A FASCINATING FLOTILLA CRUISE IN MALLORCA, SPAIN
COLGATE SAILING ADVENTURES FLOTILLA CRUISE ALONG MALLORCA’S COAST IN THE BALEARIC SEA — SOLD OUT!
Fun sailing trips go fast. This Mallorca bareboat charter flotilla cruise in the Balearic Sea is already sold out! You can put your name on a wait list with a refundable $200 deposit. When a cabin opens we go down the list and call in the order they were received. Call 888-454-7015 to put your name on the wait list today! Check out our other flotilla cruise opportunities and make sure you don’t miss out on sailing in Mallorca and other fun adventures.
JUNE 29-JULY 6, 2019
This lively Colgate Sailing Adventures Flotilla Cruise in Spain is perfect for sailors who love exhilarating days under sail. It starts in Palma, Mallorca, known for impressive gothic cathedrals, cliffside calas (inlets), and sandy anchorages. A walk through Palma’s narrow, cobbled streets takes you to numerous tapas bars, restaurants, cafes and tiny shops run by artisans. On this summer flotilla adventure you get to experience blue water sailing and short sails between hidden calas. You visit popular beach destinations, old fishing villages and beautiful protected island parks with spectacular underwater scenery.
QUALITY SAILING, DELICIOUS FOOD AND GORGEOUS SCENERY
In addition to great sailing in Mallorca, this area of Spain is known for its delectable menus, beautiful beaches and excellent nightlife. You get to experience it all on our flotilla fleet of four 4-cabin Sunsail 47’ monohulls in a region that averages 300 days of sunshine each year. The sea breeze around the coast of Mallorca is generally around 7 knots out of the SSE. Temperatures in July are 88°F max, minimum 64°F.
CRUISING IN A REGION ONCE KNOWN AS “GYMNESIA”
Mallorca’s history goes back more than 6,000 years. Inhabitants of Mallorca and Menorca were called “gymnetes” (naked men) because they wore few clothes. Apparently that’s why in the 1st century these islands were known as “Gymnesia.” Romans held Mallorca from 123 BC to the 4th century AD, and then the island was over-run by Vandals and became a base for pirates and Corsairs. The Moors arrived in early 10th century, enhancing the islands’ agriculture with irrigation canals, but were driven out in 1229 by King Jaime I. Catalan became the language, which eventually morphed into the “Mallorquin dialect” spoken by many islanders today.
INLAND BEAUTY WITH SPECTACULAR VISTAS AND DEEP HISTORY
Inland Mallorca is laced with large area fruit orchards, olive groves, fields of wheat and vegetables and terraced farming in hilly areas. Walled towns in the eastern half of the island remain unspoiled. Soaring mountains in the northwest region provide spectacular views.The impressive Gothic cathedral, castle and dock system were developed in the 13th to 15th century known as the golden age, during which time Mallorca became a center for Mediterranean trade. In the Spanish Civil War the island supported the Nationalists so did not suffer much damage. If you can extend your visit here beyond the sailing adventure, there are fascinating places to visit by taxi, bus or rail – like the Carthusian monastery at Valldemosa, which was the palace of the Kings of Mallorca. In the south there are Roman baths and a 15th century church at Camos. Give us a call and ask us about our sailing holidays in Spain.
888-454-7015
Info@OffshoreSailing.com
WHERE YOU WILL SAIL IN MALLORCA
The itinerary below will be adjusted by your cruise leaders, Nate and Heather Atwater, as you sail and is dependant on weather conditions and marina availability.
Day 1, June 29 – Arrive Marina Naviera Balear, Port de Mallorca, PALMA
Just 8 km from the airport, Palma is home to one of the largest marinas in Europe. Our boats are ready to board at 6 p.m. If you arrive earlier in the day, this is a great time to visit the magnificent cathedral and wander the picturesque alleyways for gifts and tapas at a streetside café. Tonight you’ll meet the rest of your flotilla crew mates and cruise leaders – Heather and Nate Atwater – at a Welcome Meet and Greet party and dinner near the marina.
Day 2, June 30 – 18.7 nm to Cala Pi
After boat and navigation check outs the fleet sets sail, southeast to Cala Pi – a fjord-like inlet lined with impressive high cliffs, and marked by a conspicuous stone tower on the SE side of the entrance. Fishing huts and a small sandy beach are at the head of the inlet, and you’ll find a few cafés and restaurants to the east. Here you will moor stern-to and head off for dinner at one of the typical restaurants along the shore.
