Català
Español
Deutsch
Français
Italiano
Boat Rental Without a Licence in Mallorca: Complete Guide
Your own boat for a day: the most accessible dream in the Mediterranean
Picture this: you at the helm of a small boat, the wind in your face and the turquoise waters of the Bay of Alcudia stretching out ahead. No schedules, no fixed routes, no group to follow. Just you, the sea and the freedom to choose which cove to visit, where to drop anchor and how long to stay. That is exactly what boat rental without a licence offers in Mallorca: the chance to enjoy a full day at sea without needing any boating qualification. In Spain, the law allows certain vessels to be piloted without a licence, and northern Mallorca is one of the best places in the Mediterranean to do it. Why the north? Because the Bay of Alcudia is one of the largest and most sheltered bays in the Balearics. Its waters are typically calm, the depth is moderate, there are dozens of coves within easy reach of the coast and the rental infrastructure is well established. From the Port of Alcudia to the Port of Pollença, via Can Picafort and Colònia de Sant Pere, you will find options for every budget. In this guide we cover everything you need to know before renting your first licence-free boat in Mallorca: what the regulations say, what types of boats are available, how much it costs, the best routes for beginners and, equally, when it might be better to opt for a skippered excursion.
What exactly is a licence-free boat?
A licence-free boat (also known as a "no-qualification boat" or "no-licence vessel" in Spanish maritime law) is a vessel that, by virtue of its technical characteristics, can be piloted by any adult without the need for any boating qualification.
In Spain, the regulations governing these vessels set the following limits:
These boats are simple, stable and easy to handle. They are not speedboats or luxury yachts: they are dinghies designed for a leisurely sail, coastal exploration, anchoring in coves and swimming. Their top speed is usually between 5 and 8 knots (9–15 km/h), which is enough to cover reasonable distances while still enjoying a relaxed voyage.
The concept is brilliant: the regulation makes the sea accessible to everyone, provided sensible safety limits are respected. And in an area like northern Mallorca, where the coast is packed with coves, islets and hidden corners that cry out to be explored from the water, a licence-free boat becomes the perfect vehicle for an unforgettable day.
Requirements and regulations in the Balearics
Before you head out to sea, it is important to know the rules. The regulations for licence-free vessels in the Balearic Islands are clear and designed to keep everyone safe.
Skipper requirements:
Vessel requirements:
Navigation restrictions:
The mandatory briefing:
Before setting off, the rental company will give you a safety briefing lasting between 15 and 30 minutes. They will explain how to operate the engine, how to anchor, the basic rules of navigation, areas to avoid and what to do in an emergency. Pay close attention: it is the foundation for a safe and enjoyable day.
Important tip: always check the weather forecast before heading out. A day of strong wind is not the best time for your first experience at the helm, and rental companies will cancel your booking if conditions are unsafe.
Types of licence-free boats available in Mallorca
Not all licence-free boats are the same. Depending on your budget, the number of people on board and the kind of experience you are after, you will find several options:
1Outboard motor dinghies
These are the most affordable and straightforward option. They are open boats made of fibreglass or rotomoulded plastic, fitted with a 6 to 15 HP outboard motor.
Ideal for a first experience or short trips to coves close to your departure point.
2Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs)
RIBs combine a rigid hull with inflatable tubes, giving them exceptional stability and the ability to handle small waves with ease.
The most popular choice for families and groups of friends who want to explore in comfort and safety.
3Centre-console boats with bimini
The most comfortable option among licence-free boats. These are vessels with a centre console, comfortable seating and, most importantly, a bimini top that provides shade.
Recommended for full-day outings, families with small children or anyone who values comfort above all else.
Where to rent in northern Mallorca
The supply of licence-free boat hire in northern Mallorca is concentrated in four main areas, each with its own advantages:
1Port of Alcudia
The Port of Alcudia is the most popular departure point and offers the widest choice. It is the largest marina in the northern area, with a broad selection of licence-free boat rental companies. From here you sail straight out into the Bay of Alcudia, with sheltered waters and quick access to the most attractive destinations: Alcanada is about 15 minutes away, Playa de Muro 10 and Coll Baix 25. The variety of boats and prices is the greatest on the entire north coast, and the promenade offers restaurants and amenities for before or after your trip. Parking is usually not a problem.
Our skippered boat excursions also depart from the Port of Alcudia — a perfect alternative if you would rather relax and leave the navigation to the professionals. Find out more about everything the Port of Alcudia has to offer in our dedicated guide.
