We first came into the Mediterranean in 2011, intending to spend the following season doing a circuit of the Baleares and then returning to the Atlantic. Eight years later we are still in the Western Med, having spent most of our time exploring the islands – Sardinia, Elba, Corsica and, above all, the Baleares. The attraction – beautiful anchorages, clear warm water, good swimming, usually benign weather, not to mention the good food and wine ashore. We think we are now stuck in this area!
Practicalities
From mainland Spain, the Baleares are within easy reach. From our winter base in Cartagena, Formentera is only 150 miles to the northeast. Ibiza is but 60 miles from Calpe – a day sail. From Valencia, Sóller, in Mallorca, is 140 miles and from Barcelona, Menorca is 120 miles.
When to go?
April, May and June are delightful, with the anchorages less crowded and mooring prices reasonable. July and August are to be avoided if possible. The islands become crowded, the weather too hot and, above all, marina prices become horrendous, sometimes three times the prices of May. Many of the regular cruisers return home at this time, either laying up ashore or retreating to the cheaper marinas on the mainland. In September and October the crowds go, prices reduce and the water temperature is at its best – perhaps our favourite months.
Navigation
Esta historia es de la edición May 2020 de Sailing Today.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición May 2020 de Sailing Today.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Dumbass In The Realm Of Dumas
Sam Jefferson treads in the footsteps of the Count of c as he makes a great escape to the Calanques of Provence
Paul Heiney
The joy of needlecraft has been somewhat lost on Paul after an attempt to stitch together a rudimentary canvas cover ends in much bloodshed
Clarisse hopes to inspire others
Vendée Globe sailor Clarisse Crémer has said she hopes to inspire other female sailors to follow in her wake.
Jeanneau what I mean?
French manufacturer Jeanneau is back with an all new 60’ cruiser that offers a beguiling blend of comfort and performance
Pip Hare and Medallia going for next Vendée - with new boat
The news that British Vendée Globe followers were hoping for was confirmed in May, with the announcement that Pip Hare and sponsor Medallia will continue their partnership for the next Vendée Globe in 2023/24.
Double-Handed Offshore Series blasts off
The new UK Double-Handed Offshore Series started on 1 May, organised by Henry Bomby with other double-handed sailing enthusiasts.
John Goode 1950 - 2021
Tributes have poured in from across the marine industry after the former editor of Sailing Today, John Goode, died on 15 May, aged 71, following a short illness.
Andy Rice
Sailing is a capricious sport and the chance to go from hero to zero within the space of minutes is extremely high, as Andy found to his cost
Back to nature
Author Tristan Gooley has made a name for himself as the Natural Navigator. He discusses his life long passion for sailing and how it has helped to shape his career path
A voyage of rediscovery
The Discovery 58 has long been recognized as a superlative blue water cruiser. Toby Heppell steps aboard the latest model to examine how it has developed