Along the shores of the Bay of Pollensa and the calm waters surrounding Palma, a joyful call has become familiar: “Pirí-pirí!”. This cheerful shout, heard from yachts, motorboats, and sailboats alike, isn’t just a casual cheer but a signal for Mallorca’s very first cocktail boat. Behind this vibrant name are Mar Margarit Bauzà and Ferran Permanyer Molist, a young couple who, five summers ago, decided to bring their passion for cocktails out onto the sea.
The idea first took shape in 2022 when Mar stumbled upon a video while scrolling through Instagram—a small boat in Thailand serving drinks to nearby vessels. Inspired immediately, they decided to launch their own venture. What started as a spontaneous project with just one boat and the two of them managing everything has since grown into a fleet of three four-metre launches. These boats now deliver refreshing cocktails throughout Palma Bay, from Illetas all the way to Portals Vells, while still operating from their home base in Pollensa.
What sets this business apart isn’t merely the novelty of ordering a mojito from the water but the values they uphold. Mar emphasises that they are far from a typical tourist delivery service; instead, they are deeply rooted in the local community with many Mallorcan customers. Environmentally conscious, they proudly hold the Plastic Free Balearics certification from the Save the Med Foundation and use edible sugar straws and reusable cups, ensuring they leave minimal impact on the sea they cherish. The playful name “Pirí-Pirí” originated from a joke between family members but has since become a kind of secret code among regulars. To reach them, clients simply tune into channel 69 on marine radio or send their location via Instagram, and the crew arrives promptly with a smile, ice, fresh fruit, and the soothing sound of the sea in the background.
Mar, originally from Esporles and trained in education, and Ferran, a skipper born in Vic, share a love for both the sea and the mountains—spending summers on the water and winters exploring the hills. Their shared enthusiasm extends beyond the boat business; prior to launching Pirí-Pirí Cocktail Boat, they founded Molta Muntanya, a clothing label featuring artistic illustrations of the Balearic Islands’ most iconic peaks. Their complementary skills—Mar’s talent for illustration and Ferran’s expertise in fabric printing—have strengthened their personal and professional partnership. Together, they have created a unique blend of tradition, landscape, and creativity that embodies a genuinely Mallorcan lifestyle.
What truly makes Pirí-Pirí stand out is the vibrant atmosphere created by its dedicated team. Currently, six employees operate across the three boats, each crewed by a skipper and a sailor. Despite their compact size—just four metres long—these launches are fully equipped to lift the spirits of those on neighbouring vessels. Their catchy slogan has gained popularity among tourists and locals alike, who often call out “pirí-pirí” to signal for the boats. Mar highlights that while most boats may have a bar on board, Pirí-Pirí offers something beyond drinks: a handcrafted experience and memorable moments. Their strong commitment to sustainability also plays a crucial role in their identity, with reusable cups becoming a beloved keepsake among many Mallorcans’ summer collections.