9-Day Balearics Charter Itinerary - Sailing from Port Vendres to Port Vendres

Begin with a direct leg from Port Vendres to Palma de Mallorca, then anchor in the capital’s harbor for two nights. This 250-260 nautical mile crossing gives visitors and residents a majestic welcome to the Balearics and reveals the change of pace across the coast as you swap mainland rhythms for paradise anchorages.

From Palma, plan a clockwise loop along Mallorca’s north coast toward valdemossa, then across to the island arc that includes Ibiza, Formentera, and Menorca when winds allow. Expect sheltered bays, anchorages near resorts, and days with steady 15-22 knots trade winds–ideal for families and seasoned crews alike.

In Ibiza the daytime harbor life feeds a lively party scene, while Formentera offers quiet coves and crystalline water that feel like a second paradise for swimmers. Across the chain, the coast reveals a spectrum from bustling resorts to hidden coves where you can drop anchor and enjoy everything from snorkeling to golden-hour sails.

Logistics and notes: flights connect to major hubs, and Palma’s airport links most European cities, making Port Vendres a year-round option for a nine-day loop. источник confirms seasonal winds favor late spring and early autumn, with daytime breeze shifts common near midday. Captain juan keeps the plan flexible to respond to tides, currents, and safety considerations.

Can I book more than one Balearics trip at a time? Practical booking guidance

Absolutely. You can book multiple Balearics trips at once by combining them into a single plan. Start with a master route and then add secondary legs that align with shared ports and dates.

1. Define your core plan: pick a destination set that includes Santanyi (village) for a whitewashed village stop, Mahón for a harbor experience, and Colomer for a coastal view. Include a walkway excursion and a heritage site with history notes. Add a restaurant stop to taste local flavors, and note unspoiled coves you want to discover.
2. Confirm dates and pacing: ensure enough reach between ports, allow for rest ashore, and avoid back-to-back nights that strain the crew. If a leg is short, insert a free afternoon to explore valley views and nearby cotton fields.
3. Explore offers and multi-trip options: many operators offer bundled itineraries. Ask for a single invoice and a consolidated schedule; absolutely request that the quotes refer to all legs in one package. If you were referred by Marc, mention it for tailored assistance.
4. Build a simple, table-like summary: create a compact overview that includes Trip, Dates, Destination, Highlights (spots, heritage, history, whitewashed village, sugar mill remnants), and next steps. This helps you compare two or more trips at a glance and adjust.
5. Lock in deposits and payment terms: once you confirm the plan, expect a deposit of 20–30% per leg and a final balance due four weeks before the start. A consolidated invoice makes it easier to manage the total budget and track inclusions and exclusions.
6. Coordinate with a single point of contact: a dedicated agent can manage all legs, coordinate port calls, and adjust if a port call changes. Highly recommend using someone who knows Santanyi, Mahón, and Colomer well to avoid surprises.

Helpful tip: share your opinion on pace early–some guests want a brisk schedule, others a slower discovery of history and heritage. If you prefer a relaxed start, plan a longer stay in a whitewashed village and a softer day exploring an unspoiled valley, followed by a walkway visit and a tasty restaurant stop to wrap up the trip.

Day-by-day itinerary: ports of call, order, and expected sailing hours

Day 1: Port Vendres to ciutadella, Menorca – expected sailing hours 12–14. Begin with an early departure, catching a steady southerly breeze along the coast. On arrival, a tender carries you to the south shore for a walk along the beautiful waterfront. admire the iconic stone arcades and the view of the old town as you sip coffee at nearby cafes. Pack light for shore visits and share homemade aubergine tapas with your crew before setting a daily rhythm aboard. The side of your boat feels luxurious yet relaxed; please note there are small berthing taxes to settle before nightfall.

Day 2: ciutadella to Mahon, Menorca – expected sailing hours 4–6. Smooth seas push you toward Mahon’s calm harbor, surrounded by tree-lined quays. Both routes offer nearby viewpoints of the fortress walls and the expansive views over the bay. Arrive mid-morning and use the tender to explore the colorful shore, visit iconic viewpoints, and enjoy a light lunch in a waterfront cafe. This leg is magical for new crew members and offers a easy pace to stretch your legs after yesterday’s long day at sea.

