The Balearics, Spain's island jewels

Set off on a catamaran cruise around the 4 Balearic islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.

In brief

The Balearic archipelago, separated from mainland Spain by the Balearic Sea, comprises five main islands, four of which are inhabited, as well as numerous islets.

The capital, Palma, is located on Mallorca, the archipelago's largest and most populous island.

The 5 main islands are Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and Cabrera. Cabrera has been uninhabited since it became a national park in 1991.

The main nautical bases for a catamaran departure are : Palma on Mallorca, Mahon on Menorca and Sant Antoni de Portmany on Ibiza. It's also possible to set sail from Denia (northern Alicante) for Ibiza and Formentera.
You'll love the beautiful, unspoilt nature, walks through coastal villages, nature reserves, idyllic coves and anchorages, all in a guaranteed Mediterranean atmosphere.

What's more, the Balearic Islands boast some wonderful diving sites that are sure to delight underwater enthusiasts!

Information before you leave

When to go?

Prepare your cruise

Discover the islands

The climate

The climate of the Balearic Islands is typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers tempered by sea breezes and very little rain.
300 days of sunshine a year.
The eastern part of the archipelago (Menorca and the northern part of Majorca) is characterized by heavier rainfall during the rainy season (September to November) and heat tempered by the Mediterranean in summer.
Mallorca is a little more continental, a little colder in winter and warmer in summer. It is crossed by a mountain range, the Sierra de Tramontana.
On the western side of the archipelago (Ibiza, Formentera and the southern part of Majorca), the climate is sub-desert, with low rainfall and plenty of sunshine.

Prevailing winds

The Balearic Islands are quite windy, especially from October to April, due to the mild south-westerly wind that blows during periods of bad weather, and the tramontana.
In summer, sea breezes are welcome and make the heat more bearable.
From March to June and September to October, the prevailing tramontana wind blows from the north.
In summer, hot winds dominate the region around Ibiza and the southern part of Majorca.
The easternmost islands (Mallorca and Menorca) are the windiest.

Swimming

The ideal time to enjoy a swim in the Balearic Islands is from June to October.
Sea temperatures are fairly uniform throughout the archipelago.
Average water temperatures between April and November on all islands.
Around 15-16°C mid-April
Around 18-19°C mid-May
Around 22°C mid-June
Around 24-25°C mid-July
Around 25-26°C mid-August
Around 25°C mid-September
Around 22-23°C mid-October
Around 19-20°C mid-November

Catamaran rental and cruising in the Balearic Islands

Majorca

The island of Mallorca is a contrast between authenticity and tourist spots, and between its spectacular coastal landscapes and the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana. There's no shortage of magnificent beaches and coves with hidden caves and sheltered anchorages. Keep your eyes peeled for endemic fauna, such as the famous lizard found in large numbers on the island of La Dragonera in western Mallorca. It has become the island's symbol. The island's winged fauna is not to be outdone. Majorca lies on the migratory route of many birds that fly north in spring and south in autumn (hoopoe, swift, osprey, Balearic shearwater...).
There are many charming coastal and fishing villages on the island to liven up your stopovers: Alcudia, Pollensa, Banyalbufa, Porto Cristo, Calviá, Portocolom...
Of course, the capital Palma is a must, with its La Seu cathedral, Plaza Mayor, old town, Bellver castle, San Juan gourmet market, Passeig del Born and Santa Catalina district.

Ibiza

Ibiza, the Balearic island closest to the Spanish mainland. It lies 88 km east-northeast of Cap de la Nau on the Iberian Peninsula.
It's known for its parties and glitter, but there's a much more authentic side to Ibiza. Ibiza is a blend of hippie ambience and unspoilt nature. Of particular note is the Ses Salines nature park to the south of Ibiza, a marine ecosystem containing posidonia meadows, the lungs of the Mediterranean. Also worth a visit is the Can Marçà cave .
Your cultural stopovers include the dazzling white houses and ramparts of Dalt Vila in Eivissa, a World Heritage site, the Phoenician village of Sa Caleta and the necropolis of Puig des Molins, and the village of Santa Eulalia.
Drop anchor in one of the secluded coves and bathe in the crystal-clear waters, explore the island's hidden beaches and stunning cliffs.
Ibiza's gastronomy offers fresh produce. You'll find plenty of beach bars during your catamaran cruise.

Minorca

Menorca is the flattest island in the archipelago, along with Formentera, and is exposed to the tramontana wind, sometimes as violent as the mistral in the south of France!
Menorca is calm and natural, with a slower pace than its neighbors. Designated a World Biosphere Reserve in 1993, Menorca boasts a coastline of heavenly coves and beaches, and a hinterland that enchants botanists, hikers and mountain bikers alike. It also boasts a heritage of monumental prehistoric sites, stately homes and fortresses. Ciutadella, the island's former capital, is worth a stroll: medieval streets, palaces, cathedral... Last but not least, Menorca's gastronomy is a nugget: lobster soup, sobrasada (sausage made with pork and paprika), ensaimada for dessert and not forgetting the local gin.

Small port of Es Castell, Menorca, Baleares

Formentera

Less than 2 nautical miles from Ibiza, you can easily discover it from Ibiza. The island is well preserved and only accessible by boat from Ibiza.
Formentera's richness lies in the scenery of its coastline and coastal salt flats, which were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
This peaceful island offers crystal-clear waters, olive and fig trees, pine-fringed dunes and coves...
The tranquility and clarity of the waters, thanks to the Posidonia meadows, make Formentera the ideal place for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The white sandy seabed and spectacular rocky seabed are home to a rich and varied flora and fauna.

The Balearic Islands in pictures

Mooring catamaran Minorca, Balearic Islands

Cala pregonda, island of Menorca, Balearic Islands

Seaside Village, Ibiza, Balearic Islands

Wooden Boat In A Port, Majorca, Balearic Islands

Palma De Mallorca Cathedral, Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Puerto Soller, Majorca, Balearic Islands

Anchorage Cala Llombards Balearic Islands

Houses In The Mountains, Majorca, Balearic Islands

The itineraries and anchorages we suggest are given for information only.

They can be adapted to suit your desires, weather and anchorage conditions (crowds, accessibility) and your departure base.

In the case of a skippered charter, the skipper, who is responsible for the smooth running of your cruise, will decide on the best navigation options in exchange with you.