5-Day Mallorca Sailing Itinerary: Explore the Island's Coastline
A practical 5-day Mallorca sailing itinerary that totals ~128 NM, with day-by-day legs, anchorages (including Cabrera), difficulty ratings and provisioning notes for intermediate skippers.
Mallorca 5-Day Sailing Itinerary: Decision-Ready Planning
A successful Mallorca charter is built on reliable distances, realistic passage times, and up-to-date logistics. This five-day clockwise itinerary, starting and ending in Port de Palma, is structured for crews aiming to balance comfortable daily runs, timely provisioning, access to Cabrera National Park, and overnight shelter that holds in changing weather.
Below, you’ll find a summary table of the route, followed by detailed guidance for each leg—including fallback anchorages, navigation hazards, up-to-date mooring fees, and the key trade-offs to weigh as you plan.
Mallorca 5-Day Itinerary Summary
| Day | Route | Est. Distance (NM) | Passage Time (6–7 kn) | Difficulty | Key Hazards | Fallback Anchorage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Port de Palma → Cala Rajada | ~38–39 | 5.5–7.0 hrs | Moderate | Heavy traffic, shoals near Cap Enderrocat | Portocolom |
| 2 | Cala Rajada → Cala d’Or | ~22–25 | 3.5–4.5 hrs | Easy–moderate | Fishing buoys, local rocks | Porto Cristo, Cala Millor |
| 3 | Cala d’Or → Cabrera | ~22–24* | 3.5–4.5 hrs | Moderate | Shoals near Cap Salines, open fetch | Colònia de Sant Jordi |
| 4 | Cabrera → Porto Petro | ~17–19 | 3.0–3.5 hrs | Easy–moderate | Shallow patches near coast | Cala Mondragó |
| 5 | Porto Petro → Palma | ~28–30 | 4.5–6.0 hrs | Moderate | Commercial traffic, busy approaches | Portocolom |
*Cala d’Or to Cabrera is typically 22–24 NM. Colònia de Sant Jordi to Cabrera is ~8–9 NM.
At-a-Glance: Services & Fees by Stop (2024)
| Stop | Marina Fee Range (EUR/night, 45 ft, high season) | Mooring/Buoy | Fuel Dock | Water | Groceries | Technical Support | Nearby Chandleries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port de Palma | €70–€180 | Not typical | Yes | Yes | Excellent | Full service | Yes |
| Cala Rajada | €50–€130 | Sand/gravel, free/low fee | Yes (limited hours) | Yes | Good | Basic | No |
| Cala d’Or | €60–€150 | Some moorings, Posidonia rules | Yes | Yes | Good | Basic | Yes |
| Porto Petro | €50–€120 | Anchorage, some moorings | Yes | Yes | Good | Basic | No |
| Colònia de Sant Jordi | €40–€100 | Some moorings | Yes | Yes | Basic | Limited | No |
| Cabrera (buoy only) | €20–€40 (low season); €40–€60 (high, by size) | Must pre-book | No | No | None | None | No |
*Marina fees are for a 40–50 ft yacht in high season. Confirm with the marina or park authority before booking, as rates change annually and can spike during peak demand.
Day 1: Port de Palma to Cala Rajada
Route and Key Details
- Distance: Plan for ~38–39 NM. This is the longest leg—use your crew’s fresh energy and the wide margin for weather or mechanical delays.
- Route: Exit Palma, clear the bay, and follow the coast east, rounding Cap Enderrocat and Cap Blanc. Keep at least 1 NM off headlands to avoid shoals and unpredictable swells. North of Cap de Cala Ratjada, maintain vigilance for lobster pots and local fishing buoys.
- Traffic: Palma’s port is busy with ferries and commercial vessels. Monitor VHF Channel 12 (Port Control) for clearance. Depart with a slow, controlled speed and continuous lookout.
Navigation Hazards
- Shoals: Cap Enderrocat and Cap Blanc both have shoal areas extending up to 0.5 NM offshore. Plot your course to stay outside the marked danger zones on your chart.
