Traditional Canarian street market and marine reserve of La Graciosa

Exploring La Graciosa and the Andratx Market: A Practical Review of This Mallorca Tour

If you’re looking to combine a scenic boat ride with authentic local experiences, this tour offers a compelling day out. Starting from the bustling coastlines of Paguera or Santa Ponsa, you’ll cruise along Mallorca’s stunning western coast, enjoy some leisure time at the lively Andratx market, and visit the untouched island of La Graciosa. As someone who values both the scenery and the cultural pulse of a place, I find this experience pulls together some of the best elements Mallorca has to offer.

What I particularly like is how smoothly the day flows — from the one-hour cruise that offers spectacular views of sea cliffs and crystal-clear waters, to the ample time at the market where you can browse and enjoy local produce. The fact that transportation is included, with pickup from multiple locations, makes it practical for visitors who want to avoid logistical headaches. A third plus is the knowledgeable guides — as noted by previous travelers, guides like Rachel enrich the trip with helpful insights, making even the less bustling parts memorable.

One potential drawback is that the itinerary is quite full, so if you’re hoping for a relaxed, unstructured day, this might feel a bit rushed. Plus, since the tour operates every Wednesday, those visiting outside that day might need to look elsewhere. Still, the value for the price—around $80—seems fair considering the combination of boat, bus, market visits, and included lunch and drinks.

Key points / Takeaways:

• Scenic boat cruise along Mallorca’s coastline offers fantastic views and photo opportunities.
• Large outdoor market in Andratx provides a lively, colorful atmosphere with fresh produce and local crafts.
• La Graciosa island is a highlight with its untouched beauty and peaceful vibe, perfect for a quick exploration.
• Guides like Rachel are praised for their knowledge, enhancing the experience with helpful commentary.
• The tour includes a free visit to Teguise market—a bonus for those wanting extra shopping or sightseeing.
• All transportation is included with pickup from several key locations, making it a hassle-free outing.

The Full Experience: A Detailed Look at Each Stop

Starting at the Coast: Easy Pickup and Stunning Views

The tour kicks off at 10:30 am from the Lanzarote Sea Tours office in Puerto del Carmen. From there, your group is transported via air-conditioned vehicle, a welcome comfort especially after a morning of travel. The early start ensures you’ll be out on the water when the light is still bright, perfect for photos of the coastline with its dramatic sea cliffs.

Many reviews highlight how punctual and smooth the pickups are. Susan from one review shared how her guide Rachel and driver Manalos made the day special, emphasizing the importance of a friendly, knowledgeable guide to help navigate the day. If you’re into photography, you’ll love the views during the cruise — waving seabirds, rugged cliffs, and sparkling water make it a memorable start.

The One-Hour Cruise: Views That Capture Mallorca’s Spirit

The boat ride along the crystal-clear waters and steep sea cliffs is a standout feature. With plenty of space on deck, you can relax and take photos. Expect to see Mallorca’s rugged coast from a different angle, away from the busy streets. Some reviews note that the views alone make the price worth it, especially on a clear day.

A tip: bring your camera and sunscreen because you’ll want to stay outside as much as possible. The cruise, lasting just about an hour, is enough to appreciate Mallorca’s rugged beauty without feeling rushed. It’s also a chance to enjoy a free open bar—water, soft drinks, and local wines and beers—making the experience more enjoyable.

The Vibrant Andratx Market: A Feast for the Senses

After arriving on land, you’ll head to the old fishing port of Andratx, known for its large outdoor market held every Wednesday. You’ll have about 3 hours here, giving you plenty of time to browse the stalls laden with fresh produce, local cheeses, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s an authentic slice of Mallorca life, bustling but friendly.

According to Geraldine, a reviewer, the market was “huge and good to walk around,” even if some stalls seemed similar. She appreciated the opportunity to see local artisans at work. The market’s lively atmosphere is often praised for its authenticity, far from tourist-centric shops. You’ll love the chance to pick up local specialties or just enjoy a leisurely stroll while soaking in the town’s character.

The Island of La Graciosa: Quiet Beauty

The highlight for many is the visit to La Graciosa, a small, unspoiled island often described as a peaceful retreat. The tour includes a ferry ride lasting about 25 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy more sea views and a chance to relax. Once there, you’re free to explore or just enjoy the tranquility.

While the reviews don’t detail every activity on La Graciosa, the praise for its natural beauty is consistent. Expect quiet beaches, unspoiled landscapes, and a chance to step outside the usual tourist crowds. The inclusion of free time here ensures you can soak in the island’s peaceful vibe or grab a coffee in a local café.

Additional Perks: Market in Teguise and Lunch

Back on the main island, you’ll enjoy a two-hour visit to the Teguise market, a favorite for many. It’s a good chance to see another lively local scene, pick up souvenirs, or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch is included in the tour, typically a tasty paella and bread, according to reviews. Though some might find the meal a bit different from their usual fare, the bread was praised for its tasty simplicity. The open bar keeps everyone refreshed throughout the day, with a selection of drinks to suit all tastes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation. If you enjoy beautiful boat rides and lively markets, you’ll find plenty to love. The inclusion of guided commentary makes it suitable for those who appreciate learning about the places they visit. It’s also great for small groups (max 50 travelers), which means a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

However, if you prefer a slow, unstructured day, or want to spend more time on one specific activity, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best for those who enjoy a full, varied itinerary and don’t mind a busy schedule. Also, the tour’s Wednesday departure is a key factor—be sure to plan accordingly if your trip falls on a different day.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $80.29 per person, the price covers transportation, boat cruise, market visits, lunch, and drinks. When you break it down, you’re paying for multiple experiences in one day, which offers good value for money. The inclusion of guides, free time, and transport simplifies planning and removes stress, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

While some reviews mention admin issues, overall, most travelers feel the tour is fairly priced considering what’s included. The quality of the scenery, combined with the authentic market experience and peaceful island visit, makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting a balanced day trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want variety — scenic sea views, vibrant markets, and peaceful island landscapes. If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides, and loves mixing sightseeing with culture, this tour fits well.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a full day out, with plenty of opportunities for photos, shopping, and relaxing. The value for money is solid, given the multiple activities packed into six and a half hours. However, if your ideal trip involves more leisure and less structure, you might want to skip or modify parts of this itinerary.

In the end, this experience offers a taste of both the lively and tranquil sides of Mallorca — a balanced day that captures the essence of the island’s varied charms.

FAQ

Does this tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation by ship and bus is included, with pickup from multiple locations such as Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and Costa Teguise.

What is the duration of the boat cruise?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, providing ample time to enjoy the views and take photos.

Can I visit La Graciosa island for free?
The tour includes a ferry ride to La Graciosa, along with free time on the island, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a lunch featuring paella and bread is included, along with an open bar offering water, soft drinks, beer, and wine.

What is the best day to take this tour?
It departs every Wednesday, so plan accordingly if you want to experience this specific itinerary.

Are there any hidden costs or extras?
Most costs are covered, but note that pick-up outside the specified areas is not included.

Is this suitable for children or babies?
Babies from 0-2 years travel for free, making it suitable for families with very young children.

This tour combines scenic beauty, lively local markets, and peaceful island time, making for a day well worth your while if you enjoy a mix of sights and culture. Just remember, it’s a busy day, so come prepared for a full schedule and lots of new impressions.