Cabrera is a “must sail” for many crews. The impressive natural harbour, the castle ruins and the starry sky at night are a highlight on every trip and mooring to a buoy for a night is simply part of it for many crews. It is correspondingly difficult to get hold of one of the 50 buoys in summer.

To make your sailing dream come true, we are happy to help you with the Cabrera buoy reservation. Depending on the season and the length of your chartered yacht, a buoy on Cabrera costs between €18 and €210 plus our service fee of €30 per booking. For the reservation we need the following information:

Please send us your details no later than 25 days before your desired Cabrera date. This ist he only way we can reliably reserve a buoy for you. Alternatively, you can of course book your Cabrera buoy yourself. For this you need information about your yacht, which we will be happy to send you.

The buoys and berths in other marinas and bays in Mallorca, Ibiza, Formentera and Menorca should also be booked in good time - especially in the high season. You can book them online.

Dear Sailing fans,

wir hätten Euch gern auf der boot Düsseldorf 2022 getroffen und haben uns angesichts der Absage attraktive Alternativen für Euch einfallen lassen!

Das zweite Webinar in unserer kleinen Reihe entführt Euch einmal rund um Mallorca. Erfahrt von unserem Basisleiter Viktor aus erster Hand welche Buchten sich bei welchem Wetter besonders gut zum Übernachten auf Eurer Inselumrundung eignen und wo Ihr die schönsten Badeplätze und Strände findet. In der anschließenden Diskussion könnt Ihr natürlich auch direkt mit Viktor sprechen. Die Anmeldung zum Webinar am kommenden Sonntag, 30. Januar um 17:30 Uhr

erfolgt über unseren Partner Master Yachting. Zur Einstimmung findet Ihr auf unserer Homepage zwei Itineraries rund um Mallorca – einmal im und einmal entgegen des Uhrzeigersinns.

Unabhängig vom Webinar bieten wir unseren Direktkunden bis zum 6. Februar 2022 einen boot-Messerabatt von 7% on top. Weitere Infos stehen auf unserer Homepage.
Viele Grüße und bis Sonntag,

Your IRIS Yachtcharter Team

Mallorca is an attractive sailing area all year round which shows its beauty also and especially in winter. A circumnavigation of Mallorca is the best way to experience the great diversity of the area, which makes sailing around the island a very special moment for many crews.

The IRIS Yachtcharter team has put together an itinerary with sheltered marinas and picturesque natural harbours, which is particularly suitable for winter sailing and can be complemented with stopovers in stunning bays if the weather conditions are suitable.

After a glance at the weather forecast, the crucial question finally arises: "Turn right or turn left?" On this itinerary, we sail directly around Mallorca in a clockwise direction for about 170 nautical miles. Depending on the prevailing wind direction, the journey can also be made counterclockwise.

Leg 1-> 22 nautical miles

Vom Club Nàutic Arenal – Playa de Palma (39° 30,3´ N  002° 44,6´ E) nach Port d'Andratx (39° 32,5´ N  002° 22,6´ E)

After only 15 minutes by taxi we arrive at one of the most popular starting harbours of Playa de Palma, the Club Nàutic Arenal. IRIS Yachtcharter's charter base has free parking and moorings for our clients, a variety of commercial facilities - also with delivery service - and popular restaurants within walking distance. In summer, not only the fine sandy beaches, but also the club's own swimming pool attract small and big crew members, while skippers and co-skippers get to know the yacht in detail during the technical check-in. With the first "café con leche" or breakfast in the clubhouse we start to feel the holiday feeling. Our provisions are quickly put away afterwards, as it is best to shop online from home and have the shopping delivered directly to the boat.

Thanks to the early check-in we booked, we leave Club Nàutic Arenal at midday heading west with the intermediate destination of Cala Portals Vells Cala Portals Vells (39° 28,3´ N  002° 31,6´ E)The Cala Portals Vells Vells is one of our favourite bays, framed by several beaches, one of which is the famous Platja del Mago . This unspoilt beach, with its fine white sand, turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere, is a worthwhile destination on any trip.

