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. Both Baleàrria and GNV on the Barcelona–Palma route operate Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) ferries that accept cars, motorhomes, motorcycles, and bicycles.
Car hire in Mallorca is widely available and often inexpensive, so bringing your own vehicle makes most sense if you are staying for two weeks or more, need specific equipment (roof box, child seats, or a camper van), or are combining the Mallorca trip with a longer driving holiday through Spain or Southern France.
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 (EU registration fine)
- Insurance must cover Spain & Balearic Islands (standard EU Green Card or EU policy covers this)
- Non-EU drivers: carry an International Driving Permit if required by your country
- Measure your vehicle beforehand – height clearance on car decks is typically 1.8–2.0m
- LPG and full-electric vehicles may have restrictions – check with the operator when booking
Driving in Mallorca
- Drive on the right (same as mainland Spain and most of Europe)
- Ma-1 motorway connects Palma to Palma Nova and Andratx (south-west)
- Ma-13 connects Palma to Alcudia (north) – useful for the Baleàrria Alcudia ferry arrival
- Serra de Tramuntana mountain roads are narrow – a smaller car is recommended
- Fuel prices are similar to mainland Spain – typically lower than Northern Europe
- Parking in Palma city centre is limited – use the park-and-ride on the ring road
Car Ferry Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to take a car on the Barcelona–Mallorca ferry?
Car ferry prices on the Barcelona–Palma route start at around approx. €80 in low season and can reach €400 in peak summer. The vehicle supplement is charged on top of passenger fares. Book as early as possible for the best rates — vehicle spaces sell out weeks before passenger tickets.
Which operators carry cars on the Barcelona–Mallorca ferry?
Both Baleàrria and GNV operate Ro-Ro ferries on the Barcelona–Palma route. All their ships accept cars, motorhomes, motorcycles, and bicycles. Compare departure times and prices via DirectFerries to find the best option for your travel dates.
How early should I arrive at the port with a car?
Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure (2 hours in peak season July–August). Vehicle check-in queues can be long, and late arrivals with vehicles risk being turned away. The Barcelona ferry terminal is at the southern end of the Port of Barcelona — follow signs for "Terminal de Ferrys".
Book Your Car Ferry to Mallorca
Compare prices and availability from Baleàrria and GNV — book early to secure vehicle space in peak season.