Mallorca is an appealing sailing destination all year round, and in winter the island shows a distinctive natural beauty. Circumnavigating Mallorca lets crews experience remarkable geographical variety, an unforgettable voyage for many sailors.
The IRIS team has designed an itinerary that favours sheltered marinas and scenic natural harbours suited to winter conditions, with optional stops in stunning bays when the weather allows. The full circuit spans about 170 nautical miles clockwise, though counter-clockwise is possible depending on the wind.
Leg 1: 22 nautical miles, to Port d'Andratx
The charter base offers parking, mooring, shopping and dining within walking distance. After check-in we head west with an intermediate stop at Cala Portals Vells, home to the renowned Platja del Mago. The leg ends at Port d'Andratx, a picturesque harbour popular with sailors.
Leg 2: 45 nautical miles, to Port de Sóller
This segment follows the UNESCO Serra de Tramuntana along the west coast. Stops include Cala Banyalbufar below its artists' village, Port de Valldemossa, Sa Foradada with its daytime restaurant and Cala Deia. Port de Sóller is the main harbour, sheltered from most directions, with dramatic mountains and a historic tram.
Leg 3: 40 nautical miles, to Port d'Alcúdia
The longest leg shows Mallorca's wild west, with acclaimed bays such as Cala de sa Calobra and Cala Boquer before rounding Cap de Formentor. Port d'Alcúdia offers good shelter and facilities; the old town, founded by the Romans in 123 BCE, lies two kilometres away.
Leg 4: 15 nautical miles, to Cala Rajada
We sail along the long sandy beaches of the Bay of Alcúdia and round Cap Farrutx to Cala Rajada at Mallorca's eastern tip, a lively spot with many restaurants and a seaside promenade.
Leg 5: 20 nautical miles, to Portocolom
The southbound route passes the east coast's beautiful coves and famous caves, reaching Portocolom, a spacious natural harbour with the best preserved old town on Mallorca and plenty of restaurants and bars.
Leg 6: 22 nautical miles, to the Archipelago of Cabrera
Cabrera lives up to its must-sail reputation thanks to excellent shelter and a dramatic castle backdrop. Explore the fortifications and the museum, and visit the famous blue grotto Cova Blava. Reserve a buoy well in advance (up to 20 days in peak season).
Leg 7: 25 nautical miles, back to Club Nàutic Arenal
The return passes Es Trenc, a famous south-coast beach with around ten kilometres of white sand and calm water for an almost Caribbean feel, with its salt pans nearby. The trip ends with check-out at the base.