From Cala Figuera: Boat Tour to Cala Marmols & Caló de Moro

Fast boats, quiet coves, and postcard water. This RIB tour from Cala Figuera is built around small-group sailing along Mallorca’s south-east coast, with time to swim (and often snorkel) in Cala Marmols-level turquoise. I love the mix of dramatic sights, like Es Pontàs and smugglers’ hiding caves, plus the simple onboard perks like drinks. One thing to plan for: if the sea is choppy, the ride can feel bouncy even though the crew handles it well.

What makes this outing work is the pacing. You get a run of short, scenic cruising segments, then real, usable time in specific coves instead of only snapping photos from the boat. And because you’re on a RIB, you’re close to the water most of the time, so the light hits differently than it does from shore.

If you’re doing the longer option to Cala Marmols, keep expectations realistic: the swim schedule depends on wind, and there’s an option where you don’t stop for a swim in Caló de Moro before heading onward.

Key highlights at a glance

• Cala Marmols by boat: a privileged access point that’s otherwise hiking-only for most people
• Es Pontàs stop: a quick look at the rock formation tied to an ancient cave entrance
• Smuggler-cave sightings: you’ll pass by small caves used as hiding places
• Caló des Moro turquoise: a clean, inviting swim stop when wind allows it
• S’Almunia atmosphere: fishermen’s barracks and typical huts you can spot from the water
• Snorkeling equipment included: gear is on board, so you can pack lighter

A practical look at value: what $44 buys you

At $44 per person, this is one of the more sensible ways to experience Mallorca’s south-east coast. You’re not paying only for a transfer or a view. You’re paying for a RIB boat excursion with a professional skipper, fuel included, and snorkeling equipment already provided.

The duration varies (110 to 170 minutes depending on the option), and that matters because the “good part” here isn’t the long ride. The value is in the short stops and swim windows that fit the coast you’re seeing. If you’ve spent days walking towns and viewpoints, this is the change of pace that feels worth it.

Also, you get soft drinks or beer on board. It’s not a gourmet deal, but it’s a nice detail when the sun is doing its job.

Getting on board in Cala Figuera: small-group feel, real coastal speed

You meet at RedstarTours Excursiones, right next to the port in Cala Figuera. From there, you’ll move to the boat and settle in for a ride that’s deliberately paced to match the coastline.

The vibe tends to be “small boat, not cramped,” and that’s a big deal on hot days. Shade helps too, since RIBs can get bright fast. Expect that departures can experience some delay because of the nature of the activity, and weather can cancel trips without notice. In practice, that means having at least a bit of flexibility in your schedule is smart.

Language is useful here. There’s a live guide in Spanish, Catalan, and English, but the skipper is the authority on board. That can affect how much storytelling you hear during the ride, and it may depend on the captain.

Route overview: from Santanyí coves to Es Pontàs

The tour starts by cruising from Cala Figuera toward the coast of Santanyí, where you’ll skirt hidden coves, a wild-looking shoreline, and beaches with seriously clear water. The first stretch is about getting your bearings: you’re moving at cruising speed, watching the shoreline change shape, and building the mental map you’ll use later when you see the bays up close.

Then comes Cala Santanyí. It’s a short visit, so think of it as a quick reset point rather than a long stop. After that, you head for Es Pontàs, a distinctive rock formation that forms an ancient entrance to a cave. The stop is listed as about 10 minutes, which is enough time to orient yourself to what you’re seeing and capture photos without turning it into a rushed sprint.

If you love coastlines where the details matter, this is a good start. You’ll start noticing patterns: where the rock sticks out, where the water turns glassy, and how the coves feel protected compared with the open stretches.

Cala Llombards and the cave connection (sa Cova des Fum)

Next up is Cala Llombards, a brief stop that functions like a scenic waypoint. In between major swim points, these quick stops help the ride stay varied without dragging your day.

As the route continues, you’ll pass by areas tied to caves and sheltered water. One called out is sa Cova des Fum. You may not be landing inside the cave, but you’re traveling close enough to appreciate why people built stories and hideouts here. The water and rock mix along this part of Mallorca is the real attraction, and the itinerary is designed to show you that without making you wait around.

This is also the point where you’ll likely feel the rhythm of the day: cruising speed, brief views, then a more meaningful pause.

S’Almunia and smugglers’ hiding caves

This trip leans into the human side of the coastline. One of the stops is S’Almunia, and from the water you’ll get a view of typical huts and fishermen’s barracks.

You may also get glimpses of small caves where smugglers used hiding places. Even if you don’t get a long talk from the guide (it depends on the skipper and the moment), you can still read the landscape. Coves and pockets like these make sense as shelter routes when you’re traveling by sea.

One useful detail: the itinerary notes that swim time in some spots depends on wind direction. That means S’Almunia isn’t just a photo stop. It’s one of the places where the team chooses the safer, more comfortable side for getting in.

Caló des Moro: the turquoise swim that can win the day

If you’re chasing that specific Mallorca water color, Caló des Moro is the target. The route highlights its always-clean turquoise-blue waters, and it’s set up as a real swim opportunity.

Your swim time here is around 40 minutes, and it depends on wind direction whether you go in at Caló des Moro or at S’Almunia. So if your heart is set on Caló des Moro, watch your time expectations: you’re not in full control of the final call once conditions are on the water.

Still, this stop is often the reason people book. It’s not just a scenic bay; it’s a place where the water looks inviting the second you approach.