Day 3: Mahon to Palma de Mallorca (Palma) – expected sailing hours 8–12. Set a steady course east toward Mallorca’s capital. The view across the open sea is stunning, with the south coast emerging as you approach Palma Bay. Upon arrival, moor at the marina and board a bus or taxi to the old town for a stroll along the palm-lined promenade. Share daily updates with your young crew about local markets and iconic rooftops. In Palma, enjoy a mix of luxury facilities and casual cafes, and make sure to settle any local taxes and marina charges.

Day 4: Palma to Ibiza Town – expected sailing hours 16–22. A long but rewarding day opens up the Balearic mosaic: prepare for a magical crossing toward Ibiza. The view narrows to the horizon as you near the island, where a bustling waterfront awaits. Upon arrival, tender ashore and wander through lively streets with iconic white-washed houses. In Ibiza Town, savor a mix of chic lounges and casual cafes, and plan a sunset buffer on a front-row terrace. For the crew, this leg balances luxury with practical daily routines aboard.

Day 5: Ibiza Town to Formentera (La Savina) – expected sailing hours 3–5. A short hop to the nearby island of Formentera offers a tranquil contrast. The side of the journey is calm, and the azure water is perfect for a quick swim before anchoring. In Formentera, enjoy quiet coves and tree-lined shorelines, then head to a small harbour with a tender to access shore facilities. Share a light homemade meal on deck, perhaps a dip of aubergine with fresh bread, and take a few hours to explore the iconic beaches.

Day 6: Formentera to Palma de Mallorca or nearby Cala d’Or – expected sailing hours 6–9. Return toward Mallorca for a balanced blend of sailing and shore time. The view shifts from cerulean to sunlit stone as you approach the Mallorcan coast. In Cala d’Or or Palma’s southern coast, enjoy a daily rhythm of anchor, shore visits, and a casual cafe crawl. If you choose Cala d’Or, you’ll find a charming, tree-lined marina area with nearby coves perfect for a late-afternoon swim.

Day 7: Palma or Cala d’Or to Port d’Andratx – expected sailing hours 4–6. A shorter day lets the crew recover from yesterday’s long crossing while still earning sea miles. The side of the island here offers rugged cliffs, a sheltered harbor, and a relaxed vibe. Dock near Port d’Andratx and take a tender to the town centre for a stroll among picturesque cafes and markets. For meals aboard, plan a homemade dish using fresh produce from a nearby market and share it with the crew under a tree-lined promenade.

Day 8: Port d’Andratx to Ciutadella, Menorca – expected sailing hours 8–12. A steady return leg across the Balearics brings you back toward Menorca. The south-facing coast behind you gives way to smoother seas and a broad view of the island’s northern coast. Stop for a short swim or a café stop along the route, then sail into the ciutadella area with a tender to land and walk the old streets. Consider a quick visit to a local bakery for homemade pastries and share them on deck with your crew as the sun dips.

Day 9: ciutadella to Port Vendres – expected sailing hours 14–20. The final leg closes the loop, with a long but rewarding crossing back to Port Vendres. The nearby view includes the rugged coastline and a final horizon line that feels magical as you approach the French coast. Upon arrival, complete berthing formalities and settle any remaining daily charges or taxes. Reflect on the voyage with the crew: how the much-loved scenery, iconic harbors, and vivid cafes created lasting memories, and start planning the next, future trip with confidence.

Distance, wind windows, and daily pacing for comfortable days on board

Plan daily legs of 25–40 NM, typically 4–6 hours on the helm, finishing by mid-afternoon to keep days relaxed. This pacing leaves time for a quick swim, a stroll through white-washed ports, and visits to cafes, please. Blessed mornings on the bow set a calm tone for the day and help maintain high energy.

Wind windows are typically favorable from 10:00 to 16:00, with 12–18 knots from eastern directions on common Balearics days. If forecasts show headwinds or gusts over 20 knots, shorten the leg and seek a sheltered port, close to shore to ride reduced swell, against the gusts, because safety first. coach adrian runs a short, practical briefing for the small-group each morning to adapt the plan.

Daily pacing blueprint: depart after a light breakfast, execute two legs in the 12–28 NM range (2–3 hours each), and add a 30–60 minute lunch break whether onboard or ashore. Change may be needed when forecasts shift; reserve 1–2 hours for a sheltered stop in hidden coves, then dock for a stroll in a tranquil town. If you aim to see Valdemossa, schedule a half-day trip from Palma; it’s a hidden gem that balances culture and nature. Include 15–20 minutes of on-deck classes or drills near the midday anchorage.

