Menorca Coves and Beaches Boat Trip With Optional Paella: A Full Review
So, you are considering a boat trip around Menorca’s seriously stunning coves and beaches, eh? Maybe, like me, you spotted a tour with an *optional* paella. Sounds very much like heaven, right? I had to try it, and I am so ready to tell you my opinion of whether this tour is worth your while and give some insight from someone who experienced it firsthand. As a matter of fact, my whole family got on board!
Why Choose a Boat Trip in Menorca?
Menorca, that is one of the Balearic Islands in Spain, truly has coastlines that most folks only dream about. Very secluded beaches and coves that can usually only be reached by boat are everywhere. It’s almost like nature’s way of rewarding the adventurous. As a matter of fact, I believe getting on a boat gives you a totally different perspective of the island, a more relaxing way of soaking up the landscape. Plus, with the option to have someone else manage all the logistics, very few things beat gliding across the turquoise water with a cool sea breeze!
Of course, you could drive around, park, and then hike. Actually, some places on the island would be better approached by land, especially if you have mobility issues or you do not like boats. But just the feeling of the sea air and the ability to see a large part of the coastline make the boat a fantastic option, I believe. I have tried both, so to be honest, I will always advocate for both experiences to give a broader look at Menorca.
What to Expect on Board
Alright, when they say “boat trip,” it can mean a whole range of experiences. Yet, most tours around Menorca offer more or less the same things, at least in broad strokes: visiting certain specific spots that show off the great views the island has to offer, dropping anchor in a quiet cove, a chance to swim and snorkel, maybe stand-up paddle boarding, and some sort of lunch/dinner choice.
When it comes to this boat trip I took, it was rather about visiting some pristine beaches, snorkeling in those bright blue waters, and chilling out on the deck while working on my tan, actually. Depending on the company you pick, things will likely be different when it comes to how many people will be sharing the space, the kind of boat, or even what food and drink will be on sale. As a matter of fact, knowing those differences could be key to finding the right tour.
The Menorca Coves and Beaches Boat Trip: My Experience
So, I booked this boat trip because I had a pretty strong urge to explore a few of Menorca’s hidden gems. I figured, why try and battle my way along winding roads to get to a pretty cove when someone could just take me there by boat? Plus, there was that mention of paella…it certainly was too good an offer to turn down.
Setting Off and Seeing the Sights
The meeting point was in a very friendly marina. As a matter of fact, finding the boat and crew were very straightforward. We were greeted, actually, with smiles, and given the important points related to safety; then, off we went! At first, the views of the coastline are wonderful; rocky cliffs that meet the eye every direction you look, small charming houses and, of course, other boats and ships along the way.
We went to several stops that were perfect spots to get out your camera. As I was saying, one stop offered very turquoise water that had to be seen to be believed. Later on, there were opportunities for quick dips in the water; definitely grab the snorkeling gear provided if this type of tour interests you. Very soon, even those who might typically shy away are going to want a piece of the bright blue ocean. So make the most of it. It is lovely. Honestly.
Swimming and Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Waters
One thing I wanted from this trip was swimming in some of Menorca’s crystal-clear waters. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The boat stopped at various coves, and there was more or less time for folks to jump into the clear, clean water. Visibility, actually, was excellent, making it super fun for snorkeling, actually. The sea life might not be the most diverse, so you should adjust your expectations appropriately, but still there are things to observe.
Floating there, like surrounded by the sun’s warmth, with views down into the ocean, actually, was unforgettable. It’s nearly almost like charging your batteries in a stunning, peaceful location. It felt very much good for the soul, to be perfectly honest!
The Paella Experience
The highlight for a lot of people (including yours truly) was the optional paella. There’s just something special about freshly prepared paella on a boat with the sea all around. Paella often is a combination of rice, meat, and vegetables, so usually it covers most people’s tastes.
Now, while it tasted fine and was freshly cooked on board, I am saying that it didn’t totally blow me away, and in fact I think there may have been more appealing stuff on the menu that I wish I had picked instead, so consider all of the selections on offer and be adventurous with your order because you are on an adventure. I was actually very much wishing I’d brought some additional nibbles, just little bites for myself to make sure that the kids were completely satisfied, as you know they could be. So very definitely consider what you and any kids might appreciate and check if you can bring that along. That could be some food you grab from a store before hopping on.
What Makes This Boat Trip Special?
Menorca is, indeed, full of boat trips, I will be honest with you. Therefore, there has to be something specific that separates any given tour. Here is what I discovered.
The Crew and Atmosphere
The people running the boat very much make the trip! Our crew was super pleasant and helpful. Always prepared to tell some hidden histories or tips about the sites we visited. And as I was saying, it seemed they genuinely loved what they do, spreading good vibes among all the tourists, so too, it makes things flow even more naturally.
In our boat trip, there was quite a relaxing, enjoyable vibe without being over-the-top rowdy. It made it wonderful for families such as myself, as well as couples or people traveling alone.
Value for Money
Boat tours aren’t, as a matter of fact, always the least costly thing on your trip, but considering what you are seeing and experiencing, I definitely consider this very specific tour worth the outlay, particularly in comparison to other excursions I had seen. As well as that, adding on the paella made the whole thing extra fantastic (even if it was not 100% the very best paella in the entire universe!).
In reality, assess what is important to you while looking at how long the trip is. Longer isn’t, actually, constantly better; think about which spots you visit and what comes as part of the deal. Actually, when you find a tour that appears just right, I always say jump on it. These types of boat trips are extremely well booked, so don’t hold out forever or risk not having a slot. We all really understand FOMO!
Tips for Making the Most of Your Boat Trip
Like your day at the beach, a handful of smart actions is probably all you need to have an even smoother boat experience. So here are the essential things, I believe.
What to Bring
Sunscreen, a towel, and a swimming costume are seriously very much a must! Also, I’d add sunglasses, a hat, and a light top, just in case it does get cool. Don’t forget some money if you have plans to purchase additional drinks or munchies. And most seriously very much of all, bring your camera! As a matter of fact, those moments ought to be saved, very like.
Best Time to Go
Trips during the morning or later mid-day have much milder sunlight and often calmer oceans. And seriously avoid going in the height of the summer heat if possible; things just aren’t constantly as wonderful when you are excessively hot and crowded!
Things to Note
I feel it’s very like always a fantastic idea to verify exactly what the company’s cancellation rules are, too, if there is anything you need to be worried about that can cause a possible change of plans. Bring anti-seasickness tablets if, similarly to your writer here, you get seasick, although as I was saying, the seas around Menorca are usually pretty friendly, I think.
Is the Menorca Boat Trip Worth It? My Conclusion
If like I have been you are wondering whether or not a boat trip to tour Menorca’s coves is a worthy expense and venture, that depends entirely on what your expectations and likes and dislikes are and whether any health restrictions apply to your situation.
- The seas will tend to be calm
- Some beautiful vistas and wonderful waters.
- It can be relaxing to sit and enjoy a large part of the Menorcan coastline while moving from cove to cove.
In most instances it’s money extremely very well spent, but hopefully, now that you’ve learned from my encounter you will go in with an extra, greater level of confidence as well as awareness!