Top Sailing Itineraries: Spain
Bask in the sun, be mesmerized by blue waves, and soak in the extraordinary natural beauty of the Balearic Sea onboard a Navigare yacht charter in Mallorca. Mallorca is one of the best boating destinations in the world thanks to its almost constantly sunny weather, crystal clear warm water, excellent snorkeling, delicious culinary experiences, and world-class sandy beaches.
The Balearic Sea is well suited for both longer and shorter yacht charter experiences as there is so much to see and do that it’s impossible to get bored. With so many places to see on and around Mallorca, you will likely need to do a lot of planning before your trip, hence the reason for this blog post.
We’ve chosen to feature two 7-day sailing itineraries that are sure to appeal to every type of sailor. They are quite different from each other which speaks to the huge variety of places to see in Mallorca.
We hope that you will find inspiration in these two sample seafaring itineraries. Pick the sailing route that speaks to you the most, or choose among these must-see stops to build your custom sailing itinerary. If you’re new to sailing and feel unsure about planning your route, our professional skippers and charter agents are more than happy to help you.
The Balearic Sea is beckoning, so let’s dive into this week’s itineraries!
7-Day Itinerary #1: Coastal Villages of Mallorca
Day 1: Palma de Mallorca to Puerto Andratx
Our base is located in the beautiful Palma de Mallorca. Your first stop on the sailing journey is only a short sail from Palma on the island's western tip. It’s a seaport village called Port de Andratx built on a hillside that slopes down into the blue waves below. This town’s beautiful location featuring both mountains and beaches serves as one of the main attractions for visitors. Many are content sipping a drink at a portside cafe while watching the fishermen work.
Another highlight is walking the narrow streets with the little shops and boutiques. If you are looking for an authentic souvenir or gift, you may find just what you are looking for here, but keep in mind that the village sticks to the traditional Spanish opening hours, which means that everything closes for the siesta in the middle of the day.
Day 2: Port de Andratx to Port de Soller
As you continue north, your next stop on the itinerary is just as scenic as the last. Port de Soller emerges like a hidden gem in the bay as you round the cape at Cova de s’Escat. With a backdrop of huge mountains on one side and the blue waves of the Balearic Sea on the other, this coastal village captures visitors and locals alike with its fairytale-like charm. Step ashore and walk the cobbled streets. Go for a ride onboard the historic streetcar that offers some incredible views and end the day at a restaurant sampling the traditional Spanish tapas.
Day 3: Port de Soller to Port de Pollenca
A longer sail this time (35 nautical miles) will bring you to the northern tip of Mallorca and the village of Port de Pollenca. Feel free to make stops along the way for swimming, watersports, or relaxing as you will likely discover plenty of beautiful coves and beaches as you make your way north.
Once at Port de Pollenca, go ashore and stroll along the famous Pine Walk, where Agatha Christie once got the inspiration for one of her books in the 1930s. If you crave a little adventure, you may be interested in hiking the Boquer Valley, which offers the chance to see some rare bird species in addition to beautiful scenery.
Another highlight is of course the beaches, and there are several in and around Port de Pollenca. Formentor Beach, a secluded beach outside the village is a good choice for a peaceful break. Platja de Can Cap de Bou is a stretch of sand at the heart of Port de Pollenca buzzing with life thanks to its vicinity to hotels, cafes, and bars. As the day comes to an end, find a restaurant to enjoy some authentic Spanish cuisine or opt for dinner by the sunset onboard your luxury yacht.
Day 4: Port de Pollenca to Cala Ratjada
Make your way east about 25 nautical miles to the old fishing village Cala Ratjada. Cala Ratjada has historically been a significant port for trade as it is the closest village on Mallorca to Menorca, and it’s still well connected with ferry lines. Its long trading history is still evident in the number of markets this village offers. On Saturday mornings, visitors gather at the Placa del Pins to shop for a variety of fruits and vegetables as well as clothing, handcrafted items, ceramics, and more. If you are here on a Wednesday, you may pay a visit to the market at Capdepera or stop by the Arta Market if you are here on a Tuesday.
Castell de Capdepera, a huge fort on the hill overlooking the village and the Balearic Sea below is well worth a visit. The fort was built in the 14th century and served as a safe place for the villagers to live in the days when pirates ravaged the seas.
