Palma Bay: Boat Tour with BBQ, Snorkelling, & Sunset Option

One boat stop can change the whole tone of a Mallorca day. This Palma Bay cruise from Can Pastilla mixes open-air sailing, a real swim in clear water, and an included BBQ lunch with music, plus a choice of daytime or sunset timing.

I like the combination of a planned route toward the Palma Marine Nature Reserve and then one focused swim stop in pretty, sheltered coves. I also love that the food is not an afterthought, you get a full onboard meal plus a first drink included.

The tradeoff is time. You only have about 3 hours total, with one main swim and snorkel window, so if you want hours and hours in the water, you may feel a bit rushed.

Key things to know before you board

• A real swim stop in crystal-clear water, with snorkel gear included
• Onboard BBQ with a full meal, not just snacks
• Two departure vibes: daytime for sailing and photos, sunset for the glow
• Crew energy matters, with names like Roger, Juan Diego, Marc, and Arantxa showing up often in reports
• Limited inclusions on food and drinks: you get 1 drink included, then bar purchases

From Can Pastilla to the Marine Reserve, with views that feel personal

The tour starts out of Can Pastilla, and the early minutes matter because you’re leaving the busy shore and getting into the Bay of Palma. The boat then heads in the direction of the Palma Marine Nature Reserve, where the coast starts to look more like a protected coastline than a strip of hotels.

As you cruise, you’ll get that classic Mallorca “from the water” perspective: the coastline stretches out, colors shift with the light, and you can actually see how the coves and beaches sit along the peninsula. There are also big-picture scenic moments tied to where the route runs, including views near Illetas and Cala Major and, on routes that continue toward Palmanova, a wider sweep of the bay.

If you’re the type who wants photos that don’t look like everyone else’s, this part helps. The sea angle is the secret ingredient, and you’re not stuck at one viewpoint.

Your 3-hour plan: sailing time, one swim stop, then food

The tour is built around a simple rhythm: cruise, swim, eat, relax. You’ll sail out from Can Pastilla, then set course in the direction of the reserve, with a swimming stop along the way if conditions allow.

The key word here is “one.” There’s not a long multi-stop crawl with repeated snorkel breaks. Instead, your main time in the water happens during that single scheduled swim moment, in idyllic spots that have been described with examples like Cala Vella.

You also get a lot of value from the timing. With just 3 hours, the day doesn’t turn into a half-day project. You still get the feeling of a proper outing, but you keep the rest of Mallorca day free for other plans, like exploring Palma or finding a beach club later.

The BBQ lunch on board Super Delfin Verde: filling, not fancy

Let’s talk food, because this tour makes it part of the experience rather than an incidental perk. Included is:

• BBQ hamburger
• Tomato mozzarella skewer with basil and balsamic cream
• Spring roll
• Potato salad
• Dessert: watermelon and pineapple
• One drink: water, beer, or sangria

In practice, this means you’re not just sipping a drink while watching other people eat. You’ll get a proper onboard meal, and that helps the tour feel complete after the swim.

One practical note: there’s been at least one report that the onboard burger options are beef and pork, with chicken sausages as an alternative. If you follow non-pork eating rules, it’s worth planning for that possibility in advance.

Also, the boat has a bar, so after your included drink, you can buy more. Many people talk about sangria in a positive way, and that’s the kind of included choice that fits a sunset sailing mood.

Swimming and snorkeling in protected water: when it’s best, and when it might disappoint

This is the heart of the trip. You’ll stop to swim from the boat in crystal-clear Mediterranean water, and you’ll have snorkeling equipment included.

Here’s what I’d set your expectations to: snorkeling here is more about enjoying clear water and a quick look around than about a long, equipment-heavy marine research mission. One person even noted that the snorkel spot wasn’t very good for seeing much underwater, so visibility can vary. That also comes down to sea conditions, light, and where you enter from the boat.

Still, most reports focus on the same thing: the water looks stunning, and jumping in feels like the real reason the tour exists. If you’re bringing your own waterproof mindset, not perfectionist expectations, you’ll likely have a great time.

If you want to improve your odds for comfort, consider that some reports mention you might be able to rent snorkeling goggles. Even if the snorkel equipment is included, goggles can make the experience easier if you’re picky about fit.

Sunset option: the same tour, but with a different emotional clock

Choosing the sunset timing changes how the 3 hours feel. Daytime sailing is about getting out, taking photos, and using the swim stop while the sun is high. Sunset sailing leans more romantic and playful, because the light softens the coast and the boat becomes a moving lounge.

