The Moonfish glass-bottom boat trip offers a relaxed way to explore the coves, cliffs and sea caves of Mallorca’s eastern coastline without making the long overland walk to Cala Varques.
The shared catamaran cruise sails past some of the most attractive locations between Porto Cristo and Calas de Mallorca, with possible views of Cala Romántica, Cala Falcó, Cala Magraner, Cala Virgili and other undeveloped coves.
The advertised highlight is a swimming stop in the clear water around Cala Varques. The exact swimming location, duration and coastal route remain subject to wind, waves, boat traffic and the captain’s safety decision.
The trip is marketed as a 2.5-hour excursion, although Musement currently also displays two-hour options and an overall duration range of two to four hours. Travellers should therefore select carefully and follow the precise duration, departure time and boarding point printed on the final voucher.
This is a shared sightseeing cruise aboard one of Moonfish’s glass-bottom catamarans.
The journey combines:
Views of Mallorca’s eastern coastline
Natural coves and limestone cliffs
Underwater viewing windows
Possible entry into sea caves
A swimming stop
Indoor and outdoor boat seating
The excursion normally returns passengers to the original boarding point unless the selected ticket specifically states otherwise.
It is not a beach-transfer service, private yacht charter, guided snorkelling tour or full-day island cruise.
Quick Tour Facts
Current Musement price: From $34
Advertised title duration: 2.5 hours
Musement duration range: 2–4 hours
Tour type: Shared glass-bottom catamaran cruise
Area: Eastern and southeastern Mallorca
Advertised swim location: Cala Varques
Swim stop: Weather permitting
Transfers: Not included
Food and drinks: Not included in the ticket
Onboard purchases: Snacks and drinks generally available
Voucher: Printed ticket required
Languages listed: English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, Polish and Swedish
Wheelchair suitability under Musement: Not suitable
Reduced mobility suitability: Not suitable
Provider: TUI España Turismo
Cancellation: Full refund up to one day before departure
Musement reviews: No customer ratings currently displayed
Important Duration Clarification
The product title refers to a 2.5-hour trip, but the main Musement information currently says:
Duration from two to four hours
Choice between a two-hour and 2.5-hour trip
Moonfish offers numerous routes from several departure points, and similar cruises can last from around 90 minutes to four hours.
The duration depends on:
The selected pier
The departure time
The chosen route
Whether a boat transfer is involved
Sea conditions
The number and location of swim stops
Do not rely on the title alone. Check the booking summary before payment and the printed voucher after confirmation.
Where Does the Boat Depart?
The public Musement page does not display one clear meeting-point address.
Moonfish currently operates from several ports and beach jetties on Mallorca’s east coast, including:
Calas de Mallorca
Cala Romántica
Porto Cristo
Sa Coma
Cala Millor
Cala Bona
The route description corresponds to the coastline around Porto Cristo, Cala Romántica, Cala Falcó, Cala Varques and Calas de Mallorca.
The exact pier must be taken from the final voucher.
This is particularly important because transfers are not included. Travellers who arrive at the wrong Moonfish ticket office may miss the departure.
Why Book This Boat Trip?
Cala Varques is a remote natural cove that is difficult to reach by land. Visiting by boat avoids the lengthy walk, limited roadside parking and summer heat associated with an independent visit.
Other reasons to book include:
A relatively short coastal excursion
Views unavailable from the road
Access to hidden coves and sea caves
An included swimming opportunity
Underwater viewing for non-swimmers
Indoor shade and outdoor deck areas
Suitability for families comfortable on boats
No need to charter a private vessel
The trip is especially useful for visitors staying on Mallorca’s east coast who want a straightforward marine activity without committing to a full-day cruise.
Typical Coastal Route
The precise sequence depends on the boarding location, but the advertised coastline includes several of the following areas.
Porto Cristo
Porto Cristo is a natural harbour surrounded by a compact town and marina. It is also close to the Caves of Drach and Caves of Hams.