After this first stop we head for Port d'Andratx (39° 32,5´ N  002° 22,6´ E)Port d'Andratx is popular with sailors not only because of its geographical location (the shortest distance to Ibiza), but also because of its picturesque surroundings. It is up to us and our designated cook whether we finish the day on board or indulge in culinary delights

Leg 2 -> nautical miles

From Port d'Andratx (39° 32,5´ N  002° 22,6´ E) nach Port de Sóller (39° 48,0´ N  002° 41,2´ E)

The next leg of our cruise takes us along the Serra de Tramuntana, the wild mountain range that has been declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site. In its 45 nautical miles, it has only one real harbour, Port de Sóller (39° 48,0´ N  002° 41,2´ E), but in return the wildest and most romantic anchorages. Our first destination is the unique Cala Banyalbufar (39° 41,6´ N  002° 30,9´ E) ), below the famous artistic village. Port de Sóller is a large natural harbour which offers protection from the wind from almost all directions (but not from the waves). The imposing mountain scenery is characteristic and a ride in the historic tram of Sóller is not to be missed.

On our next route to Port de Sóller, we sail further north and pass the Port de Valldemossa (39° 43,2´ N  002° 35,2´ E), Sa Foradadathe rocky outcrop with its daytime restaurant(39° 45,3´ N  002° 37,2´ E) and the Cala Deia (39° 45,8´ N  002° 38,45´ E), below the famous artistic village. Port de Sóller is a large natural harbour which offers protection from the wind from almost all directions (but not from the waves). The imposing mountain scenery is characteristic and a ride in the historic tram of Sóller is not to be missed.

Leg 4 -> 40 nautical miles

Von Port de Sóller (39° 48,0´ N  002° 41,2´ E) nach Port d´Alcúdia (39° 50,0´ N  003° 08,1´ E)

On our longest leg we can marvel at the "wild west" of Mallorca and explore popular bays such as Cala de sa Calobra (39° 51,6´ N  002° 47,8´ E ) and the Cala Boquer (39° 56,2´ N  003° 06,3´ E) before finally leaving the west coast and rounding Cap de Formentor. Our destination for the day is Port d´Alcúdia (39° 50,0´ N  003° 08,1´ E). Hier finden wir guten Schutz bei Mistral (Starkwind aus nördlichen Richtungen) sowie gute Einkaufsmöglichkeiten und Restaurants für unser Abendessen. Übernachten können wir in der großen Marina Alcudiamar oder vor Anker südwestlich der Außenmole. Die geschichtsträchtige Altstadt von Alcúdia liegt etwa 2km weit entfernt. Sie wurde 123 v. Chr. von den Römern gegründet und zu Beginn des 8. Jhd. als „Al Kudia“ von den Mauren neugegründet. Besonders sehenswert sind das Amphitheater und die römischen Ausgrabungen, die alte Stadtmauer mit Pfarrkirche (Sant Jaume) und der Uhrenturm am Rathaus.

Leg 4 -> 15 nautical miles

From Port d'Alcúdia (39° 50,0' N 003° 08,1' E) to Cala Rajada (39° 42,5' N 003° 27,8' E)

Today we will sail along the long sandy beaches of the Bay of Alcúdia and round the "Cap Farrutx" until we reach Cala Rajada (39° 42,5´ N  003° 27,8´ E)). Here too, depending on the weather, we can choose between several picturesque bays or the harbour town of Cala Rajada, which is a popular summer holiday destination. This marks the eastern end of Mallorca. From here it is only 25 metres to the neighbouring island of Menorca. On the promenade there is a wide variety of restaurants to suit all tastes. The annually changing works of art along the paseo marítimo also deserve attention.

Leg 5 -> 20 nautical miles

Stage 5-> 20 nautical miles From Cala Rajada (39° 42,5' N 003° 27,8' E) to Portocolom (39° 24,8' N 003° 16,1' E)

The route continues south, passing the beautiful coves of the east coast. Always worth a detour are the famous "Coves d'Artà", the caves of Artá, and the dragon caves, "Cuevas del Drach", which can be reached on foot when docking in Porto Cristo.

