REVIEW · MALLORCA
Charter Tour: By Boat in the Bay of Palma with Snorkeling and Paddle Surfing
Book on GetYourGuide →Operated by SALTYTOURS · Bookable on GetYourGuide
Crystal water and sea toys await in Palma. This is a max-9 charter where you sail the Bay of Palma with snorkeling and paddleboarding included, and a jet ski added for extra chaos (the fun kind). The best part is how the captain steers the day: you get direction on what to do, plus spots picked for clear water and time to play.
One possible snag: this isn’t for everyone. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, or non-swimmers, and pets or baby carriages aren’t allowed.
In This Review
- Key Points to Know Before You Go
- Why This Palma Bay Charter Feels More Like a Day Out
- Getting There: Meeting Saltytours at Club de Mar-Mallorca
- Ses Illetes Photo Stop: Short, Scenic, and Worth It
- Punta Negra Swim Stop: Snorkel, SUP, and Get Moving
- Snorkeling: Fun, But Go for the Swim More Than a Fish Report
- Paddleboarding: The Activity That Gets Everyone Off the Boat
- Sea Scooter / Water Scooter: The Crowd Favorite for Kids (and Adults)
- Jet Ski Included: The One Thing That Changes the Mood
- What Sailing Adds: Views, Timing, and Captain Control
- Drinks, Rinse Water, and Small Comforts That Add Up
- Price and Value: Why $77 Feels Fair for What You Get
- Who This Tour Suits Best (And Who Should Skip It)
- Should You Book Saltytours in Palma Bay?
- FAQ
- How long is the Palma Bay boat charter?
- What is the maximum group size?
- What activities and equipment are included?
- Where do we meet for the tour?
- Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or wheelchair users?
- What languages does the guide speak?
Key Points to Know Before You Go
- Small group (up to 9) means you spend more time in the water and less time waiting around.
- Snorkeling gear is included (mask and snorkel), so you’re not scrambling for equipment.
- Paddleboarding is built into the stop, not tacked on as a quick try.
- Jet ski is included, and it’s the activity that turns a good day into a memorable one.
- Captain-led sailing in the bay keeps things safe and smooth, even when the sea gets a little choppy.
Why This Palma Bay Charter Feels More Like a Day Out
I like tours where you can actually hear the guide and get help when you want it. A boat with only up to 9 passengers makes a huge difference in Palma Bay, where bigger boats can turn your swim stop into a floating waiting room. Here, you’re more likely to get proper time in the water, gear that’s ready when you are, and an experience that stays relaxed from meet-up to return.
I also like the mix of activities. You’re not stuck choosing between sightseeing and “water time.” You get a real sailing portion, then a stop designed for swimming and snorkeling, plus paddleboards and a jet ski. That combo works for couples, groups, and families because the day has multiple “on-ramp” activities: you can relax on board, snorkel if you’re feeling confident, or just go all-in on the toys.
The captain also matters. Guides like Enrique and Francesca show up repeatedly, and they’re described as attentive and hands-on—especially with safety, instructions, and pacing the activities so everyone gets a turn.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Mallorca
Getting There: Meeting Saltytours at Club de Mar-Mallorca
The tour starts at Saltytours, with your guide meeting you at the entrance to the port of Club de Mar-Mallorca (note: not Club de Mar) in front of MercaNautic New Palma. The guide then walks you to the boat and checks that you have what you need.
Two practical notes from how the experience runs:
- Arrive about 30 minutes early. This gives you time to find the exact spot, park your stuff, and get instructions without stress.
- Transport isn’t included. You’ll need to make your own way to the port, though it’s described as accessible from central Palma via public transport.
If you’re traveling with kids, this early buffer matters even more. You’ll want time to handle swimwear, gear, and questions before the boat heads out.
Ses Illetes Photo Stop: Short, Scenic, and Worth It
Before the main swimming time, the route includes Ses Illetes, with a photo stop. This is one of those moments where you’re not doing much except enjoying the view—but that’s the point. You’re in position to spot the bay’s colors and understand why people chase this part of Mallorca for sea time.
Even if you only take a few pictures, it helps you set expectations. You’ll see the kind of clear water you’re aiming for later, and you’ll get oriented so the main stop feels easier to navigate once you’re there.
Punta Negra Swim Stop: Snorkel, SUP, and Get Moving
The heart of the outing is the water time around Punta Negra. This is where you’ll have your swimming window with snorkeling gear included (mask and snorkel) and where paddleboarding takes center stage.
Snorkeling: Fun, But Go for the Swim More Than a Fish Report
Here’s a balanced reality check. Some people love what they see underwater; others note that there isn’t always a huge amount of fish at the exact spot. So I’d treat snorkeling as:
- a chance to get comfortable in clear water,
- a way to watch movement and shapes up close,
- and a great add-on if you enjoy floating and looking down.
If you’re expecting a reef spectacle at every moment, adjust your mindset. The experience is still excellent as a swimming stop, especially when the water is calm and visibility is strong.