- Traffic: Fast ferries and cruise ships cross your path, especially mornings and late afternoon.
- Rocks: Around Cap de Cala Ratjada, isolated rocks extend from the cape—keep a safe distance and use updated chartplotter overlays.
Fallback Anchorages
- If delayed or weather turns: Portocolom is the nearest sheltered alternative, with good holding and marina berths available. Porto Cristo is also an option, though space can be tight in July–August.
Shore Services
- Fuel: Available at the marina; check opening hours (often 08:00–18:00, can vary).
- Provisioning: Supermarkets and bakeries within a short walk of the marina.
- Technical Support: Basic assistance available for routine issues.
Day 2: Cala Rajada to Cala d’Or
Route and Key Details
- Distance: ~22–25 NM along the east coast, taking 3.5–4.5 hours at 6–7 knots.
- Route Tips: After Capdepera, stay outside the main shoals and watch for local fishing buoys. Notable coves en route—Cala Millor, Cala Bona, and Porto Cristo—offer shelter and services if you need to shorten the leg.
Navigation Hazards
- Fishing Gear: The east coast is dotted with unlit fishing buoys and nets. Maintain a sharp lookout, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Shoals: Shallow patches near Porto Cristo and at the entrance to Cala d’Or require careful approach.
Fallback Anchorages
- Porto Cristo: Well-protected, with marina and town services.
- Cala Millor: Wide sandy bay, good holding, though exposed to easterlies.
Shore Services
- Marina Cala d’Or: Fuel dock at the entrance (hours usually 08:00–20:00), water, and small chandlery.
- Groceries: Several supermarkets in the marina complex and nearby town.
- Restaurants: Marina-side dining options, from tapas to seafood.
Day 3: Cala d’Or to Cabrera (via Colònia de Sant Jordi)
Route and Key Details
- Distance: Cala d’Or to Cabrera is ~22–24 NM. If you stage at Colònia de Sant Jordi, the crossing to Cabrera is ~8–9 NM.
- Route: From Cala d’Or, head south along the coast, rounding Cap Salines. Shoals and rocks extend from the cape, so plot a wide arc around the headland.
- Staging Option: Many crews overnight at Colònia de Sant Jordi to refuel and provision, making an early, short crossing to Cabrera in the morning. This increases your chance of securing the buoy and simplifies logistics.
Navigation Hazards
- Cap Salines: Unmarked rocks and shoals extend up to 0.7 NM offshore. Do not cut close—round well outside the marked danger zone.
- Cabrera Approach: Buoyed channel leads to the mooring field; approach slowly and watch for swimmers and small craft.
Cabrera Mooring Booking (2024)
- Booking Window: Reserve as early as possible (up to 20 days ahead for summer), especially for weekends and July–August.
- Booking Portal: Use the official Balearic Islands National Parks website or app. Many charter companies can assist if needed.
- Required Info: Boat registration, skipper’s ID, vessel length, charter contract, and dates of stay.
- Permit: Navigation permit is mandatory—present to park rangers on arrival.
- Fees: For a 12–15 m yacht, expect €40 per night in high season (June–September), €20 in low season. 15–20 m buoys are €60 (high), €30 (low). All fees payable online at booking.
- Confirmation: Carry a printed or digital copy of your buoy booking and navigation permit.
Mooring and Shore Access
- Anchoring: Forbidden in Cabrera except on official buoys.
- Landing: Main pier only; visitor numbers ashore are restricted.
- Onshore Services: None—no fuel, water, groceries, or technical support. Bring all supplies and spares.
Fallback Anchorages
- If no buoy available: Overnight at Colònia de Sant Jordi or Porto Petro, both with marinas and anchorages, though demand is high in summer.
Day 4: Cabrera to Porto Petro
Route and Key Details
- Distance: ~17–19 NM, typically 3.0–3.5 hours.
- Route: Depart Cabrera, retrace your track north towards Porto Petro. Keep a safe offing from the coast to avoid rocks and shallow patches.
Navigation Hazards
- Cala Mondragó: Watch for swimmers and small boats in the national park area.
