the right gear, and you won’t spend time trying to find rentals close to the dock.

The trip also anchors at each stop, which usually makes snorkeling easier than situations where you’re constantly traveling. You’ll have a defined window for water activities—great for people who want a simple schedule.

What to keep realistic: the total time in the water is set by the itinerary. Each cove gets about an hour, so aim to use that time well. If you want to linger, keep it comfortable and don’t over-plan. If you get cold or wind picks up, you can still enjoy the boat time—there’s deck space and places to relax.

Also, because the Bay of Palma can swing between sunny and windy, bring clothing that lets you stay comfortable on deck when the temperature changes. Being prepared helps you enjoy the trip no matter the mood of the sea.

Snacks, Soft Drinks, and the Skipper’s Role in the Mood

This isn’t just a “ride to a stop.” You’ll be fed—Spanish snacks plus soft drinks are included, along with bottled water and soda/pop. That turns the day into something more like a meal-and-sea outing instead of a checklist of activities.

Music is part of the onboard vibe too. Several experiences highlight the good energy on the water, with music playing during the sail. If you like the idea of a light, relaxed atmosphere (instead of stiff tour commentary), that’s a plus.

The skipper matters a lot on a boat day, and the experience is clearly built around the captain’s presence. One reviewer specifically noted Alberto as the best captain—attentive and friendly. Another mentioned Edu helped make reservation management easy. If customer service and a smooth handoff from booking to boarding matter to you, these details are encouraging.

At the same time, a private trip still runs by the skipper’s rules. If you’re the type who wants total control, you’ll need to accept that the captain controls timing, anchoring, and where you spend time.

Sunset vs Half-Day: Picking the Right Length

You can choose between:

• Half day (4 hours): 10:00–14:00 or 14:30–18:30
• Sunset (2 hours): 19:00–21:00

If you’re planning a full day on Mallorca, the half-day option tends to give you enough room to enjoy the boat, do both snorkeling stops, and still feel like you got your money’s worth.

If you’re already busy exploring Palma and you want something lighter, the 2-hour sunset trip can be a good fit. Shorter means less time in the water and less time on deck, but it can feel more “special event” than “activity block.”

Pick based on your group. If your group wants swimming time and a more complete outing, lean half day. If your group is more into scenery and atmosphere, sunset is often the better match.

Who This Tour Is Best For (and Who Might Want Something Else)

This trip fits best for:

• Couples and small friend groups who want a private boat without paying for a luxury yacht
• People who care about snorkeling but don’t want the hassle of renting gear
• Travelers staying near Palma who want a simple day plan with minimal logistics
• Anyone who prefers relaxation over constant sightseeing stops

It may be less ideal if:

• Your group’s main goal is long snorkeling sessions (the windows are limited)
• You’re extremely sensitive to wind or cooler weather on the water
• You want a lot of stops and constant variety (this one is intentionally simple: two cove anchors)

There’s a sweet spot here: if you like the idea of one easy day at sea—anchored coves, gear provided, snacks included—you’ll probably love the pacing.

Should You Book This Mallorca Private Snorkeling Boat?

I’d recommend booking this tour if you want an efficient, private way to enjoy the Bay of Palma. The biggest strengths are the small group size (up to 5), the included snorkeling gear and floats, and the fact that fuel and basic refreshments are handled for you. You’re buying a low-stress sea day with a skipper who keeps the route moving and the experience comfortable.

If your top priority is maximum time underwater, you might feel the schedule is short. Also, plan for the reality of coastal weather; wind can make deck time feel colder even when the sun is out. The trip is still enjoyable, but you’ll appreciate packing for comfort.

One more practical note: the tour ends back at the meeting point, so you don’t need to worry about transportation on the back end.

If you’re deciding right now, think like this:

• If you want quality sea time with easy snorkeling and zero equipment headaches, this is a good match.
• If you want a long, flexible snorkeling marathon, you’ll likely want a different format.

FAQ

How long is the private boat tour with snorkeling?

The half-day option is about 4 hours. There’s also a sunset option that runs about 2 hours.

How many people can be on the boat?

The boat Pájaro can carry up to 5 people plus the skipper.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at D-Marin Palma Cuarentena, 07014 Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain, and it ends back at the same meeting point.

What are the snorkeling stops on the route?

The itinerary includes two anchored stops for water activities: Cala Comtesa and Playa Punta Negra.

What’s included in the price?

Snorkeling equipment and floats, gasoline (fuel), bottled water, soda/pop, Spanish snacks, and use of snorkeling equipment. All fees and taxes are also included, along with a professional skipper/guide.

What’s not included?

Tipping is not included.

What departure times are available?

Half-day departures are 10:00–14:00 or 14:30–18:30. Sunset departures are 19:00–21:00.

Is there a mobile ticket?

Yes, the tour uses a mobile ticket.

Do I need to book far in advance?

It’s commonly booked about 23 days in advance on average.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Changes within 24 hours are not accepted, and cancellations less than 24 hours before start time are not refunded.