A few more Mallorca tours and experiences worth a look
Paddleboarding: The Activity That Gets Everyone Off the Boat
The SUP boards are included, and they tend to get used immediately. I like this setup because paddleboarding isn’t a “try it for 60 seconds” thing. You get time to glide at your own pace, which makes it easier for beginners and still fun for confident riders.
If you’re traveling with mixed skill levels, SUP is a good choice. You can switch from standing to kneeling if needed, and you can keep the focus on enjoying the surface experience rather than rushing.
Sea Scooter / Water Scooter: The Crowd Favorite for Kids (and Adults)
In the onboard activity lineup, people also talk about sea scooters / water scooters—a self-propelled option that lets you zoom around the water and feel like you’re doing something special without needing diving skills. That’s a big reason families often treat this stop as a highlight.
Jet Ski Included: The One Thing That Changes the Mood
The tour includes a jet ski. This is the activity with the most “instant fun,” and it’s the one that tends to make a 2.5-hour outing feel like a full adventure.
A smart way to plan your mental energy: do the calmer activities first (swim/snorkel/SUP), then save the jet ski for when you’re ready for higher speed and more adrenaline. Also, follow the captain’s safety guidance closely. With small-group charters, instructions are practical and direct, so pay attention early.
If you’re traveling with teens, this is the easiest sell. For adults, it’s still a great switch-up from paddleboarding and hovering in the water.
What Sailing Adds: Views, Timing, and Captain Control
The charter includes panoramic sailing through the Bay of Palma, and that matters because you’re not just being transported to a single swim spot. The boat ride gives you:
- coastline views as you move between areas,
- a calmer pace than a packed group tour,
- and time to enjoy the sea experience even when you’re not on equipment.
The captain experience is repeatedly linked to smooth operation and good safety habits—especially when conditions are less than perfect. If you’re sensitive to boat motion, a well-run small charter can feel less stressful than larger outings where the schedule is more rigid.
Music also shows up here in a practical way. People describe using Bluetooth to connect music onboard. It’s not a life-changing feature, but it does make the trip feel more personal and relaxed.
Drinks, Rinse Water, and Small Comforts That Add Up
This tour includes water, soft drinks, and beers. That’s a solid base because it removes a decision you’d otherwise have to make mid-day: do you want to buy drinks later, or are you good for the ride?
People also mention extra comfort touches onboard, like rinse water and even an onboard shower setup (described as helpful for getting salt off before heading back). Those details might sound minor, but they make the end of the trip easier—especially for kids.
A final note on snacks: the listing says meals and snacks aren’t included, but several people describe chips or small snacks being provided alongside drinks. I’d treat snacks as a pleasant bonus, not the main value driver.
Price and Value: Why $77 Feels Fair for What You Get
At $77 per person for about 2.5 hours, the value comes from the bundle. You’re paying for:
- a private, small-group boat charter (max 9),
- snorkeling mask and snorkel,
- paddleboarding access,
- and a jet ski included,
- plus drinks (water, soft drinks, beers).
In other words, you’re not just buying a ride. You’re buying gear time and water-activity time in the most expensive element of this kind of day: boat operation and fuel.
The biggest “value win” for me is the lack of crowd pressure. When the boat stop is calm and uncrowded, you actually use the time you paid for.
Who This Tour Suits Best (And Who Should Skip It)
This is a strong fit if you want a mix of sea time and activities without overplanning. It works well for:
- families with teens who want options,
- couples who want romance plus action,
- groups of friends who want a lively but controlled day,
- anyone who likes clear-water swimming and easy gear use.
It’s not a good match if you:
- can’t swim (not suitable for non-swimmers),
- use a wheelchair or need mobility accommodations (not suitable),
- rely on baby carriages (not allowed),
- travel with pets (not allowed).
Should You Book Saltytours in Palma Bay?
If your priority is a small-group boat with real time in clear water—and you want snorkeling plus paddleboarding, with a jet ski included—then yes, this is an easy booking choice.
Book this especially if you’re the type who hates feeling rushed or squeezed into a schedule. A max-9 charter gives you breathing room. And if you’re traveling with kids or teens, the sea-scooter and jet ski mix is the kind of “everybody finds something” day that saves your holiday plans.
FAQ
How long is the Palma Bay boat charter?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours.
What is the maximum group size?
The boat is limited to a maximum of 9 passengers.
What activities and equipment are included?
Snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel) and paddleboarding are included, and a jet ski is included as well. Water, soft drinks, and beers are also included.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The guide meets you at the entrance to the port of Club de Mar-Mallorca in front of MercaNautic New Palma, and then escorts you to the boat.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or wheelchair users?
No. It is not suitable for non-swimmers, wheelchair users, or people with mobility impairments.
What languages does the guide speak?
The guide operates in English and Spanish.



























