Find out everything about sailing in Menorca: itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. We are happy to help! The Southern part of the Mediterranean is full of surprises. Just like the Balearic Islands, including Menorca. Mallorca’s counterpart is the paradise of boatmen! It has a various coastline. The cliffs are darker on the Northern part with wilder landscape. However, on the southern regions, the northern streams washed out valleys among the snow-white limestone rocks. Several naturally shallow beaches have been formed here by the wild nature. There are light towers on many cliffs of the island fighting with the strong wind day by day. Do you want to know why it is worth sailing in Menorca? Read further and we will show it to you.
The main points of the article are the following:
- When is the best time for sailing in Menorca?
- Ports and island in Menorca
- Sail in Menorca! Menorca sailing holidays:
- Sailing in Minorca: Seven days around the island
- One week Southwest of Menorca yachting tour
- Sailing from Maó-Mahón: 7 days Minorca sailing itinerary
- 7 days Menorca sailing plan – Ciutadella sailing
- Marine gas around Menorca
When is the best time for sailing in Menorca?
Menorca has generally Mediterranean climate. As it is an island, there are differences. Winter is mild with a high level of precipitation, there are averagely 65 rainy days per year. Summer is extremely hot with high humidity level. In the daytime, the temperature can even reach 35-39 degrees which you can feel more due to the humidity. What is, though, important to mention is that the wind blows a lot on Menorca. As the island is practically flat, there are no serious terrain factors that could prevent the way of the wind.
Generally, the wind blows from the North, almost every time, which moderates a bit in the summer. This effect has caused the leaning of old oil trees to the South. In sum, the best time to visit Menorca is between May and August. At this time the precipitation is little with moderate wind and pleasant temperature for bathing. Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Menorca
Ports and islands around Menorca
Menorca abounds in ports and tiny islands along the shore. It will definitely be an exciting cruise if you choose the second-largest island of the Balearic Islands. The navigation is easy with no hard spots. One would stop at each cove; all of them are so fascinating. Watch out! You can get addicted to Menorca very easy.
Port of Mahon
Port Mahon can be found at the historical centre of the city. It is in a natural valley protected from any weather conditions. Port Mahon is the world’s second deepest anchoring berth with over 30 meters. The fjord being used for at least 2500 years is more than 6 km long. It is a natural harbour; it had an important role in the past to protect the whole navies. Phoenician, Carthaginian, Greek, Roman, English and Spanish navies used it beforehand. Let’s see two of the terminals.
Marina de Mahon
It is fully-equipped. There is a 24-hour security guard, electricity, water, and fuel supply. You can hire cars in the port, or go to the restaurants nearby. There are 165 berths for maximum 50-metre yachts. They provide water, electricity and fuel in the protected place. You can eat nearby, and there is also a supermarket. Bosa sailing, Boat rental bosa Information about sailing in Maó-Mahón, or rent a boat in Mao Mahon
Marina Deportiva de Menorca
Smaller yachts are able to stop here up to a length of 6 meters. There are 230 berths available in 24 hours. There is a developed infrastructure here, beyond basic facilities there is a laundry and a taxi station.
Port de Ciutadella
The port was renovated in the 17th century. It lies in a narrow river valley, as a natural anchoring berth. It possesses two terminals. One of them offers 150, the other 180 berths with maximum 60 m depth. The allowed length is 20 m. There is a range of accommodation facilities in the bay. It is well-equipped meeting the requirements of the modern world. Information about sailing in Ciutadella, or boat rental in Ciutadella Information about sailing in Ciutadella, or boat rental in Ciutadella
Port of Addaya
This natural cove lies on the northern part of the island next to a national park. On this side of the island more coves like this were formed owing to the streams flowing in. A breath-taking picture appears on the horizon when you reach its entrance. First, a nearly 300-year old lighthouse built by the British appears in the narrow valley, then the houses by the shore. There are 150 berths for yachts with a length of a maximum of 25 meters. It has good infrastructure too.
Port of Fornells
This town is the well-preserved pearl of the northern shore. Its white houses shine brightly in the sun; its marina is really tiny accepting maximum 12-meter long yachts. There are 115 berths. This country lies a bit far away from everything, here nature dominates. There are no hotels, only apartments or small pensions. Nevertheless, there is a buzzing life here. You can try water sports, golf, horse riding, and scuba diving. The main source of inhabitants is/was fishing; this gives a unique atmosphere to the town. Several reefs and islands emerge from the sea in the surroundings.
Platja de Binicodrell
There is an island opposite the beach next to Sant Thomas. It is worth swimming over there in calm weather, the shore is very close. It is the best for snorkelling; you can explore a rich fauna.
Illots d’en Marcal
This small reef lies along the shore of Binissafúller. At its flat rocky part, you can spot swimmers. The water around it is 8-10 meter deep and very clear. Splash into the water here to see the wonderful underwater world! Its flora and fauna are unbelievably diverse, definitely take an underwater camera.
