The island of Mallorca is effortlessly one of the most popular charter points in the Med providing a spectacular cruising setting and water so blue you could be mistaken for thinking you’re in the Caribbean. But often, despite Palma offering the ideal starting point, charters typically set sail for the bright lights of Ibiza or the not so secret island of Formentera.
Is Mallorca’s ‘party island’ reputation casting a shadow over the unspoilt beauty of beaches of the north? Are charter guests snubbing the isle in favour of classier locations?
Who knows, but viewing the island with fresh eyes, sea legs and a dose of optimism, we found there were endless reasons to say close to the magnificent shores of Mallorca. Well, five to be exact.
Andratx
Why?
Ashore, you’ll find one of the most up-market ports on the island (move over Portals) and plenty of elite boutiques to browse around.
What?
With endless restaurants in Puerto Andratx, anchor down in the bay overlooked by the splendid villa Princess Diana once holidayed at and prepare to experience the most incredible sunset you’ve ever seen.
Where?
The south-west tip of the island, Andratx is just around the coast from Palma and provides the perfect pit stop on your journey around the island after a day’s sailing.
Port de Sóller
Why?
A few hours sailing north of Andratx, Soller is about half way up the west coast of the island allowing you to enjoy stunning scenes and traditional vibes.
What?
The quaintest town you’ll ever step foot in, watch trams trundle down the prom and explore the tourist free streets.
Where?
Along the north-west coast, bob into Port de Sóller before you head around the northern tip. If you were to berth anywhere, Sóller offers an inexpensive spot for the night.
Formentor
Why?
The highlight for us? After dinner one night we were admiring a fellow Oyster in the bay when a beautiful (and rather large) dolphin popped up to say hello. She then continued to play with our anchor line for ten fascinating minutes while we tried (and failed) to take pictures. Maybe next time – Formentor is known for dolphin spotting.
What?
Formentor offers a secluded beach and an exclusive hotel that you can’t access unless you’re a guest. The beach restaurant isn’t as good as expected and sunbeds are expensive, but absolutely worth the visit.
Where?
The most northern tip of the island, Formentor is exclusive and beautiful.
Pollenca
Why?
Whizz across the bay (James Bond style) in the tender, stroll along the waterfront and make the most of the slow paced village. Cute cafes, great scuba and fishing shops and helpful transport links to the rest of the island.
What?
A dreamy promenade, an opportunity for the crew to visit a supermarket and a lovely night market.
Where?
The very north of the island, unspoilt by too many tourists and unbelievable beautiful from the sea.
Es Trenc
Why?
The most amazing beach you’ll ever see. Pardon the nudists and you’ll love it.
What?
The last stop on our lap around the island before returning to Palma, Es Trenc is home to the most breathtakingly gorgeous white sand, turquoise water and the ultimate location for star gazing. Known for farming sea salt, a quick tender trip to shore and you’re strolling by vast piles of the stuff, but be aware of the sulphuric smell that comes with it. As long as you make quick work of your shore visit, the beach (which doesn’t smell) totally outweighs the very unpleasant aroma of the town.
Where?
Southern coast of the island on route back to Palma.