Cala Romántica
Also known as S’Estany d’en Mas, this sandy cove is framed by limestone cliffs and holiday accommodation.
Cala Falcó
Cala Falcó is a small, rugged cove with clear water and a largely undeveloped setting.
Cala Varques
Cala Varques is the principal advertised swim location and one of the most photogenic coves on the route.
Cala Virgili and Cala Magraner
These neighbouring coves may be seen or used as alternative swimming areas when conditions make Cala Varques unsuitable.
Calas de Mallorca
This resort area contains several beaches and serves as one of Moonfish’s main departure points.
The captain may shorten, reverse or alter the route if weather or harbour traffic requires it.
The Moonfish Glass-Bottom Catamaran
Moonfish operates two principal glass-bottom vessels known as Moon Paradise and Moon Adventure.
The route between Porto Cristo and Calas de Mallorca is generally associated with Moon Paradise.
Typical facilities on the glass-bottom boats include:
Outdoor deck space
Indoor shaded seating
Underwater viewing windows
Toilet
Snack and drinks bar
Swimming access
Slides on suitable trips
The exact vessel is not guaranteed and may change for operational reasons.
What Does Glass Bottom Mean?
The floor of the entire boat is not made from glass.
The catamarans have large submerged viewing windows along the lower part of the hull.
Passengers move to the viewing area and look horizontally through the windows into the water.
The clearest underwater views generally occur when:
The boat is stationary
The sea is calm
The water is clear
Fish gather near the boat
There is sufficient natural light
During fast travel, bubbles, waves and movement may make underwater visibility limited.
No particular species or quantity of fish can be guaranteed.
Cala Varques
Cala Varques is an undeveloped cove in the municipality of Manacor, between Cala Romántica and Calas de Mallorca.
Its principal natural features include:
Fine pale sand
Turquoise water
Low limestone cliffs
Mediterranean scrub
No large resort buildings
A natural rock arch nearby
The sandy beach is approximately 90 metres long.
Independent land access involves a substantial walk with no guarantee of convenient parking. Arriving by boat is therefore one of the easiest ways to see the cove.
The catamaran may anchor offshore rather than land passengers on the sand.
The Cala Varques Swim Stop
The advertised trip includes a swim stop in the Cala Varques area.
Moonfish describes typical stops as lasting around 20 minutes, sometimes slightly longer.
The captain chooses the exact anchoring position based on:
Wind direction
Wave height
Boat traffic
Water depth
Visibility
Safety
The stop can be moved to another nearby cove or cancelled when conditions are unsuitable.
Swimming takes place from the boat in deep water. Passengers should not expect to wade gradually into the sea from a beach.
Do You Need to Be a Strong Swimmer?
Non-swimmers should remain aboard and use the underwater viewing windows.
The swim area may be too deep to stand, and natural currents can be present even inside a sheltered cove.
Guests entering the water should be able to:
Float independently
Swim back to the boat
Use the boarding ladder
Remain calm in deep water
Follow crew instructions
Anyone uncertain about swimming ability should speak with the crew before entering.
Boat Slides and Water Entry
The glass-bottom boats generally have slides that may be used during designated swimming stops.
Availability depends on the vessel and crew instructions.
Before using a slide:
Wait for the crew’s signal
Make sure the landing area is clear
Remove glasses and loose items
Do not dive headfirst
Move away promptly after entering the water
Passengers can normally use a ladder instead of a slide.
Snorkelling and Marine Life
Clear water can make the swim stop suitable for casual snorkelling.
Possible marine life includes:
Small coastal fish
Sea bream
Wrasse
Seagrass communities
Occasional jellyfish
Sea urchins near rocky areas
Snorkelling equipment is not listed as included.
Guests wishing to snorkel should confirm whether personal masks are permitted and whether rental equipment is available.
Never touch or stand on marine plants, rocks or animals.
