The Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean Sea off the eastern coast of Spain, are a premier yachting destination in the early summer. These islands are known for their breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery.
Yachters and other sailors will enjoy favorable sailing conditions on a Balearic Island yacht charter, including consistent winds, mild temperatures, and clear skies. The Mediterranean climate ensures a long yachting season, typically from April to October, and is one of the top destinations for Moran Yacht & Ship charters.
The Balearics boast several world-class marinas equipped with modern facilities and services. Ports like Port Adriano and Puerto Portals in Mallorca, Marina Ibiza, and Mahon in Menorca provide upscale amenities and cater to luxury yachts. The Balearic Islands are steeped in history and culture, with numerous archaeological sites, historic towns, and traditional villages. Exploring places like Palma de Mallorca’s Cathedral, Ibiza’s Dalt Vila (Old Town), and the ancient ruins of Menorca adds a cultural dimension to the yachting experience.
Diverse Island Life
The Balearic archipelago comprises three main islands: Mallorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Each island has its unique charm and attractions, from the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza to the serene beaches of Formentera, offering a variety of experiences within a relatively small area.
The islands offer numerous beautiful anchorages and secluded bays, perfect for overnight stays and relaxing in privacy. Notable spots include Cala Saona in Formentera, Cala d’Hort in Ibiza, and Cala Macarella in Menorca.
Below, we’ll take a look at these three islands and identify what makes them perfect for a luxury yacht charter Mediterranean style – and which yachts to choose for your nautical excursion.
Mallorca
Sailing in Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, offers a wealth of highlights that attract sailors from around the world. From Cala Figuera, known for its picturesque beauty, clear waters and dramatic cliffs to Cala Sant Vicenç, a stunning bay with turquoise waters and rocky cliffs, perfect for a tranquil stop, Mallorca’s stunning coastal scenery is unmatched.
Bathers will love the pristine beaches on offer, from Es Trenc Beach, one of the island’s most famous beaches, known for its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, to Cala Varques, a secluded beach accessible primarily by boat, offering a peaceful anchorage and private surroundings.
Mallorca’s anchorages are also unmatched. Port Adriano, designed by the famous Philippe Starck, offers luxury services, fine dining, and boutique shopping, while Puerto Portals, the more glamorous marina, is known for its upscale amenities, chic restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Finally, Mallorca benefits from reliable winds and calm seas, especially during the summer months. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant sailing conditions from spring through autumn.
Ibiza
Sailing in Ibiza offers a unique and enchanting experience, characterized by stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife.
Among its most stunning beaches and coves are Cala Comte, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets and Cala d’Hort, a secluded area that offers spectacular views of the mystical Es Vedrà rock formation and a serene atmosphere perfect for a relaxing afternoon in the water.
Boasting several natural parks and marine reserves, Ibiza is a truly photogenic island. Located in the south, Ses Salines Natural Park features salt flats, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, perfect for a day trip with cameras in tow. Or consider Es Vedrà — and sail around this mystical rock island, shrouded in local legends.
Ibiza has an incredibly vibrant nightlife, as well — catering to the younger sailors. Playa d’en Bossa is home to some of the most famous nightclubs, including Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza, offering world-class entertainment, while Ibiza Town is a humming strip of bustling nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and the iconic Pacha nightclub.
The island enjoys warm summers and mild winters, making it ideal for sailing year-round. Reliable winds and calm seas provide perfect conditions for divers as well, and the island is known for its snorkeling and diving spots.
Cala Xarraca is renowned for its clear waters and underwater caves, and makes an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving, while Tagomago Island offers pristine waters and diverse marine life, ideal for underwater exploration.
Formentera
Sailing in Formentera, the smallest and southernmost of Spain’s Balearic Islands, offers a uniquely tranquil experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter, more secluded sailing experience. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unspoiled natural beauty, Formentera is a haven for sailors seeking relaxation and exploration.
Playa de Ses Illetes, often ranked among the best beaches in the world, is a stretch of white sand and turquoise waters perfect for anchoring and enjoying the sun. Playa de Llevant, located on the opposite side of the Ses Illetes peninsula, provides bathers with a quieter alternative with equally stunning waters.
Formentera is also renowned for its exceptionally clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The underwater visibility is often excellent, making it a paradise for marine life enthusiasts.
Among its most secluded anchorages are Cala Saona, a beautiful bay with calm, clear waters surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, providing a serene anchorage spot and Es Caló de Sant Agustí, a charming fishing village with a small harbor, offering picturesque views. If you wanted the perfect spot for a secluded and photogenic wedding, this would be it.
The island is also famed for its incredible sunsets. The Cap de Barbaria lighthouse at the island’s southwestern tip offers spectacular sunset views, making it a popular spot for evening anchorage, while Cala Saona provides perhaps the best options for evening picture snapping in the entire Mediterranean.
Formentera is often described as the quieter and more laid-back sibling of Ibiza. The island’s relaxed vibe and lack of large-scale development provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the other Balearic Islands.
What better way to explore the Balearics this time of year than aboard one of our pristine superyachts.
Nothing Delivers Quite Like VIRTUE
Luxury and amenity go hand in hand aboard VIRTUE. Its four deck layout is accentuated by a spacious sundeck and a forward sunbathing area, along with a full head in the sky lounge, making for ample relaxation and socializing space. For greater charter flexibility, VIRTUE has five spacious staterooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, while dark mahogany designs by Francois Zuretti and light soft furnishings combine in a classic and elegant design to create a fun and playful onboard experience.
Meanwhile, the large Master is located in a prime position forward on the main deck, with a marble ensuite and a connecting walk-through private study for moments when you might need to get away for a little alone time.
Serenity Aboard MARGUERITE
With a supremely spacious full beam master suite equipped with its own study and dressing room (as well as his and her bathrooms), MARGUERITE breathes opulence and elegance with a touch of class. With several alfresco social and dining areas, this vessel is the preferred yacht for hosting intimate gatherings with family, or larger adventures with friends.
Guests can hop the Balearic waves on Yamaha VX Deluxe WaveRunners, and enjoy wakesurf boards, seabobs, wakeboards, kayaks, as well as diving equipment — making your days on the water as incredible as your nights spent aboard this delightful yacht.
If you’re wondering how to charter a yacht … the show starts and stops with one of our incredible vessels.
Get in touch with us to start your luxury yacht charter today.