Menorca looks better from the water. This 7-hour cruise from Ciutadella links the best-looking coves, with Son Saura beach time and a major swim stop at Cala Turqueta. I like that it’s a day where you actually do things: you hop off the boat to swim, and you also get a land stretch where you can stretch your legs.

I also like the lunch setup. The paella is served onboard with sangria and orange juice, so you’re not spending your vacation hunting down food and toilets mid-adventure. The timing is built around beach time first, then lunch, then more water again.

One drawback to plan for: paella is the only food option, and the walkways can be rocky. If you need vegetarian meals, have strict dietary limits, or you don’t do well on uneven ground, you’ll want to think it through before booking.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Son Saura (2 hours) gives you real breathing room on a classic white-sand beach.
• Cala Turqueta (about 1.5 hours) is the big swim moment, with clear water and easy access from the boat.
• Camí de Cavalls to Es Talaier: a short (about 15-minute) rustic walk option if you want something quieter.
• Snorkeling-friendly stop: you’ll have time to jump in, and bringing your own snorkel gear helps.
• Paella lunch onboard: served with sangria and orange juice, with a no-fuss meal flow.

A Ciutadella boat day that actually delivers on Menorca’s coast

If you’re coming to Menorca for beaches, you’ll get the biggest payoff by seeing them from the water first. This cruise runs along the south coast from Ciutadella, and it’s paced in a way that keeps the day from turning into nonstop rushing. You get multiple “pause points” where you can cool off, swim, and enjoy the view without the usual car-and-parking stress.

I also like that it mixes famous spots with a few less predictable moments. You’ll have time at Son Saura, then you’ll head toward the Macarella / Macarelleta area, and finish with the swim-heavy stop at Cala Turqueta. It’s a nice way to cover more coastline than you’d manage with a rental car in one day.

Meeting at Passeig des Moll and choosing your spot onboard

The trip starts at Passeig des Moll, and you check in to board at Pontoon number 1. Free parking is available at Menorca Blava, which matters because the start area is where time can vanish if you’re trying to park last-minute.

Once you’re onboard, the day works because the crew runs a steady rhythm: instructions, sail time, then beach time, then lunch, then more swimming. From what I’ve seen in similar Menorca cruises, you usually get an easy decision: hang out on the lower level for shade and quick access, or move upstairs when you want wide views. Either way, you’ll want sunscreen on early. Menorca sun is friendly right up until you notice you’re cooking.

On the boat you’ll also have practical extras: a bar, washroom, and plenty of seating. That sounds basic, but it makes the difference between a “fun day” and a day you end early because you’re uncomfortable.

Son Saura: the beach stop with enough time to enjoy it

Son Saura is the first major stop, with 2 hours of free time. That’s a smart amount of time. It’s long enough to swim, wander a bit, and still have time to sit down and just watch the water change color as the wind shifts.

You can enjoy it the simple way: white sand, shallow calm water (great for an easy swim), and a relaxed stretch where you can let the day feel slow. If you want a bit more effort, you’ve got an option to walk partway along the Camí de Cavalls toward a more remote shore called Es Talaier.

Here’s the practical part. The walk is described as about 15 minutes, and it’s on rustic footpaths. That’s not a marathon, but it is still a real walk on uneven ground. Wear comfortable shoes, and if you hate “sandals + rocks,” pick sneakers or water shoes.

A note on crowd levels: in peak season, popular coves can feel busy. Even then, Son Saura is usually the kind of beach where you don’t feel trapped—you still get your space if you set up a little away from the busiest edge.

Lunch afloat: paella plus sangria and orange juice

After your Son Saura time, you’ll return for lunch. The lunch window is about 30 minutes, and it’s served onboard. This is one of the best value parts of the trip: you’re getting a meal without leaving the boat, and you’re not paying separately at a beach restaurant.

The menu is straightforward: paella, plus sangría and orange juice. There’s also a bar onboard, so drinks aren’t something you have to plan around. The crew keeps the meal flow moving, which is key when you have limited lunch time between swims.

Now, the part you should respect: paella is the only food option. The paella isn’t suitable for people who can’t eat meat, seafood, or gluten, and there are no guaranteed alternate meals listed. If you have intolerances, plan to bring your own food on board. You also shouldn’t expect a discount if you can’t eat the paella.

One small expectation check: don’t count on dessert. You’re there for the sea day, not a full restaurant meal.

Macarelleta and the coves ride: the in-between scenery you’ll remember

Between the beach stops, you’ll sail around Menorca’s south coast and pass some of the signature coves in the Macarella / Macarelleta area. The stop timing you can expect is less about long beach wandering and more about soaking up the coastline from the boat and getting set for the next swim.

