Parc Nacional Cabrera★★★
The Cabrera Archipelago is Mallorca's best-kept natural jewel — and one of Spain's most strictly protected national parks. The group of islands (19 small islands and rocks) lies 14 kilometers south of Colònia de Sant Jordi and is only accessible by authorized boat trips. Since 1991, the entire area — including the surrounding waters — has been under strict protection. No hotels, no development, no private boats without permission.
The result: an underwater paradise unparalleled in the western Mediterranean. The water is so clear that you can see the bottom from the boat at a depth of 20 meters. Posidonia seagrass meadows, schools of barracudas, sea turtles (if you're lucky), moray eels, groupers — the biodiversity is breathtaking. Snorkeling in the Cova Blava (Blue Grotto) is the highlight: a sea cave where the light bathes the entire space in an unreal cobalt blue.
On the main island stands a 14th-century castle, built as a watchtower against pirates. The 20-minute climb is rewarded with a 360° panorama over the entire archipelago. On land, there is a small exhibition on natural history, a hiking trail to the lighthouse (about 1 hour), and picnic areas.
The standard tour lasts a whole day: Departure from Colònia de Sant Jordi at 9:30 a.m., return around 5:00 p.m. The crossing takes about 45 minutes. The price (approx. 45–55 € adults, 25–30 € children) includes the boat trip, a snorkeling stop, and a visit to the Blue Grotto. On the island, you have about 3–4 hours of free time for hiking, swimming, or picnicking.
There are also speedboat tours (approx. 90 €, 3 hours) for those with less time, as well as diving excursions for certified divers (approx. 80–120 € including equipment). The dive spots in the national park are among the best in the Mediterranean — huge groupers, eagle rays, and lobsters in underwater canyons.
Important: The number of visitors is limited to about 200–300 people per day. During peak season (July/August), boats are often fully booked weeks in advance. Book directly with Excursions a Cabrera (excursionsacabrera.es) or Marcabrera (marcabrera.com).
💡 Tipp
Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance, even 4–6 weeks during peak season. Take the full-day trip, not the speedboat — only then will you have enough time for the island AND the Blue Grotto. Bring sunscreen, snorkeling gear, water, and a picnic — there are no shops or restaurants on the island. If you get seasick easily: take travel tablets, as the crossing can be choppy in the wind.
Achtung
Without advance booking, you have practically no chance of getting a spot during peak season. Even owning a private yacht doesn't help — you need an official permit from the national park, and these are very limited for private boats.