Our destination today, however, is Portocolom (39° 24,8‘ N  003° 16,1‘ E), a large natural harbour with numerous mooring possibilities. We decide on a buoy and cover the short distance to the quay wall in dinghy. The beautiful old town starts directly at the harbour and is considered to be the best preserved in Mallorca. In its numerous narrow streets, we are delighted by the large selection of restaurants and bars where we can enjoy Mallorcan delicacies.

Leg 6 -> 22 nautical miles

Leg 6->22 nautical miles From Portocolom (39° 24,8' N 003° 16,1' E) to the Archipelago of Cabrera (39° 09,3' N 002° 55,6' E) Cabrera (39° 09,3´ N  002° 55,6´ E)

Today we sail further south to the Archipiélago de Cabrera (39° 09,3´ N  002° 55,6´ E)Cabrera enjoys its reputation as a "must-sail destination" and for good reason. The bay is very sheltered, even in windy weather, and the impressive backdrop of the castle alone is a real attraction. It is also highly recommended to explore the island on foot and immerse yourself in the history of the archipelago. The most popular destinations are the old castle and the ethnographic museum. The well-kept lighthouse path also invites you to take a stroll. With the yacht and the dinghy we also make an excursion to the famous "Grota Azul", Blue Grotto, right in the neighbouring bay, but be careful, the bay can only be partially navigated and anchoring is totally forbidden!

Cabrera is probably one of the most visited places in the Balearic Islands and it is recommended to book a buoy 20 days before the desired overnight stay during the high season. For a day visit, just register for free, as all our yachts have a day licence for sailing and use of the day buoys until 17h.

Leg 7 -> 25 nautical miles

From the Archipelago of Cabrera (39° 09,3' N 002° 55,6' E) to Club Nàutic Arenal - Playa de Palma (39° 30,3' N 002° 44,6' E) Cabrera (39° 09,3´ N  002° 55,6´ E) in den Club Nàutic Arenal – Playa de Palma (39° 30,3´ N  002° 44,6´ E)

Es Trenc (39° 20,8´ N  002° 58,5´ E) is no longer a secret, as it attracts thousands of locals and tourists every year, but on our way to our home port we can't pass the south coast of Mallorca without dropping anchor here. Es Trenc is on everyone's radar, in all the guidebooks and travel blogs, and for good reason: its approximately 10 km of white sandy beach and calm waters offer an unforgettable Caribbean feel. Just behind the beach and the dunes are the salt pans where the famous "Sel de Fleur" (flower salt) is harvested. This delicate salt with a centuries-old history can be found in many shops on the island and is perfect as a souvenir.

At 5 p.m. we are expected at Club Nàutic Arenal for the technical check-out. The last night can be spent in the touristy Playa de Palma or in the quiet Son Veri. Son Veri is a short distance from the cliffs we have just admired from the water and offers several restaurants for our farewell evening before spending one last night on board.

We sail from the charter base in S'Arenal on Mallorca towards the smallest permanently inhabited island of the Balearics, Formentera. We recommend this trip to sailors who want to experience a very special Balearic trip. Formentera is the perfect destination for crews who love to sail long distances but also want to relax in between.

Leg 1

From Club Nàutic Arenal – Mallorca (39° 30,3´ N  002° 44,6´ E) to Es Palmador – Formentera (38° 46,6´ N  001° 25,3´ E)

We set sails from S'Arenal in the afternoon, as the local south-easterly wind usually dies down and the Es Freus strait between Ibiza and Formentera is best sailed in daylight. Consequently, we sail the first leg of 80nm mostly at night, but not much traffic is expected on our route. We are heading for 235 degrees. The ferries that connect Ibiza and Mallorca steer a more westerly course. 

