Boat rides make Mallorca feel bigger fast. This one targets the island’s southeast coast, pairing scenic photo stops like Es Pontàs with real water time in standout coves such as Caló des Moro and Cala Marmols. It’s short, focused, and built for people who want views plus swimming without a full day plan.

I love how the tour works like a best-of hits package: quick sightseeing from the sea, then time to hop in and explore. I also love that snorkeling gear and a safety setup are included, so you’re not scrambling to rent or improvise once you get there. The vibe stays relaxed, with a skipper who points out what’s around you and gives you time to enjoy it.

One consideration: the ride is not suitable for non-swimmers, and if you’re prone to seasickness, this may not be your best match. Also, the boat situation can vary; one participant reported a smaller, cramped boat after a change on the day, which makes comfort the biggest wildcard.

Key highlights worth knowing

• Es Pontàs natural stone arch: a top photo stop with dramatic sea views.
• Two real snorkel swims: Caló des Moro and Cala Màrmols get dedicated water time.
• Cala Màrmols’ quiet feel: a calmer, less crowded cove type experience.
• Included drink during the ride: beer or soft drink while you take in the coastline.
• Small-group energy: you’re not stuck on a huge cattle boat.
• On-board guidance in English and Spanish: live narration keeps the time moving.

Why the southeast coast looks different from the water

Mallorca’s southeast coast has that postcard color you can’t fully capture from the road. From the sea, the coves stack up like layers, and you can see why these calas became the island’s favorite swim stops.

This tour leans into that advantage. You’re not just cruising past beaches; you’re stopping at places where the coastline does something special. The natural stone arch at Es Pontàs is the big landmark moment, and then the trip shifts to water: two snorkeling sessions in clear bays where you can actually enjoy what’s underwater.

There’s also a neat historical angle built into the route. Along the way, you pass caves and “corners” tied to contraband hiding spots and marés stone extraction. Even if you’re not a history nerd, it adds a layer to why the coast looks the way it does.

Getting started at Caló d’en Busques in Cala Figuera

The tour’s home base is Caló d’en Busques, in the port area of Cala Figuera. This matters because you’re not trekking across the island to reach a distant departure. You arrive, find the harbor, and you’re on the water quickly.

You’ll climb aboard and then settle in as the skipper starts the route along Mallorca’s southeast shoreline. Expect a live guide who speaks English and Spanish, using the time while you’re moving to explain what you’re seeing.

A practical note: the port area is easier to find once you’re already in the village and you can walk toward the harbor. If you’re using maps, don’t be surprised if the walking route looks awkward. Once you’re near the water, it typically clicks into place fast.

Es Pontàs and the rhythm of photo stops along the coast

A standout moment is the Mirador de Es Pontàs photo stop. Es Pontàs is a natural stone arch, and seeing it from the coast (and from the water) makes it feel less like a symbol and more like a real geographic feature.

What I like about the way this trip handles photos: it doesn’t turn the day into a standing-still photo contest. You get stops where you can get your bearings, take pictures, and look around—then you’re back aboard moving toward the next bay.

Along the route, you’ll also pass or pause for views around other coastal points, including:

• Caló des Macs (passed by)
• Cala Llombards (photo stop)
• Cala s’Almunia (photo stop)
• Punta des Bauç (photo stop)

This makes the tour feel like you’re getting the “big picture” first, then rewarding you with swim time where it counts.

Caló des Moro snorkeling: the first big water payoff

The main swim moment starts at Caló des Moro, with about 35 minutes for snorkeling. This is the part where the tour earns its reputation: the water is described as crystal clear and the bay has that bright turquoise look that makes you want to jump in right away.

Here’s what to expect during the swim window:

• You’ll get into the water and use the provided snorkeling equipment.
• You’ll have time to snorkel and spot fish if conditions are right.
• You can also swim at the surface if snorkeling isn’t your main goal.

This is the type of stop that works even if you’re not a super confident swimmer. You’re not expected to “race” through it, and the included gear removes a lot of friction.

The only catch is that swim time is time-limited by design. You get a meaningful window, but you’ll want to show up ready—sunscreen on, towel handy, and swimwear already on—so you don’t burn minutes getting set.

Cala Marmols: a quieter second snorkel session

The second snorkeling stop is Cala Màrmols, again with about 35 minutes in the water. In the description, Cala Màrmols is called a virgin, quiet cove, and that’s exactly the kind of contrast that makes this itinerary work.

If Caló des Moro gives you the first hit of color, Cala Màrmols feels more about the cove atmosphere: calmer, more secluded, and built for the “slow look” moments—watching the water, scanning the surface, and taking your time with photos between swims.

Also, because you’re doing snorkeling twice, the day has a nice pacing arc:

• Sea views and landmarks first
• A first swim payoff
• More coastline sightseeing
• A second swim payoff

That sequencing keeps you from feeling like the whole trip is either all sightseeing or all water. It’s balanced.