Illa de L’Aire
This islet is opposite Punta Prima. Its well-protected, a rare species of the Balearic lizard lives here. It is also interesting that there is a big population of wild rabbits. You need permission to enter; the fauna is under strict surveillance. There is a lighthouse on the islet.
Illa d’en Colom
‘Columbus Island’ can be found 300 meters from Grau. It is absolutely uninhabited as being part of the national park. There are two beaches: Tamarells and s’Arenal d’en Moro. You can find real peace here by watching this fabulous environment.
Illa Gran d’Addaya
There are three islands at the entrance of the bay not far from Addaya, the biggest one is called Illa d’en Addaya. There is a port available for boatmen and tourists. A Balearic lizard and many gull colonies live on the island. You should try diving here, even with a trainer.
Yacht charter around Balearic islands
Sail in Menorca! Menorca sailing holidays:
Sailing in Minorca: Seven days around the island
Here are some tips on how to spend a week on Menorca.
Day 1. Mahon – Port d’Addaya
29.59 km (18.38 nm)
Leave the ‘capital city’ of the island. Sailing through the 6-kilometre long harbour path is a sheer adventure. Head to the North and reach Port d’Addaya next to the wonderful national park. If you see the lighthouse, you are not far. This is an exciting starting-off in your cruise, but it can be enhanced further. The port is well-equipped with excellent accommodation. Take a stroll in the curving streets of the town and enjoy a great dinner in a restaurant by the shore.
Day 2. Port d’Addaya – Fornells
11.82 km (7.34 nm)
Sail to North-West by the shore. The toothed fjords give a magnificent view. By halfway, stop for a while on the beach of Cala Pudent. This stunning bay was formed by an estuary of a mountain stream. Upon your arrival at the port of Fornells, devote some time to explore the town. There are calmness and peace, no hotels can be found. You can have a rest and enjoy the silence of the northern coast in a local pension. You can choose from numerous restaurants, the cuisine of Menorca is incomparable.
Day 3. Fornells – Cala Morell
25.34 km (15.74 nm)
Head to Cala Morell to the West. The tiny village boasts of its cove which serves as a natural marina. Boatmen fancy it for its shallow and clear water, and for the crazy nightlife in the beach bars.
Day 4. Cala Morell – Ciutadella
15.84 km (9.84 nm)
If you leave in the morning, you can have lunch in Ciutadella. The island’s former capital city preserves many treasures for tourists. The long, narrow port welcomes yachts up to 12 meters. Go shopping to Mercat de Peix, the town’s largest market. There is a long row of fishermen offering their products. Visit the 17th-century old cathedral and walk on the historical main square.
Day 5. Ciutadella – Cala en Bosc
9.88 km (6.14 nm)
Cala en Bosc lies 10 kilometres from Ciutadella. Due to the port bridge yachts of maximum 6.8 m height can come in. There is an opportunity for fuelling, water, electricity supply, internet and shops available by the docks. A stunning beach lies directly by them. First-class hotels and apartments with own pool can be rent throughout the town.
Day 6. Cala en Bosc – Cala en Porter
27.72 km (17.22 nm)
The distance between the two towns is about 20 km. There is an outstanding anchoring berth, but no port. As Menorca has only a few official ports, staying on the water for the night is allowed. Here you can really experience the rare beauty of nature. Open a bottle of wine and swing under the stars of the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 7. Cala en Porter – Binibeca – Mahon
27.95 km (17.36 nm)
From Cala en Porter sail to South-East and sail around the island. In a short time, you will spot the entrance of the Port of Mahon.
One week southwest of Menorca yachting tour
You can see wonders on this island in a week! The best way to get around the coast is by boat, as many bays are only accessible from the water. Here’s a 7-day tour around Ciutadella as an option.
Day 1. Ciutadella – Cala en Bosch
9.88 km (6.14 nm)
Cala en Bosch is located on the southern coast of the island, about 10 kilometres from Ciutadella. The beach is located in a beautiful bay, covered with white sand. The city is bustling with noisy, cultural programs and great leisure activities. This is one of Menorca’s most beautiful resorts, where everything is about recharging. There are beautiful unspoilt bays in the surroundings, which are the favourite bathing places for sailors. Its port is located in the heart of the city and is accessible via a narrow canal.
For this reason, boats up to 6.8 meters height, with a maximum depth of 1.5 meters are accepted. With its 276 moorings, it is the most important berth place on the south coast. Take a walk in the city and have a lobster soup for dinner. Do the shopping in a store, because you will spend the next day in a natural bay!
Day 2. Cala en Bosch – Son Saura
5.72 km (3.55 nm)
Head east to Son Saura! On the way, there are many beautiful bays flanking the coast. Stop for a while and have a dip in the incredibly blue waters of one of the lagoons! If you reach Son Saura, you will see that the trigeminal bay. Choose the shore you like and cast anchor. Cook a simple dinner and wiggle in the evening under the stars of the Balearic Islands.