Group dynamics and options: In a small-group or contiki-style itinerary, you can join guided shore walks or also enjoy a relaxed cafes-and-streets evening in eastern ports for their group. If the forecast shifts, adjust daily legs by 5–10 NM and keep the schedule flexible while maintaining safety.

Logistics and stays: Choose a hotelhostel in harbor towns to balance comfort and budget; factor taxes at marinas into the trip cost. For anchor gear reliability, inspect the palladium-grade hardware before departure. Also, reserve time for short land breaks, quick showers, and re-provisioning.

The portal to freedom on the water lies in disciplined pacing and flexible planning; by staying close to wind windows, you reduce fatigue and increase the enjoyment factor.

Berthing, marina procedures, fuel, and provisioning at each stop

Book berths 24–48 hours ahead at every stop and confirm with the marina manager on arrival to avoid delays; keep your plan handy, and check weather and tide windows so lines stay slack-free through the approach.

Port Vendres: arrive early in the afternoon, then dock at the marina’s primary quay using two bow lines and a stern line to secure in a crosswind. Check-in with the harbour master, pay dock dues, and request electricity and fresh water; diesel can be taken at the adjacent fuel quay if needed, but confirm pump hours first. Provisioning is straightforward in town, with a weekly market and a couple of small groceries–need to plan a quick stroll for fresh bread and fresh fish before departure.

Sant Antoni de Portmany, Ibiza: at Sant Antoni, take a protected berth along the outer wall and use ample fenders and short lines; avoid the main fairway if wind shifts create chop. Fuel is available at the marina fuel dock during standard hours; pre-pay by card, then pump diesel yourself under supervision. For provisioning, join a small-group shopping run with the club on the waterfront to stock essentials; the shops are concentrated near the marina, and the market stalls offer olives, lemons, and locally cured meats–perfect for an idyllic lunch on deck.

Ibiza Town (Port de Ibiza): secure a sheltered berth near the eastern breakwater; use two spring lines in case of gusts from the sea and pass under the control of the marina staff for berthing. Fuel occurs at the marina’s fuel dock; bring a card ready and check the current price per liter before fueling. Provisioning here is quick: stroll through the old town's lanes, pick up fresh seafood and vegetables, and consider a visit to the eastern markets for artisanal breads and cheeses before you set sail again.

Mahon, Menorca: in Mahon’s natural harbor, choose a long quay or a sheltered pontoon depending on your draft; attach bow and stern lines with a midship spring and watch for shallow patches near the entrance. Diesel is typically available at the port’s fueling quay; call ahead to reserve a pump and coordinate with the staff. Provisions can be stocked from the central market in town; gather herbs, potatoes, and local seafood, or pick up a few bottles of local cidre–Mahon’s towns and villages offer picturesque strolls between shops and cafés.

Ciutadella, Menorca: berth along the inner quay with a solid bow line and a stern line on a mooring post; the captain should check-in with the marina supervisor to obtain a visiting permit and slip assignment. Fuel is available from the marina’s pump, but verify the hours at the desk ahead of arrival. Provisioning options include smaller grocers and a weekly farmers’ market; if you want a taste of local life, follow the roads toward a nearby village for a dramatic, windswept coast path that leads to a sunlit tavern for a late lunch.

Palma de Mallorca: dock in the central marina area or the outer ring depending on draft; use two bow cleats and a midship spring to keep the stern from swinging in current. Diesel is sold at the marina fuel dock with self-serve pumps; check payment methods in advance to avoid delays. Provisioning is robust here: head to the large markets near the old town for greens, fruit, and fresh seafood, then stop at a nearby club or café to plan the next day’s adventures; the eastern route from Palma offers vibrant ports and easy day trips to nearby towns.

Alcúdia / Puerto de Alcúdia: pick a berth on the inner side of the marina breakwater; keep fenders in good shape and use short lines if winds rise from the south. Fuel is available at the dock, with pump access during daylight hours; prepay at the marina desk if required. Provisioning is convenient in Alcúdia’s market lanes, where you can pick up bread, tomatoes, and local olives; consider a sunset stroll along the town walls and plan a short excursion to a nearby village for a more authentic feel.

Formentera (La Savina): anchor or berth in the sheltered port area, using a robust bow line and spring to control drift in coastal winds; marina staff will guide you to the assigned slip if you’re using a pontoon. Fuel at La Savina is typically available at limited hours; confirm with the manager and pre-book if possible. Provisioning here favors fresh seafood, citrus, and island cheeses found at the small shops near the waterfront; a stroll along the eastern shore reveals idyllic beaches, perfect for a relaxing day before heading back toward Port Vendres.