Day 5: Cala Ratjada to Cala d’Or
On the way south, you will pass the Drach Caves, by Porto Cristo, which are caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites. To experience the cave up close and to get a truly magical experience, you have the option to take a boat tour or simply travel by foot.
When you reach Cala d’Or, you will be greeted by a display of beaches, white-washed cubic buildings, green vegetation, and seaside restaurants. Cala d’Or offers the ultimate vacation experience with arguably some of the best beaches in Mallorca, a range of excursions, restaurants, bars, shopping, and a lively nightlife. If you want to explore beautiful, unspoiled nature, try one of the hiking trails through the lush hills outside of Cala d’Or and enjoy the scenic coastal landscapes.
The beaches are some of the main attractions in Cala d’Or, and there is no shortage of them. You can find a beach for every taste, whether you prefer quiet, remote shores or stretches of sand lined with restaurants and buzzing with life. A bit further southeast is the beach S’Amarador which is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca with its soft sand and crystal clear water, but it can get a bit crowded in the peak season. As a bonus, the weather tends to be excellent in Cal d’Or, and some say that this coast boasts the best weather in Mallorca with almost constantly sunny skies and warm breezes.
Cala d’Or is one of the fancier coastal towns along your itinerary with a fair share of yacht clubs and resorts. Still, this beautiful village draws a mixed crowd and caters to almost every group since it offers a wide range of things to do and see. From nightlife and top-rated restaurants to historic buildings and natural beauty such as the 18th-century fortress Es Fortí and the nature preserve Parque Natural de Mondragó (close to S’Amarador beach).
Day 6: Cala d’Or to Cabrera Island
Set sail now towards the untouched nature of Cabrera Island, a National Park located just southeast of the southern cape of Mallorca. It’s one of the best snorkeling locations in the Balearic Sea, with crystal-clear water and abundant marine life including fish, turtles, and dolphins.
Apart from dwelling in the natural wonders of Cabrera, the historic Cabrera Castle is worth a visit while you’re here. From the top of the hill where the castle is located, you will have an excellent view of the island and the surrounding sea. There is also a 19th-century lighthouse and a museum to delve even deeper into the rich history of the island. The museum has a botanical garden that offers the perfect blend of education and leisure.
Day 7: Cabrera Island to Palma de Mallorca
On day 7, sail the 35 nautical miles from Cabrera Island back to Palma de Mallorca (approximately 4-5 hours). Once you arrive, spend the rest of the day exploring Palma and enjoy everything the city has to offer, from dining, nightlife, and beaches to incredible historical buildings and museums. Even walking the streets can be entertaining as you will likely find street artists along the way and plenty of shopping opportunities.
The checkout is the following morning, but we advise our guests to return to the base by 6 pm on the last night of their charter.
Checkout: Palma de Mallorca
Disembark and checkout by 9 am. Please make sure the fuel tanks have been refilled at this point. Enjoy another day in Palma if you have time.
7-Day Itinerary #2: The Scenic Route
Day 1: Palma de Mallorca to Cabo Blanco to Es Trenc
Our base is located in the beautiful Palma de Mallorca. Sail southeast from Palma to Cabo Blanco. Perched on top of a hill is this scenic coastal town that offers all the amenities of the big resorts yet more peaceful vibes. The view over the ocean is incredible from here.
Continue southeast to Es Trenc, a 2 km-long stretch of golden sand that offers a great place to relax and start your sailing vacation. Go for a swim in the crystal clear water or simply enjoy the beach.
Day 2: Es Trenc to Cabo Salinas to Portocolom
The following day, set sail towards Cabo Salinas, the southernmost cape of Mallorca. Discover hidden coves and beaches and enjoy the scenery of the majestic cliffs and the Balearic Sea.
Continue north on the east coast of Mallorca to the fishing village of Portocolom. A display of vibrant traditional buildings and a busy fishing port is the vision that greets you as you enter this secluded bay.
Portocolom is thought to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and it’s indeed a fascinating historical town. One of the highlights in Portocolom is the Santuari de Sant Salvador, an impressive monastery on top of a hill from the mid-14th century (and restored in the 18th century with an altar in Gothic style). It was built during the Black Death. The monastery was believed to be protected from the disease since they thought the illness could not spread at higher altitudes.