When crossing Es Freus, please pay close attention to the ferries on the Ibiza-Formentera-Ibiza route, which sail under 25 knots here. Generally, there is a lot of traffic here, but as we sail through the island chain very early, it should still be quiet. After crossing Es Freus, we cruise towards Es Palmador, a beautiful small island in the north of Formentera. We recommend reserving a buoy in good time, as anchoring in the bay of Es Palamador is not permitted.

Leg 2

From Es Palmador (38° 46,6´ N  001° 25,3´ E) to Caló de s´Oli ( 38° 43' N  001° 24' E)

From Es Palmador we sail only a few nautical miles southwards today and anchor first in Ses Illetes, because Ses Illetes is certainly one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the Mediterranean. In addition, you can have an excellent paella here. At "Juan y Andrea" you often meet celebrities, and the prices are therefore higher. If you prefer something more down-to-earth, you can have paella at "El Ministre".

After a refreshing swim and a good meal, we head a few nautical miles south to the Caló de s' Oli buoy field, where we can moor safely except when the wind is blowing from the W, N and NE. Booking in advance is recommended. We take the dinghy to the Estanc de Peix (lagoon of the fish). From here we explore the port of Formentera and the main village of San Francesc on foot, do our shopping or indulge in local delicacies.

Leg 3

From Caló de s´Oli (38° 43' N  001° 24' E) to Cala Saona (38° 41' N  001° 23' E)

Today we continue our way south and first anchor in Racó des Xiquetes to spend the day snorkelling. There is also a cave that we can explore. After a beautiful day, we then sail a few more nautical miles north in Cala Saona. The sandy bottom is perfect for anchoring. Protected from winds from NE to South, we spend the night here. There are good mojitos at the small beach bar!

Leg 4

From Cala Saona (38° 41' N  001° 23' E) to Ensenada Migjorn (38° 40,5' N  001° 27,6' E)

We continue around Formentera and pass the Cabo Barbaria lighthouse. Our destination is the Ensenada de Migjorn. Be careful when anchoring! We recommend dropping the anchor on the sandy bottom in front of the restaurant "El Sol", because sandy bottoms can only be found here and further east in el Arenal. We are in the "wilder" part of the island, where there are not so many boats. Apart from good restaurants, there are very alternative beach bars like the "B62", which is known for its Pomada (gin with lime juice). This bar still has the original 60s touch of Pink Floyd and co.

Leg 5

From Cala Migjorn (38° 41' N  001° 23' E) to Es Caló (38° 41' N  001° 31' E) 

Today we sail about 15nm to the southeast and round the cliffs of La Mola towards Es Caló. We make a stopover at Cala Codolar, very close to the lighthouse of La Mola; a true paradise. There we can once again enjoy the breath-taking beauty of Formentera and refresh ourselves in the crystal-clear water. After this stop for a swim, we hoist the sails again towards the north and sail to Es Caló. Here we find good sandy ground to anchor and lie safely with winds from the southeast and south to west. We take the dinghy to the loneliest beach on Formentera, which can only be reached from the water. Racó de Sa Pujada is truly unique.

In the evening we can go to the small fishing harbour (only accessible by dinghy) and taste a delicious fish at "Can Rafalet".

Leg 6

From Es Caló - Formentera (38° 41' N  001° 31' E) to S´Arenal – Mallorca (39° 30,3´ N  002° 44,6´ E)

Today we set off at sunrise in the direction of Mallorca. We have a direct route of 80 nautical miles ahead of us and so the way becomes the destination. On the port side we see the small Isla Espardell as a farewell. This is the home of the 100,000-year-old Posidonia algae, which can be up to 10 km long.

Sailing trip around Mallorca in 7 days

If wind and weather cooperate, the circumnavigation of Mallorca can become a reality in one charter week with good planning - however, the focus is then on sailing. For a relaxed beginner's cruise or family cruise with refreshing swim stops and an age-appropriate shore programme, we recommend planning 10 to 14 days.

On this cruise we sail counterclockwise around Mallorca in one week. We will cover about 186 nautical miles in a direct route.