Sea Caves and Natural Arch
The east coast of Mallorca contains numerous limestone caves, overhangs and arches.
Moonfish boats may make a partial entrance into selected sea caves when conditions allow.
The Cala Varques area is also known for a large natural rock arch.
Passengers should understand that:
Cave entry is never guaranteed
The boat may only approach the entrance
Wave conditions can make entry unsafe
Passengers remain aboard
Swimming inside caves is not part of the standard ticket
What Is Included?
The current Musement booking includes:
Shared catamaran cruise
Use of the boat’s standard passenger facilities
Advertised swimming stop or stops
Coastal sightseeing
Underwater viewing windows
Instant booking confirmation
What Is Not Included?
Transport to the pier
Hotel pickup
Hotel return
Food
Drinks
Towel
Snorkelling equipment
Professional photographs
Reserved seating
Gratuities
Printed Ticket Requirement
Musement currently specifies printed ticket only.
Do not assume that showing the booking on a phone will be accepted.
Print the complete voucher before travelling.
It is still sensible to keep a digital backup on the phone in case the printed copy is damaged or lost.
Check that the printed document clearly shows:
Departure point
Departure time
Selected duration
Passenger numbers
Booking reference
Arrival and Boarding
Moonfish recommends arriving at least five minutes before departure when a valid ticket is already held.
For a Musement booking, arriving 15 minutes early is more prudent because visitors may need to:
Find the correct pier
Exchange or validate the printed voucher
Locate the correct vessel
Queue for boarding
Ask about the swim stop
Boats operate to a timetable and may not be able to wait for late passengers.
Food and Drinks
Food and drinks are not included in the Musement ticket.
Moonfish’s glass-bottom boats generally have an onboard bar selling:
Cold drinks
Water
Soft drinks
Beer or other beverages
Packaged snacks
The selection and payment methods can change.
The operator also generally permits passengers to bring their own modest refreshments.
Avoid large coolers, glass bottles and food that creates litter or spills.
Children and Infants
Moonfish’s current direct pricing generally classifies:
Children: Ages 3–12
Infants: Under 3
Under-threes are often free on direct operator tickets, but the precise Musement age categories must be checked during booking.
Children should be supervised continuously, especially:
Near railings
On stairs
At the underwater windows
During boarding
At the swim platform
When using slides
Parents should not assume that child flotation equipment is automatically provided in the preferred size.
Accessibility and Reduced Mobility
Musement states that this particular activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with reduced mobility.
The operator’s general website says that some Moonfish boats and piers may be accessible in favourable sea conditions, but this does not override the terms attached to the Musement product.
Possible barriers include:
Steps at the pier
Moving gangways
Uneven boarding surfaces
Narrow lower-deck access
Stairs to underwater windows
Boat motion
Guests with mobility requirements should contact the provider before purchasing and obtain confirmation for the exact pier and vessel.
Seasickness
Musement specifically states that the trip is not suitable for guests who suffer from travel sickness.
The east coast can become choppy even when the sky is clear.
Ways to reduce discomfort include:
Eat a light meal before sailing
Avoid excessive alcohol
Choose a position near the centre of the vessel
Look toward the horizon
Remain in fresh air when safe
Use medically appropriate motion-sickness treatment before departure
Follow medicine instructions and seek pharmacy or medical advice when uncertain.
Weather and Sea Conditions
The cruise is subject to marine conditions.
The operator may:
Change the swim location
Omit a swim stop
Avoid sea caves
Alter the route
Delay departure
Cancel the trip
Swimming usually operates during the warmer part of the season and may not be available during early spring, late autumn or unusually cold weather.
The captain’s safety decision is final.
Jellyfish and Marine Conditions
Jellyfish can occur around Mallorca, especially when currents and wind bring them toward the coast.
Before entering the water:
Listen to crew advice
Look for visible jellyfish
Do not touch stranded animals
Leave the water if instructed
If stung, notify the crew immediately.
