Spain Yacht Charter

The Balearics enjoy an ideal mild Mediterranean climate, with the hottest summer months as the prime vacation-holiday season when marinas are filled with large yachts from all over the world and the major harbors and towns pulse with activities of the world’s glitterati and the throngs of tourists who visit these beautiful islands. Although culturally and historically similar, each island has its unique features to explore and enjoy. Palma on Mallorca is the center port and the regional capital.  An ideal trading location in the western Mediterranean, the Balearics have a long rich history of dominion by other nations with cultural and architectural influences evident throughout the islands, notably Roman (123BC), Vandals of North Africa (5th cent. AD) who demolished nearly all Roman infrastructure, Moorish (534AD) as Islam spread into North Africa, Catalan Empire when James I’s medieval kingdom of Aragon defeated the Moors (mid-900s AD) and annexed the Balearics. The Catalan era was a period of prosperity during which the islands’ most important buildings were constructed (such as Bellver Castle). Eventually the Balearic Islands went to Spain and are now an Autonomous Province of Spain. Since the 1950s, the Balearic Islands have become a major tourist destination; currently over 13 million a year visit Mallorca, the largest of the islands!

The ancient Porto Cristo is Mallorca’s large, natural harbor at the base of a long bay. From the harbor, visitors can explore nearby caves and vineyards. With over 300 days of sunshine, the climate is ideal for viticulture and winemaking; flocks of sheep provide natural fertilizer. World-class restaurant, Sa Rotana is set on a 500-acre farming estate known as a “finca.” Featuring Mediterranean cuisine, guests can enjoy a private tour of the Reserva Rotana vineyard and a tasting. The Cueva del Drach (Cave of the Dragon) is one of Mallorca’s top attractions. It is a network of caves that extend about 1.5 miles with amazing stalagmites and stalactites and an interior height of 80’ from its floor. The tour includes a classical concert and boat ride on one of the largest subterranean lakes in the world. The northeast corner of Mallorca features a large horseshoe shaped bay, Cala Ratjada (Ratjada Cove) with unspoiled beaches. Santuarí de Sant Salvador d’Artà, a former Moorish fortress set on a peak, overlooks the nearby town of Artà. On the hillside is a 16th century church, Transfiguració del Señor. Explore shops and market stalls for local artisan items and gourmet treats. Visit the 14th century Castell de Capdepera built by Aragon King James II on a treed hill overlooking the village of Capdepera, to protect the local villagers from Barbary pirate raids of that era.  The Castell affords great views of the countryside and bay.

Real Club Náutico Puerto Pollença in Bahia de Formentor in northern Mallorca features 375 berths with 75 available to transient visitors. The Marina can accommodate vessels from 30’ to 75’ with a draft of 8.4’. Fuel and Travel Lift service is available. Originally a fishing village, the low-key town of Pollensa dates back to the time of Roman occupation. Back drop of the Puerto Pollensa resort is the dramatic Tramuntara mountain range. Climb 365 stone steps to the chapel for great views. Ideal spot for families and water-sports aficionados. On the northern coast is the historical former capital of Mallorca, Alcúdia. This tiny, fortified town with its winding maze of alleys has had a succession of cultural influences from Roman to Vandal, Moor and then Christian (Byzantine). The most iconic monastery on Mallorca is the 18th/19th century Monestir de Nostra Señora de Lluc. The grounds include a museum, botanical garden and awe-inspiring views of the Tramuntana mountains. Son Brull Hotel’s Spa is one of the highest regarded in Mallorca. Treatments are inspired by ingredients sourced on the island, especially the olives and citrus. Dine at Restaurant 3/65, or Jardín which features a covered porch overlooking subtropical gardens.

The north coast is great to explore by boat for panoramic views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range dotted with pretty villages. When mooring in Port de Sóller, visit the town of Sóller, along with Deià and Valldemossa. Further inland is the leather capital of Mallorca—Inca and the Binissalem vineyards. The area was once an important trade center for citrus in the late 19th-early 20th centuries. Ancient groves stand alongside palatial homes of the former wealthy merchants. These villages are favored by artists and writers, past and present, such as Andrew Lloyd Webber, Bob Geldof (Deià), Chopin and George Sand (Valldemossa). On the outskirts of Deia, nestled among the citrus groves and verdant gardens, is the Hotel La Residencia’s renowned therapeutic Spa. This luxury hotel is endorsed by Leading Hotels of the World group. The Jardins d’Alfabia are just 4 miles south of Sóller with exquisite gardens that date back to Moorish occupation in the 12th century. The Viceroy developed a system of springs and irrigation to perpetually water this shady garden with over 40 varieties of trees, shrubs, vines and more. The 17th century manor house is full of antiques and ornate details.

