What to Expect on a Glass Bottom Boat Trip in East Mallorca
Thinking about booking a glass-bottom boat trip on the east coast of Mallorca but not sure what to expect? Here is an honest, detailed guide to exactly what happens from the moment you arrive at the port to the moment you step back off the boat.
First things first: what does glass bottom actually mean?
What we have on the lower deck of our glass-bottom boats are large submarine-style viewing windows on the sides of the hull. When the boat stops at the swim stop, everyone gathers round the windows to watch the sea life swimming below and around the boat. It sounds like a small distinction but in practice the windows give you a proper underwater viewing experience — you are looking through the side of the boat so instead of looking down, you are viewing as a gallery from windows on the sides at the world beneath the surface. For children in particular it is usually a highlight of the whole trip.
What will you see from the boat?
The east coast of Mallorca has some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean, and the coastline between the departure points is only accessible by boat. During the trip you will pass sea caves, hidden beaches and dramatic cliff scenery that most visitors to the island never see. At the swim stop — usually Cala Morlanda or Cala Varques, both with exceptionally clear deep water — you will see all kinds of fish through the submarine windows. The abundance of sea life visible at the stops regularly surprises first-time guests. We have an article about the kind of sea life you could see on our Cala Ratjada Express Website.
The swim stop: free swimming, slides and 20 minutes in the water
Most trips include a swim stop of around 20 minutes, sometimes a little more. Swimming is included in your ticket price — we never charge extra for it, unlike some other local operators. Anyone on board is welcome to swim. We also have slides on board for added fun. The water at the swim stops is deep, so non-swimmers should enjoy the view from the windows rather than entering the water — but there is plenty to enjoy from the boat. East trip listed on the website states if there is a swim stop. Swim stops are alwasy dependent on good weather. Early and late season we don’t include them because it’s too cold!
The boats: indoor and outdoor space, a bar, and a toilet
Both glass bottom boats — Moon Paradise and Moon Adventure — have a large indoor area with shade and shelter if it is very hot or breezy, and outdoor deck space for those who want fresh air and views. There is a bar on board with snacks and drinks, and you are also welcome to bring your own food and drinks. Both boats have a toilet on board. The Cala Ratjada Express speedboat is smaller and does not have a toilet or a bar — worth knowing if you are travelling with young children.
Which trip should you choose?
Trips run from 1 hour to a full day. Some are round trips that return you to your departure point. Others include a stop of a few hours in Porto Cristo or Cala Millor, so you can explore the town before returning. All options, departure times, durations and what each trip includes are clearly listed on the departure point pages on our website — just go to your nearest departure point and everything is there.
Departure points: Calas de Mallorca, Cala Romantica, Porto Cristo, Sa Coma, Cala Millor, Cala Bona and Cala Ratjada
We depart from seven points along the east coast. The glass bottom boats cover Calas de Mallorca, Porto Cristo, Sa Coma, Cala Millor and Cala Bona. The Cala Ratjada Express is a speedboat service running from Cala Ratjada. All trips are fully accessible and suitable for all the family with no minimum or maximum age. The Cala Ratjada Express can get bumpy and is not recommended for guests with back or neck problems or limited mobility. Its also not suitable for pregnant women.
Practical tips before you go
Book online in advance — our boats reach full capacity regularly in high season and we cannot guarantee space on the day. Arrive at least 5 minutes before departure if you have a ticket, 15 to 20 minutes early if you need to buy one at the port. If you miss your departure we will try to accommodate you on the next trip if there is space, but this cannot be guaranteed. If you suffer from sea sickness, take anti-sickness tablets before you leave — the sea on the east coast can get choppy. Bring sun cream and do not underestimate the sun — the breeze on the boat can make it feel less strong than it is. A light jacket is handy if you are sailing in the morning or evening.
Ready to book? Head to your departure point page on this website, choose your date and trip, and your place is confirmed instantly. We will see you on the water.