Motorboat, Sailboat or Catamaran?

How to Choose the Right Boat for Your Mallorca Adventure

BookingBoats.com

With its glittering turquoise waters, rugged coastline and hidden coves, Mallorca is made for exploring by sea. Whether you're after a relaxing cruise, a high-speed day of island hopping, or a romantic sunset sail, choosing the right type of boat can make all the difference.



Not sure whether to go for a motorboat, sailboat or catamaran? You're not alone. Each option offers a different kind of experience — and the best choice depends on your group, your goals, and your sense of adventure. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

Motorboats – Speed, Simplicity, and Spontaneity

Best for: Day trips, island hopping, beach hopping, and watersports.

Motorboats are the most popular choice for day charters in Mallorca. They're fast,

flexible, and let you cover a lot of coastline in a short amount of time. Want to zip

from Palma to Cala d'Or, drop anchor in a secret cove, and stop off for lunch at a

beachfront restaurant? A motorboat makes it easy.

Pros:

• Fast and powerful – great for exploring multiple spots in one day
• Easy to navigate – especially with a skipper, or self-drive options for smaller boats
• Perfect for short-term charters or spontaneous outings
• Lower cost options available, ideal for couples or small groups

Things to consider:

• Less space than a catamaran or yacht
• Fuel not always included in the price
• Not ideal for overnight stays unless you book a larger, cabin-equipped model

Find Your Perfect Boat In Cala d'Or  Book Direct. No Fuss.

Choose from a selection of chartered yachts and boats, available with or without a skipper, for your perfect adventure on the water.

Sailboats – Peaceful, Traditional, and Environmentally Friendly

Best for: Romantic escapes, relaxed cruising, sailing enthusiasts

If you'e after a slower-paced, more traditional experience, a sailboat might be

just what you're looking for. There's nothing quite like gliding silently across the sea with the wind in your sails and Mallorca’s coastline drifting by.

Pros:

• More sustainable – wind-powered, so less reliance on fuel
• Ideal for longer charters, including overnight stays
• Offers a hands-on sailing experience if you're licensed (or hire a skipper)
• More affordable than luxury yachts, with classic charm

Things to consider:

• Slower pace – better suited to laid-back adventures than fast island-hopping
• Requires some sailing knowledge if skippered by yourself
• Less deck space compared to catamarans

Catamarans – Comfort, Space, and Stability

Best for: Groups, families, multi-day charters, celebrations

Catamarans offer the best of both worlds – the elegance of sailing with the added bonus of space and stability. With twin hulls, they’re incredibly stable in the water, making them a great choice for guests prone to seasickness or travelling with children.

Pros:

• Spacious layout – ideal for families or groups
• Stable ride – less rocking than single-hulled boats
• Great for overnight charters, with multiple cabins and lounging areas
• Perfect for events, birthdays, hen/stag parties, or just relaxing in style

Things to consider:

• Usually more expensive than motorboats or sailboats
• Require a larger mooring spot — some smaller coves may be harder to

 access

• Not as fast as motorboats when under sail
  

Bonus Option: Self-Drive Boats (No Licence Required)

Best for: Beginners, short coastal adventures, total freedom seekers

If you're keen to captain your own boat but don’t have a licence, Mallorca has plenty

of self-drive motorboats under 15hp that are perfect for exploring nearby beaches

and coves.

Pros:

• No licence needed
• Affordable and flexible
• Great for a fun half-day experience

Still Not Sure? Ask the Owner!

One of the best things about BookingBoats.com is that you connect directly with the boat owner — not a call centre or booking agent. They know their boats inside out and can help you choose the best option for your trip, group size, and itinerary.