What the boat ride itself is like (and why small-group matters)

This tour is built around a boat experience with a professional skipper, plus safety equipment and a radio onboard for communication. That’s an underrated detail. When the sea or wind changes, you want clear instructions fast—and a radio setup usually means fewer awkward moments.

Group size seems to be kept modest. One participant mentioned around 12 people on the boat, and other feedback pointed to not-too-many people onboard. In practice, that small-group feel can make the experience better in two ways:

• You can find space to relax and get your view without constant jostling.
• Swim stops feel more organized because the crew can manage people without chaos.

There’s one more realism check. One person described an unexpected switch to a smaller boat due to a problem with the original one, and it became cramped for a couple hours. That’s not the norm you should plan on, but it does mean comfort can depend on the day’s boat situation.

Timing and pacing: how 2.5 hours works for real life

The total duration is listed as 2.5 hours, and that’s not just a marketing number. The route is designed so you get multiple coastal highlights and two swim/snorkel sessions without turning it into a half-day commitment.

A key advantage of the pacing: you get lots of movement, but also enough downtime at each key stop to actually enjoy it. You’re not stuck for long stretches on a single activity. Between the photo stops and the swim windows, you get mental and physical variety.

After the second snorkeling session, you head back toward Cala Figuera. There’s also a sailing segment on the return—about 20 minutes—which helps you finish the tour with a last look at the coastline instead of sprinting straight to departure.

Price and included extras: is $53 good value here?

At around $53 per person for a 2.5-hour trip, the value depends on what you compare it to.

Here’s what you’re getting included:

• Boat tour with a professional skipper
• Snorkeling equipment
• Safety equipment
• Radio onboard
• One drink (beer or soft drink)

What that means for you: you’re paying for access. You’re getting to coves like Caló des Moro and Cala Màrmols without dealing with steep paths, long transfers, or the time drain of trying to reach secluded spots by foot.

The gear inclusion is also meaningful. If you’ve ever shown up to a swim spot without the right setup, you know how quickly “fun” becomes “fine, I’ll just watch.” Here, the snorkeling equipment is already part of the deal.

On top of that, the day includes a mix of moments—Es Pontàs photos, coastline views, and two water sessions. For many people, that’s the sweet spot for Mallorca: a concentrated taste of the coast without a whole-day logistics headache.

What to bring so the water time feels easy

Even though snorkeling gear is included, you’ll still want to show up ready for the sun and swim.

I’d bring:

• Swimwear (you’ll change fast, if at all)
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Water and snacks (meals are not included)
• Flip-flops or easy footwear for walking around the port
• Beachwear for comfort on and off the boat
• ID card or passport

One small planning tip: pack in a way that keeps your swim stuff accessible. When the boat is stopped, you don’t want your towel buried under everything.

Also: no smoking is listed as not allowed, so keep that in mind if you’re planning around it.

Who this tour suits best (and who should skip it)

This is a great fit if you want:

• A fast way to see Mallorca’s southeast coves from the sea
• Two snorkeling sessions in standout bays
• A short trip with enough variety to keep it interesting

It’s especially appealing for people who like photos and practical adventure. Es Pontàs is your landmark moment, and the calas are your payoff.

It’s not a great fit if:

• You’re a non-swimmer
• You’re prone to seasickness

If either of those applies to you, look for a land-based plan or a calmer alternative rather than risking an uncomfortable day.

The best way to decide: should you book this boat tour?

I’d book this tour if you want a simple, high-return experience: Es Pontàs photos plus two proper swim windows, with snorkeling equipment and a drink included. The 2.5-hour length is a big deal too. It lets you enjoy the coast without losing half your vacation to logistics.

I’d think twice if you know you don’t handle boat rides well, or if you’re not comfortable in the water. And as a “worst-case” realism check, remember that on rare days the boat type can change, which could affect comfort.

If you match the sweet spot—comfortable in the water, curious about coves, and short-on-time—this one’s a strong Mallorca pick.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Caló d’en Busques, at Cala Figuera port.

How long is the tour?

The duration is 2.5 hours.

What does the price include?

It includes the boat tour, professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, safety equipment, radio, and one drink (beer or soft drink).

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Do you stop for snorkeling?

Yes. You get snorkeling time at Caló des Moro and Cala Màrmols (35 minutes at each stop).

How often do you have photo stops?

There are photo stops at several points along the coast, including Mirador de Es Pontàs, Cala Llombards, Cala s’Almunia, and Punta des Bauç.

What languages is the guide?

The live tour guide speaks Spanish and English.

Is food included?

No meals are included.

What should I bring?

Bring your ID or passport, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and flip-flops/beachwear.

Is it allowed to smoke on the tour?

No, smoking is not allowed.

What if I need to cancel?

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

Can I pay later?

Yes, you can reserve now and pay later (paying nothing today).

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