Routes, timings and how to move as soon as you arrive
Travelling to Mallorca by ferry is a great idea if you want to bring your own car, prefer flexible schedules, or simply fancy the sea journey. In this post I’ll explain, in a very practical way, how to choose the route (Barcelona, Valencia or Dénia), which port suits you best (Palma or Alcúdia) and, above all, how to get moving the moment you step ashore with a car pick-up in 5 minutes and no surprises. In our travellers’ feedback the most valued combo is: arrive, hop on the shuttle, complete online check-in beforehand and drive straight to the first cove; “we picked up in 5 minutes with no queues” is a phrase we see again and again in our reviews.
Ferry routes to Mallorca: Barcelona, Valencia or Dénia → Palma or Alcúdia?
The most common options from mainland Spain depart from Barcelona, Valencia or Dénia and arrive in Palma (south-west) or Alcúdia (north). Practically speaking:
- Barcelona → Palma: usually more frequencies and day/night combinations. Ideal if you’re coming from the north-east or need availability.
- Valencia → Palma: very popular for a good duration-price balance. Perfect if you’re coming from central/eastern areas.
- Dénia → Alcúdia (and sometimes → Palma): the quick gateway to northern Mallorca. If you’re staying around Pollença, Port d’Alcúdia, Playa de Muro or Cala Sant Vicenç, arriving in Alcúdia saves road time.
- Inter-island (Ibiza/Menorca ↔ Mallorca): if you’re combining islands, plan connection times carefully with your main sailing.
Palma or Alcúdia?
- Palma suits you if you stay in Palma city, Calvià (Palmanova, Magaluf, Santa Ponça), Andratx, Llucmajor or you plan routes in the south-west/south.
- Alcúdia is best if your base is in the north or north-east of the island: Alcúdia, Port d’Alcúdia, Muro, Can Picafort, Pollença, Cala Ratjada.
Local tip: in peak season consider arriving at night. There’s less traffic near the ports and disembarkation is usually smoother. It can truly save the day.
Durations, schedules and high season: how to choose the ferry without overpaying
There isn’t “one best ferry”; there’s the best ferry for your plan. To nail it:
- Match the clock, not just the price. A slightly pricier ticket that lands when you can pick up the car, drop bags and catch sunset beats saving €15 and losing half a day.
- Overnight vs daytime. The overnight ferry gives you a free morning on the island; daytime suits those who prefer views, stretching legs, an unhurried lunch and arriving in daylight.
- High season (June–September). Book ahead and avoid Saturday morning rush if you dislike queues. I suggest checking 2–3 weeks in advance.
- Flexibility. If you can shift your trip by 24 hours, play with adjacent departures: the price calendar can vary a lot day to day.
Mini-checklist for quick decisions
- Origin (Barcelona/Valencia/Dénia)
- Preferred arrival port (Palma/Alcúdia)
- Daytime or overnight to fit your itinerary
- If boarding a car, check height/length and surcharges
- Plan B for weather changes (especially off-season)
Travelling with a car: boarding, paperwork and queue-dodging tips
If you’re coming with your own car (or van), ferries are super convenient. For smooth boarding:
- Documents handy: ID/passport, ticket, vehicle registration and insurance. Carry printed + digital to avoid dashes.
- Vehicle dimensions: height/length (and if you carry a roof box or bikes). Some companies charge a height supplement.
- Arrival margin: arrive properly early; in peak season add 20–30 minutes. You’ll dodge “final call” stress and ramp queues.
- Smart hand-luggage: keep a small bag with essentials (meds, chargers, a light layer). Cars stay in the hold; you can’t go back during the crossing.
- Pets & families: check pet-friendly cabins and cots if travelling with little ones. Ferries have improved, but book them with the ticket.
Golden tip
If disembarking with a vehicle, head out steadily without stopping to browse the car deck: go with the flow and, once outside, pull into a safe area to set the GPS and playlist. You’ll avoid honks and that needless minute-one stress.
Arriving by ferry and getting around: 5-minute car pick-up near the airport (shuttle & meeting point)
Whether you land in Palma or Alcúdia, the question is the same: “How do I get around Mallorca now?”. For me it’s clear: with a rental car you ditch timetables and reach coves, viewpoints and villages public transport doesn’t cover well.
