Quick Answer
Palma de Mallorca is a popular Western Mediterranean cruise port and occasional embarkation point. Cruise ships usually dock west of the old town near Estacio Maritima, a short drive from the city centre and airport.
Where It Is
The cruise port sits on Palma's waterfront, west of the cathedral and old town. It is close enough for easy sightseeing, but most passengers will use taxi, shuttle or transfer rather than walking with luggage.
Getting There
Palma Airport is one of the easiest Mediterranean airports for cruise passengers because it is relatively close to the port. Taxi, shuttle, private transfer and cruise-line transfers are common.
If you are already staying in Palma, taxis are usually the simplest way to reach the terminal on embarkation day.
Where To Stay
For a pre-cruise stay, Palma old town, the cathedral area, Santa Catalina and the waterfront work well. Beach hotels can be lovely, but check transfer time to the port and airport before booking.
What To Do Before Sailing
Top options include Palma Cathedral, the old town lanes, Bellver Castle, Santa Catalina market, harbour walks, tapas bars, beach time, boat trips and nearby resorts. With an extra day, Valldemossa or Soller are excellent, but allow proper travel time.
Embarkation Tips
- Check whether your sailing is a full embarkation or a port call with partial boarding.
- Book transfers early in summer.
- Avoid leaving luggage in a hire car while sightseeing.
- Allow time for airport queues in peak holiday periods.
- Pack sun cream and a hat in carry-on if boarding early.
Best For
Palma is best for Western Mediterranean cruises, summer fly-cruises, family holidays, short breaks and travellers who want an easy sunny start.
Final Advice
Palma is a brilliant pre-cruise city, but do not make embarkation day too clever. Cathedral, lunch, taxi, ship. That is the rhythm.
Travel extras
Make the airport bit easier
Holiday Extras can help compare airport parking, airport hotels, lounges and other travel add-ons. Code automatically applies: make a search on Holiday Extras to see the discounts apply. Some links on The Cruise Atlas may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Tours and port days
Find experiences ashore
Viator is useful for comparing tours, transfers, tickets and port-day experiences. Some links on The Cruise Atlas may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.