Cruising down the western coast of Mallorca and around the peninsula, will bring you to the upscale Port d’Andratx on a small bay with a working fishing fleet. Recently developed luxury villas in the surrounding pine-treed hills brought an influx of celebrity-owners and designer boutiques now feature among the port’s shops. The town of Andratx is about 2.5 miles from the port, amid olive and almond groves, with quaint ochre-colored homes and the 18th century church of Santa Maria. A hike up the mountain will bring you to the ruins of La Trapa Monastery and an excellent view of the surrounding landscape. Or visit the Centro Cultural Andratx for the largest contemporary art gallery in Mallorca exhibiting local and internationally trending works. The Campino Bar at the golf course clubhouse is the place to be social and dance the night away.

Further south on the peninsula is Port Adriano, one of the most commercial resorts with luxury restaurants, cafes and boutiques. One of the top 3 megayacht marinas of Mallorca, this luxury marina designed by Philippe Starck, has 488 berths able to accommodate yachts up to 110 M (over 300’). The old part of the town retains the charm of its traditional buildings. Activities include festivals, concerts, events, watersports and of course, the beach. Rounding the tip of the peninsula, you’ll cruise into the Bay of Palma and the marinas of the town of Palma, the realm of superyachts and billionaires.

Puerto Portals is the most luxurious marina in the Balearics and attracts the most glamorous of yachties from all over the globe; it rivals Monte Carlo with megayachts, and the sports cars, elite boutiques, bars, restaurants that line the waterfront and beyond. Puerto Portals marina is the most prestigious nautical and leisure complex. Open 365 days a year with many nautical events and the renowned Christmas Market, the complex features services such as banks, travel agents, chandlers, car rentals in addition to glamorous bars, fashion boutiques, exclusive shops and restaurants. The marina features 650 berths for vessels ranging 24’ to 180’ and is located 6 miles from the center of Palma and 10 miles from Palma de Mallorca Airport.

Club de Mar Mallorca features 667 berths for yachts up to 110 M (over 300’) and maximum draft of 26’. The marina has a receiving dock for ships up to 350 M (1,050 ft). Club de Mar is one of the oldest on the island with a 40-year tradition of catering to big yachts, with modern facilities and year-round regattas. The marina includes a shopping area with upscale boutiques, restaurants, a chandlery, social club, several bars, swimming pool, kids club and more.

Palma is the capital of the Balearics since 1983 and has expanded from a provincial town that was once a Moorish stronghold to a lively cosmopolitan metropolis of stylish hotels, upscale shopping, contemporary art galleries alongside the old town with a magnificent Gothic cathedral featuring an altar canopy by renowned late 19th- early 20th century Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí. The winding streets of renovated mansions are interspersed with modern architecture. The Miró Museum, once a mansion belonging to Archduke of Austria, houses an extensive collection of Joan Miró art. The world-class Arabella Spa of the St Regis Mardavall (Starwood group) is the most luxurious resort in Mallorca and offers 50,000 sq ft area of therapeutic treatments and fitness facilities. Son Gual Golf Course caters to elite golf devotees. Considered the best course off the Spanish mainland, Son Gual was developed by German magnate, Adam Pamer and features the challenges of 66 bunkers, over a 1000 olive trees, several water hazards and the Son Gual vineyards! Son Gual also features award-winning dining at the Clubhouse, a helipad and impeccable service.

Palma’s Puro Beach Club is the place for nightlife. This stylish beach club is part of the Puro hotel group. Located on its own peninsula with 180-degree views of the Bay of Palma, the Club offers a “Lifestyle Concept” of round the clock activities—restaurant, lounge, spa, yoga studio and nightclub. Cutting edge DJs entertain into the early morning hours.