Leg 1 -> 14 nautical miles

From Club Nàutic Arenal - Playa de Palma (39° 30,3' N 002° 44,6' E) to Cala Pí (39° 21,5' N 002° 50,1' E)

After an early check-in at Club Nàutic Arenal, we set sail directly on our arrival Saturday and sail 14 nautical miles to the picturesque Cala Pí, where a paradise-like sandy beach awaits us behind steep cliffs.While admiring the impressive cliffs of Cala Pí, we should not neglect to look out for underwater rocks (-> only enter during the day)! We would not be the first crew to run aground in this narrow cala! We anchor with a stern line and then immediately launch the SUPs we brought with us. With a refreshing swim in the cala and a cool drink at the beach bar, we enjoy the end of our first day. Should we still need to complete our provisions, Cala Pí offers us a good infrastructure for this. A supermarket, restaurants, an ice-cream parlour ... here we find everything we need before our trip to Cabrera.

While admiring the impressive cliffs of Cala Pí, we should not neglect to look out for underwater rocks (-> only enter during the day)! We would not be the first crew to run aground in this narrow cala! We anchor with a stern line and then immediately launch the SUPs we brought with us. With a refreshing swim in the cala and a cool drink at the beach bar, we enjoy the end of our first day. Should we still need to complete our provisions, Cala Pí offers us a good infrastructure for this. A supermarket, restaurants, an ice-cream parlour ... here we find everything we need before our trip to Cabrera.

Leg 2 -> 13 nautical miles

From Cala Pí (39° 21,5' N 002° 50,1' E) to Cabrera (39° 09,3' N 002° 55,6' E)

After our overnight stay in Cala Pí, we sail the 13 nautical miles to the National Park of the Archipelago de CabreraToday, Cabrera is protected as a nature reserve, but in its eventful history, Cabrera often served military purposes. The old fortress, the landmark of the archipelago, bears witness to this. Enjoying the sunset from the castle and a walk to the lighthouse on the other side of the island are a must when visiting Cabrera. In the evening, it gets quiet on Cabrera. After a last drink in the small taverna, we return on board and only the topmast lights of the other yachts give an idea that this is not a completely lonely pirate island. As a general rule, it is essential to obtain a Cabrera permit and reserve a buoy well in advance, as anchoring is not permitted here! We will be happy to help you with this.

Leg 3 -> 25 nautical miles

From Cabrera (39° 09,3' N 002° 55,6' E) to Portocolom (39° 24,8' N 003° 16,1' E)° 09,3’  N 002° 55,6’ E) nach Portocolom (39° 24,8‘ N  003° 16,1‘ E)

From Cabrera, we sail 25 nautical miles north to Portocolom, on the east coast of Mallorca, which is extremely popular with sailors. Christopher Columbus is said to have been born here - it is possible, given the great importance of seafaring and fishing here. In this largest natural harbour on the island, there are numerous berthing possibilities for guest yachts. We cover the short distance to the quay wall by dinghy and then enjoy a stroll through the pretty old town, which begins directly at the harbour. It is considered to be the best-preserved old town in Mallorca, and in its many alleyways we are delighted by the large selection of restaurants and bars where we indulge in Mallorcan delicacies.

Leg 4 -> 38 nautical miles

Portocolom (39° 24,8‘ N 003° 16,1‘ E) to Colònia de Sant Pere (39° 44,3’ N 003° 13,3’ E)

Our next leg takes us 38 nautical miles from Portocolom to Colònia de Sant PereThe small, well-kept marina of Colonia de San Pedro with its marina is located at the eastern end of the Bay of Alcúdia and offers us everything we need to prepare for our long leg to Port de Sóller. Even in high season, you usually have a good chance of finding a berth here. The mountain scenery in the direction of Artá is impressive, offering us a foretaste of the Tramuntana Mountains World Heritage Site, which we will be sailing.

