Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, offers a remarkable Mediterranean diving experience characterized by its crystal-clear waters and dramatic underwater landscapes. The island's limestone geology creates a stunning playground of caverns, caves, swim-throughs, and wrecks. With over 30 distinct dive sites scattered around its coastline, divers can explore a variety of topographies, from shallow, sheltered bays perfect for beginners to deep walls and intricate cave systems that challenge even the most experienced. The marine reserves, like El Toro and Malgrats, are particularly noteworthy for their abundant marine life.

Diving conditions in Mallorca are generally excellent, with minimal currents and visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), especially during the summer months. Water temperatures are comfortable, ranging from cool in winter to warm in late summer, making it a year-round destination for dedicated divers. Its accessibility, well-established dive infrastructure, and the sheer diversity of underwater environments make Mallorca an ideal choice for any diver looking to discover the best of Mediterranean scuba diving, whether they're seeking vibrant reefs, thrilling cavern explorations, or historic wreck dives.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Mallorca, Spain?
The El Toro Marine Reserve is widely considered the most popular dive site in Mallorca, Spain. Its protected status has allowed marine life to flourish, resulting in huge schools of barracuda, large groupers, and moray eels. With depths ranging from 5 to over 30 meters, it offers stunning topography and diverse life, making it suitable for divers of all certification levels and a must-do for any visitor.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Mallorca, Spain?
Well-known sites include the Malgrats Islands Marine Reserve and the Cabrera National Park, both teeming with life. For a less crowded experience, explore the northern coast near Pollença, which features dramatic rock formations and caverns. The wreck of a large cargo ship near Palma, the 'Big Wreck', is another fantastic dive. These less-frequented sites offer a different perspective of diving in Mallorca, Spain away from the main crowds.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Mallorca, Spain?
Water temperatures in Mallorca, Spain vary significantly. In winter (Dec-Mar), expect cool temperatures of 14-16°C (57-61°F). Spring (Apr-May) sees a rise to 16-19°C (61-66°F). The peak summer season (Jun-Sep) offers warm water, ranging from 22-26°C (72-79°F). In autumn (Oct-Nov), temperatures gradually cool to 19-22°C (66-72°F).
When is the best time to visit Mallorca, Spain?
The best time for diving in Mallorca, Spain is from May to October. During these months, you'll experience the warmest water temperatures, excellent visibility, and the calmest sea conditions. This period is ideal for all levels of divers. While diving is possible year-round, the winter months require a dry suit or thick semi-dry suit due to colder water.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Mallorca, Spain?
During the main dive season from May to October, underwater visibility in Mallorca, Spain is typically excellent, often reaching 30 meters (100 feet) or more. The clear, calm Mediterranean waters make for fantastic photographic opportunities. In the winter months, visibility can be slightly reduced due to weather and plankton, but generally remains very good, averaging around 15-20 meters.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Mallorca, Spain?
Mallorca, Spain does not feature large pelagic migrations like whale sharks or manta rays. The marine life highlights are the resident Mediterranean species. However, the summer months are the best time to see large schools of barracuda and breeding behavior among many reef fish species. Occasionally, lucky divers may spot eagle rays or even dolphins during boat journeys to the dive sites.
What marine life can I expect to see in Mallorca, Spain?
You can expect to see a rich variety of Mediterranean marine life. Common encounters include large groupers, schools of barracuda, moray and conger eels, octopus, and cuttlefish. The reefs are vibrant with damselfish, wrasse, and bream. Macro life is also abundant, with colorful nudibranchs and scorpionfish camouflaged on the rocks. In marine reserves, the density and size of the fish are particularly impressive.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Mallorca, Spain?
For summer dives (June-Sept), a 3mm to 5mm full wetsuit is typically sufficient. In the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn (Apr-May, Oct-Nov), a 7mm wetsuit is recommended as the water is cooler. For winter diving (Dec-Mar), a 7mm semi-dry suit or a dry suit is essential for staying warm and comfortable in the colder water temperatures.
How do I get to Mallorca, Spain?
The primary gateway is Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), which receives frequent flights from across Europe and the UK. From the airport, it's easy to rent a car, which is recommended for exploring the island's various dive locations. Taxis and public transport are also available to reach the coastal towns where most dive centers in Mallorca, Spain are based.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Mallorca, Spain?
Mallorca, Spain is a destination best suited for shore-based diving. There are no regular liveaboards operating around the island, as the numerous dive sites are easily accessible via daily boat trips from the many dive centers along the coast. Staying on shore provides great flexibility, allowing you to combine world-class diving with the island's culture, cuisine, and beautiful landscapes.
All Dive Sites in Mallorca (32)
Boya 4 El ToroBoya 5 El ToroBoya 6 El ToroCala LlebeigeCala Molins Cala CarbCala MontjoEl ToroEs Castellet The PinnacleGeronimo CaveGorgonias Garden El Eden De GorgoniasHide And SeekIlletesIsla El SechIsla FormentorIsla Sa PorassaLa MolaMarine Np El ToroPalma CavernPalma WrecksPiscina MalgratsPortalls VellsPunta Cala FigueraPunta CautiusPunta De LavanadaPunta MalgratsPunta MarcPunta MulaSa Cova Des PintorSa FerraduraSwiss CheeseTorbogenWcdm Hausriff Bonanza Playa