The island of Ibiza is the “land of the beautiful people” with its international A-List glitzy party scene! Sandy shores are lined with beach bars jammed with global glitterati, royalty, wealthy. Ibiza Town is the center port and capital with everything a hedonistic lifestyle could want on the “golden mile;” celebrity-studded marinas, ultra-lux spas such as the Open Spa of the Ibiza Gran Hotel complex and the best nightlife in the world! The incomparable Casino de Ibiza, designed by Patricia Urquiola, is open all year and features gambling halls, a poker room, slot machines, a private room and an ambience of luxury and exclusivity. The Ibiza Pacha of the world-renowned Pacha clubbing brand, is its primary venue with superstar DJs, VIP area and is frequented by international celebrities and royalty. 

Lio, a new nightclub with cabaret-style entertainment is located at Marina Ibiza and features select chefs from London and Tokyo in its world-class restaurant. The Blue Marlin Ibiza Beach Club with its sunset-facing beach, outdoor deck with private VIP enclosure and top international DJs keep the party going all night. Galleries, upscale shops and fashion boutiques, chic cafés, world-class restaurants such as Can Domingo, located in a restored farmhouse and featuring Mediterranean fusion cuisine, is a fave of the Balearic jet set. Ibiza’s Old Town built on a hill overlooking the port that was fortified by the Romans, is a walled labyrinth of narrow stone paved lanes with a 14th century cathedral on the hilltop, that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Cruising around the west coast of Ibiza to Salada Cove are two beaches separated by rocks; the northern smaller beach features fishermen’s boathouses built into the rock. Xarraca Cove on the north coast was the on-location shoot of the film, “South Pacific” and is a great place for snorkeling in the sheltered, clear waters. Pebble-lined Blanca Cove (Cala Blanca) is one of Ibiza’s most beautiful beaches that is best accessed by boat. Dine nearby at the award-winning Amante Ibiza restaurant featuring Mediterranean cuisine and great moonlit views of Sol Den Serra bay. North of Blanca Cove in the coastal town of Santa Eulalia del Rio, visit Thalasso Spa Fenicia in the Insotel Fenicia Prestige for comprehensive pampering.

Dalt Vila is the old town area once fortified by Spain to defend against French and Ottomans during the 16th century. Set on a small mountaintop next to the sea, it overlooks Ibiza Town and the Ibiza Magna marina. With over 2500 years of history contained in its surrounding walls, Dalt Vila is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore Dalt Vila’s narrow winding cobblestone streets lined with ancient buildings and enjoy the magnificent views. The gateway entrance opens to the main plaza lined with shops, restaurants and more. Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves offers great views of the city, harbor and beyond to the island of Formentera; nearby Archaeological Museum displays artifacts from the early Phoenician era.

One of the world’s top yachting hubs, Marine Ibiza is a top superyacht destination! Located on the southeast coast of Ibiza, the marina is only 11 miles north of Formentera. Marina Ibiza has moorings for yachts to 180’ with maximum 23’ draft and can accommodate megayachts of greater length. Berthside fueling is available for yachts 75’ to 165’. The marina offers water, electrical hook-ups (32, 62, 125, 250 & 400 amps – 220/380v), telephone, Sat TV, Internet, 24-hour surveillance, parking, bilge and sewage pump-out (clean marina) and more with concierge service. Among the Marina Ibiza’s amenities is a secluded garden area surrounded by exclusive shops, restaurants, chandlers and social club.

Ibiza Magna is located at the foot of Dalt Vila for easy access to Ibiza Town and crossing to Formentera Island. This exclusive marina is the 4th most expensive marina in the world, attracting the younger rich and glamorous of the world, perhaps for its proximity to the Pacha nightclub.  Ibiza is known for its dance parties in September to close out the summer season in a wild binge of beach club parties. The marina can accommodate yachts up to 197’ in length, with a maximum draft of 33’. There are 12 berths for yachts over 80’. Services include water, electricity (220/380v), fire protection 24-hour security, mail, laundry, ATM, VHF radio, waste disposal and more, in addition to onsite bars and restaurants.

Formentera island is the smallest and most peaceful of the islands, with white powdery sand dunes and clear turquoise waters, reminiscent of the Caribbean islands. Es Palmador is a tiny islet attached to Formentera by a shallow sandbar. Formentera is especially popular with naturalists and windsurfing aficionados as conditions are perfect for the sport. The island’s secluded cove Estrany des Peix is ideal for waterskiing and its crystal- clear waters are great for snorkeling and viewing the incredible sea life. Restaurant Juany Andrea features Mallorcan seafood and is a favorite of the “yachting crowd.” Anchor off Platja de Illetes and the restaurant’s tender will shuttle to and from the restaurant.

