Sailing routes in Spain
Spain's main charter area is the Balearic Islands: Mallorca with bases in Palma and Alcúdia, Menorca, and Ibiza with Formentera a short hop away. A week from Palma takes in the coves of Mallorca's south and east coast or a crossing to Menorca; from Ibiza, Formentera with turquoise water over sand. Summer brings moderate breezes, and the crossing between islands can catch the tramontana from the north. Marinas are expensive and full in July–August, so nights are spent at anchor or on paid buoys (anchoring is banned over posidonia meadows). Season May to October; the mainland coast and the Canaries are separate areas.
Spain
When is the best time to charter a yacht in Spain?
In the Balearics the season runs May to October. July and August are the peak: marinas are expensive and full, so you anchor or pick up a buoy. June and September bring warm water and lower prices; May and October are the shoulder months. In winter people sail in the Canaries, a separate area.
Which sailing route should I pick in Spain?
Sailing routes in Spain, planned day by day: “Palma — Ibiza”, 7 days, about 155 nautical miles; “Barcelona — Costa Brava”, 7 days, about 120 nautical miles; “Menorca — Mallorca”, 7 days, about 110 nautical miles; “Alicante — Ibiza”, 7 days, about 185 nautical miles; “Valencia — Formentera”, 7 days, about 225 nautical miles; “Palma — Menorca — Ibiza”, 14 days, about 406 nautical miles; “L'Estartit — Gruissan”, 7 days, about 147 nautical miles; “Palma — Cabrera”, 7 days, about 167 nautical miles. Each route page has the legs, miles and overnight stops.
Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
For a bareboat charter (no skipper or crew provided), yes: a skipper's licence and, as a rule, a VHF radio certificate. Without a licence, we add a skipper, paid separately from the boat price.
What is the security deposit and how is it paid?
The security deposit is your insurance excess in case of damage, usually €1,000–8,000. It is taken at the base at check-in on a credit card issued outside Russia: charter companies don't accept Russian cards or debit cards. With a hired skipper the deposit terms may be different, and not every charter company accepts a cash deposit or deposit insurance: check with the manager.