Day 3, July 1 – 21 nm to Cala Ferrera
This is the longest sailing day of the trip, through coastal passages around Mallorca’s southernmost point as you head east to Cala Ferrera. En route the fleet might stop for lunch and a swim at one of many sandy beaches along the way before anchoring for the night. Cala Ferrera is one of three anchorages reached through the same entrance from the sea. There are sandy beaches, supermarkets, shops and many restaurants and cafes in all three locations. If everyone agrees, the fleet might dock at the Marina Cala d’Or with over 300 slips (at a high price however). Exploring the old fort on the headland is a good walk. Ice is available in the supermarket. Club Nautico de Cala d’Or has a bar, showers, and lounge.
Day 4, July 2 – 16 nm to Port Cristo
Porto Cristo is known for beautiful beaches and many shops and restaurants, and for an unsuccessful landing by Communist forces during the Civil War. Located in a long, sheltered inlet, this area was once favored as a summer getaway by Mallorca kings. Its bustling town is a popular stop for sailors and boaters. Pontoon docks are available on the south side of the channel at Club Nautico, which has a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, terrace and showers. There are also anchorages on the east side of the channel and further north outside a beach area. Enjoy a drink or meal at an outside café and 
watch fisherman bring in their catch. Head along the coast to the spectacular limestone “Dragon Caves,” one of Mallorca’s top tourist sights, discovered by MEA Martel in 1896. A one-hour guided tour takes you on 1200 meters of smooth paths, learning about the incredible stalactite formations, then to the Fairies’ Theatre, Diana’s Bath and ends with a floodlit, floating violin concert on Lake Martel, Europe’s largest underground lake.
Day 5, July 3 – 15 nm to Cala Mondrago
On the way to Cala Mondrago the fleet will likely drop anchor at Cala Marcal for lunch, swimming and snorkeling. Then you’ll set sail again for the beautiful pristine beaches and blue waters of Cala Mondrago, a wide inlet surrounded by low rocky cliffs. After settling into the anchorage, you can explore parts of this large national park. Maybe Heather and Nate will organize a beach party ashore or you can dine at café/bars on the beaches.
Day 6, July 4 – 18 nm to Rapita and Cabrera National Park on Mallorca
Today you set sail for Puerto de la Rapita which has a large marina at the northwest end of the 2 km long Playa del Trench. There is much to see here, including interesting archaeological remains at Capicorp Vey (a prehistoric village), Sollerich (a burial cave), and Son Herue, (a Bronze Age) burial site. The marina is near the town, with great views to the south across the sea. Club Nautico de la Rapita has a large clubhouse with a bar and terrace restaurant. There are shops in town, as well as restaurants.
About Isla Cabrera and the Cabrera National Park
Isla de Cabrera is 12.5 miles to the south and Heather and Nate will attempt to get mooring permits to explore Cabrera National Park, which was declared a Maritime-Terrestrial Park in 1991. A castle overlooking the port, probably built to defend against pirates, is said to date back to the end of the 14th century. During the Peninsular Wars 9,000 French prisoners were interned on the island. Nearly two-thirds died of disease and starvation and are buried near the castle where you’ll find a memorial. Prior to WWI this was a private island, requisitioned by the Spanish government in 1915 to prevent falling into enemy hands. Some areas are still used as a gun range so the smaller islands are not to be visited because of the possibility of unexploded shells. There are several unique species of lizards, flora and fauna, and rare seabirds and birds of prey. Fish, dolphins, turtles, whales and a variety of coral are also part of the park’s attraction.
Day 7, July 5 – 25 nm to Palma
On your last sail before returning the boats the fleet might anchor in the Bay of Palma to enjoy the sandy beach and idyllic turquoise waters. Cala Blava on the far east side of the bay has moorings, or the fleet may anchor. Because the boats must be returned by 9 a.m. the next morning, the fleet will head back to the Sunsail base tonight. Good time for a BYOB celebration party on the dock as a fitting end to a fun week of Balearic Islands cruising!
Day 8, July 6 – Disembark by 9 a.m.
After checking in, all will disembark by 9 a.m. Then head to the airport for home or to a hotel to stretch out your vacation in this Balearic paradise.
