Seven-Day Balearic Islands Sailing Route
Alexandra
Port regulations require a Cabrera anchoring permit and many marinas in Palma and Ibiza enforce berth reservations during peak season; expect crossing legs ranging from 12 to 50 nautical miles and plan fuel and provisioning stops accordingly.
Quick operational overview
The Balearic archipelago features a mix of regulated marine reserves, busy commercial ports and sheltered anchorages. Permits are obligatory for Cabrera National Park and some protected coves; marinas in Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza Town and Portinatx often require advance booking during July–August. Typical transit times on a motor yacht: Palma to Es Trenc ~1–2 hours, Cabrera crossings ~3–4 hours depending on departure point, and Cabrera to Ibiza ~6–8 hours depending on conditions. Sailboats will need weather windows for longer crossings—always check local forecasts and AIS traffic near major ferry lanes.
7-Day route at a glance
| Day | Route | Distance (nm) | Key highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Palma de Mallorca → Es Trenc | 10–15 | Cathedral views, white sand beach, first swim |
| 2 | Es Trenc → Cabrera | 15–25 | Protected national park, snorkeling, Cova Blava |
| 3 | Cabrera → Portinatx (Ibiza) | 40–50 | Open sea crossing, rugged north Ibiza |
| 4 | Portinatx → Ibiza Town | 15–25 | Historic Dalt Vila, marinas, nightlife |
| 5 | Ibiza → Formentera (Ses Illetes) | 10–18 | World-class beach, crystal-clear water |
| 6 | Formentera: Cala Saona → Es Vedrà viewpoint | 20–30 | Turquoise coves, dramatic cliffs, sunset at Es Vedrà |
| 7 | Return to base (Ibiza or Mallorca) | Varies | Final sail, provisioning, disembark |
Daily highlights and practical tips
Day 1: Pick up the boat in Palma, fuel up and clear customs if arriving from outside the EU. The view of the Cathedral of Santa Maria from the water is a practical marker to depart southwards.
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Day 2: Docking near Cabrera is restricted—apply for a permit in advance. Carry snorkeling gear to explore the Blue Cave (Cova Blava) and the abundant marine life.
Day 3: The crossing to Ibiza requires a prudent weather check; bring spares and safety kit. Motor-sail to make the most of mixed conditions and reduce passage time.
Day 4: Reserve a berth in Ibiza Town if planning a night ashore. Dalt Vila offers provisioning, historic walks, and restaurants for provisioning and repairs.
Day 5: Ses Illetes on Formentera is a top anchor or tender stop—expect shallow, clear water and strong day-use traffic in summer. Early arrival secures a better spot.
Day 6: Cala Saona’s sheltered bay is ideal for families; the approach to Es Vedrà requires attention to local currents and reduced speeds near rocky outcrops.
Day 7: Allow extra time for customs, fuel, and cleaning before handing the boat back. A morning swim and a relaxed sail home are customary—finish with logbook entries and crew debrief.
Packing, provisioning and safety checklist
- Paperwork: skipper’s license (if applicable), insurance, rental contract, Cabrera permit.
- Navigation: updated charts, handheld GPS, VHF radio.
- Safety: lifejackets for all, flares, first-aid kit, life raft or dinghy plans.
- Comfort: sunscreen, water, snorkeling gear, light foul-weather layers.
- Provisioning: top up water and fuel in Palma or Ibiza; plan for limited supplies on Cabrera.
Regulations and mooring etiquette
Anchoring restrictions protect seagrass beds and biodiversity—respect marked no-anchor zones and use mooring buoys where provided. Night anchoring is allowed in many coves but check local rules; fines for illegal anchoring can be substantial. Marina fees and waste disposal protocols vary: most marinas require pre-booking and separate handling for grey and black water.
Why this route works for boat rentals and charters
This loop balances short coastal hops with one or two longer sea crossings, making it suitable for a range of vessels: day boats, bareboat charters with licensed skippers, or crewed yachts. Charter companies and private owners often stage pick-up in Palma or Ibiza; flexibility in start location lets sailors match itineraries to crew skills and vessel range. For travelers seeking freedom and choice, the region’s mix of secluded coves and active marinas matches well with the variety offered by modern boat rental marketplaces.
Local culture and marine life — a few notes
Beyond beaches and bays, each island carries distinct cultural rhythms: Mallorcan markets and stone villages, Cabrera’s preserved marine environment, Ibiza’s blend of tradition and nightlife, and Formentera’s relaxed pace. Marine life includes seagrass meadows (important for local fisheries), octopus, and abundant small reef fish—ideal for snorkeling, freediving and respectful fishing when permitted.
FAQ
Do I need a license to sail in the Balearic Islands? Yes, a valid license is required for boats over 5 meters or with engines above 15 hp. Hiring a skipper is a common alternative.
When is the best time to sail? May–October is the sailing season; June and September offer calmer seas and fewer crowds than July–August.
Can I cross from Mallorca to Ibiza in a day? Yes—on a motorboat it typically takes 4–6 hours; on a sailboat it can become a full day's passage, weather permitting.
GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations, as we truly understand what it means to enjoy great leisure and love the ocean. The GetBoat service values freedom, energy, and the ability to choose your own course, placing no limits on a good life and helping clients find a vessel that suits their preferences, budget, and taste.
If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
Forecast: this Balearic route reinforces the Mediterranean’s pull as a leading yachting destination. While it is a regional itinerary with limited global policy impact, its popularity shapes charter seasonality, marina demand and local services. Start planning your next seaside adventure and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!
In summary, this seven-day Balearic itinerary balances operational planning, protected-area rules and unforgettable bays. From Palma’s cathedral approach to the magic of Es Vedrà, the route offers classic sailing and charter experiences—perfect for couples, friends or family looking to rent a boat or yacht. With transparent listings that show make, model and ratings, GetBoat.com provides a global, user-friendly solution for booking or buying boats, yachts and sailboats, offering convenience and clarity when arranging your next sea escape. Set your course with confidence.