Located just south of Mallorca, the entire Isla de Cabrera is protected as a Spanish National Park. It is one of the best-preserved nature reserves in the Mediterranean, known as the “Mediterranean Galapagos” with many rare species, such as Eleonora’s falcon. Scuba divers will enjoy exploring underwater marine life. Permit is required, which prevents droves of tourists from Mallorca from coming! A footpath leads to a 14th century castle set on the highest point of Cabrera; the castle once held 9,000 French prisoners during the Napoleonic Wars.

Easternmost Balearic island, Menorca lying just northeast of Mallorca, has a much more laid-back ambience than neighboring Mallorca and Ibiza. Menorca (Minorca) features a pine tree fringed coastline of sheltered natural harbors, and white and golden sand beaches with clear cobalt waters. Inland is rural with ancient stone walls traversing fields and rolling hills dotted with the typical whitewashed villages; ideal for dairy farming and cheese production that Menorca is famous for and is the island’s main export. A cooperative of highly regarded dairy farms produces the artisanal Mahón cheeses from an ancient breed of endemic red dairy cows. Menorca was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993 for the wetlands park, S’Albufera des Grau located on the northeastern coast, and for the prehistoric Bronze Age standing stone monuments and village remains scattered across the island. The highest point of Menorca is Monte Toro, offering spectacular views of the island and coastline. Menorca is also known for gin production, a British influence from 18th century occupation of the island. Made from wine alcohol, instead of grain, and mixed with lemonade, Pomada gin is a golden color. Menorca’s gins have been given geographical identity protection for their uniqueness!

The east coast capital city of Mahón (aka Maó) is set on a bluff that overlooks Port Mahón, one of the best ports of Menorca located in a deep (2 miles) sheltered inlet. Mahón is a picturesque town with waterfront cafes, many tapas restaurants (featuring the Mahón cheeses), 18th century Georgian mansions and nearby Son Bou Beach with light golden sand, 3 beachside restaurants and numerous shops. Marina de Mahón has 165 berths for yachts up to 150’ and features modern facilities with weather forecasting, electric, water, Internet, car rental and diving services, waste and bilge pump-out, security and more. Club Marítimo Mahón features 160 berths for yachts up to 135’ length and 48 visitor (transient) moorings. The club is famous for nautical events, Marine Academy and sailing school. Marina Deportiva de Menorca is located in the excellent natural harbor of Mahón in the city of Fornells. The marina features 230 berths for vessels with maximum length of 84’ and 18’ draft and modern facilities with water, electric waste disposal, free parking, Internet, mooring assistance and more. Beautiful beaches in surrounding coves for sunning and watersports in cobalt blue waters.

Ciutadella, located on the west coast, with its maze-like winding streets, was Menorca’s capital (until the 18th century) and is filled with numerous shaded squares to enjoy local wine or gin and people watch. The town features a 14th century cathedral among its attractions. The Port de Ciutadella is a historic harbor and port since medieval times. The marina features 150 berths and 20 transient visitor berths on finger docks (pontoons). Club Náutico de Ciutadella, with traditions dating back to 1923, has 180 berths for vessels with a maximum length of 54’ (18 m) and 18’ draft. Club Náutico features modern facilities, plus onsite restaurant and more. The Club has a highly regarded sailing school, organizes events, competitions, watersports, fishing and scuba diving.

Puerto Addaya is located in a natural, well sheltered harbor in Addaia on the northern coast. Nearby attractions are the North Minorca Marine Reserve and the wetlands nature park S’Albufera des Grau. The marina has been renovated to modern facilities and includes a boat ramp, bar and restaurant, facility for repairs and maintenance, boat storage, nautical shop and more. 150 berths accommodate vessels with maximum length of 75’ and a 9’ draft.

Port de Fornells is on the bay of Fornells in Mercada on north coast. Known for the nautical club founded in 1966 that offers sailing and windsurfing classes and other recreational activities. The marina has 115 moorings for vessels with 36’ maximum length and 9’ draft and features modern facilities and amenities including a bar and restaurant, harbor master, fuel station, service facility, and more. Located in a historically rich area; visit archeological site of Sanisera in Port Sanitja or the turn of 19th century British tower fortress.

The Balearic Islands of Spain are a wonderful cruising destination for those fortunate to own or charter a luxurious professionally crewed yacht in the Mediterranean. Contact United Yacht Sales Charter Specialists for personalized service in selecting the perfect yacht and itinerary for your cruise of a lifetime.