You’ll still do the same core components: cruise, one swim stop (when conditions allow), onboard BBQ, then enjoy the coastal views on the way back. But the mood shifts fast once the sun starts dropping.

Many people describe the sunset sail as a highlight, and some even mention the crew creating a party-like energy during the return trip. That matters because it turns the “on the way back” portion into part of the entertainment, not just the boring end.

If you’re celebrating a birthday, a proposal, or you just want a memorable evening without chasing reservations, the sunset option is usually the better fit.

The vibe on board: music, photos, and a crew that works

The tour includes music, and you’ll feel the crew leaning into a fun, sociable atmosphere. More than once, people mention that the captain and staff are attentive, and several names show up repeatedly in reports, including Roger, Juan Diego, Marc, David, and Arantxa.

That crew attention shows up in small, practical ways:

• helping you stay safe during boarding and swimming
• keeping the energy up without making the group feel chaotic
• taking photos for you and helping you get good angles while the boat moves

There’s also a social mix on board, with one report calling out an average age range around 20-40. If you’re traveling solo, that’s a good sign. You’re not stuck in awkward silence, but you’re also not limited to a party-only crowd.

One caution that pops up in a couple comments: the music can be loud at times. If you’re the type who wants quiet conversation, bring a plan to enjoy the quiet during the swim and food, and then use the open deck space strategically.

Price and value: $69 for a structured day at sea

At about $69 per person for a 3-hour outing, you’re paying for four things that matter in Mallorca: transport by boat, a swim stop, a meal, and a partial drinks package.

What you actually get included helps the value argument:

• BBQ hamburger plus a full list of sides
• dessert fruit
• snorkeling equipment
• 1 drink (beer or sangria, or water)
• insurance and fees

If you price out those pieces separately in Mallorca, the math starts making sense. The biggest “value booster” is that the food and drink are timed around the experience, not served after everything is done.

Still, remember the inclusions are not unlimited. If you want several rounds of drinks or extra food beyond the included meal, budget for bar purchases.

Who this boat tour suits best (and who should look elsewhere)

I’d recommend this tour if you want:

• a quick Mallorca highlight that doesn’t eat your whole day
• a real swim with simple snorkeling gear
• a friendly, music-friendly boat atmosphere
• good value compared to renting a private boat

It’s less ideal if you need:

• long hours in the water (you get about one main swim stop)
• lots of privacy and quiet
• strict dietary accommodations beyond what’s provided

It also is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so plan a different kind of accessible Mallorca outing if that applies to you.

Logistics that can make or break your morning

You’ll want to arrive with time to park and walk in. One important note is that boarding time closes 20 minutes before departure, and the boat will leave on time.

Also, there’s no hotel pickup and drop-off. You’ll have to make your own way to the meeting point, which can vary depending on the option you book.

If you’re driving, give yourself extra buffer time. Parking near the meeting area can be tricky, and your best move is to treat arrival like you’re catching a flight, not like you’re just meeting friends.

Should you book the Palma Bay boat tour with BBQ and snorkeling?

I think you should book it if you want an efficient, fun way to see Palma Bay from the water, swim in clear sea, and eat a proper onboard BBQ without planning every detail. The tour’s sweet spot is the combination of one great water moment plus an included meal and drinks, all wrapped in a crew-led good vibe.

Skip it or choose a different option if you’re sensitive to loud music, you need guaranteed snorkel visibility, or you have strict dietary needs beyond what’s listed. Also, if you truly want multiple long snorkel stops, the 3-hour structure may feel too short.

Bottom line: this is a solid “sea day” for most people, especially if you time it for sunset and you’re the kind of traveler who’s happiest when you’re moving, swimming, and laughing with a group.

FAQ

How long is the Palma Bay boat tour?

The duration is 3 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour leaves from Can Pastilla.

What is included in the BBQ meal?

Included is a BBQ hamburger, catering items (tomato mozzarella skewer with basil and balsamic cream, spring roll, potato salad), dessert (watermelon and pineapple), and one drink (water, beer, or sangria).

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Are there extra food and drinks available on board?

Yes. The bar is available for additional food and drinks purchases beyond the included items.

Do I need to bring a towel?

A towel is not included.

Is the tour refundable if plans change?

The details provided include a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance, but there is also an important note stating the ticket is non refundable. Check the specific terms shown at booking.

Is the boat tour wheelchair accessible?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.