SAILING
#8 – A adventure from Gibraltar to the Balearic Islands
After months of anticipation, the time has finally come for us to embark on our Mediterranean sailing journey. We are ready for an exciting adventure filled with unforgettable moments.
Setting sail from Gibraltar, we are greeted by a gentle breeze and calm waters, providing us with a clear view of the African continent. The Mediterranean invites us to explore its beauty and vastness, and we are eager to discover all that it has to offer.
As we sail along the Spanish Mediterranean coast, we discover that the anchorages are not well protected, and a coming storm forces us to continue our journey despite the lack of wind. After an uncomfortable night off the coast of Malaga, we quickly set off for Almerimar, seeking shelter from the storm and waiting for the weather to calm down.
Hardly has the storm passed when the weather forecast warns us of the next one. So, we leave Almerimar with very little wind and hope that the storm does not change its direction and move north over the Spanish mainland. On the first day, we barely make progress. This doesn't bother us, as we enjoy the warm weather and the beautiful coastal area of Costa de Almeria. In the night, a huge storm builds up behind us. The storm has indeed changed direction. Lightning and thunder roar around us like a big fireworks show. The storm catches up with us and forces us to change course towards Africa. The strong wind and lightning make us nervous, but we remain calm but alert, hoping that lightning will not strike us. After about 2 hours, the storm passes by and we can adjust our course back towards the north. We manage to reach the next anchorage on the Spanish east coast near Cartagena, in Mar Menor.
In Mar Menor, we find a protected anchorage in a deserted, unfinished harbor, and we wait for the perfect weather window to cross over to the Balearic Islands.
We don't have to wait long, and on the second day, we set sail towards the Balearic Islands. Although there is little wind at first, we soon have enough to sail towards Formentera, maintaining our boat's maximum speed over the next two days. Despite the high but flat waves, the crossing is surprisingly comfortable.
For the first time, we manage to catch a stunning swordfish while trolling, but we release it immediately as we are unsure of its protected status in the Mediterranean Sea.
On the second day of the crossing, we reach paradise early in the morning, anchoring in a turquoise bay in Formentera. The sight of party boats and superyachts anchored nearby is surprising but also reassuring, as it signals that normality is slowly returning after the long lockdowns.
In the next two months, we explore the stunning Balearic Islands. This enchanting archipelago offers a diverse range of sailing experiences, from calm waters to challenging sea conditions, making it the perfect destination for sailors of all levels.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are a sight to behold. As we glide through the glistening waves, we are treated to stunning views of golden beaches, hidden coves, and rugged cliffs that seem to rise up from the sea.
Beyond the beauty of nature, the Balearic Islands are also home to vibrant cities and towns that are steeped in history and culture. Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Mallorca, is a perfect example of this. With its Gothic cathedral, winding streets, and bustling marketplaces, Palma is a city that begs to be explored.
Another must-see destination is the island of Ibizza, known for its legendary nightlife and stunning natural beauty. From the historic fortified town of Dalt Vila to the unspoiled beauty of Es Vedra, Ibiza offers a wide range of experiences that are sure to delight any sailor.
Overall, we believe that the Balearic Islands are a must-visit destination for any sailing enthusiast. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse range of sailing experiences, the Balearics are sure to leave a lasting impression on any sailor fortunate enough to explore these enchanting islands.