2Playa de Muro and Can Picafort
Although there is no marina as such, some companies operate from the beaches of Muro and Can Picafort, offering rentals directly from the sand. The big advantage is that you depart straight from the beach itself, with no need to travel to the port, in a more relaxed, family-friendly setting. The waters in the bay are very calm and shallow, making it a perfect spot for combining a beach day and boating in one.
It is worth knowing that the range of boats is more limited than at the Port of Alcudia, that boarding from the sand can be a little trickier when there is some swell, and that the season tends to be shorter — generally June to September.
Discover everything this area has to offer in our guide to Playa de Muro.
3Port of Pollença
The Port of Pollença is an excellent base for exploring the more westerly stretch of the north coast, including the spectacular Formentor peninsula. From here you have direct access to the Bay of Pollença, which is more enclosed and calmer than the Bay of Alcudia, with the route towards Formentor beach and the coves along the peninsula as the star attraction. The atmosphere is more exclusive and sophisticated, and the promenade offers top-quality dining options.
Bear in mind that the Formentor coast can have more swell than the Bay of Alcudia, that there are fewer rental companies, and that parking gets quite difficult in summer.
If this area interests you, do not miss our guide to the Formentor Lighthouse.
4Colònia de Sant Pere and Son Serra de Marina
For those seeking a more authentic experience away from mass tourism, Colònia de Sant Pere and Son Serra de Marina offer small rental operators with a more personal touch. There are far fewer tourists, the unspoilt coast of the Parc Natural de Llevant offers spectacular landscapes, and prices tend to be more competitive.
That said, the choice of boats is more limited, the coastline is more exposed to easterly winds and there are fewer support services in case of need, so it pays to come well prepared.
Explore the best beaches in this northern area in our detailed guide.
Licence-free boat rental prices in 2026
Licence-free boat rental prices in Mallorca vary depending on the type of vessel, the season and the duration of the hire. It is worth knowing that this is not exactly a cheap activity: renting a licence-free boat in northern Mallorca represents a considerable investment, and it is important to bear this in mind before making your decision.
As a reference for the 2026 season, a rental of a few hours typically starts from around 200 euros, and can reach 350–400 euros depending on the boat and the time of year. If you opt for a full day, prices range between 350 and 600 euros, depending on the type of boat, the company and whether fuel is included. During peak season (July and August) prices soar and availability drops, so booking in advance is almost essential.
The price usually includes the boat, mandatory safety equipment (life jackets, anchor, etc.), the safety briefing and third-party liability insurance. In many cases, fuel is charged separately based on consumption. Snorkelling gear, a cool box, provisions and towels are always your responsibility.
To get better prices, book in advance and consider travelling in June or September, when demand is lower, prices are more reasonable and the weather is still fantastic. Bear in mind, too, that half a day (4 hours) is usually enough to complete a full route with stops for swimming and snorkelling, so it is not always necessary to hire for the entire day.
The best licence-free routes from northern Mallorca
One of the great advantages of boating in northern Mallorca is the number of destinations within easy reach of the coast. Here are the five routes we recommend for first-time licence-free sailors:
1Port of Alcudia to Playa de Muro (easy route, 1–2 hours)
The perfect route for beginners. You leave the Port of Alcudia and head south, hugging the coast with the stunning Playa de Muro stretching out before you.
Distance: 2–3 km (within the 2 nautical mile limit)
Difficulty: Very easy. Sheltered waters, no currents, sandy bottom
What you will see: Playa de Muro from the sea (a completely different perspective from the one you get on the sand), the pine forest of S'Albufera, shallow turquoise waters
Where to anchor: Off sectors III and IV of Playa de Muro, where there are fewer people. The sandy bottom makes anchoring easy
Best time: In the morning, when the water is calm and the turquoise colour is at its most intense
This route is ideal for families with children or for anyone who has never piloted a boat. The waters are so calm it feels like sailing in a swimming pool.
2Port of Alcudia to Alcanada Island (classic route, 2–3 hours)
Probably the most popular route in the area and, without question, one of the most beautiful. The islet of Alcanada with its stone lighthouse is the star destination for licence-free boating from Alcudia.
Distance: 3–4 km from the port
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The final stretch can have slightly stronger currents near the islet
What you will see: The Alcanada lighthouse rising from the water, Posidonia meadows, incredibly clear waters, colourful fish visible from the boat
Where to anchor: To the south of the islet, in the area sheltered from the wind. Always look for clean sandy bottom to drop anchor — it is prohibited to anchor on Posidonia meadows in the Balearics, with fines that can exceed 3,000 euros
Essential: Bring snorkelling gear. The area around the islet is one of the best snorkelling spots in all of Mallorca
Circling the islet of Alcanada in your own boat, dropping anchor and diving into crystal-clear water to snorkel among wrasse, white sea bream and starfish is an experience you will not forget in a hurry. Discover more about this magical place in our Alcanada guide.