888-454-7015
Info@OffshoreSailing.com
PACKAGE PRICES PER PERSON
Please see the qualifications for joining this cruise at the end of this webpage. Rates for sailors who qualify, are joining a Colgate Sailing Adventures Flotilla Cruise for the first time, and do not have US Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification from Offshore Sailing School, are:
- Single in private cabin – $3695
- Two sharing a cabin – $2995 per person
If you have participated in a Colgate Sailing Adventure Flotilla Cruise in the past, and/or have US Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification earned in an Offshore Sailing School cruising course, you are entitled to a 5% loyalty discount on your total package. If you qualify, your package options are:
- Single in private cabin $3510 with loyalty discount
- Two sharing a cabin – $2845 per person with loyalty discount
What’s Included
- Your shared or private cabin on a Sunsail 47.4 monohull
- Welcome Meet and Greet party and dinner with wine
- Starter pack of provisions for first day aboard and breakfast the second day
- Commemorative Mallorca Cruise shirt and cap
- Nate and Heather Atwater guiding you throughout the week
Not included
- Travel to and from Spain and the Sunsail base
- Meals ashore and provisions you buy to consume on board
- All beverages you wish to have aboard
- Docking, anchoring, and mooring fees
- Park permits if any
- Sightseeing trips and any other costs you may incur
Each boat will put a kitty together to use for food bought at local stores and markets, drinks, mooring and docking fees – which are shared by all. Expect to bring about $300 per person for such expenses. Credit cards may be used at many local establishments.
PAYMENT TERMS
A 30% deposit of your total package is due when you sign up. Final payment, plus a $300 refundable security deposit per person, is due February 28, 2019. If you cancel prior to February 28, you will receive back your payment less a $200 deposit per person. No refunds are allowed on cancellations received after February 28, 2019. Please consider purchasing trip insurance. If you do not have your own, Travelex has a good policy available for Offshore Sailing School students.
THE MALLORCA COLGATE SAILING ADVENTURES FLOTILLA FLEET
The Mallorca Colgate Sailing Adventures Flotilla Cruise fleet is four fast and fun to sail Jeanneau 47.4 monohulls, with just 15 cabins available. These identical yachts have four cabins, four heads (bathrooms), big spacious decks, a large main salon and so many other cruising comforts, you’ll love sailing this boat in the Balearics. Created by Jeanneau’s designer, Philippe Briand, the 47.4’s cabins, heads and storage areas flow into the main salon with no door sills and no steps. There’s lots of light from hull ports and long coach roof windows, and ergonomic handrails provide safe, easy movement in rough seas. The companionway has secure handholds and curved steps. Berths are the longest and widest in this yacht’s size category. Length overall with bowsprit is 47’4″, beam is 14’8″, fuel capacity is 63 gallons and water capacity is 163 gallons. The Sunsail 47.4 is peppy and easy to handle. No doubt, there will be some informal racing as you’re sailing in Mallorca!
HOW CREWS ARE ASSIGNED TO EACH BOAT
Heather and Nate will assign crews to each of the four yachts, based on resumes we ask you to fill out when you sign up, and the Atwaters will sail as cruise leaders aboard one of the yachts. This cruise is open to graduates of Offshore Sailing School and sailors with experience on boats of at least 26’. Participants should have Bareboat Cruising Certification or equivalent experience, and those who are chosen by the Atwaters to be “Skipper” and “Navigator” on each boat will need to carry the US Sailing IPC (International Proficiency Certificate) which you can easily get if you have US Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification. Yes, you may participate if you are accompanying a qualified sailor and only have graduated from our Learn to Sail course, but it is not a cruise for beginners.
MEDICAL AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS TO CONSIDER
Like all Colgate Sailing Adventures Flotillas, we ask that all participants sailing in Mallorca attest to the fact that they are able to get around the boat, and in and out of the dinghy from the boat and shore, without help from others. You also must be able and willing to participate in trimming sails, steering, navigating or learning about navigation if you don’t have those skills, and share in the cooking and cleaning up chores. The fleet will be doing a lot of stern-to docking and anchoring, as well as picking up moorings in some areas. It’s always more fun – and safer – if you know what you are doing, so if you haven’t yet gotten your Bareboat Cruising Certification, Offshore Sailing School has many great Cruising Courses in Florida and the British Virgin Islands you can participate in before this cruise starts.