Do not rub the affected area or rinse it with fresh water unless trained staff advise doing so.
What to Wear
Swimwear under light clothing
Comfortable non-slip shoes
Hat with a secure fit
Light jacket for wind
Sun-protective clothing
Flip-flops may be convenient but can become slippery on wet decks.
Aqua shoes are useful when swimming near rocky sections, although guests usually enter and leave directly from the boat.
What to Bring
Printed voucher: Required by Musement.
Swimwear: Wear it before boarding.
Towel: Not included.
Sunscreen: Use a water-resistant product.
Hat: Secure it against wind.
Sunglasses: Useful against glare.
Light jacket: Sea breeze can feel cool.
Water: Bring some or buy it aboard.
Cash or card: For onboard purchases.
Waterproof phone pouch: Useful near the swim platform.
Motion-sickness medicine: When appropriate.
Photography Tips
Choose an Outdoor Position Early
Good deck positions can fill quickly after boarding.
Photograph the Coast, Not Only the Water
The cliffs, caves and natural arch provide stronger visual context than open-sea photographs alone.
Use the Underwater Windows at the Stop
Visibility is generally better when the vessel is stationary.
Protect the Phone
Use a wrist strap or waterproof case near the swimming area.
Avoid Blocking Passages
Do not stop on stairs or narrow deck areas to take photographs.
Swimming and Boat Safety
Listen to the safety briefing
Follow all crew instructions
Do not enter the water before permission is given
Use only authorised ladders and slides
Do not dive from railings
Keep children within reach
Do not swim beneath the hull
Return immediately when the crew signals
Avoid alcohol before swimming
The sea can change quickly, and the boat may need to leave the cove earlier than expected.
Getting to the Departure Pier
Because no transfer is included, guests must arrange their own journey.
Possible departure resorts are spread across a considerable section of Mallorca’s east coast.
Before travel, confirm:
The exact resort
The name of the pier or jetty
The nearest landmark
Walking distance from parking
Whether taxis can reach the boarding point
The required arrival time
Do not navigate simply to “Moonfish Mallorca,” as several ticket offices and piers may appear.
Parking and Transport
Parking conditions vary by departure town.
Porto Cristo, Cala Millor and other resort centres can become congested in summer.
Allow extra time for:
Finding a legal parking space
Walking to the waterfront
Locating the correct pier
Queuing at the ticket office
Public buses serve several east-coast resorts, but service frequency may not align conveniently with the boat departure.
A taxi can be practical, although return availability should be considered.
Who Is This Trip Best For?
The cruise is particularly suitable for:
Families
Couples
First-time visitors to eastern Mallorca
Guests wanting a short boat experience
Travellers interested in coastal scenery
Confident swimmers
Non-swimmers who enjoy underwater windows
Visitors staying near Porto Cristo or Calas de Mallorca
Who Might Prefer Another Activity?
A different excursion may be more suitable for:
People with serious seasickness
Wheelchair users under the Musement conditions
Guests with significant mobility limitations
Travellers wanting a private boat
Visitors seeking several hours on Cala Varques beach
People wanting guided snorkelling equipment
Guests expecting a completely transparent floor
Is the Trip Good Value?
The current starting price is reasonable for a multi-hour coastal cruise with an included swimming stop.
The ticket provides:
Boat transport
Coastal sightseeing
Underwater viewing
Access to remote coves
Swimming from the boat
Possible sea-cave viewing
The main additional costs are:
Transport to the pier
Parking
Food and drinks
Snorkelling equipment
Personal purchases
Value is strongest for travellers staying nearby. A visitor travelling from Palma may spend considerably more time and money reaching the east coast than on the cruise itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Moonfish Cala Varques Boat Trip
How much does the trip cost?
Musement currently shows prices starting from $34.
How long does the trip last?
The title says 2.5 hours, while the page currently displays options from two to four hours. Check the selected ticket carefully.
