The phrase boat charter can mean a lot of things. In Mallorca, where the range runs from party barges to bareboat sailing yachts, it's worth knowing exactly what a full-day motor boat charter looks like before you book. This is an honest account of how a full day on the water with Skyray typically unfolds — from casting off to tying back in at dusk.
Morning: Departure from Es Molinars
Our boats leave from Es Molinars marina on the southwestern edge of Palma Bay, roughly ten minutes by taxi from the city centre. It's a working marina rather than a tourist port, which means the atmosphere is calm rather than chaotic. You'll find us at the berth from about 8:45am; departure is at 9:00am.
The first half-hour is purely pleasant. Palma Bay opens up ahead of you, the Cathedral of La Seu appearing improbably large from the water, and the morning light is at its best — golden, directional, everything shadows and sparkle. Most guests take their first photographs before they've even cleared the breakwater.
Choosing Your Route
A full-day charter from Es Molinars puts you in reach of a substantial stretch of coastline. The classic route heads southeast toward the Migjorn coast: Cala Pi, Cala Varques, Cala des Moro. You can visit two or three in a day without feeling rushed. Alternatively, the western route takes you along the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana — cliff faces, sea caves, and villages perched hundreds of metres above the waterline.
There's no fixed itinerary. The boat is yours for the day. If you find a cala you want to stay at for three hours, you stay for three hours.
Midday: The Swim Stop
The best full-day charters are built around a long midday anchor. You find a cala you like, cut the engine, and the day changes character entirely. Snorkelling, paddling, reading on the bow, a proper picnic — this is what people are describing when they say their Mallorca boat day was the best day of their holiday.
Water temperatures in the western Mediterranean peak in August at around 27°C, but even in late May and early October they're comfortable for swimming. The clarity of the water around Mallorca's rocky southern coast is consistent across the season.
Afternoon: The Return
Most full-day charters make their way back toward Palma through the mid-afternoon. There's usually a second swimming stop on the return leg — somewhere calmer and closer to the marina, somewhere to rinse off and let the day settle before heading ashore.
Arrival back at Es Molinars is typically between 6:00pm and 7:00pm depending on how far you went and how long you lingered. The light is changing, the marina is quiet, and dinner in Palma feels exactly right.
What to Bring
- Sun protection — SPF 50, lip balm, a wide-brimmed hat. Boat decks reflect UV upward as well as filtering it down.
- Layers — Even in high summer, the run out of the marina at 9am can be cooler than expected. A light layer you'll discard by 10am is worth carrying.
- Snorkelling gear — Mask and fins make the swim stops dramatically better.
- Food and drinks — There are no restaurants at anchor. A proper picnic — charcuterie, cheese, bread, fruit, something cold — is the correct preparation for a Mallorcan cala day.
- A dry bag — For phones, cameras, and anything else that doesn't mix well with salt water.
Is a Full Day Right for You?
If you have one day on the water and want to feel like you've genuinely explored a stretch of Mallorca's coast, a full day is the correct answer. If you have limited time or younger children, our half-day options cover either the morning or afternoon slot and still reach some excellent swimming spots.
Check availability for your dates on our fleet page.