But what about Chartering A Yacht and visiting Barcelona?

Located on the northeastern Iberian Peninsula, Barcelona is the cosmopolitan capital city and cultural hub of the Catalonia autonomous region of Spain. It is the premier tourist destination and most visited city in Spain and is known world-wide for its art and architecture, especially the spectacular modernistic landmarks of late 19th century – early 20th century Art Nouveau designer, Antoni Gaudí. In fact, Gaudí’s famous unfinished masterpiece, Sagrada Familia, is the most popular landmark in Barcelona, and one of Barcelona’s 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites! Begun in 1892, it is currently under construction with an expected completion date of 2026.

Five other notable examples of Gaudí’s creativity located throughout Barcelona are also UNESCO World Heritage sites. Park Güell, located on Carmel Hill, is an iconic municipal garden complex in Gaudí’s highly decorative, organic style offering amazing views of Barcelona from the terrace; Palau Güell was the private residence of Eusebi Güell family. Casa Milá (La Pedrera) was Gaudi’s final residential building, making architectural history for its imaginative sculptural design. Casa Vicens is one of the first Art Nouveau buildings in the world and Casa Batilló is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other notable museums are Museu Picasso, Fundació Joan Miró that feature their modern art and MUHBA, the Barcelona city history museum.

The Port of Barcelona has a 2000-year history and is Europe’s 9th largest container port. Barcelona Harbor is Europe’s leading cruising port and Mediterranean turnaround base. The “old port” zone, Port Vell features Maremagnum (a shopping mall), IMAX cinema, and one of Europe’s largest aquariums—Aquarium Barcelona. Barcelona’s seven beaches on 2.75 miles of coastline were rated #1 of the top ten city beaches in the world by National Geographic and the Discovery Channel. As one of Europe’s leading sailing destinations, thousands of luxury yachts visit the many luxury yacht marinas in Barcelona and nearby.

OneOcean Port Vell Barcelona, world-class superyacht marina, is a 4-minute walk from the Barcelona Aquarium. Featuring 5-star amenities and services and award-winning architecture in a world-class city known for its architecture, this city-center marina has 151 luxury berths offering the best in safety, security, comfort and entertainment. From Port Vell, it is only a short cruise to the Balearic Islands and other Mediterranean hot spots. The marina can accommodate yachts from 15’ (5 m) to 570’ (190 m) in two sections—the cruise and ferry port, and the fishing port.

Real Club Náutico de Barcelona (Barcelona Royal Yacht Club), founded in 1876, is one of the oldest yacht clubs in Spain and the only member-only yacht club in Barcelona. The marina can accommodate up to 200 vessels up to 120’ (40 m) with a maximum draft of 24’ (8 m) and offers full amenities including security, bar and restaurant, and crane. The Club organizes regattas and other events.

Real Club Marítim de Barcelona is one of the busiest marinas in Barcelona located near the foot of Las Ramblas, tree-lined pedestrian streets in the Gothic Quarter that connects Plaça de Catalunya with the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. Access is via a pedestrian bridge that opens every half hour. Founded in 1902 with the merging of the rowing and sailing clubs, it is also one of the oldest Clubs in Spain. The Club won the first Olympic medal for Spain in 1932. Real Club Marítim provides 239 moorings for vessels of maximum 60’ (20 m) length and 27’ (9 m) draft. Features a rowing school, sailing school, regattas. Membership rates and transient rates.

Marina Vela Barcelona is located near Barcelona’s center and its fabulous beaches. 136 berths for yachts up to 315’. Full marina amenities, including heliport. Nearby shopping, sports and leisure facilities.
Port Ginesta is one of the best marinas near (25 km) Barcelona. Accommodates 1,442 vessels from 18’ (6 m) to 90’ (30 m) with maximum draft of 13.5’ (4.5 m). Full complement of services. Also offers surfing school, fishing trips and a nearby supermarket.

Port de Stiges is located 30 minutes from Barcelona’s center and is a well-maintained marina with full services. Offers 742 moorings for up to 96’ (32 m) and maximum 9’ draft. Amenities include sporting activities, car rental, banking service, bar and restaurant, fuel and service boatyard.
Some other excellent marinas in the area are Port Forum, Vilanova Grand Marina, Port Olympic de Barcelona, Port Tarraco, Marina de Badalona and Mataro Marina Barcelona.