That first jump into Mallorca’s clear water is magic. On this 3-hour cruise from Can Pastilla aboard the Super Delfin Verde, you’ll head toward the Palma Marine Nature Reserve for swimming, snorkeling, and big Mediterranean coastline views.

I love the mix of BBQ lunch and full onboard catering, because it makes the trip feel like more than just a boat ride. I also like how the crew runs the show with a warm, attentive vibe and music that keeps the mood upbeat.

The main catch is simple: you only have 3 hours, so you get one main swim stop (weather permitting). If you’re chasing long, perfect snorkeling time, you’ll want to go into this with the right expectations.

Quick hits before you go

• Swimming from the boat in protected waters with crystal-clear views
• BBQ plus extra meal items like tomato mozzarella skewers and potato salad
• Snorkeling equipment included, so you don’t need to pack or search
• Drinks included (water, beer, or sangria) with a bar onboard for more
• A crew-led party vibe that can turn into dancing on the way back
• Day or sunset timing, so you can match the mood to your schedule

From Can Pastilla to the Palma Marine Nature Reserve

The tour starts in Can Pastilla, then you set out across Palma Bay toward the Palma Marine Nature Reserve. The boat ride itself is part of the experience: open air, salt in the breeze, and coastline views as you cruise near the natural protected area.

Most of your time is about moving through the bay and getting you to the right water. On the way, you’ll pass views tied to Mallorca’s southwesterly coast—things like Illetas and Cala Mayor often come up in the sights, and the perspective changes fast once you’re off the harbor and looking back at Palma from the sea.

There’s also a route note worth knowing: depending on your departure option, the boat may continue toward Palmanova. Either way, the idea stays the same—get you close to nature-protected shoreline and set you up for that one swim break.

This is a good fit if you want a “boat day” without the full-day commitment. It’s also a solid pick if you like the idea of seeing Palma’s coast from water, but you don’t want to wrestle with schedules for separate swimming and sightseeing stops.

The onboard BBQ and catering: what your $69 is actually buying

At $69 per person for a 3-hour cruise, the value hinges on food and included basics—and this tour delivers more than a token snack. The BBQ hamburger is the headline, but it’s paired with a catering spread that includes tomato mozzarella skewers with basil and balsamic cream, spring roll, and potato salad.

Dessert is watermelon and pineapple cut into pieces, which sounds simple until you’re out on the water and suddenly everyone’s grateful for something cold and fresh. You also get one included drink: water, beer, or sangria. After that, you can buy additional drinks onboard from the bar.

A practical way to think about it: you’re paying for transportation, time on the water, and an actual meal bundled into a short outing. If you’ve spent Mallorca days doing paid lunches and separate beach stops, this pricing can feel fair because the costs stack up quickly.

One heads-up if you’re picky about meat: there’s feedback that the burger can involve pork (with chicken sausages offered as the other option). If you don’t eat pork, I’d plan to ask onboard what’s in the BBQ before you commit.

The one swim stop: snorkeling gear and what the water time feels like

This is where the tour earns its reputation. You’ll make one swim stop if conditions allow, and you’ll swim from the boat in crystal-clear water in the reserve area. Cala Vella is one of the places that comes up as an example of those “you’d never find this from shore” spots.

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you can gear up and head straight into the water. The goal isn’t scuba exploration; it’s getting you in for a good chunk of swimming, a look around at the surface, and a chance to feel how clean and bright the sea looks near Mallorca.

Here’s the realistic consideration: snorkeling quality depends on conditions like visibility and how clear the water is that day. There’s at least one complaint that the snorkeling stop didn’t provide much visibility for seeing marine life. You can still expect a fun swim and a nice water setting, but don’t assume you’ll have guaranteed underwater clarity every time.

So how do you get the best chance of enjoying it?

• Use the included snorkel setup as your default plan.
• Keep your time flexible in the moment; if visibility isn’t great, focus on swimming and enjoying the water.
• Don’t forget that a short tour means you want to be ready when the boat stops—once you’re in the water, the clock keeps moving.

Also note: a towel isn’t included. Bring one, or at least plan to dry off with whatever you’ve brought.

Drinks, music, and the crew’s energy on the Super Delfin Verde

This boat tour is clearly built for a social vibe. Music plays during the cruise, and the crew often leans into it with playful energy—some tours are described as DJ-led, and names like Roger and Juan Diego show up connected to that fun, animated atmosphere. There can be dancing on the way back, and the tone feels more like a party outing than a quiet nature cruise.

