BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide

Renting a boat in Mallorca: Palma and Alcúdia, two different seas

Palma in the south, Alcúdia in the north: two moods for renting a boat in Mallorca, the Cabrera park, and what to know before booking.

By Clément Lacaille, editor of Boat-Comparator · updated 7 Aug 2026

Mallorca is not one sea but two: Palma bay, urban and lively, and Alcúdia bay, calmer and facing north. The port you pick genuinely changes the day.

Palma: the bay that has everything

From Palma's marina, an hour's cruise takes you past the cathedral, to the coves of Calvià (Illetes, Portals), or south toward Cala Pi. Heavy summer traffic, but an unmatched choice of boats on the island.

Alcúdia: the quiet northern bay

A large, shallow, sheltered bay, ideal for families and no-license boats. From Alcúdia or Port de Pollença you easily reach Cape Formentor, a spectacular cliff-lined headland, and the crossing to Menorca (Mahón) stays realistic for catamarans and sailboats on a calm day.

Cabrera national park

South of Mallorca, the Cabrera archipelago is a maritime and terrestrial national park: anchoring is regulated and the number of boats admitted each day is capped, with a permit to request in advance from the park. A professional operator knows the process — worth checking before locking this stop into your itinerary.

What it costs

The usual western Mediterranean ranges apply: €200-600/day for a RIB or motorboat, €300-700/day for a sailboat, and €800-1,500/day for a catamaran in high season.

Our tips

Base yourself in Palma for nightlife and choice of boats, in Alcúdia for calm and kids.
Book the Cabrera slot weeks ahead in July-August.
Compare offers in Palma, Alcúdia and Mahón to pick the right base for your dates.

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