Mallorca with Kids: The Perfect Island for a Family Sailing Trip

✨ Key Takeaways

• Mallorca with kids means an accessible cruise: direct flights, calm seas, sheltered anchorages
• Palma, the coves of the east coast and the Serra de Tramuntana make a well-rounded itinerary for all ages
• The catamaran remains families’ top choice for its stability and living space
• Mid-season (May-June, September) offers the best balance between weather and quieter waters
• Plan for at least a week to enjoy the island without rushing

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, and arguably the most complete for a family sailing trip. Fine sandy beaches, hidden coves, UNESCO-listed mountains and a lively capital: it’s all within reach by boat. Sailing in Mallorca with kids means moving from one atmosphere to another without ever spending hours on the road. Here’s how to plan your trip, from the island itself to choosing the right boat.

Why Mallorca is perfect for a family holiday

Mallorca checks every box for a successful first cruise with children.

Getting there is easy: the island is around two to three hours by direct flight from most major European cities, straight into Palma. No time difference, no long layover: you can be on board the same day you land.

The sea itself is remarkably forgiving. The Mediterranean has almost no tide, water temperatures climb past 25°C in summer, and countless coves are sheltered from the wind, so kids can jump straight in once the anchor is down.

Finally, the island is genuinely set up for families on board. Marinas are plentiful, rental companies offer kids’ life jackets and paddleboards, and every coastal village has a restaurant used to welcoming young ones.

What to do in Mallorca with kids

Between the city, the mountains and the coastline, Mallorca packs in a real taste of the Mediterranean.

Palma, the essential starting point

Palma is both the island’s capital and the departure point for most cruises around the archipelago. Its Gothic cathedral, La Seu, overlooks the bay and is an easy family visit. The old town’s narrow streets are best explored on foot, past shaded squares and historic façades.

For train lovers, the wooden train that has linked Palma to Sóller since 1912 crosses the Serra de Tramuntana: a guaranteed highlight for kids and parents alike. Before setting sail, a stop in Palma is the perfect way to explore the city before heading to the boat.

The east coast, land of hidden coves

This is where Mallorca reveals its finest waters. Cala Mondragó, with its almost tropical feel, and the tiny Caló des Moro are among the most photographed spots in the Mediterranean. On days when the kids prefer sand to rocks, the long beaches of Es Trenc or Playa de Muro are perfect.

The Serra de Tramuntana, for a change of pace

This UNESCO-listed mountain range runs along the entire northwest coast. A day ashore is enough for an easy hike, or you can simply admire the landscape from the boat as you sail around it.

Which boat to choose for a family trip to Mallorca

Choosing the right boat matters almost as much as choosing the island.

The catamaran is the families’ favourite. Its two hulls provide stability that limits seasickness, and its spacious cockpit easily seats everyone for meals. Its shallow draft also means you can get much closer to the beaches, a real advantage with young children on board.

The sailboat suits families who want to learn sailing together. More affordable for the same size, it offers a more hands-on sailing experience, at the cost of some stability.

The motorboat is all about comfort and speed. It lets you cover more coves in a single day without depending on the wind, ideal for families who’d rather skip the learning curve of sailing.

Then there’s the question of a skipper. Sailing with a professional skipper takes navigation off the parents’ hands: they know the best anchorages and keep an eye on the weather for you. It’s also the only option if nobody on board holds a boating licence.

Before booking, check for a bimini for shade, the number of cabins and bathrooms, and the list of included equipment, such as paddleboards, snorkelling gear and a dinghy.

When to visit Mallorca with kids

Mid-season, in May-June and September, remains the best trade-off for sailing with children: the water is already warm, coves are quieter, and prices are gentler than in peak summer. July and August guarantee sunshine, but also heavy crowds at the most popular anchorages.

For a full month-by-month breakdown, our guide on the best time to visit the Balearic Islands covers temperature, wind and crowds season by season.

Practical information for your trip

A few key points to help you plan.

Getting there: by plane, on direct flights of around two to three hours from most major European cities to Palma.

Where to set sail: Palma and Alcúdia are the island’s two main departure points, with Palma the most convenient base for exploring Menorca or Ibiza afterwards.

Recommended length: allow at least a week to enjoy the east coast and the Serra de Tramuntana without rushing.

What to pack: sunscreen, water shoes for rocky coves, snorkelling gear sized for kids, and seasickness remedies just in case.

If the wider archipelago appeals to you, our Mallorca vs Menorca guide helps you choose between the two islands, and our Balearic Islands itinerary shows how to link several stops into one trip.

FAQ

Is Mallorca suitable for families with young children?

Yes, its sheltered coves, lack of tides and family-friendly facilities make it an ideal destination.

Which boat should I choose to sail in Mallorca with kids?

A catamaran, for its stability and living space. A sailboat suits families who want to learn sailing together.

When is the best time to visit Mallorca with children?

Mid-season, in May-June and September, offers the best balance between pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Mallorca?

Yes, for a bareboat charter. With a skipper on board, no licence or experience is required.

How long should I plan to visit Mallorca by boat?

At least a week to enjoy the east coast and the island’s interior without rushing.