This is a Mallorca cruise that is not dedicated to the calas, those popular anchorages that are mainly found on the east coast, and which also omits the Cabrera National Park. Instead, there is an impressive stretch of high mountains, anchorages full of fish and the island's dream beach to discover. Even the first few nautical miles make it clear: heading west, you are clearly on the livelier side of Mallorca in the bay of Palma and out of it to Port d'Andratx. Here in the south, it is mostly motor yachts that dominate the scene. The sea only becomes noticeably calmer from Isla Dragonera onwards. From this point onwards, the mighty nature of the Tramuntana mountains dominates the scene. The only harbour on this stretch of coast, Port de Sóller, is about halfway along the route. Everyone should have seen it at least once.
If you come by boat, you can choose between a modern marina and the inexpensive moorings at Ports IB, the Balearic harbour administration. This combination is available in some ports on Mallorca and the neighbouring islands. The region to the west of the Bay of Palma is characterised by striking capes. Between them are larger bays and marinas, which also have space for large and very large yachts. The eastern side of the Bay of Palma is flanked by a steep coastline that rises up to Cabo Blanco and then falls away evenly until long natural beaches begin at Sa Ràpita.
The infrastructure at the stops along the way is perfect. There is no shortage of shops, bars and restaurants on Mallorca. On the other hand, this does not exclude beautiful nature experiences. Those who enjoy snorkelling will be able to admire numerous fish. In addition to dolphins, whales are also frequently spotted.
When visiting the harbour, the boat is moored to mooring lines everywhere. Free anchoring is common in the bays. However, always stay in front of a row of yellow buoys - if present. This marks a bathing zone that is off-limits to boats. In a few places, there are also mooring buoys that must be reserved and paid for.
Day 1: Palma-Port d'Andratx (21 nm)
One of Mallorca's top destinations awaits right at the start. A high, steep cape at the entrance, the harbour bay framed by green hills, the first high mountains in the background. Two independent harbours, a buoy field. A wide selection of restaurants on land, many of them on the water. On the way to Port d'Andratx there are various opportunities for a break at anchor.
Day 2: Port d'Andratx-Sóller (27 nm)
This is followed by a cruise along the high mountain coast of Mallorca, the Tramuntana. Magnificent views are guaranteed - but only a few bays for an anchor stop. But at the end is a top-class harbour bay with marinas and views of several thousand metre peaks.
Day 3: Port de Sóller-Sant Elm (24 nm)
Those who have not yet had their fill of the mountain range should now turn their gaze to port when sailing in the opposite direction. The anchorage or the buoy field off Sant Elm, the most westerly town on Mallorca with numerous places to stop for a bite to eat, are tempting places to spend the night. Clear water and lots of fish cavort around the boat: a snorkelling paradise.
Day 4: Sant Elm-Port Adriano (12 nm)
In the morning, plan a visit to the nature park on Isla Dragonera (free of charge). You can anchor in front of the mini harbour and take the dinghy in if the weather conditions allow. There is a small visitor centre here. If you want to hike: two paths lead to the lighthouses, the most challenging of which climbs 400 metres up to the old Far Vell. Contrasting programme in the evening: after mooring, you can relax and watch superyachts.
Day 5: Port Adriano-Sa Ràpita (27 nm)
Once across the bay of Palma - you don't often do that on a classic charter trip on Mallorca. But it's worth it: for anchoring off the steep coast near Cabo Blanco and the natural beach of Es Trenc. It is located right next to the marina of the sailing club in Sa Ràpita.
Day 6: Sa Ràpita-Palma (23 nm)
The last day promises to be full of highlights once again. First a stop for a swim in the turquoise-coloured sea at Es Trenc beach. Then another stop at the almost famous Cala Pi. Finally back to Palma, where in the evening it's an exhilarating farewell to the old town.
Territory character Mallorca
With its perfect harbour infrastructure and rare navigational challenges, Mallorca is an extremely suitable area, even for beginners. For the trip to Sóller, however, you should keep an eye on the weather. From the western cape to the harbour bay, the steep north coast offers only fair-weather anchorages in sometimes deep water.
Wind & Weather
The Balearic Islands are influenced by the Azores High. This is why high pressure prevails all year round, especially during the summer months. This is when the sun shines brightly and the sailing wind mainly results from thermal effects. Especially in the large bays such as Palma and Alcúdia, the daytime winds are onshore and sometimes strong. When an Azores high builds up, northerly winds blow on its eastern side, which helps to usher in the recurring mistral. This strong wind blows out of the Rhône valley towards the Mediterranean, where it can reach gale force even in summer. In addition to Menorca, storms also tend to hit Mallorca, particularly along the east coast.
No less important: don't lose sight of the region south and south-west of Mallorca on the weather map. Many areas of low pressure develop over north-west Africa and move north to north-east from there. They bring wind and rain and sometimes even thunderstorms. The real, hot midsummer sometimes doesn't materialise until the beginning of July. However, apart from occasional setbacks, it then lasts for a long time - often until late autumn
