Mallorca is renowned for its blockbuster beach resorts, but it’s a true paradise for nature lovers too. One of the best ways to explore its wilder side is on a dolphin-watching tour.
A two hour dolphin watching cruise in a glass bottom boat (Photo: Get Your Guide)
The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Its glittering waters are packed full of marine life, including several pods of dolphins. With a bit of luck, you’ll be able to spot these playful creatures from one of the island’s many dazzling beaches, but for a guaranteed sighting it’s best to book a tour. Excursions range from cheap and cheerful cruises to more intimate private tours, so there’s something for every budget and taste. We’ve cherry-picked three of the best of them based on customer reviews, value for money and itinerary.
2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise and Glass Bottom Boat
This two-hour tour departs early in the morning for the best chance of catching sight of these magnificent mammals. Trips take place aboard the Cruise Comoron, a medium-sized boat that offers a glass bottom for superb underwater viewing and a sunny top deck. There’s a bar on board selling snacks and drinks for reasonable prices too. Customers rave about the variety of wildlife spotting opportunities, with sightings of bottlenose dolphins and Risso’s dolphins. Passengers can choose to depart from either Camp de Mar in the southwest or Santa Ponsa in the west of the island. From £25.62 per person.
Dolphin Watching and Sunrise Coast Cruise with Guide
Dolphins regularly play right next to the boat on this three hour tour (Photo: Get Your Guide)
This three-hour tour is an excellent option for early risers. Departing from Alcudia with an optional hotel transfer, the tour sails along the Cabo Formentor, where the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range meets the Mediterranean. Dolphins regularly play right next to passengers thanks to the boat’s small size and sleek design. On the way back, passengers can stop at Es Coll Baix, a secluded beach squeezed between wooded cliffs and sparkling sea. Tours are run by knowledgeable local guides. From £59.78 per person.
Alcuida: Llevant Peninsula Nature Reserve
For something extra special, try this private day trip on the Llevant Peninsula, a sprawling national park in the northeast of Mallorca. It’s an excellent option for those who like the idea of a guided tour, but prefer to avoid crowds of tourists. Excursions take place on a private boat which can comfortably accommodate up to 12 people, making it an affordable option for large families and groups of friends. As well as dolphin spotting, there’s time to relax on the beach of Formentor and explore Mallorca’s most famous lighthouse. From £405.64 per group of 12.