A guide on island hopping in the Balearics with a rental boat

Looking for a sun-drenched holiday destination with vibrant towns, secluded coves, buzzing atmosphere and delicious food? No need to look further than the Balearic Islands - a Spanish archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. And, even better, why bother choosing one island when you can experience them all in the space of a single holiday? Here's what you need to know to make it happen!

When to go?

The prime season to rent a sailing boat in Balearics runs from March through October. These months are known for providing stable wind conditions and high temperatures, ideal for a sunny holiday. However, keep in mind that May to September are the peak months for tourism. If you want to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful sailing experience, early May or late October may be preferable.

How to go about chartering a boat?

Renting a boat in the Balearics is surprisingly easy! You may use one of the online platforms, where you can simply type in your preferences and get presented with hundreds of certified providers in the area. For instance, you are looking for a catamaran charter in the Balearics from Palma in Mallorca, with enough space for 10 guests and a skipper on board. Using the smart filters, the platform will narrow down the options tailored to you, providing a quote for each. All you have to do then is pick one and book it!

With or without a skipper?

Most boat rental companies provide options both with and without a skipper. How do you know if you need one for a yacht charter in the Balearics? The answer is simple: if you don't have a sailing license, having a member of crew onboard is mandatory, whereas those who have one are free to opt for a bareboat charter. However, skippers are not just there to navigate the vessel - they bring a lot of local knowledge, guiding you through busy waters and hidden spots. A skippered boat may, therefore, offer a more relaxed vacation.

How much will it cost?

The costs of your island hopping holiday will depend on various different factors, such as boat type, size, season, staff members and any other services required. For instance, sailboard rental is typically cheaper than yacht charter Balearics services, due to the added comfort and luxury of the latter. Catamaran charter is the middle-ground option in between. Therefore, such a holiday can set you back anywhere between €850 and €9000 for the week.

Island hopping itinerary

There are four main islands to explore in the Balearics, which can be done in any order you wish. Here's what your itinerary could look like starting from the largest island in the archipelago, Mallorca:

Mallorca: Picking up your boat at the vibrant capital of Palma, enjoy the dramatic landscapes of Serra de Tramuntana mountains as well as the beautiful beaches like Es Trenc.
Menorca: Next up, make your way to Menorca, the quieter and more rugged island amongst its neighbours. Explore the historic ports of Mahón or Ciutadella, and take advantage of hundreds of unspoiled coves along the coastline.
Ibiza: Next up, make your way back to Mallorca, from where you can sail to Ibiza, the island world-famous for its electric nightlife and bohemian markets. The mystical Es Vedrà rock formation is a must-see on a boat.
Formentera: Just a short sail from Ibiza, Formentera will be your last stop. This island is a paradise of brilliant white sand beaches and turquoise waters, often compared to the Caribbean. It's an incredible place to wind down and catch the sun rays.

Leaving room for spontaneous decisions

While planning in advance is important, don't forget to embrace the spontaneity of life on the open water! After all, the whole point of yacht charter in the Balearics is the ability to explore this idyllic region at your own pace…