A Mallorca boat trip is the fastest way to feel the island. This one runs a small-group RIB along Santanyí’s coves, from Es Pontàs rock to the swim waters at Caló des Moro or Es Màrmols. I like the long, built-in water time for swimming and snorkeling, plus the simple onboard setup with drinks included.

The main trade-off is the sea ride can get bumpy, depending on wind and conditions. If you’re prone to seasickness, or you’re not comfortable getting back onboard from deeper/rougher water, plan carefully.

If you’re set on views, this route delivers. You’ll pass multiple cala stops and sea-cave areas, with time designed so you’re not just cruising past scenery—you’re in it.

Key points to know before you go

• Small RIB feel: the boat is intentionally sized for easier access near coves, with space for about a dozen people.
• Real swim timing: you’ll get a dedicated swim window in Caló des Moro or S’Almunia (about 40 minutes), or at Es Màrmols (about 45 minutes).
• Snorkeling gear included: bring minimal expectations and you’ll still be surprised by fish life in clear water.
• Southeast Mallorca highlights: Es Pontàs, sa Cova des Fum, S’Almunia, and Es Màrmols are all in the same outing.
• Wind changes your plan: the swim location can depend on direction of wind.
• Option swap for Es Màrmols: the longer option pushes to Es Màrmols and skips the swim at Caló des Moro.

Why this RIB route from Cala Figuera feels different

Cala Figuera is a great launch pad because it sits close to Mallorca’s southeast coast, where the shoreline turns into a patchwork of coves, cliffs, and sea caves. From the water, the coast looks more dramatic and more three-dimensional than anything you’ll get from a viewpoint.

The tour is built around short cruising segments and then “time-in-place.” That matters because you’re not just collecting names like a travel bingo card—you’re getting actual minutes to look, shoot photos, and get into the water.

Meeting at Carrer Verge del Carme: what to expect on board

You’ll meet at the Redstartours Excursiones office on Carrer Verge del Carme, 34 in Cala Figuera. Plan to arrive a bit early, because departures can run slightly late, and the skipper controls timing and any itinerary changes based on safety.

This is a speedboat-style RIB outing, so the vibe is active, not lounge-on-a-yacht. You’ll likely get a little wet depending on how you sit and how the sea is behaving, and that’s part of the “you’re actually on the water” experience.

From what you’ll be told on board, the crew stays focused on keeping the group safe and moving smoothly from one coastal point to the next. Live guidance is offered in Spanish, Catalan, and English, so you’ll have a way to understand what you’re seeing (even if some explanations stay brief).

Cala Santanyí and Es Pontàs: dramatic rock, early photo payoff

The trip starts with a quick run at cruising speed and then settles into the Santanyí coastline. You’ll spend time around Cala Santanyí (about 10 minutes) and Es Pontàs (about 10 minutes), including the chance to get oriented and take photos before the stops get more “swim and explore.”

Es Pontàs is a standout rock formation tied to an ancient cave entrance. From the boat, this kind of structure reads differently than it does from land—curves, edges, and water-level shapes become obvious fast.

One practical tip: if you like photos, bring a strap or waterproof pouch. On RIB rides, sudden spray is a normal thing, not a special event.

Cala Llombards, sa Cova des Fum, and Caló des Macs: the coast’s quiet theater

After the initial highlights, you’ll pass by more shoreline sections that feel wilder and less “developed.” You get a short stop near Cala Llombards (about 5 minutes) and then continue along toward sa Cova des Fum, passing by es Caló des Macs along the way.

These segments aren’t always about a long landing with beach time. They’re about the view—cliffs rising straight from the water, cave mouths, and the way the water color changes with depth and bottom type.

If the sea is rough, this is also when you’ll feel it. That doesn’t mean the tour is unsafe, but it does mean you’ll want to be ready for body bracing and occasional spray.

Caló des Moro and S’Almunia: where the best swimming usually happens

This is the heart of the tour for most people: the swim stop(s). You can have the opportunity to swim from the boat in Caló des Moro or S’Almunia, and the choice can depend on wind direction. The swim time is around 40 minutes, which is a sweet spot—long enough to snorkel and relax, not so long that you feel rushed back to shore.

Caló des Moro

Caló des Moro is known for clean turquoise water and a “you can’t really believe it” look from above. From the boat, you’re dropping into open water right in the middle of the scenery rather than walking down to it.

If you snorkel, this is where you’ll likely spot more underwater life, because the water can be very clear when conditions line up.

S’Almunia

S’Almunia brings a different mood. You’ll see the typical huts and fishermen’s barracks, and the coastline area includes small caves that smugglers used as hiding places. That bit of human history adds weight to the scenery: it’s not only pretty—it’s a coast that was useful to people who needed cover.

For many riders, the appeal of S’Almunia is the sense of being on the edge of nowhere. It can feel more remote than the busier beaches you might visit on land.

Getting in and out safely

Because you’re swimming from the boat, your comfort level matters. If you struggle with steps or getting back onboard in choppy conditions, speak up at the start and let the skipper know. You’ll generally get help fast because the crew is responsible for everyone’s safety.

Choosing the longer option: Cala Màrmols means different swim time

There’s an important option choice built into this experience. If you select Calo de Moro y Cala Marmols, your route extends further to Es Màrmols—a virgin beach you can reach by boat or by a hike trail.

