Discover Mallorca on board of a llaut

Let’s be honest. Mallorca is beautiful from almost every angle. From the winding roads of the Serra de Tramuntana. From a hidden cove with your feet in the sand. From our rooftop terrace overlooking Palma’s skyline.

But if you ask us, there’s one perspective that beats them all. From the sea.

And if there’s a truly Mallorcan way to explore the island’s coastline, it’s on board a llaut.

Slow, elegant and deeply rooted in the island’s maritime heritage, these traditional wooden boats invite you to experience Mallorca at a different pace. No rushing from beach to beach. No crowded itineraries. Just turquoise water, quiet coves and a day shaped entirely by the Mediterranean.

If you’re looking for one unforgettable experience during your stay, this might just be it.

What is a llaut?

A llaut is Mallorca’s traditional fishing boat. For decades, local fishermen used these sturdy wooden boats to navigate the Balearic coastline long before luxury yachts filled the marinas.

Today, many have been beautifully restored or reimagined with modern comforts while keeping their timeless Mediterranean character. Unlike speedboats, a llaut isn’t about getting somewhere quickly. It’s about enjoying the journey.

Cruising slowly along the coastline, stopping wherever the water looks too inviting to resist and discovering Mallorca the way locals have done for generations. It’s one of those experiences that instantly makes you slow down. And honestly, that’s part of the charm.

Why Mallorca is best discovered by sea

There’s something magical about leaving the coastline behind. Suddenly, the beaches look different. The cliffs seem even more dramatic. The water somehow becomes even clearer.

Many of Mallorca’s most beautiful swimming spots are only truly appreciated from the sea. Drop the anchor in a quiet bay, jump into crystal-clear water, snorkel for a while or simply stretch out on deck with a good book.

Lunch doesn’t need to be complicated either. Pack a picnic with fresh bread, local cheese, olives and fruit from one of Palma’s markets, or stop at a waterfront restaurant before continuing your journey.

No schedules. No hurry. Just a full day following the rhythm of the sea.

Our favourite route: from Port d’Andratx to Sant Elm

If you asked us to recommend just one route, this would probably be it. The southwest coast combines everything we love about Mallorca: spectacular scenery, hidden coves, calm waters and charming harbours.

Start your day in Port d’Andratx, one of the island’s prettiest marinas. From there, cruise past Cala Llamp, famous for its incredibly clear water, before continuing towards Camp de Mar and the small coves scattered along the coastline. If time allows, continue to Sant Elm.

Facing the protected island of Sa Dragonera, this stretch of coast feels wonderfully unspoilt and is one of our favourite places for a swim.

It’s close enough to Palma for an easy day trip but feels like a completely different world. Exactly the kind of place we love recommending.

Where to rent a llaut on Mallorca

Fortunately, you don’t need to own a boat to enjoy the experience.

Here are a few companies we’d recommend:

Llaüt Charter Mallorca – Port d’Andratx

If you’re specifically looking for a traditional llaut, this is one of the island’s best specialists.

They offer beautifully maintained boats, with or without skipper depending on your licence and experience.

Perfect if you want an authentic Mallorcan boating experience.

Click&Boat

Ideal if you’d like to compare different boats and departure points across Mallorca.

You’ll find everything from classic llaüts to modern motorboats, making it easy to choose the option that best suits your group.

Boat Rent Mallorca

With departures from several ports around the island, Boat Rent Mallorca offers flexible rental options, both for half-day and full-day adventures.

A great choice if you’re staying outside Palma or want to explore a different part of the coastline.

Our advice? Book in advance during summer.

The best boats disappear surprisingly quickly.

What to bring on board

One of the best things about spending the day on a llaut is how wonderfully simple it can be.

Here’s what we’d always pack:

• Plenty of water.
• Sunscreen (more than you think you’ll need).
• Snorkelling gear.
• Beach towels.
• A picnic filled with local products (some of these charters provide the food)
• A camera – you’ll definitely use it.
• And your favourite playlist… played quietly enough that the sound of the sea still wins.

End the day the Nakar way

After a full day on the water, there’s really only one thing left to do. Head back to Palma. Take a long shower. Order your favourite cocktail on our rooftop while watching the sun set over the city.

Then head out for dinner.

If you’re looking for inspiration, don’t miss our Palma Guides to the best restaurants in Palma, our favourite Italian restaurants or the best Japanese restaurants in the city.

Trust us. After a day at sea, everything tastes even better.

Stay at Nakar Hotel and discover Mallorca differently

Some experiences make you feel like you’ve truly discovered a destination.

Exploring Mallorca aboard a traditional llaut is definitely one of them.

From Nakar Hotel, you’re perfectly placed to combine vibrant city life with unforgettable days on the Mediterranean.

Because sometimes the best way to discover an island is by leaving it behind for a few hours.

All the pics in this post are property of Llaüt Charter Mallorca – Port d’Andratx.