Ferry arriving at Palma de Mallorca port – end point of the overnight Barcelona–Mallorca crossing
The port of Palma de Mallorca – where overnight ferry passengers from Barcelona arrive. Photo: Amic Hoteles – CC-BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Why You Should Book a Cabin

On a 7–8 hour overnight crossing, a cabin is not a luxury – it is a necessity for a comfortable journey. While you can technically travel in a reclining seat (included in the basic ticket), you will arrive in Palma at 05:00 having barely slept. For an extra €40–60, an inside cabin gives you a proper bed, a private bathroom, and the ability to arrive refreshed and ready for your holiday. It is one of the best value upgrades in travel.

"I have done the crossing in a seat exactly once. Never again. Even the cheapest inside cabin is worlds better. Spend the money – your first day on holiday depends on it."
- Thomas

Cabin Types Explained

Inside Cabin (4-Berth)

  • Price: +€40–70 per cabin
  • Beds: 2 lower + 2 upper bunks
  • Bathroom: Private (shower, WC, basin)
  • Window: No
  • Size: Approx. 8–10 m²
  • Best for: Families, groups on a budget

The workhorse of overnight ferry travel. Compact but perfectly functional. Dark and quiet for sleeping.

Inside Cabin (2-Berth)

  • Price: +€50–85 per cabin
  • Beds: 2 lower beds or 1 lower + 1 upper
  • Bathroom: Private
  • Window: No
  • Size: Approx. 8 m²
  • Best for: Couples, solo travellers wanting privacy

More space per person than a 4-berth. The most popular choice for couples.

Outside Cabin

  • Price: +€60–130 per cabin
  • Beds: 2 or 4 berths
  • Bathroom: Private
  • Window: Yes (porthole or small window)
  • Size: Approx. 10–12 m²
  • Best for: Those who want natural light

The window makes a real difference on the morning arrival – you wake up to sea views and Mallorca on the horizon.

Suite

  • Price: +€120–200 per cabin
  • Beds: Double bed + sometimes sofa bed
  • Bathroom: Large private bathroom
  • Window: Large window or porthole
  • Size: Approx. 15–20 m²
  • Best for: Special occasions, comfort seekers

Available mainly on Trasmediterránea. A genuine treat with extra space, better furnishings, and sometimes complimentary drinks.

Pet Cabin

  • Price: +€60–100 per cabin
  • Beds: 2 or 4 berths
  • Bathroom: Private
  • Special feature: Pets allowed inside
  • Availability: Limited – book early
  • Best for: Travellers with dogs or cats

Special cabins on dedicated pet-friendly decks. Your furry companion stays with you rather than in the kennel area. See our pet travel guide.

Reclining Seat (No Cabin)

  • Price: Included in basic ticket
  • Type: Aircraft-style reclining seat
  • Privacy: None (shared lounge)
  • Bathroom: Shared facilities
  • Best for: Ultra-budget travellers only

Honestly, we do not recommend this for overnight crossings. Fine for the 5-hour Alcúdia fast ferry, but not for sleeping.

Our Recommendations by Traveller Type

  • Couples on a budget: 2-berth inside cabin. Best value for money, quiet and private.
  • Couples celebrating: Trasmediterránea suite. Worth the splurge for anniversaries or honeymoons.
  • Families with children: 4-berth inside cabin. Children love the bunk beds, and the darkness helps them sleep.
  • Solo travellers: 2-berth inside cabin (you get the whole cabin to yourself for a small extra cost).
  • With pets: Pet cabin on Baleària or Trasmed. Book as early as possible – these sell out fast.
"For family trips, we always book a 4-berth inside cabin. The children are asleep within minutes of departure, and we enjoy a quiet drink in the bar before turning in ourselves. It is the perfect start to a Mallorca holiday."
- Elena

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a cabin cost on the Barcelona–Mallorca ferry?

Cabin prices depend on the type: inside cabins start at approx. €40–70 extra per cabin, outside cabins from approx. €60–130, and suites from approx. €120–200. Prices vary by season and operator – check current availability via DirectFerries.

Can I travel without a cabin on the overnight ferry?

Yes – reclining seats are included in the basic ticket. However, for the 7–8 hour overnight crossing to Palma (arrival around 05:00) we strongly recommend booking a cabin. Even the cheapest inside cabin is significantly more comfortable and you'll arrive refreshed for your holiday.

Can I bring my pet into the cabin?

Yes. Baleària and Trasmed offer dedicated pet cabins where your dog or cat stays with you rather than in the kennel area. These are limited – book as early as possible. See our pet travel guide for full details.

Which cabin type is best for families?

A 4-berth inside cabin is the best value for families. Children love the bunk beds and the darkness helps them sleep through the night. For more light and space, consider a 4-berth outside cabin with a porthole.

Ready to Book Your Cabin?

Compare availability and cabin prices across all operators – Baleària, GNV and Trasmed – in one step.

Check Availability & Book See all prices Barcelona–Palma guide