Boat, Tram and Train Tour in Mallorca from the South

Planning a day to see Mallorca often means juggling different transportation options and trying to fit in as much as possible. This Boat, Tram, and Train Tour promises a journey through the island’s most scenic spots using a mix of traditional and modern transport, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of Mallorca’s diverse landscapes. With an average rating of 4.0, it’s clear many travelers appreciate the variety, but some note that the day can feel a little rushed.

What makes this tour stand out are the stunning vistas of the Serra de Tramuntana, the charm of riding the historic Sóller train, and the chance to explore local ports and beaches. The guide’s knowledge and the inclusion of multiple transportation modes add appeal, making it suitable for those who love active, varied days. However, a few reviews suggest that the schedule can be tight, and some stops might feel hurried.

If you enjoy a diverse, scenic day that combines transportation with authentic sights, this tour could be perfect. Just be ready for a full day of moving around and some potentially crowded moments on the tram. Read on for a detailed breakdown of what to expect and whether it’s the right fit for your Mallorca adventure.

Good To Know

• Multiple transportation modes (train, tram, boat, bus) create a dynamic experience.
• Scenic views of Tramuntana, the bay, and coastal highlights are the highlights.
• Guided commentary enriches the journey with local insights.
• Time management might be tight, with some reviews mentioning rushed stops.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, adding convenience.
• Cost reflects a full day’s worth of varied experiences, offering good value for many travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am with a bus transfer from your hotel to the first stop. This is a real plus, especially if you’re staying outside the city center, as it removes the hassle of logistics early on. Once the day wraps up, the return to your hotel is included, simplifying your day and saving you extra planning. The total duration is about 8 hours, which packs in quite a lot but also requires a fair bit of moving.

Port de Sóller: Coastal Charm and a Boat Ride

Your first major stop is Port de Sóller, a lovely port town with a charming bay. Here, you’ll have around two hours of free time to soak up the atmosphere. Reviewers mention that the port is quaint and worth wandering, with a chance to explore shops or grab a quick coffee. The highlight is the boat ride around the bay, included in the tour, which offers a different perspective of the coastline.

One reviewer appreciated the boat trip, noting, “enjoyed exploring the bay by boat,” which suggests this part offers a relaxing break from the busier inland scenery. Keep in mind, though, that time is limited—just enough for a quick look or a snack, so if you’re keen on longer explorations, you’ll need to prioritize.

Sa Calobra: A View of the Torrent de Pareis

Next, the tour visits Sa Calobra Cove, famous for its dramatic cliffs and the Torrent de Pareis gorge. The stop lasts about two hours, giving you a chance to see this spectacular spot. Reviewers highlight the amazing scenery and the drive itself—the bus navigates tight hairpin turns with sheer drops, which can be an exciting but nerve-wracking experience for some.

One traveler described it as “the scenery in Sa Calobra is just stunning,” emphasizing how worthwhile this stop is for nature lovers. However, a note of caution: due to the narrow mountain roads, the journey can be intense, and the time to explore is limited, so be ready for a quick visit.

Sóller: The Historic Village and the Iconic Train

After the coastal highlights, you’ll head to the small village of Sóller. Here, you’ll experience the famous wooden electric train that has been operating since 1912, offering a scenic ride through the Sierra de Tramuntana. Expect about an hour of free time—enough to wander, take photos, or grab a snack.

Travelers mention that the train ride is a highlight, with many appreciating the beautiful landscapes seen along the way. One reviewer called the journey “a fun and scenic way to see the countryside,” and noted the train’s vintage charm. It’s a great chance to slow down and enjoy the tranquility of Mallorca’s interior.

The Serra de Tramuntana: Panoramic Views

The bus tour component takes you through the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning mountain vistas. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to appreciate the rugged beauty of Mallorca’s mountainous terrain, with some reviewers calling it “breathtaking.” The tour vehicle is comfortable, and the driver is experienced, navigating the twists and turns expertly.

Monastery of Lluc and Return

Before heading back to Palma, you’ll stop at the Monastery of Lluc, a spiritual site perched high in the mountains. Here, you get about an hour to explore the grounds, take in the views, and perhaps visit the small shop for souvenirs. This stop offers a peaceful pause in an otherwise busy day.

The return transfer is a direct bus back to your hotel, with the tour wrapping up around late afternoon or early evening.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Variety of Transportation

Switching between the historic train, scenic tram, boat, and bus makes the day feel lively and less monotonous. It’s a perfect way to experience Mallorca’s different landscapes without wearing yourself out with long walks or multiple bookings.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

With stops at Port de Sóller, Sa Calobra, and Lluc Monastery, you get a taste of Mallorca’s coast, mountains, and cultural sites. The train ride in Sóller is often praised for its vintage charm and the breathtaking views along the route.

Guided Insights

The guide adds value with engaging commentary, sharing local stories and pointing out interesting sights. One reviewer praised their knowledgeable guide Tomo who “gave lots of information on route,” making the trip more educational and fun.

Convenience and Value

With hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat ride, and train tickets included, the tour offers solid value for a full, varied day out. For just over $120, you’re getting multiple experiences that would be hard to organize independently.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

The Schedule Can Feel Rushed

Several reviews mention that the day can be quite full, with some stops feeling hurried. For example, Cathy_K expressed a wish for more time to explore, especially in Sóller and the port, which are charming but limited to brief visits.

Crowded Moments

The tram ride can get crowded, according to some travelers, which might reduce comfort and make sightseeing less relaxing. If you prefer quieter, more leisurely experiences, this could be a concern.

The Drive to Sa Calobra

The narrow, winding mountain roads en route to Sa Calobra are spectacular but intense, especially for those prone to motion sickness or discomfort on tight curves.

No Lunch Included

While the tour covers many highlights, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget extra time and money for a meal, especially if you want to sit down somewhere rather than grabbing a quick snack.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This multi-mode tour suits travelers who love storytelling guides, scenic drives, and a variety of transport modes that add adventure to sightseeing. It’s ideal for those who want a full day of exploring Mallorca without the hassle of planning each leg themselves.

It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with busy schedules and want to see a mix of coast, mountains, and cultural sites in one day. However, if you’re seeking more relaxed, in-depth exploration at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Mallorca’s natural beauty and cultural charm, all packed into a single day. The variety of transportation keeps things engaging, and the scenic stops are truly worth seeing. The guided commentary enhances the experience, providing context and stories that bring the scenery to life.

It’s a good choice for travelers who prioritize seeing multiple highlights efficiently and enjoy dynamic days filled with different modes of travel. The value for money is evident, especially considering the inclusions like boat rides and train tickets.

That said, if you prefer more relaxed pacing or longer time at each location, consider the possibility of feeling a little hurried. But overall, this tour strikes a great balance between iconic sights, scenic travel, and practical convenience.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from various hotels, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon return.

Are the boat, train, and tram rides included? Yes, all three modes are part of the package, providing a diverse way to see the island.

How much free time do I get at each stop? Expect around 1-2 hours per main stop, with some visitors feeling it’s enough for a quick explore but not for in-depth sightseeing.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, so plan for a meal on your own during the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 55, making it manageable, though some stops involve walking and navigating mountain roads.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Also, carry some cash for snacks or souvenirs.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, giving flexibility if needed.

What’s the best time to book? The tour is popular, with bookings averaging 35 days in advance, so early booking is advisable to secure your spot.

In summary, this Boat, Tram, and Train Tour in Mallorca offers a lively, scenic, and educational way to explore the island’s key sights, especially for those who enjoy a day full of diverse experiences. It’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting the convenience of guided transport combined with authentic, picture-worthy moments.