A sail out of Port d’Andratx feels like a reset button. You get a small-group private charter that trades city streets for calm sea time, with planned anchoring in standout coves. Two things I really like are the included snorkelling gear and SUP and the way the day balances action with actual downtime. One heads-up: the experience needs decent weather, and some bookings are described as non-refundable, so think carefully before you lock it in.

You’ll spend the morning moving under sail, then slow down on the water where you can swim, snorkel, or paddle, and finally finish with a quieter coastal stretch in Sant Elm. The day is built for people who want sea views without the stress of planning their own route. The main drawback to consider is that snorkeling can be chilly depending on conditions, so bring a backup plan for shorter time in the water.

Key Things That Make This Sail Different

• Private group up to 11 means a calmer vibe and more personal attention from the captain and crew
• Snorkelling gear plus SUP are included, so you can start the water time immediately
• Cove hopping around Cala Llamp, Cala d’Egos, and Cala Blanca gives you multiple swims instead of one long stop
• Sant Elm + Sa Dragonera viewpoint delivers big scenery with minimal effort
• Snacks, refreshments, and a picnic help you stay out longer without hunting for food

Why Port d’Andratx Sets the Tone for a Great Day at Sea

Port d’Andratx is a good place to start if you want the Mallorca feeling early. This is not a generic marina with buses and crowds. You’re meeting at Restaurante Club de Vela, and from the start the day feels anchored in the local pace.

Once you’re onboard, the charter heads north-northwest when conditions allow. That matters because it’s not just a boat ride. You get a chunk of open-water sailing time (about 1.5 to 2 hours) before you even reach the coves. That stretch is where the day clicks into place, even before you put on snorkelling gear. The boat time itself is part of the value, especially for couples and families who want a true “day out,” not a quick photo stop.

How the Day Flows (and Why the Timing Works)

This trip runs roughly 4 to 8 hours, depending on sea conditions and how the captain times the stops. It’s a flexible half to full-day format, which is exactly what you want on the coast. Weather and water conditions can change fast, so a sail charter that adjusts makes the day feel safer and more enjoyable.

Here’s the rhythm you should expect:

• Depart Port d’Andratx with sail time
• Anchor for around 2 hours in the cove area for swimming, snorkelling, and SUP
• Head to Sant Elm for about 2 hours of anchoring and relaxed water time, with the view of Sa Dragonera

The tradeoff is you give up the strict “we will be here at 10:30” certainty. The upside is you gain a day that’s shaped around the best conditions, not a rigid schedule.

Cove Time Around Cala Llamp, Cala d’Egos, and Cala Blanca

The middle of the day is all about the coves. You’ll drop anchor in a selection that can include Cala Llamp, Cala d’Egos, and Cala Blanca. The idea here is simple: multiple anchor spots give you a better chance of finding water you actually want to swim in, rather than committing to just one location.

This is also where you use the included snorkelling gear and SUP equipment. You’ll typically have about 2 hours, which is enough time to do one focused activity and still have room to relax. I like this structure because it avoids the all-or-nothing trap. If you feel like moving, you can. If you want to float and watch the water, you can do that too.

A practical planning tip for snorkelling

One review noted that the water was super cold when snorkeling started, and that time in the water had to be short. That’s a real consideration for Mallorca sails, since conditions can vary by month and wind. If you get cold easily, plan on shorter snorkel sessions and focus more on SUP or just swimming in the shallower water. Wear sunscreen, and bring a swimsuit you don’t mind getting salt-stiff.

Picnic and snacks: small detail, big payoff

During the cove time, you get a picnic with locally sourced delicacies, plus snacks and refreshments. This is the kind of inclusion that makes the day feel complete. Instead of spending your best sea time searching for lunch, you’re already fed and ready to stay longer in the water. It’s also one less thing to pack and worry about.

Sant Elm: Quiet Coastline and the Sa Dragonera View

After the cove stop, the boat heads to Sant Elm, a calm coastal village where the day slows down. You’ll anchor there for around 2 hours. This is a good moment to shift from “activity mode” to “enjoy the view mode.”

From Sant Elm, you’ll get a strong look at Sa Dragonera, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Even without needing facts, the shape of the island on the horizon gives your day a clear visual anchor. It’s the kind of view that makes photos look better because your eyes are already relaxing.

Water time still matters here

You’re not “done” when you arrive. The plan includes another chance to swim or refresh in the water while anchored. That second swim window is one of the quiet wins of this itinerary. You can choose to take it easy after earlier snorkelling or SUP, and you still get real water time built in.

The Captain and Crew: What Good Service Feels Like Here

A standout from the positive feedback is the professional captain and crew. People praised the captain’s approachability and how the team handled service throughout the day. One review specifically said the captain and mate were capable and friendly, and that they shared area history and knowledge.

