Sailboat day trip Bay of Palma: Paddle, snorkel, swim

Paddle and snorkel from a classic sailboat anchored in the bay's clearest water

A 4.5-hour sailing activity in the Bay of Palma aboard an authentic restored English sailboat, where you paddle board and snorkel in hidden coves with crystal-clear water. The captain navigates to the best anchorages on the south coast while you swim, explore underwater, and relax on board with welcome drinks and snacks included. A guide speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese or Italian.

The experience

The boat leaves Palma and sails to the quietest coves of the Bay of Palma, anchoring in water clear enough to see the seabed. You get a paddle board and snorkel goggles to use as much or as little as you want during the sail. The captain picks the anchorages based on conditions and what appeals to you. Some days that means a cove where you can paddle out and back, other times a spot where you wade straight off the boat into the shallows.

Drinks arrive when you board, and snacks are served during the day. If you want something more substantial (paella, grilled meat, a full lunch), you can arrange a delivery to the boat before departure. The sailboat itself is the experience: a restored English Pilot Cutter with the kind of detail and care that shows in how it moves through the water. It's built for small groups, not crowded day-tripper runs, so the pace stays relaxed and the anchorages don't feel rushed.

An optional extra (the SUBLUE underwater scooter) lets you move through the water like a dolphin if you want that added thrill, but it's not required. Most travelers spend the day moving between the deck, the water, and the paddle board, with the captain handling the sailing while you handle how deep into the coves you want to go.

What’s included

• Captain and sailing.
• paddle board.
• snorkel goggles.
• welcome drinks.
• snacks during the day.
• access to the boat's amenities for the full 4.5 hours.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Gaff Charter

Is this one for you?You paddle and snorkel yourself rather than watch from the boat, so this suits travelers who want to be active in the water. The small-group format means a relaxed pace and quieter anchorages than larger tour boats reach, ideal if you want to linger in one cove or explore at your own speed without a strict schedule pushing you along.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like in the Bay of Palma coves where the boat anchors?

The coves have crystal-clear water shallow enough to see the bottom, ideal for snorkeling and paddling. Depth and visibility vary by location and season, but the captain chooses anchorages where the water is calm and transparent.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear or do I have to use what's provided?

Snorkel goggles are included on board. You're welcome to bring your own mask and fins if you prefer your own fit and feel, though the provided goggles work well for most swimmers.

How much time do I actually spend in the water versus on the boat?

That's up to you. Most travelers spend several hours in and out of the water (paddling, snorkeling, swimming), and return to the boat to rest, eat, and dry off between swims. The captain anchors for long enough that you set your own rhythm.

Is this a private boat or do I share it with other groups?

The sailboat takes small groups, not large tour parties. You may share the boat with other independent travelers or small groups booking the same day, depending on demand.

What happens if the weather turns or the sea gets rough?

The captain monitors conditions and adjusts the route and anchorages to keep the experience safe and comfortable. In rare cases of poor weather, the departure may be rescheduled. Check the operator's weather policy when you book.