Leg 5-> 41 nautical miles

From Colònia de Sant Pere (39° 44,3’ N 003° 13,3’ E) to Port de Sóller (39° 48,0‘ N 002° 41,2‘ E)

Cast off and on to Port de Sóller! With 41 nautical miles, this is not only the longest section of our charter trip, but also the most impressive: through the Bay of Alcúdia, where the Romans already had their camp, past the Bay of Pollenca and further around Cap Formentor, the northern tip of Mallorca, and finally along the steep coast of the Tramuntana towards Cala de la Calobra. Here, if time permits, you should definitely make a stop for a swim and then enter the port of Sóller.

Leg 6-> 25 nautical miles

From Port de Sóller (39° 48,0‘ N 002° 41,2‘ E) to Sant Elm (39° 34,5‘ N 002° 21,0‘ E)

We take a relaxed approach to the 25 nautical miles from Sóller to Sant Elm and sail past Isla Dragonera, a protected nature reserve. In Sant Elm, at the foot of the Tramuntana, there is a popular buoy field. If there is no buoy left, we sail another three nautical miles to Andraxt and enjoy the local cuisine in one of the excellent harbour restaurants.

Leg 7 -> 30 nautical miles

From Sant Elm (39° 34,5‘ N 002° 21,0‘ E) to S´Arenal (39° 30,3´ N 002° 44,6´ E)

On our last day at sea, we will sail 30 nautical miles to Club Nàutic Arenal If we cast off in Andratx in time, we can make a last stop for a refreshing swim in the Bay of Three Fingers, and from there set course for S'Arenal.

For young sailors, a holiday on a sailing yacht is usually a great adventure. Feeling like a great pirate on their own ship or exploring lonely islands and enchanted calas and caves make the trip an unforgettable holiday experience. If the skipper keeps the special interests of his little crew members in mind when planning the trip, the whole crew will get their money's worth. From our own sailing experiences with children, we have summarised the best tips for your family.

A child-friendly port of departure and destination

Nichts ist für Kinder so schlimm, wie stundenlang in der Sommerhitze auf den Check-in zu warten. Daher empfiehlt es sich, bei der Buchung nicht nur das richtige Schiff, sondern auch eine familienfreundliche Charterbasis auszuwählen. Unsere Charterbasis im Club Nàutic Arenal ist für Kinder die perfekte Marina, die keine Wünsche offen lässt. Die Zeit bis zum Check-in lässt sich im clubeigenen Pool oder am Strand angenehm verbringen und während das Proviant noch direkt ans Schiff geliefert wird, wird im Clubrestaurant schon etwas Leckeres für die hungrigen Mägen serviert. Alternativ können natürlich auch die Freizeitangebote der näheren Umgebung wie Windsurfen, ein großer Wassenrutschenpark und das Sea Life Center wahrgenommen werden.

The castle ruins of Cabrera make little pirates' hearts beat faster

An absolute highlight for little pirates is a trip to the Cabrera National Park. The island's eventful history alone stimulates the imagination and the view from the castle ruins down to your own yacht brings pirate stories to life. The silent nights on board, during which you can only recognise the other yachts at their buoys by their top lights, are also a special experience.

Bathing fun in Mallorca's calas

It has proven to be a good idea to plan shorter day trips with children and to allow enough time for swimming, snorkelling and stand-up paddling in the mornings and afternoons. Barbecues on deck in the evenings are also very popular. We will gladly provide you with the necessary equipment. From stand up paddles to snorkelling equipment and barbecues, you can order everything you need for swimming in Mallorca's calas. Just tell us what you need and your equipment will already be on board when you check in.

Little cave explorers in a big way

There are several exciting caves to explore on the east coast of Mallorca. Particularly popular are the

Coves d'Artà

Cova des Moro

Cova des Pirata

Coves dels Hams und

Coves del Drac

The latter can even be reached on foot from Porto Cristo harbour. Particularly impressive here is the largest underground lake in Europe, where a concert is given at the end of the cave tour. We think so: A real family highlight!

Flotilla sailing with other families

are also sailing - be it on their own yacht or catamaran or on neighbouring yachts. Flotilla sailing is therefore particularly popular with families.

Ahoy! We look forward to welcoming your young skippers!

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