That kind of onboard guidance matters more than you might think. It helps you:

• feel safe in open water
• know when and where it’s practical to swim
• understand what you’re seeing from the boat

At the same time, not every experience will feel perfectly informative. One review described limited information from the guides, though the island views still made the day worthwhile. My advice: treat the sailing as the main event. Even if you don’t get a deep lecture onboard, you should still enjoy the scenery and water time.

Equipment Included: Snorkelling Gear and SUP, Without the Hassle

You’re not responsible for bringing snorkels or a board. Snorkelling gear and SUP are included, along with snacks, refreshments, and insurance. That’s a big value point because it reduces prep and saves money compared to renting gear separately.

What to do with that information:

• Arrive ready to use the gear immediately.
• If you’re bringing your own mask, you can still use the provided gear, but having your own fit can be more comfortable.
• For SUP, wear swim-friendly shoes or plan for wet decks. Your feet can slip, especially if conditions are breezy.

You should also wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You’ll be on and off the boat, and it’s better to wear something you can move in easily. Sunscreen is strongly recommended, because you’ll be exposed while sailing and while anchored.

Price and Value: $859.48 for Up to 11 People

The price is $859.48 per group, up to 11 people. That can sound high until you break it down into what’s included. You’re paying for a private sailing charter, with a professional captain, insurance, and the equipment (snorkelling gear and SUP). You also get snacks, refreshments, and a picnic, not just basic transport.

For families and small groups, this is often where the math starts to make sense. You’re not splitting the cost with strangers like on a public cruise, and you’re getting multiple water stops plus sailing time. If you show up as a smaller group, you’re effectively paying more per person, but you still get the privacy and flexibility that many group charters can’t offer.

A key value check for you: this is priced for a group, so if you’re two people traveling and none of your friends are joining, it may feel more expensive than a standard day trip. If you can fill a few spots, it becomes a smarter deal.

Where You Meet, How You Get There, and What to Expect at Dock

You’ll meet at Restaurante Club de Vela, on Avinguda de Gabriel Roca i Garcías, 27, 07157 Andratx, Illes Balears, Spain. The activity ends back at the meeting point. It’s near public transportation, which helps if you don’t have a car.

Also, you’ll use a mobile ticket. So keep your phone charged, and make sure you can access your confirmation when you arrive.

Because it’s a private activity, only your group participates. That reduces waiting around and usually keeps the day feeling more personal, especially when the crew is focused on your group’s pace.

A Note on Weather and Booking Confidence

This experience requires good weather. Since it’s on open water, it makes sense that the captain may cancel or adjust based on conditions. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you should be offered a different date or a full refund.

One more thing to consider: one unhappy report complained about a trip cancellation after the booking was confirmed. I can’t predict what will happen with your specific dates, but it’s worth paying attention to the terms and understanding that the experience is described as non-refundable and cannot be changed. If you’re booking far ahead, pick dates with a little buffer so you can handle rerouting plans if needed.

Who This Sailing Day Is Perfect For

This charter fits best if you want:

• Small-group time with a professional captain rather than a crowded cruise
• A mix of sail time and multiple chances to swim
• Snorkelling and SUP included, so you can actually do the activities you came for
• A relaxed pace with picnic food onboard

It’s also a great match for people who enjoy scenic coastlines and want a memorable view of Sa Dragonera without doing the logistics alone.

If you’re only interested in a quick, low-effort photo stop, this may be more active than you want. And if you hate being in cold water, plan for shorter snorkel time and focus more on SUP or gentle swimming.

Should You Book This Sailing Day from Port d’Andratx?

I’d recommend booking if your priority is a private, equipment-included sailing day with real water time and strong scenery, especially if you can split the group cost with a few friends or family. The included snorkelling gear, SUP, picnic, snacks, and a crew that gets praised for service are the ingredients for a day that feels well planned and low stress.

I’d think twice if you’re booking with very strict date constraints or you’re likely to be upset by weather-based changes, since the experience is described as non-refundable. Also, if you’re sensitive to cold water, go in knowing you might want shorter snorkel sessions.

If you’re flexible, bring sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and show up ready to enjoy the sea. This is the kind of Mallorca day that feels simple, but leaves you with a boatload of memories.

FAQ

How long is the sailing day from Port d’Andratx?

The tour lasts about 4 to 8 hours, depending on conditions.

What is included in the price?

Included are the sailing charter, snacks and refreshments, insurance, a professional captain, snorkelling gear, and SUP.

Is pick-up service included?

No. Pick-up service is not included.

Where do we meet?

You meet at Restaurante Club de Vela, Avinguda de Gabriel Roca i Garcías, 27, 07157 Andratx, Illes Balears, Spain. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It is private, and only your group participates.

What should I bring or wear?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. It is recommended to bring sunscreen.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it is cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.