Port Vendres (return): before departure, check fuel and water levels, confirm all charges with the marina manager, and perform a quick engine check so you’re ready for the final leg. Revisit the local markets for any last-minute provisions–nassau-style vibes mix with a few coastal clubs and marked trails; once you’ve loaded, do a final review of the route with your captain and your crew, ensuring every member of your small-group feels prepared for the final miles and the dramatic scenery that lies ahead on the return. If you’re visiting the ports along the way, keep a note of the eastern and southern towns and plan your rest days as needed, because every stop offers its own adventures and idyllic shorelines to savor. The source (источник) of practical tips is consistently updated by local managers and skippers like Marc and Morell, who base their recommendations on real-world conditions and resident knowledge; their advice helps you tailor provisioning, fuel stops, and berthing windows to your vessel’s needs, ensuring you finish with a satisfied crew and robust plans for the next voyage. Flights or land-based connections can be arranged from major hubs at Nassau or other destinations if you extend the trip, but for this itinerary the focus remains on shoreside provisioning, vibrant ports, and a planet-friendly rhythm of sails, strolls, and small-group adventures.

Weather planning, safety margins, and contingency days for the route

Set aside two contingency days in a 9-day charter and attach a 12–24 hour buffer to each leg, based on forecasts. Begin each leg only when the wind stays below 18–22 kt and seas stay under 2 m. This keeps you on track toward the destination while leaving room for a safer passage on the northern side of the Balearics. Board the boat with a flexible plan, knowing you can pivot to a sheltered port if conditions worsen or a source of bad weather, источник, confirms a change in wind or swell. Visiting coves and island towns with grand shorelines becomes much more comfortable when you aren’t rushed by a tight clock.

Weather reality Next to the main land, the northern side can switch quickly between clear and gusty conditions. The deià winds and local seaways demand vigilance, especially when mountains inland modify flow and produce channeled gusts near capes. When a window looks stable–low 1–2 m swells and 8–18 kt winds from the expected direction–plan the next leg. Sheltered anchorages around mallorcas offer awe-inspiring evening sails and simpler provisioning; they let you visit restaurants, stroll historic buildings, and rest before the next leg. This approach is better for a charter that aims for a lifetime memory with a relaxed pace and much less stress for a young crew who may be new to long passages.

To keep safety at the forefront, place two buffer days mid-route in Mallorca or Menorca. This gives you a cushion if a low-pressure system lingers or a strong front shifts winds overnight. The plan also accommodates late arrivals, tender transfers, and quick shore visits for provisions or repairs. Most legs stay within a 24–28 hour sail, but the extra days let you adjust without forcing a push in rough seas. Future legs become easier when you have already tested conditions in familiar waters and shared responsibilities aboard with a crew that includes a capable skipper, a dependable navigator, and a cooperative deck team.

Booking multiple trips: limits, deposits, and how to schedule them concurrently

Book all trips in one coordinated request to fix limits, deposits, and scheduling. This approach locks capacity, simplifies payments, and lets you read their offers today, helping you compare options for a single, coherent plan.

Limits Most operators allow up to three concurrent itineraries per account; four with explicit approval. Each itinerary counts toward your limit, regardless of destination, and some providers require separate profiles if you want to couple trips located in distant waters.

Deposits Deposits are typically 25-30% per trip to hold a charter; peak-season legs may require 30%. The balance is due 60-90 days before departure; bundling two or more trips can unlock a small discount or a longer payment window, also making it easier to align accommodation and restaurant bookings. Some legs include water activities.

Scheduling steps List every leg you want, including formentera and nassau if planned; check anchorage options and morning sailing windows in the waters around each leg; build a master itinerary that links the segments, then confirm arrival and departure times to avoid unnecessary layovers; reserve accommodation and restaurant tables at the same time and coordinate with destination clubs to keep the charm and heritage of each stop intact, so the walk between ports feels alike and well planned.

Tips for success Today’s expert planners keep a read‑only master file that clients and ports can refer to, and it is frequently referred to by planners across teams. Reconcile past experiences with different itineraries and create a reference that feels designed, charming, and easy to follow. This approach helps you guide navigation for each destination and ensures the overall plan aligns with water‑based sailing dreams, whether you’re chasing a Nassau day or a formentera creek departure.