How to get to Mallorca by ferry

There are many advantages of choosing a ferry to visit Mallorca. The journey is longer than a plane, but don’t let the trees keep you from seeing the forest. From the freedom of the deck to the chance to park your car on the boat, traveling by ferry comes with a number of comforts that you shouldn’t miss.

Freedom to travel with unlimited luggage

One of the big benefits of traveling by ferry is the flexibility with your luggage. Unlike planes, you don’t have to worry about the weight or size of each suitcase. And believe us: when you are traveling with kids, sports equipment or beach equipment... or you are simply one of those people who doesn’t skimp on the “just in case” items.

Bring your car, motorbike or bicycle

If you want to explore Mallorca at your own pace, the best thing to do is take a car or motorbike by ferry. This means you can discover hidden coves, stop at the viewpoints in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains or visit charming villages without having to rely on public transport or spending more on car rental. If you prefer cycling, don’t miss some of the fantastic routes for cycling in Mallorca. It’s well worth it.

Hotels near the ports

Arriving in Mallorca by ferry means you disembark just a few minutes from one of our hotels. Stay in a hotel next to the port in Alcúdia or on the seafront in Palma and start enjoying yourself as soon as you disembark, without any long transfers or waiting around. 

Onboard comfort: cabins and common areas

Traveling by ferry is a much more comfortable experience than a plane seat. Choose between large armchairs or book a cabin with a bed and a private bathroom. also free to move around, go out on to the deck to get fresh air, stretch your legs or relax in the public areas.

Mallorca has two main ports: Palma and Alcúdia. The former is in the southwest of the island in the heart of the island capital, and the latter is in the north-east in a quieter part of the island and near some of the most spectacular beaches on the island. 

The main ports of departure for Mallorca from the Spanish mainland are Barcelona, Valencia and Denia, although there are also options from Menorca, Ibiza and France. 

From Barcelona

This is one of the most popular routes and arrives in the port of Palma. The journey from Barcelona takes between 6 and 8 hours depending on the type of ferry. This route offers daytime and evening departures and operates all year round, making it ideal if you prefer to visit Mallorca in winter. 

From Valencia

From the capital of Turia, you can reach the port of Palma in 7 to 9 hours, depending on the type of ferry. Some offer night departures, so if you book a cabin you will arrive at your destination full of energy.

From Denia

Another option to take into account if you are traveling from Spain. The trip takes from 5 to 7 hours, using conventional and fast ferries depending on the time of year. There are also many connections throughout the year, although more frequently in summer.

From Ibiza

Ferries from Ibiza operate more frequently, allowing you to get to Mallorca in just 2 to 4 hours depending on the type of boat. There are daily departures with arrival in Palma and connections throughout the year. 

From Menorca

This is the quickest option, with arrivals in the port of Alcúdia in less than 2 hours by fast ferry. It also offers daily departures both in summer and winter. 

From Toulon

An international alternative for travelers from the south of France. The journey takes from 12 to 15 hours and arrival in Puerto de Alcúdia. Please note that this service is seasonal and only from the end of March to October.

From Sète

From this city in the south of France, you can travel to Mallorca by boat, ending in the port of Alcúdia. The trip takes between 14 and 15 hours and, although there is only one departure a week, the service is available throughout the year. 

When you think about visiting Mallorca by ferry, the first thing you need to know is which companies operate and what comforts they can offer you during the trip. Most are pet-friendly, some operate fast ferries and others have a wide range of different activities on board.

Baleària

It is one of the most consolidated companies. It offers routes to Mallorca from Denia, Valencia, Barcelona, Menorca and Ibiza with departures throughout the year. Its ferries have cabins, fully reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, restaurants, cafeterias and children's areas. Guests can board vehicles and travel with pets thanks to its pet-friendly options. It operates fast ferries on selected routes such as Denia-Palma and Ibiza-Palma, which considerably reduce crossing time.

Trasmed

This shipping company connects Mallorca with Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza and Menorca (from Mahón and Ciutadella), with arrivals in both Palma and Alcúdia. The boats also have cabins, a sundeck, children's areas with entertainment in high season and even live music. There is also Wi-Fi, restaurants, rest areas and a vehicle entrance. Trasmed boats are also pet-friendly, with cabins adapted for people traveling with pets.

Grandi Navi Veloci 

GNV offers ferry routes to Mallorca from Barcelona and Valencia, with arrivals in Palma. Its ferries provide cabins and suites, a restaurant, entertainment areas for children, Wi-Fi, shops and facilities for traveling with pets and vehicles.

Corsica Ferries

Connects Mallorca with the south of France on routes from Toulon and Sète, with arrivals in Alcúdia. Their ferries provide cabins, restaurants, bars, leisure areas, shops and, on some boats, even an outdoor pool. This shipping company also allows you to travel by vehicle and is also friendly .

Traveling by ferry to Mallorca is a comfortable and pleasant experience, but as with any other trip, you should take into account a few details:

Book in advance 

As with flights, ferries can fill up quickly, especially in high season. Booking early guarantees you better schedules, better prices and greater availability of cabins or seats that fully reclining. If you are traveling by car, it is even more important to guarantee your space as soon as possible.

Arrive at the port early

To avoid any unexpected events, we recommend you arrive at the port at least 90 minutes in advance if you are traveling by car or motorbike. Remember to have your ticket (printed or digital) and all the required documentation at hand.

How to avoid seasickness on board

If you get sick, choose a seat in the lower central part of the ferry as they are usually the most stable places. It is important that you avoid traveling on an empty stomach. It’s best to eat something light before boarding the plane, and avoid oily, sweet or spicy dishes.
Keep your eyes on the horizon or step out on deck to get some fresh air. Try not to read or use your mobile too much, and stay hydrated by drinking water in small sips. If you need to, take biodramine before boarding board following the instructions on the package.