Day 3: Portocolom to Porto Cristo
Make your way north along the east coast to the mysterious old fishing village of Porto Cristo, meaning Port of Christ. The town derives its name from historical accounts of a boat that is said to have washed up on the shores bearing a crucifix onboard. There are also tales of a wandering ox seen in the village carrying a statue of Christ.
Porto Cristo is well worth a visit thanks to its relaxing family-friendly vibes, incredible sunny weather, top-rated restaurants, and a plethora of things to do.
While you’re here, make a trip to the Drach Caves, which translates to the Dragon Caves. For a truly magical experience, go on a little boat tour inside the caves or travel by foot to admire the stalactites and stalagmites up close and from a distance.
Once you have walked the streets, tried the local restaurants, and made a visit to the nearby caves, it may be time to return to the water. Porto Cristo is known as a great location for beaches and watersports activities. Snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and other watersports are among the top things to do in Porto Cristo. There are simply endless possibilities to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of this coastal town.
Day 4: Porto Cristo to Cap de Formentor
Your next stop is arguably one of the most breathtaking places in Mallorca. The northern tip of the island, where high mountains rise straight out of the sea, is the location of Cap the Formentor. A winding road leads to an active lighthouse from the 1800s which is one of the main attractions of the area. Thanks to the scenic environment, several lookout points offer chances to take in the dramatic surroundings featuring majestic cliffs meeting the blue waves of the Balearic Sea.
Another of the highlights is the beach (Formentor Beach) framed by pine forests. It’s best to come here in the morning or late afternoon for a good spot as this narrow strip of sand can get busy in the middle of the day. There are also several restaurants and beach bars nearby.
Day 5: Cap de Formentor to Sa Calobra
As you change course and make your way down the northwest coast of Mallorca, your next stop on the itinerary takes you to a secluded beach known as Sa Calobra. Thanks to its remote, and difficult-to-reach location, Sa Calobra rarely gets too crowded with tourists.
Nestled between high cliffs in a secluded bay, Sal Calobra features two beaches. The main one is reachable by foot via a passage that leads through a narrow tunnel. The location of this rare Spanish gem is as much part of the experience as the beach itself. Many people come here on bicycles: the scenic route to this location is said to be one of the most iconic cycling routes in the world, but it’s not an easy one, which only adds to the adventurous vibes of this secluded beach.
Day 6: Sa Calobra to Sa Dragonera National Park
On an island off the west coast of Mallorca is Sa Dragonera National Park, offering a compelling blend of nature and history. It’s a bit like traveling back in time as the island has been left largely untouched through the years. It’s a great destination for hiking, picnicking and simply enjoying nature. One of the majestic hikes will take you to a watchtower that offers incredible views of the island and the surrounding sea.
Day 7: Sa Dragonera National Park to Peguera to Palma de Mallorca
Peguera is one of the fancier coastal towns in Mallorca. The three sandy beaches at the forefront of this luxury resort town draw visitors from all over the island. Historically, Germans have been particularly fond of this destination which is evident in the number of German restaurants and bars serving German beer. With its international community, there are plenty of restaurants in Peguera and there is something that caters to every taste and budget.
It’s not hard to spend an entire day just strolling the streets and relaxing on a beach, but if you’re in the mood for an active day, you may be pleased to know that watersports are also among the most popular activities here and so is hiking. Ruta Circular Torre Cap Andritxol is a circular coastal trail that takes about 2.5 hours and passes through coves, beaches, ports, forests, and scenic viewpoints.
The checkout is the following morning, but we advise our guests to return to the base in Palma de Mallorca by 6 pm on the last night of their charter.
Checkout: Palma de Mallorca
Disembark and checkout by 9 am. Please make sure the fuel tanks have been refilled at this point.
Spend your last day in Palma, if you have time, and enjoy everything the city has to offer, from dining, nightlife, and beaches to incredible historical buildings and museums. Even walking the streets can be entertaining as you will likely find street artists along the way and plenty of shopping opportunities.
Since 2001, over 350,000+ charter guests have set sail with Navigare - it’s safe to say that your yachting adventure will be in capable hands. With 12 exotic locations worldwide, the possibilities are endless! Whether you're an experienced sailor or a first-time adventurer, Navigare Yachting opens up a world of exploration, discovery, and sailing that comes with complete peace of mind.