That matters because it’s where you get the “why Menorca looks famous” effect. From the water, the coves don’t just look pretty—they look reachable, like you can almost imagine the route from one shoreline to the next. It’s also a good time to take photos without fighting for a parking spot at every turn.

If the boat has you “stuck” on sail time, don’t fight it. This is the payoff segment. Bring sunglasses and a hat, then let the scenery do the work.

Cala Turqueta: where the boat turns into your entry ticket

Then comes the star of the water stops: Cala Turqueta, with about 1.5 hours of free time. This is the stop where you’ll want to be ready to jump in right away. The water is described as clear and inviting, and the setup is built for direct access from the boat.

If you bring your own snorkel kit, this is the time to use it. The underwater area is described as having white sand seabed and marine life. Even if you don’t snorkel, you’ll still likely do a quick swim. It’s one of those beaches where the water looks like it’s calling you.

What I’d do with your time there:

• Start with a swim first, so you don’t waste your best visibility window.
• Then snorkel or float a bit near the shallow areas.
• Finish with a slower moment on the sand when you’re done working up a swim appetite.

This stop is scenic, but it can also be popular. In peak season, you may notice more boats nearby. Still, the trip is structured so you’re not stuck waiting around—you’re there to use the water.

What to bring so the day feels easy (not annoying)

I love trips where the “what to pack” list is short and obvious. This one is, but it’s still worth reading it like a checklist:

Bring:

• Swimwear
• Sunscreen (and reapply)
• Comfortable shoes for the rocky paths
• Goggles (helpful even if you only swim)
• Snorkeling gear (not included)

A practical clothing tip: if you burn easily, a rash guard or sun shirt helps. It keeps you comfortable while you’re out in the open water for long sail stretches.

Leave behind (or plan around):

• A cooler is not allowed
• Smoking is not allowed indoors
• If you have limited mobility, this day may feel rough due to slightly rocky paths during the walk options.

Price and value: what $63 buys you in real terms

At $63 per person, this cruise is priced like a day of paid transport plus food, not like a bare-bones boat ride. And that’s how it adds up.

You’re paying for:

• a full 7-hour day out on the water,
• time at multiple coast stops (including long beach time at Son Saura),
• a meal included (paella with sangría and orange juice),
• and practical onboard comfort (bar, washroom).

If you tried to “do it yourself” with taxis or multiple rental-car day trips, you’d spend money on transit and still lose time dealing with parking and getting from one viewpoint to another. This tour gives you a timed route that’s built for swimming and eating without the logistics tax.

That said, it’s not the best fit if you can’t eat paella (meat/seafood/gluten limits). In that case, the value drops because you may need to bring your own food, and the lunch is still time-based.

Who this Menorca boat trip suits best

This is a great choice if you want:

• a straightforward way to see the south coast without planning a multi-stop driving day,
• real beach time (not just a quick look),
• swimming and possible snorkeling,
• and a included meal that keeps the day flowing.

I’d especially recommend it for couples and small groups who want a single-day highlight. It’s also a good pick for families where everyone is ready for a beach day and can handle short walks on uneven ground.

If you’re traveling with reduced mobility, the rocky nature of paths (especially if you want to walk toward Es Talaier) is a real concern. And if your diet doesn’t match what the paella contains, you’ll need a plan before you go.

Should you book this boat trip from Ciutadella?

If your Menorca priority is beaches like Son Saura and Cala Turqueta, this is one of the simplest ways to make that happen in a single day. You get a solid mix of boat scenery, swim time, and a meal that’s built into the schedule.

I’d book it if you can eat the paella and you’re comfortable with beach shoes and a short rustic walk option. Pass if you need guaranteed vegetarian options or you struggle on uneven, slightly rocky footpaths.

If you’re on the fence, do this quick mental check: would you enjoy a day where your schedule is mostly water, sun, and a timed onboard meal? If yes, you’ll likely have a very satisfying day on the Menorca coast.

FAQ

What beaches and coves does the boat trip visit?

You’ll spend time at Son Saura, and you’ll also visit the area of Cala Macarelleta. The main swim stop is Cala Turqueta, and the tour also passes coves along Menorca’s south coast.

How long is the tour?

The total duration is 7 hours.

Is lunch included, and what is it?

Yes. Lunch is included onboard and consists of paella, served with sangría and orange juice.

Are snorkeling gear and masks provided?

No. Snorkeling gear is not included, so if you want to snorkel, bring your own.

Can I get food other than paella?

Paella is the only food option. If you can’t consume the paella ingredients due to intolerance, the guidance is to bring your own food on board.

What should I bring to enjoy the stops?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, goggles, and snorkeling gear if you plan to snorkel.

Where do I meet the boat?

You check in and board at Passeig des Moll, Pontoon number 1. Free parking is available at Menorca Blava. The trip ends back at the same meeting point.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point.

Is the trip run year-round?

No. The tour runs May to September.