Should You Take Your Car?
Having your own car on Mallorca gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace – from the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountain road to the hidden coves of the east coast. All three operators on the Barcelona–Palma route accept cars, motorhomes, motorcycles, and even bicycles.
However, car hire in Mallorca is relatively cheap, and bringing your own vehicle adds significant cost to the crossing. It makes most sense if you are staying for two weeks or more, need specific equipment (roof box, child seats), or are combining the Mallorca trip with a longer driving holiday through Spain.
Vehicle Prices 2026
| Vehicle type | Max length | Low season | High season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | Up to 5m | €80–150 | €250–400 |
| Large car / SUV | 5–6m | €100–180 | €280–450 |
| Car + trailer | Combined | €150–250 | €350–550 |
| Motorhome | Up to 7m | €150–250 | €380–550 |
| Large motorhome | Over 8m | €200–350 | €500–700 |
| Motorcycle | N/A | €50–90 | €120–180 |
| Bicycle | N/A | €5–10 | €10–15 |
Vehicle prices include the driver. Additional passengers pay the standard foot passenger fare.
The Loading Process
Before Boarding
- Arrive at the port at least 90 minutes before departure (2 hours in peak season)
- Follow signs to the vehicle check-in lanes
- Present your booking confirmation and vehicle documents
- You will receive a boarding card and lane assignment
- Wait in the designated lane until directed to drive on board
Driving On Board
- Follow the crew's hand signals carefully
- Drive slowly (5 km/h maximum on the car deck)
- Park where directed – spaces are tight, so be prepared for close manoeuvring
- Apply the handbrake firmly and leave the car in gear
- Take everything you need for the crossing – you cannot return to the car deck during sailing
Disembarkation
- An announcement will call vehicle passengers 15–20 minutes before arrival
- Return to the car deck and wait in your vehicle
- Vehicles are released deck by deck – this can take 15–30 minutes
- Follow the exit signs and crew instructions
Important Considerations
Vehicle Requirements
- Valid registration documents required
- Insurance must cover Mallorca (standard EU cover is fine)
- UK drivers: carry your driving licence and V5C
- Measure your vehicle beforehand – height clearance matters
- LPG vehicles may have restrictions – check with operator
Driving in Mallorca
- Drive on the right (left-hand drive is standard)
- UK drivers: take extra care at roundabouts and junctions
- Ma-1 motorway connects Palma to Palma Nova and Andratx
- Ma-13 connects Palma to Alcudia (north)
- Mountain roads are narrow – choose a smaller car if possible
- Fuel is cheaper than in the UK