3Port of Pollença to Playa de Formentor (iconic route, 2–3 hours)
Without doubt one of the most beautiful routes you can do in a licence-free boat in Mallorca. From the Port of Pollença you sail along the coast of the Formentor peninsula until you reach the legendary Playa de Formentor, with its centuries-old pine trees tumbling onto white sand and turquoise waters.
Distance: 3–4 km from the port (within the 2 nautical mile limit)
Difficulty: Moderate. The coast can have swell with a northerly or westerly wind. Only recommended on calm days
What you will see: The cliffs of the Formentor peninsula, pine forests reaching down to the water, the most photographed beach in Mallorca and a breathtaking shade of turquoise
Where to anchor: Off Formentor beach, on sandy bottom. Find a spot with space between other anchored boats and make sure the anchor holds well
Best time: Early morning, before the tourist boats arrive. The light filtering through the pines is simply magical
Arriving at Formentor by sea in your own boat is a completely different experience from arriving by road. The perspective of the cliffs from the water is spectacular, and anchoring off that postcard-perfect beach for a swim is a moment that justifies the boat rental all by itself. More information about the area in our guide to the Formentor Lighthouse.
4Can Picafort to Son Serra de Marina (peaceful route, 2–3 hours)
A little-known yet tremendously rewarding route. From Can Picafort you head south-east, skirting a virtually untouched coastline until you reach Son Serra de Marina.
Distance: 4–5 km (within the limit if you stay close to the coast)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The coast is open, so watch out for easterly winds
What you will see: Natural sand dunes, an endless unspoilt beach, a landscape that looks like it belongs to another era
Where to anchor: Off the beach at Son Serra, always looking for clean sandy bottom — remember that anchoring on Posidonia is prohibited. Crystal-clear waters and absolute tranquillity
Bonus: The seabed in this area harbours vast Posidonia meadows where it is easy to spot octopuses, cuttlefish and schools of fish. The marine life in the Bay of Alcudia is extraordinarily rich.
This route is for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a day of boating in solitude.
Tips for your first time at the helm
If you have never piloted a boat, these tips will help make your first experience safe and enjoyable.
Before setting off
Pay full attention to the briefing from the rental company and do not hesitate to ask every question you need — there are no silly questions when it comes to safety at sea. Check the weather and wind forecast before booking, as these are decisive factors; if it is your first time, avoid heading out in winds above 15 knots. Make sure you have enough sunscreen, plenty of water and something to eat, and verify that life jackets are on board and that you know how to put them on.
While sailing
Go slowly, especially at the start. There is no rush: the whole point of a licence-free boat is enjoying the journey, not going fast. Always stay within 2 miles of the coast and keep an eye on your position using your phone's GPS. If you see whitecaps forming on the waves (the classic "white horses"), it means the wind is picking up and it is time to head back to port. Respect the 200-metre distance from designated swimming areas and slow to 3 knots near the shore. And do not get too close to cliffs: the swell can create unpredictable currents against the rock.
Anchoring
Anchoring correctly is essential, and in the Balearics there is one rule you must be absolutely clear about: it is strictly prohibited to anchor on Posidonia oceanica meadows. Posidonia is a protected marine plant that is vital to the Mediterranean ecosystem. Fines for anchoring on it can exceed 3,000 euros, and the port authorities actively enforce this. Always look for clean sandy bottom to drop your anchor — it is easy to identify by its light colour when viewed from the boat. Let out enough chain or anchor line (at least 3 times the depth of the water) and check the anchor has set properly before turning off the engine, allowing the boat to drift back slightly.
The marine life you can discover
One of the great rewards of a licence-free boat is being able to stop wherever you like for a swim and a snorkel. In the waters of northern Mallorca you can spot wrasse, white sea bream, salema, octopuses, starfish and, with luck, sea turtles. Having your own boat gives you the freedom to seek out the richest seabeds and stay as long as you wish. Discover more about the species that inhabit the Bay of Alcudia in our dedicated guide.
Licence-free boat vs skippered excursion: which suits you better?
This is the big question, and the answer depends on what kind of experience you are looking for. There are three main options for enjoying the sea in northern Mallorca, and each one makes sense in its own way.
