One the many pleasurable perks of living or holidaying in Mallorca is the ease of exploring the smaller siblings of the Balearic Island family – Menorca and Ibiza and Formentera.

Within an easy (island-)hop, skip and a jump you could be on their shores and taking in new sights, sounds and sandy beaches.

Generally, the best ‘island hopping’ method is by ferry and luckily there is substantial choice and value on offer.

Ferry companies such as Balearia, Iscomar and Acciona provide regular, convenient and comfortable crossings throughout the year, (with more frequent crossings during the summer season) all journeys range between 2 hrs 30 mins to 8/9hrs.   Balearia Ferries offers a Palma to Ibiza route in 2hrs 30mins, and you can also travel with them to Menorca from Alcudia in is as little as 1hr 30mins.

So you could be exploring Mahon’s remarkable harbour in Menorca or soaking up the salt pans of Ses Salines in Ibiza… both an easy sail away and of course with no hand baggage restrictions!

Fares do vary, two foot passengers can currently book a return journey from Palma to Ibiza for 173€ (300€ with a car) and a return ticket to Menorca will cost 158€ for two foot passengers (and 223€ with a car).  Spanish Residents also benefit from their residents discount, (subject to supply of the necessary documentation upon check in).  For those wanting a few extra square miles on which to explore, crossings are available to mainland destinations Barcelona, Denia and Valencia.    Ferry journeys from Mallorca to the Spanish mainland range between 5hrs 30mins (to Denia), and 7/9 hours (to Barcelona and Valencia) and will cost around 280€ for two foot passengers or 550€ with a car.

So consider including a little island hopping into your Balearic adventure and buy your tickets now!