Where does the boat leave from?
The public Musement page does not show one fixed address. The printed voucher will identify the boarding pier.
Are hotel transfers included?
No.
Does the boat definitely stop at Cala Varques?
Cala Varques is the advertised swim location, but the captain can use another cove or cancel swimming when conditions require it.
How long is the swim stop?
Moonfish says typical swimming stops last around 20 minutes, sometimes longer.
Does the boat land on Cala Varques beach?
Not normally. Swimming generally takes place directly from the anchored boat.
Is the water shallow?
No. The water around the boat is usually deep.
Can non-swimmers join?
Yes. They can remain aboard and use the underwater viewing windows.
Are flotation devices provided?
The listing does not clearly specify personal flotation equipment for recreational swimming. Ask the crew before entering.
Is snorkelling gear included?
No snorkelling equipment is listed as included.
Can I bring my own mask?
Generally yes, but confirm onboard rules.
Does the boat have a real glass floor?
No. It has large submerged side windows in the lower hull.
Will I see fish?
Fish are often visible during stops, but wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Does the boat enter caves?
It may make partial entrances into suitable sea caves when conditions allow.
Are there slides?
The Moonfish glass-bottom boats generally have slides available during suitable swim stops.
Is there a toilet?
Moonfish states that its principal glass-bottom boats have toilets.
Can I buy refreshments?
Yes. A bar and snack service is generally available, although refreshments are not included in the ticket.
Can I take my own food?
The operator generally allows modest personal refreshments. Avoid glass containers and large coolers.
Do I need to print the ticket?
Yes. Musement currently states printed ticket only.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive around 15 minutes early, even though the operator says five minutes may be sufficient for passengers who already hold a valid ticket.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, with continuous adult supervision.
Are babies free?
Moonfish’s direct pricing generally allows under-threes free, but check the exact Musement fare rules.
Can I bring a stroller?
Storage and boarding depend on the pier and vessel. Musement says the activity is unsuitable for reduced mobility, so confirm before booking.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Musement says no for this specific product.
Is it suitable during pregnancy?
The listing does not give a specific pregnancy rule, but boat motion, gangways and swimming access should be considered. Seek medical advice when necessary.
What should I wear?
Wear swimwear, light clothing, secure footwear and sun protection.
Do I need a towel?
Yes. Towels are not included.
What happens in bad weather?
The route or swim stop may change, or the trip may be cancelled.
Can I cancel?
Yes. Musement offers a full refund when cancellation is completed at least one day before departure.
Are booking fees charged?
No additional Musement booking fee is currently listed.
Are customer reviews available?
The Musement listing currently displays no ratings for this product.
Is the trip worth booking?
Yes, for visitors who want a short, affordable coastal cruise with underwater viewing and a deep-water swim stop. It is less suitable for travellers expecting a private cruise or extended beach time.
Final Thoughts
The Moonfish glass-bottom boat trip provides an accessible way to see Mallorca’s undeveloped eastern coves from the water.
The cruise passes limestone cliffs, sandy inlets and sea caves before stopping for a swim in the Cala Varques area when conditions permit.
The submerged viewing windows are a useful feature for children and non-swimmers, although passengers should understand that the entire floor is not transparent.
The most important practical issue is the departure point. Moonfish operates from several resorts, and the Musement page does not publish one universal pier. Print the voucher and follow its exact location, time and duration.
Transfers, food, drinks, towels and snorkelling equipment are not included. Snacks and refreshments can generally be bought aboard.
Swimming takes place in deep water directly from the boat and normally lasts around 20 minutes. The captain may move or cancel the stop because of waves, wind or boat traffic.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a secure hat, drinking water and a light jacket. Travellers prone to seasickness should take the warning seriously.
For visitors staying around Porto Cristo, Cala Romántica or Calas de Mallorca, this is a convenient and scenic introduction to one of Mallorca’s most attractive stretches of coastline.
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