- Shallows: Patches near Porto Petro entrance—follow leading marks and reduce speed.
Fallback Anchorages
- Cala Mondragó: Well-sheltered, sandy bottom. If Porto Petro is full or exposed, this is a reliable alternative.
- Cala Egos: Small cove, good holding, but limited space.
Shore Services
- Porto Petro Marina: Small, with basic technical support, water, and fuel dock (hours often 09:00–18:00).
- Groceries: Several small stores and a bakery in town.
- Restaurants: Quiet, less crowded than Cala d’Or, with local seafood and tapas.
Day 5: Porto Petro to Port de Palma
Route and Key Details
- Distance: ~28–30 NM; allow 4.5–6.0 hours underway.
- Route: Early departure recommended to ensure timely return for technical check-in and cleaning at Palma.
- Traffic: Approaches to Palma are busy—monitor VHF 12 and keep clear of commercial lanes.
Navigation Hazards
- Commercial Traffic: Ferries and cruise ships enter/exit at speed. Stay clear of marked channels.
- Rocks: Off Cap Enderrocat—stay outside the 20 m contour.
Fallback Anchorages
- Portocolom: Well-protected, good holding, marina berths available if delays or weather intervene.
- Cala Pi: Smaller, less protected, but suitable in settled weather.
Shore Services
- Port de Palma: Full service—fuel, water, technical support, provisioning, and chandleries all on site or nearby.
Regulations & Environmental Rules (2024)
- Posidonia Protection: Anchoring on or near seagrass meadows is strictly prohibited throughout Mallorca. Use sand patches or official moorings only. Fines are significant and enforcement is active, especially in high season.
- Cabrera National Park: Navigation permit and pre-booked mooring buoy are mandatory. Landing is restricted to the main pier and visitor numbers may be limited.
- Marine Reserves: Additional restrictions may apply near Levante/Cala Rajada and other local reserves—check with your charter base or official notices.
- Charter Contracts: Many include a “Cabrera fee” or deposit for expected buoy charges—confirm this before departure.
- Documentation: Carry digital or printed copies of all permits, bookings, and insurance papers at all times.
Weather Contingency and Alternative Anchorages
If Weather Changes
- Tramuntana (NW wind): East coast is more sheltered, but avoid rounding exposed headlands in strong NW conditions. Portocolom and Porto Cristo are reliable refuges.
- Levante (E wind): East coast anchorages can become uncomfortable. Seek marina shelter or divert to the nearest port.
- Delays: If behind schedule, shorten your leg and stop at the next viable marina or sheltered cove.
If Buoys Are Unavailable
- Cabrera: If you cannot secure a mooring, plan to overnight at Colònia de Sant Jordi or Porto Petro. Both offer marina berths and anchorage options, but advance booking is highly recommended in summer.
VHF Channels and Emergency Contacts
| Port/Marina | VHF Channel | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Port de Palma (Port Control) | 12 | Entry/exit, traffic management |
| Cala Rajada Marina | 9 | Call on approach |
| Cala d’Or Marina | 9 | Standard channel |
| Porto Petro Marina | 9 | Standard channel |
| Cabrera Park Authority | 9 | Buoy allocation, emergencies |
| Emergency (Maritime) | 16 | Guardia Civil, Salvamento Marítimo |
Tip: Program local numbers for your charter base, Guardia Civil, and Salvamento Marítimo into your phone before departure.
Provisioning and Onshore Services Table
| Stop | Fuel | Water | Groceries | Restaurants | Technical Support | Chandleries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port de Palma | Yes | Yes | Excellent | Extensive | Full service | Yes |
| Cala Rajada | Yes* | Yes | Good | Several | Limited | No |
| Cala d’Or | Yes | Yes | Good | Many | Basic | Yes |
| Porto Petro | Yes | Yes | Good | Good | Basic | No |
| Colònia de Sant Jordi | Yes | Yes | Basic | Some | Limited | No |
| Cabrera | No | No | None | None | None | No |
*Fuel dock hours can be limited—confirm before arrival.