The best part is everything’s included: full cover with no excess, no deposits held on your card, unlimited kilometres, free additional drivers (up to 3) and full-to-full fuel. It feels like “zero return-desk shocks”, priceless when your mind is already on the next cove.
Local advice: which port suits your stay (Palma vs the north)
- If staying in Palma/Calvià/Andratx/Llucmajor: arriving in Palma puts you 10–30 min from your hotel and south-west beaches (Illetas, Portals, Portals Vells).
- If your plan is north/north-east (Alcúdia, Pollença, Muro, Artà, Cala Ratjada): aim for Alcúdia. You’ll save up to an hour’s transfers and avoid crossing half the island on day one.
- Serra de Tramuntana (Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller): either works, but Palma is usually more direct to start MA-11 to Sóller or the scenic MA-10.
- Split-stay routes: sometimes it pays to arrive in Palma, base 2–3 nights in the south-west and then move north.
Parking tip: in old towns (Palma, Pollença) use municipal car parks to avoid endless loops. Saved time = pure sightseeing.
Real-world budget: ferry ticket + car hire with no excess or holds (how to avoid “surprises”)
Ferries have variables (date, route, cabin/seat, vehicle). To fine-tune total trip cost:
- Book in advance both ferry and car. In summer peaks, demand drives extras up.
- Read the car T&Cs: avoid deals that “charge later” via high excesses or large card holds. I prefer all-in from the start, with full cover, no excess and no holds.
- Full-to-full fuel policy: transparent, no small print.
- Free cancellation up to 24h: flexibility lets you grab a last-minute ferry deal or adjust for weather without penalty.
From our experience, travellers value clear coverage and peace of mind: “transparent price and reliable service”, “I trusted the reviews and everything was perfect”. With over 1,590 reviews and an “Excellent” average, our goal is for you to forget about the rental and focus on the fun.
Suggested 3–5 day itineraries: cove-hopping with unlimited km
3-day plan (base Palma):
- Day 1: Palma (Cathedral, La Calatrava), Castell de Bellver at sunset, dinner in Santa Catalina.
- Day 2: Illetas early, Portals Vells, afternoon in Port d’Andratx and Sant Elm viewpoint.
- Day 3: Valldemossa → Deià → Sóller via MA-10; if the weather’s good, cove Sa Foradada.
5-day plan (Palma + north):
- Days 1–2: Palma + south-west (beaches and coves).
- Day 3: Tramuntana (Valldemossa–Deià–Sóller) with scenic stops.
- Day 4: North: Playa de Muro, Alcúdia and sunset at Es Colomer.
- Day 5: Cala Figuera (north) or, if you prefer the south-east, Cala d’Or, Cala Mondragó.
With unlimited kilometres you’re not tied to the map: if you hear “the water’s crystal today” in a cove, just turn and go. That simple.
FAQ about the ferry to Mallorca
Can I board with my car? What do I need?
Yes. Bring ID/passport, ticket and vehicle documents. Check height/length if you have a roof box or bikes.
Is it better to arrive in Palma or Alcúdia?
Depends on where you stay: Palma for south-west/south/western Tramuntana; Alcúdia if your base is north/north-east.
Daytime or overnight?
Overnight maximises next-day time on the island; daytime is more “scenic” and comfier for families who prefer light and views.
Where do I pick up my rental car fast?
We’ll pick you up by shuttle at Parking G (landmark Bar FG Coffee, red door “Transport meeting point”). In 5’ you’re signing and leaving.
Coverage and hidden costs?
Ours is full cover, no excess, no holds, unlimited km, full-to-full and free additional drivers. No “surprises”.
What if my plans change?
Free cancellation up to 24h before. Real flexibility.
Come enjoy with Autos Mallorca
Coming to Mallorca by ferry gives you freedom from minute one: you choose your route, control timings and arrive eager to hit the road. My recommendation is to align the ferry with your accommodation area and, on arrival, get driving without wasting time: shuttle, online check-in, 5 minutes and go. With no-excess, no-hold car hire, unlimited kilometres and free additional drivers, you focus on what matters: enjoying the island at your pace. If that suits you, we’ll be waiting at Palma Airport to start your trip on the right foot.
Ready to book your car? You’re a few clicks away—without small print.
