If wind and weather cooperate, circumnavigating Mallorca within one charter week is achievable with good planning, though the focus is then firmly on sailing. For a relaxed beginner or family trip with refreshing swimming stops and an age-appropriate shore programme we recommend allowing 10 to 14 days.
On this trip we sail counter-clockwise around Mallorca in one week, covering about 186 nautical miles on the direct route.
Leg 1: 14 nautical miles
From Club Nàutic Arenal on Playa de Palma to Cala Pí: after an early check-in we set off on arrival Saturday and sail 14 nautical miles to the picturesque Cala Pí, where a paradise-like sandy beach awaits behind steep cliffs. Watch for underwater rocks and enter only in daylight. We anchor with a stern line, launch the SUPs and round off the day with a swim and a cool drink at the beach bar.
Leg 2: 13 nautical miles
From Cala Pí to Cabrera: we sail 13 nautical miles to the national park of the Cabrera archipelago. Today Cabrera is a protected reserve, but its eventful history was often military, as the old fortress, the landmark of the islands, shows. The sunset from the castle and a walk to the lighthouse are a must. Get a Cabrera permit in advance and reserve a buoy, as anchoring is not allowed.
Leg 3: 25 nautical miles
From Cabrera to Portocolom: 25 nautical miles north lies Portocolom on Mallorca's east coast, popular with sailors. This largest natural harbour on the island has many berths for guest yachts, and the well-preserved old town offers a great choice of restaurants and bars.
Leg 4: 38 nautical miles
From Portocolom to Colònia de Sant Pere: the next leg covers 38 nautical miles to the small, well-kept marina at the eastern end of the Bay of Alcúdia. The mountain backdrop towards Artá gives a first taste of the Tramuntana World Heritage range.
Leg 5: 41 nautical miles
From Colònia de Sant Pere to Port de Sóller: at 41 nautical miles this is the longest and most impressive leg, through the Bay of Alcúdia, past the Bay of Pollença, around Cap Formentor and along the steep Tramuntana coast towards Cala de la Calobra.
Leg 6: 25 nautical miles
From Port de Sóller to Sant Elm: we take the 25 nautical miles gently, sailing past the protected Isla Dragonera. Sant Elm has a popular buoy field; if none is free we sail three miles further to Andratx.
Leg 7: 30 nautical miles
From Sant Elm to S'Arenal: on the last day we cover 30 nautical miles back to Club Nàutic Arenal. If we leave Andratx early there is time for a final swim in the Bay of Three Fingers.