Day 3. Son Saura – Cala Galdana
6.66 km (4.14 nm)
Continue your way east to Cala Galdana. You can find magical little beaches between the rocky shores. Your destination is very close to Son Saura. This city is one of the gems of the south coast. Its beautiful, shell-shaped bay attracts bathers. It has a well-equipped beach, for everyone’s satisfaction, surrounded by hotels. A small river runs through the city, at its estuary, there is a port. Here there are smaller boats mostly belonging to locals, tourists can anchor in the bay. Do this and then after swimming a lot, go for a walk on the beach. You can choose from the best restaurants, and before dinner be sure to taste the gin of Menorca.
Day 4.Cala Galdana – Son Bou
11.74 km (7.30 nm)
Sailing towards Son Bou, be sure to stop at Cala Mitjana Bay. This natural, untouched beach is probably the most beautiful of all! It situates about 1 km far eastwards from Cala Galdana. Experience the touch of romantic nature! Get to Son Bou until sundown, where you can anchor for the night. Here you can stop only farther on from the shore because of the underwater reefs.
Day 5. Son Bou – Cala en Porter
6.74 km (4.19 nm)
You are already in the southeastern part of the island if you reach Cala en Porter. The bay is perfect for mooring. The water is shallow, very clean, and the bed is sandy. There is a unique nightclub at the entrance of the bay, Cova den Xoroi. The limestone wall above the sea has bronze caves that have been converted into a lounge bar today. The terraces of the rooms overlook the sea and offer stunning views. Rent a private terrace and watch the sunset from here. Live music or DJs entertain the audience in the evening.
Day 6. Cala en Porter – Maó-Mahón
27.95 km (17.36 nm)
At the eastern end of the island, you slowly reach the capital! Mahon is a beautiful historic settlement that is much more citified than Ciutadella. Its port is the deepest in the Mediterranean and is very busy. Anchor here and discover the hidden corners of this ancient city! Do shopping in the port’s shops! Get a little Mahón cheese, gin and wine. Look for handcrafted leather goods among handicraft items. There are also vegan and traditional restaurants next to the piers. Live for the culinary experiences this evening!
Day 7. Maó-Mahón – Port d’Addaia – Ciutadella
80.06 km (49.75 nm)
Head to Addaya to the north! Experience the jagged coastline, narrow fjords, dark green flora and blue water. Upon reaching the Favaritx light-tower, turn west and soon you will reach the marina of Addaya. It does not welcome yachts after sunset. There are excellent accommodation facilities, even rural tourism flourishes. The daily menu generally includes the fresh catch. Furthermore, there are another 5 islands not far from the town. The biggest one, Ille Gran d’Addaya is a great place for snorkelling and diving. Load off the harbour and get back to Ciutadella!
Sailing from Maó-Mahón: 7 days Minorca sailing itinerary
Day 1. Maó-Mahón – Cala en Porter 27.95 km (17.36 nm), Day 2. Cala en Porter – Son Bou 6.74 km (4.19 nm) Day 3. Son Bou – Cala Galdana 11.74 km (7.30 nm) Day 4. Cala Galdana – Port de Pollença 75.63 km (46.99 nm), Day 5. Port de Pollença – Alcúdia 22.87 km (14.21 nm), Day 6. Alcúdia – Colonia de Sant Pere 19.48 km (12.10 nm), Day 7. Cala Sant Vicenç – Cala Ratjada – Maó-Mahón 107.17 km (66.59 nm)
7 days Menorca sailing plan – Ciutadella sailing
Day 1. Ciutadella – Cala Galdana 20.88 km (12.97 nm), Day 2. Cala Galdana – Cala Ratjada 40.54 km (25.19 nm) Day 3. Cala Ratjada – Colonia de Sant Pere 26.48 km (16.45 nm) Day 4. Colonia de Sant Pere – Alcúdia 19.48 km (12.10 nm), Day 5. Alcúdia – Port de Pollença 22.87 km (14.21 nm), Day 6. Port de Pollença – Cala Sant Vicenç 29.79 km (18.51 nm), Day 7. Cala Sant Vicenç – Cala en Bosch – Ciutadella 77.75 km (48.31 nm)
Marine gas around Menorca
- FORNELLS: Depth:3 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 40.054298400878906, 4.131443977355957
- MAHÓN: Depth: 3, 5-4 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 39.8903391 , 4.2647477
- CIUTADELLA: Depth: 4 m Working time:08-23:00, GPS Coordinates: 40.0023118, 3.8356746
In this article, you have seen why sailing in Menorca is an excellent choice. If you are keen on an unforgettable holiday, do not hesitate further. Choose this destination where you can experience despite Mallorca and Ibiza the wildness of the Balearic nature. Start the cruise tomorrow! More Menorca sailing routes, or yacht charter in Menorca. HELP ME TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT BOAT
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