Northern Coves Boat Trip

If the south coast of Menorca is pale and gentle, the north is darker, windswept and dramatic. The rocks are older, the sand is reddish or grey in places, and the coastline runs in bold headlands that face open sea. A boat trip through the coves of the north from Fornells shows that contrast clearly, and it takes you to bays that are far from any road. Small boats work well here, and many trips use fast, nimble craft that can nose into narrow inlets. The route generally heads out of Fornells Bay and runs west or east depending on conditions. Along the way you may see Cavalleria, with its lighthouse, the coves of the Pregonda area with their rust-coloured sand, and a long run of rocky shoreline where waves have carved arches and caves. Stops are arranged for swimming in the cleanest water. The north is also part of the biosphere-reserve landscape that covers the entire island, which was recognised by UNESCO in 1993. Boat operators in this part of the island tend to emphasise respect for the sea, keeping a safe distance from sensitive seagrass beds and avoiding anchoring on them.

Weather decides the north-coast schedule. The tramontana wind can make the sea choppy and may force a change of route, or even a cancellation, so build in flexibility. Mornings tend to be calmer. If the north is too rough, many operators can take you to the sheltered side of the bay, where the water is still beautiful and you can still swim.

The trip suits people who want to see the more rugged side of the island without hiking. The walk to the northern coves is long, often several kilometres on the Cami de Cavalls, with little shade. By boat, you cover the same distance in comfort. On the other hand, the sailing can be bumpier than on the south coast, so people with a sensitive stomach should take precautions.

Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, hat and sun cream, and carry a light jacket, since the spray can be cool. Water shoes help on rocky shores. A waterproof bag keeps phones dry. Some trips offer snorkelling gear, and the clear water near rocky walls is often full of small fish.

Look at the details of the tour you choose: the size of the boat, the number of stops and whether a drink or snack is included. A smaller group tends to feel more personal, with more flexibility on where to stop. Larger boats feel steadier but are less able to enter small coves.

Combine this trip with time in Fornells. The village has a good selection of seafood restaurants, and the bay is a pleasant place for a late-afternoon walk. If you have a car, the Cavalleria lighthouse is a short drive away and offers views across the strait. For a longer day, pair the boat trip with a hike to a northern cove on another day, so you see the same coast from both angles.

Bookings in July and August fill up, so reserve ahead, and have a backup date if the wind forecast looks poor. A pair of polarised sunglasses and a camera with a strap are worth bringing, because the colour of the water against the dark rock is the highlight of the trip, and you will want to photograph it. If the operator offers a small-group option, it is often the best way to reach tight inlets.