The licence-free boat is the option for those who want total freedom. You decide the route, the timing, the stops and the pace. It is ideal if you have experience or curiosity with boats, if you are a small group (2–4 people) seeking privacy, or if the adventure of piloting yourself simply appeals to you. That said, it comes with responsibility: you are the skipper, you navigate, you anchor, you deal with any unexpected situations. And as we saw in the pricing section, the cost is far from negligible.
A private skippered charter is for those who want a more exclusive experience without giving up comfort. A professional skipper handles the navigation while you enjoy the ride. You can reach more distant and spectacular spots such as Coll Baix or the Victoria coast, which are beyond the range of a licence-free boat. It is the best choice for celebrations, romantic trips or for anyone who simply does not want to worry about a thing. You can explore our private charter options to find out more.
A shared boat tour — like the ones we offer at Coral Boats — is, for many travellers, the option that strikes the best balance between experience, comfort and price. Why? Because for a per-person price that is much more affordable than renting a licence-free boat, you get the complete package: a larger, more comfortable vessel with shade, a professional skipper who knows every corner of the coast, snorkelling gear included, drinks and Mallorcan tapas on board, paddle surf, and access to spectacular coves like Coll Baix or the islet of Alcanada that are at or beyond the limit for licence-free boats. You do not have to worry about the weather, the anchoring, the fuel or the navigation — just about enjoying yourself.
Our morning tour is the favourite option for families and groups who want to experience the Bay of Alcudia at its best, with stops for swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. If you are looking for something more romantic, the sunset tour offers the experience of watching the sun set from the sea with sangria and music. And if you are travelling with family and children, the safety and comfort of a tour with a professional skipper makes all the difference.
In short: a licence-free boat is a fantastic personal adventure for those who value autonomy and are willing to take on the responsibility (and the cost). But if what you want is a day at sea with no hassle, everything included and a more affordable price per person, a boat tour like ours will give you exactly that.
Still not sure? Read our guide to choosing the perfect boat tour or compare private vs shared excursions.
Safety at sea: what you need to know
Sailing without a licence does not mean sailing without responsibility. The sea demands respect, and proper preparation is the best guarantee that your day will be a safe one.
Check the weather:
Emergency numbers:
Mandatory safety equipment on board:
Sun protection:
Golden rule: if at any point you feel unsafe, head back to port. No excursion is worth a scare. The sea will always be there another day.
What to take on board: complete checklist
Before setting off, make sure you have everything you need. On a licence-free boat there is no shop or bar on board, so whatever you do not bring, you will not have.
Essentials:
Highly recommended:
Optional but handy:
Don't forget: leave anything you do not need in the car (handbags, bulky wallets, important documents). Space on a small boat is limited and things get wet.
For more practical advice, check out our guide on what to bring on a boat tour in Mallorca.
Frequently asked questions about licence-free boat rental
Do I need any kind of licence or qualification to rent a boat?
No. In Spain, vessels up to 6 metres in length and 15 HP of power can be piloted without any boating qualification. You only need to be over 18 and present a valid identity document.
Is it safe to sail with no prior experience?
Yes, as long as you follow the regulations and respect the weather conditions. The rental company will give you a thorough briefing before you leave. The Bay of Alcudia is one of the safest areas in the Mediterranean for beginners thanks to its sheltered waters.
Can I take children on board?
Yes, children may travel on board provided there are life jackets in their size and the boat's maximum capacity is not exceeded. Minors are not allowed to skipper the boat. If you are travelling with very young children, consider whether a skippered excursion might be more suitable.
What happens if the engine breaks down at sea?
Every boat carries an emergency oar and the rental company will give you a contact number. Call immediately and they will send assistance. Do not attempt to repair the engine yourself.
Can I reach Coll Baix in a licence-free boat?
Technically, Coll Baix is right at the 2-mile limit from the Port of Alcudia. It is possible to get there if you hug the coast, but it is not recommended for beginners because the Victoria area can have currents. If Coll Baix is your goal, a skippered excursion is the safest and most comfortable option.
Can I fish from a licence-free boat?
Yes, but you need a recreational fishing licence issued by the Autonomous Community of the Balearic Islands. It can be obtained online and is relatively inexpensive.
What should I do if the weather changes while I am at sea?
Return to port immediately. Do not wait for the wind to die down or try to shelter in an unprotected cove. The wind in Mallorca can change quickly, especially in the afternoon.
Is it worth hiring for the full day, or is half a day enough?
For most routes, half a day (4 hours) is plenty. You can complete a full route with stops for swimming and snorkelling without rushing. A full day is worthwhile if you want to explore several areas or simply spend the whole day anchored in a cove.