Weather and Safety: How Conditions Change and How to Plan
- Best Season: May–October for settled weather, warm seas, and reliable marina services.
- Winds: Summer brings sea breezes (SE–SW). Tramuntana (NW) and Levante (E) can disrupt plans, especially outside July–August.
- Forecasting: Check 48- and 24-hour forecasts before each leg. Use local apps, VHF updates, and marina noticeboards.
- Charts: Carry updated paper charts or electronic navigational charts (ENC). Confirm local hazards and anchoring restrictions with your charter base.
- Emergency Readiness: Have a grab bag, emergency VHF channels, and local contacts ready. In a medical emergency, call 112 or VHF 16.
Trade-offs and Decision Points
- Long First Day vs. Return: This itinerary front-loads the long passage east. If your crew prefers a shorter start, consider reversing the route—just be prepared for a longer final return.
- Cabrera Logistics: Requires advance planning—permits, mooring reservations, and no onshore support. If unavailable, have an alternative stop ready.
- Berth vs. Anchor: Marinas offer shore power, water, and security at a cost. Anchoring offers more privacy, but you must comply with Posidonia and local anchoring rules.
Troubleshooting: If Things Go Wrong
- Mechanical Failure: Use onboard spares for minor issues. For major problems, contact your charter base immediately. Palma is the only full-service port for complex repairs.
- Medical Emergency: Closest clinics are in Palma or larger towns. For urgent help, call 112 or alert via VHF 16.
- Severe Weather: Do not risk exposed passages. Wait in port, seek shelter, and inform your charter company.
Plan and Book with Confidence
Mallorca rewards careful planning: secure your Cabrera permit early, verify current marina fees, and keep a flexible route for weather and availability. For tailored support, up-to-date regulatory advice, and hands-on help before and during your charter, contact Sailnboat. We’ll help you reserve the right yacht, secure your Cabrera mooring, and navigate Mallorca’s coast with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
A practical clockwise route: start Port de Palma, overnight at Cala Rajada (NE), continue down to Cala d’Or (SE), visit the Cabrera Archipelago (book mooring buoys), return to Porto Petro/Cala d’Or and finish back in Port de Palma; this balances daily distances and good provisioning points.
Estimated legs (sea miles): Palma → Cala Rajada ~38–39 NM; Cala Rajada → Cala d’Or ~22–25 NM; Cala d’Or → Cabrera ~20 NM; Cabrera → Porto Petro ~18 NM; Porto Petro → Palma ~29 NM; total ~128 NM (route-dependent).
Legs vary: Palma→Cala Rajada (moderate — long coastal passage, exposed at times), Cala Rajada→Cala d’Or (easy–moderate — coastal navigation), Cala d’Or→Cabrera (moderate — open water to a protected archipelago), Cabrera→Porto Petro (easy–moderate), Porto Petro→Palma (moderate — longer leg, exposed to northerlies).
The Balearic authorities prohibit general anchoring on Posidonia meadows; many marine reserves (including Cabrera) forbid free anchoring — Cabrera requires a navigation permit and use of official mooring buoys (book ahead); buoy fees vary seasonally.
Palma offers full provisioning, fuel and repairs; Cala Rajada and Cala d’Or/Porto Petro have supermarkets, restaurants and marina services (limited berth availability in high season); Colònia de Sant Jordi provides access to boats that service Cabrera but on-island services at Cabrera are minimal.
May–October gives the most settled conditions with thermal breezes; Tramuntana (strong NW) and easterly winds can be gusty—check up-to-date forecasts and route the trip to avoid exposed coasts in strong winds.
Written by
Sailnboat Editorial
The Sailnboat editorial desk covers yacht and boat chartering worldwide — routes, bases, seasons, boat types, paperwork and the practical costs that decide a trip. We are a charter marketplace, not a boat owner or a local agency: what we sell is judgement and support, so our guides are written to help you make a decision, not to sell you a specific boat. Every guide is checked against live operator and marina data before it goes out.
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