The most typical Mallorcan boat: the llaüt
The llaüt is Mallorca’s quintessential boat, a small wooden vessel that has gracefully sailed the turquoise Mediterranean waters for decades. Once a traditional fishing boat, it has now become a true symbol of craftsmanship and heritage. If you love to travel and truly immerse yourself in a destination’s essence, this article is for you. Discover more about the llaüt and its fascinating history.
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What is a llaüt?
It’s a traditional wooden boat with a lateen sail, typically about 4 metres long, although larger versions exist, supported by 3 masts. Originally designed for fishing, its remarkable stability made it a favoured vessel in the Mediterranean, even playing a role in tobacco smuggling on the island during the 1960s.
Small and very stable, even in rough seas, the llaüt was originally designed for trawling in Mallorca. While its roots trace back to the Phoenicians, its true craftsmanship belongs to the "masters of aixa"—skilled shipwrights whose expertise is slowly fading but still endures in select Mallorcan towns like Portocolom, Manacor, Vilafranca, and Port de Pollença.
Over time, progress and social shifts led to the decline of the llaüt, with many of the workshops that once built and maintained these vessels closing their doors. Yet, Mallorca’s connection to this iconic boat remains unbroken—it remains a deeply ingrained part of the island’s heritage and a testament to its maritime traditions.
Traditional Mallorcan boat workshop
Little by little, the llaüt’s legacy is regaining prominence, especially after being declared a Cultural Interest Asset. For the past two decades, a workshop school in Son Bonet, near Palma, has been dedicated to preserving the craft of shipwrighting and restoring Mallorca’s most iconic llaüts and traditional boats.
Some of these vessels can be admired at the Ses Voltes Cultural Centre, in the centre of Palma in the park beneath the Cathedral, and at the Museum of the Sea in Port de Sóller, where visitors can also take in one of the island’s most stunning harbours..
Llaüt trips along the coast of Mallorca
Sailing aboard a llaüt offers a truly authentic and incomparable way to get a glimpse into the soul of Mallorca. From the moment you step onto its wooden deck, you're transported to an era of unhurried simplicity—where life moved at a gentler pace, infused with romance, tradition, and timeless charm.
A llaüt outing offers a fresh perspective on Mallorca’s coastline, allowing you to experience its beauty from the open water. Several routes across the island let you tailor your journey—choose the one that speaks to you or embark on them all for a full maritime adventure.
Llaüt trips from Andratx
Recognizing the magic of sailing aboard a llaüt along Mallorca’s coastline, Zafiro Hotels has crafted a 100% sustainable experience. This journey aboard an electric llaüt departs from Port d'Andratx, guiding travellers through some of the island’s most stunning hidden beaches and coves—including the breathtaking Malgrats Islands, as well as enchanting spots like Cala Fornells and Caló des Monjo.
Our electric llaüt experience is reserved only for guests of Zafiro Palace Andratx. The trips allow a maximum of 6 people (plus the captain) and include equipment for snorkelling and stand-up paddle, as well as underwater scooters and GoPro cameras to film everything underwater.
During the trip you can also choose to add a picnic with typical Mallorcan products, drinks and fresh fruit.
To book, just contact the Concierge team at Zafiro Palace Andratx at least 24 hours in advance.
Llaüt trip from Alcudia
There are several trips available from Port d'Alcudia, home to our Zafiro Palace Alcudia and Zafiro Tropic hotels. One of the trips is to the Aucanada lighthouse, an beautiful location for watching the sunset and enjoying a swim after dusk.
Llaüt trip from Portocolom
This route offers a stunning perspective of Mallorca’s Levante coast from the sea, unveiling its dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and untouched coves—accessible only by boat or on foot.
No matter the trip you choose, sailing aboard a traditional Mallorcan boat will be an unforgettable highlight of your time on the island. If you want to continue adding more incredible experiences to your travel plans, see all of our travel ideas. Remember, that if you book direct online with us, you also get very special benefits and the best online price guaranteed.
The most typical Mallorcan boat, the llaüt
A little wooden boat that has been dancing across turquoise waters in the Mediterranean for decades. All you need to know about the llaüt, the most characteristic boat on Mallorca: its history, its tradition and the best sailing routes.
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