We sail from the charter base in S'Arenal on Mallorca towards Formentera, the smallest permanently inhabited Balearic island. This voyage suits sailors looking for a distinctive Balearic experience, combining longer passages with plenty of time to relax.
Leg 1: Club Nàutic Arenal to Es Palmador
We leave S'Arenal in the afternoon, as the local south-easterly wind usually dies down then and the Es Freus strait between Ibiza and Formentera is best sailed in daylight. This leg covers about 80 nautical miles, mostly at night, on a course around 235 degrees. Watch out for the ferries on the Ibiza-Formentera route. At Es Palmador a buoy reservation is essential, as anchoring is not allowed.
Leg 2: Es Palmador to Caló de s'Oli
A short hop south leads to Ses Illetes, certainly one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the Mediterranean. For paella try Juan y Andrea or El Ministre. Continue to the Caló de s'Oli buoy field, safe except in westerly, northerly and north-easterly winds. Explore Formentera's port and the village of San Francesc by dinghy.
Leg 3: Caló de s'Oli to Cala Saona
Sail south to Racó des Xiquetes for snorkelling and cave exploring, then north to Cala Saona with its sandy anchoring ground, protected from NE to South. In the evening enjoy a good mojito at the small beach bar.
Leg 4: Cala Saona to Ensenada de Migjorn
Round Formentera past the Cabo Barbaria lighthouse to Ensenada de Migjorn and anchor on the sandy bottom in front of the El Sol restaurant. The B62 beach bar with its 1960s vibe is worth a visit.
Leg 5: Cala Migjorn to Es Caló
About 15 nautical miles south-east, rounding the cliffs of La Mola, lies Es Caló. Anchor safely in winds from south-east to west and visit Racó de Sa Pujada, the loneliest beach on Formentera, reachable only from the water. Enjoy a fish dinner at Can Rafalet in the fishing harbour.
Leg 6: Es Caló back to S'Arenal
Depart at sunrise for the 80-nautical-mile direct route back to Mallorca, passing Isla Espardell with its 100,000-year-old Posidonia meadows that can be up to 10 km long.