That can be great if you want an easy day with laughs, music, and the kind of crew attention that helps you feel safe and looked after. Many comments highlight that the staff are attentive, organized, and friendly—especially around getting people to the swim spot and keeping things running on time.

The practical trade-off is noise. There are also mentions that music can be loud at times. If you’re the type who likes to hear your own thoughts (or you’re noise-sensitive), consider bringing earplugs. It’s a small thing that can completely change your comfort level on an onboard experience.

On drinks: sangria gets strong mentions, and people describe it as tasty. The included option means you can start the tour with a drink right away, but if you’re a heavy drinker, you should expect to spend extra at the bar.

Daytime vs sunset tours: which timing suits you

You get a choice between daytime and sunset options, and that choice actually changes the feel of the whole trip. Sunset tours tend to be the pick for golden-hour views and that slower, more romantic coastal mood—especially if you want the sea and coastline to look dramatic as the light fades.

Daytime cruises can feel more energetic and “get moving” because the sun is higher and you’re likely to spend your swim time with full daylight. If you prefer bright visibility for photos and want the boat to feel lively right from the start, daytime is the easier match.

Either way, the structure stays similar: you cruise out, make the planned swim stop if weather allows, eat onboard, and then head back. The big difference is when you’re doing it—so your best choice comes down to what you want most: daylight swimming energy or sunset scenery with that end-of-day glow.

If you’re trying to maximize your Mallorca trip without overplanning, this is one of those tours where you can book your preferred time window and still get the core experience: sea time, a swim break, BBQ lunch, and a fun return ride.

Price and logistics: where people feel the value, and where it can bite

Let’s talk money and time in plain terms. For $69, you’re getting:

• BBQ hamburger plus a full catering set (skewers, spring roll, potato salad)
• Dessert (watermelon and pineapple)
• One included drink (water, beer, or sangria)
• Snorkeling equipment
• Insurance and fees

That bundle is why the tour tends to feel like good value. You’re not just paying for “a boat passing by.” You’re paying for a short cruise that includes food and the key activity gear.

Now for logistics that can trip you up if you’re casual about timing. Boarding time closes 20 minutes before departure. The boat has to leave on time and can’t be delayed for logistical reasons, and parking can be tricky to find. Translation: arrive early, get parked, and don’t make the meeting point a last-minute gamble.

Meeting point can vary depending on which option you booked, so don’t count on a single landmark. Check your confirmation details carefully before you set off.

Two more constraints you should know:

• No hotel pickup or drop-off is included.
• The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

That doesn’t mean it’s hard to enjoy—it just means you should pick it only if you’re comfortable getting around the boat environment safely.

Who should book this Palma Bay boat tour (and who should skip it)

Book it if you want:

• A short Mallorca outing with real food (BBQ + sides + dessert)
• Included snorkeling equipment and a clear chance to swim from the boat
• A social, music-friendly atmosphere with a crew that keeps things moving
• Great sea views without needing a full day plan

Skip it if:

• You need a long snorkeling session or expect underwater visibility to be perfect
• You’re strongly sensitive to loud onboard music
• You avoid pork and need fully pork-free BBQ (because alternatives can be limited)
• You rely on wheelchair access or have mobility needs that make boarding difficult

If you’re traveling solo, this kind of boat outing can be surprisingly easy to enjoy because you’re together during swimming and lunch, and the crew attention helps you feel like you’re part of the group rather than sitting on the sidelines.

If you’re traveling with friends, it’s even better. The music and the crew-led fun make it one of those days that feels like it flew by.

Should you book this tour?

Yes, if you’re looking for a well-priced Mallorca boat experience that includes food, drinks, and a proper swim stop. The combination of BBQ catering, included snorkeling gear, and a crew that keeps the vibe upbeat is a strong match for most people who want a fun day on the sea without a complicated plan.

I’d book with extra caution if you need pork-free meals, you’re noise-sensitive, or you expect top-tier snorkeling conditions every time. In those cases, you can still enjoy the cruise, but you should align your expectations with the reality of a short, one-stop swim schedule.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?

The tour lasts 3 hours.

Where does the tour depart?

The departure point is Can Pastilla. If you’re leaving from Palma, the route can include sailing toward Palmanova.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What food and drinks are included?

You get a BBQ hamburger, onboard catering (including tomato mozzarella skewers with basil and balsamic cream, spring roll, and potato salad), and dessert (watermelon and pineapple). You also get 1 included drink (water, beer, or sangria).

Do you get time to swim?

Yes. There is one swimming stop along the route if the weather is good, and you swim from the boat.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?

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