Cruising The Island of Menorca, Spain.

Menorca

Cruising slowly up the Balearic Islands from Alicante, to spend the summer month 2023 cruising the Island of Menorca. We love all the Balearic Islands and every Island has its special unique charm. And this is especially true for Menorca. The Island is a fantastic place for several reasons, making it for us an favorable cruising destination.

The island has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and steps have been taken long time ago to protect the natural habitats and ecosystems surrounding these coastal areas. Menorca’s commitment to environmental preservation has resulted in the establishment of serval protected natural reserves, which in return has protected the Islands beauty, unspoiled landscapes, diverse marine life, and its relaxed lifestyle.

The island offers a diverse range of coastal landscapes, from pristine sandy beaches to rugged rocky coves. The second largest Balearic Island is less crowded compared to the neighboring islands. Perfect if you like a more quieter and more peaceful experience, while spending your summer on the Balearics.

This being said, does not mean that it cannot get crowded on the water or at anchor at times. In fact, during the month of August & July it very gets busy on the South side of the island. Especially in the handful best known & advertised bays of the Island, everybody likes to explore.

Cala Galdana for example seems to be the starting point for most charter businesses. Plus it is the most protected bay along the coast on the South side. This beautiful little bay gets really busy and fills up quickly, making it unsafe to anchor at times. We had to leave couple of anchorages, for safety reasons, because too many boats, where anchoring too close.

For the sailors, Menorca’s location in the Mediterranean means that it experiences a variety of wind patterns throughout the year. While these winds can have varying effects on the island, they are an important part of its climate and environment. Although, Menorca is not directly in the path of the Golf of Lion, with its at times, extreme weather systems, it however influences the weather conditions on Menorca to some extent. These changes in weather patterns can occasionally bring adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas. In an event you have to hide, there are several bays good for protection, not too far away. The best protection anyone can get is in Mahon, with one of the largest natural harbors in the world.

Overall for us, the Island of Menorca has the most authentic Mediterranean lifestyle of all the Balearic Islands. The relatively low density population, the relaxed way of life, cultural heritage, the local cuisine, far more less tourists, the blend of natural beauty, the stunning coastline, with numerous coves, bays, and secluded beaches, the crystal-clear surrounding waters for snorkeling and diving, and the developed nautical infrastructure, makes the island an top sailing destination.

One sad note on the side. We have experienced lots of plastic in the ocean, at anchor and on the beaches. Even at anchor hundreds of meter from the shore, far away from any resorts, and in the middle of nowhere. Sometimes so much that it felled almost unreal, with left us always depressed for quite some time. Needless to say, that we were collecting rubbish everywhere we would go.

Addaya

Addaya is a pictures natural harbor, in a quiet and peaceful setting. Anchoring in the bay is good and has wind protection from all directions. Although we have seen people dragging anchor. It is a muddy ground. In the summer the anchorage can get crowded. The nearby harbor is very friendly and helpful. In the morning hours most boaters and some locals get their moring coffee at the harbor restaurant. It is easy to feel at home here quick. Couple more restaurants and a small grocery, are also nearby.

Na Macaret the old fishing village is a short dinghy ride from the anchorage, has a  little sandy beach and a couple of restaurants.

The rest of the area is dotted with beautiful, high class holiday homes, every single one in an exeptional nice condition. Outside of the bay are some interesting diving spots.

Fornells

Fornells is a charming and relaxing destination on Menorca's northern coast, in a very large natural harbor, for best protection.

This protection has made it historically important for fishing and maritime activities. Today the bay of Fornells is well-suited for water sports, particularly windsurfing and sailing. Due to the favorable wind conditions in the bay, Fornells is considered one of the best places for windsurfing in Menorca.

For us boaters, this bay offers a great anchorage in any kind of weather situation, in a comfortable setting, close to the foot of this charming little town.

Like many towns in Menorca, Fornells celebrates various traditional festivals throughout the year, including local patron saint festivities with parades, music, and dancing. One of the most famous events is the Festival of Saint Anthony, known as "Festes de Sant Antoni," which features the traditional "jaleo," where riders on horseback perform in the town square. It is really an incredible performance to watch. Nothing you will be able to see anywhere else in this world.

Cala Galdana

Cala Galdana is a beautiful bay and beach located on the southwestern coast of the island of Menorca, surrounded by cliffs covered with pine trees. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking a picturesque beach setting and a relaxed atmosphere.

The main attraction of Cala Galdana is its crescent-shaped beach with fine golden sand and calm, waters. Ideal for swimming and sunbathing, making it a favorite spot for families.

The shape of the bay makes it also maybe the relative best protected anchorage on the South coast of the island. Cala Galdana is also relatively close to other attractions on Menorca's southern coast, including Cala Mitjana and Cala Macarella, and two other stunning beaches. Some of this nearby coves can only be reached by boat or hiking. Many boat tours and charter businesses starting therefore in Cala Galdana. Together with all the cruising boats and businesses in the bay, it can get very crowded at times.

Mahon

Mahon is the capital city of the island, and is located on the eastern coast of the island. The city is known for its large harbor, historical architecture, and vibrant culture. The worlds second largest natural harbor, is a bustling place with various waterfront restaurants, bars, shops, and has played a significant role in the city’s history.

The beautiful city, with the town-center up the hill, is a place rich history, with a mix of cultural influences, that provides a fantastic blend of historical beauty, and modern amenities. Mahon historic center has charming narrow streets, beautiful squares, well-preserved buildings, and notable landmarks

The surroundings of Mahon are dotted with old fortresses and defense towers, of the past times. One of the past historical sites, on an island in the middle of the bay, the Isla del Rey, now is a museum and host a gallery, with restaurant, bar, and gardens, in a very beautiful setting.

Although anchoring in the bay is prohibited, in the case of emergency or approaching weather front, anyone can drop anchor in this large protected bay, for the weather to pass. But one better option is to find an affordable mooring, in one of the marinas, for the time being, and spend some time exploring the city, and its surroundings, without worrying about the boat.

Coming and going to the Airport from Mahon is an easy task. Making it a perfect pickup or drop-off point for crew and passengers.

Isla del Rey

Isla del Rey, the island n the middle of the natural bay, has a history dating back many centuries. It is known for its association with military and naval activities.

In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve the historical buildings on Isla del Rey. The Naval Hospital, in particular, has been the focus of restoration work and is occasionally open for tours. One other building on the island, now hosts the contemporary art gallery Hauser & Wirth, in a lovely setting.

It was fine to park the dinghy on the back side of the island and have a stroll in the gardens, visit the gallery, have diner or just a drink in the restaurant.

Cruising route summer 2023

Florence May has travel app. 700 nm during this trip with no major problems. Mostly under sail.

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