Boat routes in Menorca fall into three areas: the north coast, the south coast and the coves of Ciutadella. As a skipper, I’ll tell you what each one offers, how much time you need and how we choose the best one every day depending on the wind.
In short:
- North coast: wild, quiet coves such as Illa Colom, Cala Presili and Favàritx lighthouse. We leave from Mahón harbour.
- South coast: white sand and turquoise water, such as Binibeca, Isla del Aire and Cales Coves. The best for snorkelling. Also from Mahón.
- Ciutadella coves: the most famous beaches, such as Macarella, Turqueta and Mitjana. A full-day trip from Es Canutells.
The three boat routes in Menorca
Menorca has two very different coasts and an area in the southwest with the best-known coves on the island. That is why private skippered trips are grouped into three routes. None has a fixed itinerary: the stops are decided along the way, looking for calm water, good anchorages and quiet coves.
North coast route
The north coast is Menorca at its most natural: reddish cliffs, rocky coves and lots of space. We leave from Mahón harbour and the route adapts to 4, 6 or 8 hours.
Along the way we usually pass Illa Colom, Cala Rambla, Cala Tortuga, Cala Presili, Favàritx lighthouse and the beaches of Mongofre. It is ideal if you are looking for quieter coves and a sense of adventure, as long as the tramontana isn’t blowing.
You will find every stop on the north coast route.
South coast route
The south coast is the classic image of Menorca: white sand coves, turquoise water and shallow seabeds, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. We also leave from Mahón harbour, on 4, 6 or 8-hour trips.
The usual stops are Cala Rafalet, Isla del Aire, Biniparratx, Binibeca, Es Canutells cave, Cales Coves, Cala en Porter and Binigaus. It is the most relaxed route and the one that works best with children or on days when the north is windy.
You will find every stop on the south coast route.
Ciutadella coves route
In the southwest of the island are some of Menorca’s most famous beaches: Son Saura, Es Talaier, Cala Turqueta, Macarella, Cala Mitjana, Trebalúger and Cala Escorxada. They look much better from the sea, and you don’t have to walk from the car park.
This route leaves from Es Canutells and is usually done as a full-day, 8-hour trip, to explore the area calmly. With the Beneteau Flyer 7 there is a 60 € supplement. You will find the details on the Ciutadella beaches route.
How to choose between the boat routes in Menorca
- If you want peace and wild scenery: north coast.
- If you are coming with children or want to snorkel: south coast.
- If you want to see the most famous coves in one day: Ciutadella.
- If you have 4 hours: north or south from Mahón. For Ciutadella, 8 hours is best.
On the day of the trip, the skipper checks the wind direction and the sea conditions to adjust the route. If the coast you chose isn’t right, they will suggest the other one, so the day is comfortable and safe.
Skipper’s tip: the best thing is to let the skipper guide you. They know each area and the day’s weather, and will tell you the options for a perfect trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best of the boat routes in Menorca?
It depends on what you are looking for and on the wind that day. The south coast is the most complete for swimming and snorkelling, the north the wildest and Ciutadella has the most famous coves.
Can you change route on the day?
Yes. If the wind makes one coast uncomfortable, the skipper suggests the other. We check the AEMET marine forecast every morning.
Where do the routes leave from?
The north and south coast routes leave from Mahón harbour. The Ciutadella coves route leaves from Es Canutells.
How long is each route?
North and south can be done in 4, 6 or 8 hours. Ciutadella is recommended as an 8-hour trip.
How much does a boat route with a skipper cost?
From 420 € per boat for 4 hours on the Karnic SL601, and from 490 € on the Beneteau Flyer 7. You will find all prices in what skippered boat rental costs and includes.
If you already know which of the boat routes in Menorca you fancy, check the available dates for the Karnic SL601 or the Beneteau Flyer 7, or write to us on WhatsApp and we will help you choose.