Here’s the key trade-off: this extended option means you don’t swim in Caló des Moro. Instead, once you reach Es Màrmols, you get about 45 minutes to bathe and enjoy this protected, boat-access-only feel.

Es Màrmols is the kind of place where the water color and the sandy look from above make your brain go: this can’t be real. You’ll be able to take a proper break from the speed of the RIB ride and just float, swim, and snorkel at your own pace.

If you’re trying to maximize swimming time, both options deliver. But if you’re emotionally attached to Caló des Moro specifically, pick the shorter style that includes that swim stop.

Es Bauç quarries and the “working coast” angle you might miss

One of the smarter parts of the route is how it passes the coast’s working features, not just the postcard ones. Along the way you can observe the maritime quarries of Es Bauç, where blocks of sandstone were cut to be transported by sea.

This is a small detail, but it changes how you read the coastline. You start seeing the island not only as scenery but as a place with tools, labor, and routes—water-based logistics that shaped how people lived.

On a boat day, those moments are what keep it from becoming a pure photo session.

Snorkeling time: gear is included, but your success depends on the water

Snorkeling equipment is included, plus drinks onboard (typically 1 soft drink or 1 beer). That’s a nice combo, because it saves you from hunting for rental gear or paying extra at the dock.

What makes snorkeling here work is simple: clear water and a calm-ish swim stop. When conditions line up, you can see fish life and the seafloor feel close. When it’s windier, the ride can get choppy and you might snorkel less and just enjoy floating.

Practical prep that helps:

• Bring a towel and something quick-dry for after.
• Wear swim shoes if you’re sensitive about getting in and out from the boat.
• If you’re a non-swimmer, consider how you’ll feel in open water. The swim is optional in spirit, but the stop is built into the tour.

Time, weather, and motion: how to handle the “rough tour” factor

Tours along Mallorca’s southeast coast are at the mercy of wind and swell. The company notes that weather can cancel departures, and it also warns that you may see delays. Once you’re out on the water, the skipper decides the safest itinerary adjustments, which is exactly what you want to hear on a speedboat.

For some riders, the ride is smooth and fun. For others, especially in choppier conditions, it can feel like a lot of motion—enough that seasickness is a real consideration. If you’re sensitive to that, plan ahead with what you normally use for boat days.

Also note: the experience is short enough that you can power through if you’re feeling okay. But it’s long enough that “tough it out” doesn’t work for everyone.

Drinks, comfort, and value: does the $48 price make sense

At $48 per person, you’re paying for a fairly focused package: a RIB excursion lasting 110 to 170 minutes depending on option, a professional skipper, snorkeling gear, fuel, insurance, and at least one drink. You’re also paying for the big advantage: getting access to multiple coves and cave viewpoints that land tours can’t reach easily.

This is good value if you want:

• a coast tour with actual water time,
• snorkeling without extra rentals,
• and a small-group feel rather than a crowded beach shuttling circus.

It’s less ideal if you want a lot of “sit on a beach and eat” time. Food isn’t included, so you’re mainly here for water, views, and the swim window.

Who should book this boat tour from Cala Figuera

Book this if you want a coast-hopping RIB day with clear-water swimming and snorkeling, especially if you care about Santanyí’s sea caves and coves like Es Pontàs, sa Cova des Fum, Caló des Moro, S’Almunia, and possibly Es Màrmols.

It’s also a solid match for groups who don’t need a long lecture. The ride gives you enough time at each stop for pictures and enjoyment without turning the day into a classroom.

Skip or rethink if:

• you get seasick easily in open water,
• you dislike getting in and out from a boat,
• or you need a very calm, flat experience at every stage.

Should you book: my practical verdict

If your dream Mallorca day includes swim-from-the-boat coves, clear water, and a fast tour of the southeast coast, this is a smart booking. The price feels fair because you’re not paying separately for snorkeling gear or for the whole “get out there and actually swim” portion.

Just go in with the right expectations. This is a speedboat-style experience, not a gentle ferry ride, and wind matters. If you’re comfortable with that trade-off, you’ll likely leave feeling like you saw Mallorca the way the sea wants you to see it.

FAQ

How long is the Cala Figuera boat tour?

It runs for 110 to 170 minutes, depending on the option you choose and the route length.

Where do I meet for the tour?

Meet at the Redstartours Excursiones office, C/Virgen del Carme, 34, Cala Figuera (Santanyí).

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes the RIB boat excursion (duration depends on option), a professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, drinks (1 soft drink or 1 beer), insurance, and fuel.

Is swimming included?

Yes. You can swim from the boat for about 40 minutes in Caló des Moro or S’Almunia, depending on wind direction. If you choose the Calo de Moro y Cala Marmols option, you’ll swim at Es Màrmols instead for about 45 minutes.

Do I need to bring food?

Food is not included. Plan to bring snacks only if that works for you, since the tour provides drinks but not meals.

What languages are available for the guide?

The live guide offers Spanish, Catalan, and English.

Can the tour be canceled for weather?

Yes. Due to weather conditions, departures can be canceled without prior notice.

Are there delays sometimes?

Yes. Departures may experience some delay due to the nature of the offer.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.