Cala Màrmols option: longer ride, another swim, and no Moro stop

There’s an important fork in this experience. If you select the option that extends to Cala Màrmols, your journey continues to the virgin beach of Es Màrmols, accessible mainly by boat or hiking trail.

In this version, you do not have a swim stop in Caló des Moro. Instead, you get more time later at Es Màrmols. Once you arrive, you have about 45 minutes to swim from the boat and enjoy the place.

Why that’s valuable: Es Màrmols is the kind of coast stop that feels harder to fake. When a beach is protected by access limits, you usually get fewer “tourist artifacts” around it and more of the natural feel from the water. You’re still on a boat, but the coast makes it feel like your own secret beach moment.

The itinerary also notes maritime quarries of Es Bauç, where sandstone blocks are cut and transported by sea. It’s the sort of detail that doesn’t show up on postcard posters, but it helps you understand how people shaped the coastline beyond leisure.

Snorkeling gear: included, but use it smart

Snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t have to rent gear on top of your ticket. That said, the biggest factor is timing and water comfort.

On some days, the water can be choppy. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it changes how easy it is to get in quickly, orient yourself, and breathe steadily. If seas are rough, keep it simple: use the time you get in the water, swim at a relaxed pace, and focus on seeing fish and texture rather than trying to cover ground.

Also, snorkeling is at the swim stops. In other words, you’re not snorkeling while cruising between bays. Plan to transition from boat to water smoothly, and use your 40 to 45 minutes well.

What each stop feels like (and where the time goes)

Here’s how the day typically “spends itself,” based on the stop list and how these tours usually run:

• Pier departure and speed segments: you’re there to watch the coastline change quickly, not to linger
• Cala Santanyí and Es Pontàs: short, scenic checks that set the stage for the coves later
• Cala Llombards: brief pause, then back onto the water for the next section
• S’Almunia: atmosphere and practical swim opportunity depending on wind
• Caló des Moro: the turquoise swim stop (in some options, it’s the main swim)
• Es Màrmols (Cala Marmols option): the longer, closer-to-pristine-feeling swim from the boat
• Speedboat back: the ride becomes a finish-line moment, so don’t treat it like extra scenery time

The practical takeaway: if you’re the type who wants one “big” swim, choose the option that matches your priorities. If you’re torn, it usually comes down to whether you want Caló des Moro or you want the Es Màrmols experience.

Drinks onboard: a small detail that improves the whole mood

Soft drinks and beer are included as one drink (listed as one soft drink or one beer). It’s a simple perk, but it helps keep morale up. The sun can be intense, and a cold drink right after you settle in or return from swimming is a nice, no-effort comfort.

If you care about the exact timing, you’ll likely do best by grabbing your drink early rather than waiting until the final minute. The day moves fast enough without creating delays.

Budgeting your day: what’s not included

Food isn’t included, and there aren’t details provided about snacks. So plan to eat before you go, or be ready to grab something after. Because you’re out for roughly 2 to almost 3 hours depending on the option, this is very doable as a half-day plan.

Extras aren’t included either. That’s normal, but it means you should bring the essentials for sun and water so you don’t end up buying basic items at the last second.

What to bring (so you don’t spend your swim time messing around)

Even though snorkeling gear is provided, you’ll still want your own basics. Bring:

• Sunscreen (strong sun exposure out on the water)
• A towel or quick-dry solution, since you’ll be getting in and out
• Swim shoes if you prefer grip (the data doesn’t specify the entry surface)
• A light layer for the boat ride if you get chilled easily
• Cashless flexibility for food after, since it’s not included

If you’re sensitive to motion, consider taking precautions before you board. There are reports of choppy water, and the best way to enjoy the swim is to feel steady first.

Who this tour suits best

This is the kind of boat tour I’d recommend if you want:

• Water time that actually counts (swimming from the boat, not just floating by)
• A south-east Mallorca itinerary you can’t easily piece together alone
• A day that mixes scenic cruising with caves, coves, and beaches you reach by sea

It’s also a great fit if you’re traveling with friends or family and you don’t want the “big tour” feel. The small-group nature helps keep the ride comfortable and focused on the stops.

If you’re the type who wants lots of long land excursions, this isn’t built for that. It’s built for sea views and swim windows.

Should you book this Cala Figuera RIB tour?

Book it if you’re aiming for that combination of crystal-clear coves, short scenic stops, and real swimming time. The $44 price makes sense because you’re paying for a guided RIB experience with snorkeling equipment, professional handling, and onboard drinks, not just a ride.

Think twice if you know you’ll struggle with motion on choppy water, or if you’re very strict about getting both Caló des Moro and Es Màrmols swim time. The route changes with wind and option selection, and the extended Cala Màrmols option swaps out the Caló des Moro swim.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the boat tour from Cala Figuera?

The duration is listed as 110 to 170 minutes, depending on the option you choose. Check available starting times to see the exact length for your departure.

Where do I meet for the tour?

Meet at the RedstarTours Excursiones office, right next to the port of Cala Figuera. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Do we swim during the tour?

Yes. You can swim from the boat at Caló des Moro or at S’Almunia for about 40 minutes, depending on wind. If you choose the Cala Marmols option, you’ll have about 45 minutes to swim at Es Màrmols, with no stop for a swim in Caló des Moro.

What’s included in the price?

Included: the RIB excursion (1h 50-min or 2h 50-min depending on the option), professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, drinks (1 soft drink or 1 beer), insurance, and fuel.

What language is the live guide?

The live tour guide is listed in Spanish, Catalan, and English. The skipper is the authority on board.