Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026: Your complete guide
Balearic Islands yacht charter guide: Which islands should you visit?
Published 09 September 2026
Dreaming of a Balearic Islands yacht charter? This archipelago off eastern Spain, a jewel of the Mediterranean, offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant nightlife to tranquil coves. Discover pristine beaches, scenic coastlines, and a rich cultural heritage on your Balearic Islands travel adventure. Explore Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – each island a unique gem, perfect for sailing the Balearic Islands.
Which Balearic island is right for you?
From beaches likened to those of the Caribbean on Formentera and kayaking Menorca’s quiet coastline to iconic beach clubs on Ibiza, each island in the Balearics is beautifully unique. Whether you’re deciding on which island to call your home during your charter, or thinking about the contrasts that make the perfect pair, explore our guide to the Balearic Islands or get in touch with our charter brokers.
Mallorca: Variety, culture and dramatic scenery
Mallorca, the largest and arguably most captivating of the Balearic Islands, is an essential stop on any Balearics yacht charter. Berth in Palma Marina to explore the vibrant capital with its striking Gothic cathedral that towers over the city, before you head beyond the city and moor in a quiet cove as the sun sets over the rugged landscape.
Explore the charming villages of Deià and Valldemossa or, for a taste of authentic Mallorca, the protected Cabrera National Park and the island’s pristine beaches, like the iconic Es Trenc, are a paradise.
For the more adventurous, Mallorca’s rugged coastline is a playground just waiting to be explored: cliff dive into turquoise waters, kayak along hidden coves, or hike through the jaw-dropping UNESCO Tramuntana Mountains. And for wine connoisseurs, Mallorca’s world-class vineyards offer a truly indulgent experience with private tours and tastings at prestigious estates.
Ibiza: Beach clubs and wellness
While Ibiza does many things well, beach clubs are where it truly excels. Renowned the world over, no yacht charter to Ibiza is complete without a stop at one of our favourites. For an iconic slice of Ibizan life, look no further than Blue Marlin, with its chilled daytime vibe and open-air dance parties by night. The bohemian Sunset Ashram offers spectacular sea views, while Atzaró Beach is the perfect place to spend the day enjoying the sunshine, a beautiful beach and fabulous food.
Ibiza is also making a name for itself in the wellness space, with wellness charters becoming increasingly popular. From rejuvenating experiences in partnership with luxury spas to private yoga sessions and detox-friendly dining curated by world-class chefs, the white island is the perfect place to find a more restorative rhythm. As evening draws near, drop anchor beneath the mystical rock formation of Es Vedrà, long associated with the island’s myths and legends.
Menorca: Secluded coves and a slower pace
A Menorca yacht charter reveals the Balearics at their most peaceful. Approaching by yacht, its rugged coastline unfolds in golden beaches framed by pine forests, dramatic cliffs plunging into sapphire waters, and secret coves only accessible by sea.
Drop anchor at Cala Macarella for soft white sand and a rocky coastline perfect for snorkelling, or set sail for the more secluded Cala Pregonda, where red-hued sands and otherworldly rock formations create one of Menorca’s most distinctive anchorages.
Inland, explore Ciutadella’s medieval streets and Mahón’s spectacular natural harbour, or follow the Camí de Cavalls through a landscape protected by Menorca’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. By night, return to the deck of your luxury Menorca charter for quiet anchorages and star-filled skies.
Formentera: Beaches, clear water and laid-back days
Just south of Ibiza, a Formentera yacht charter is the ultimate destination for seclusion. The smallest of the Balearic Islands, its powdery white sand beaches, such as Playa de Ses Illetes, rival those of the Caribbean. And the clear, shallow waters are equally tropical, ideal for swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding.
For those looking to explore the island’s culture, the old town of Sant Francesc Xavier is a charming stop, with its whitewashed buildings, artisan markets, and boutique cafes. Almost as famous as its beaches and worthy of any Formentera itinerary are its three lighthouses – El Pilar de la Mola, lighthouse of La Savina, and Cap de Barbaria. If you have time for just one, make it Cap de Barbaria. Located at the southernmost point of the Balearic Islands on a lunar landscape, it’s perhaps the best spot on the island for watching the sunsets.
The best places to visit in the Balearic Islands by yacht
To get you started on your Balearic Islands yacht charter, we’ve handpicked some highlights across the islands – from secluded beaches to sunset spots to drop anchor.
Cabrera National Park, Mallorca
The largest National Park in Spain, Mallorca’s Cabrera is a dreamy destination to visit by yacht thanks to its peaceful environment free from crowds. Exploration under the water is rewarding, with nearly 200 species of fish, while the land is just as alive with more than 400 botanical species and endemic wildlife.
Es Vedrà, Ibiza
Es Vedra, which belongs to the Natural Reserve of Illots Ponent, is a rocky island that attracts beach goers and hikers alike. Many come to drink in evening sunsets at Cala d’Hort beach with Es Vedra as the backdrop, while others flock to scramble up the 400m high magical rock, which is the source of many island myths and legends. Some believe it to be the ancient site of the lost city of Atlantis, while others claim to have heard siren songs calling from the shore.
Whatever your beliefs, your captain and crew can arrange a magical Ibiza sunset cruise for you and your guests.
Ses Illetes and Espalmador, Formentera
Ses Illetes and the neighbouring uninhabited islet of Espalmador form a protected paradise at the northern tip of the island. Formentera’s beaches are famous for their similarity to those of the Caribbean, and Ses Illetes captivates each visitor with its dazzling white sand and waters in endless shades of blue.
Cala Macarella, Menorca
Menorca’s coves are postcard-perfect, and no more than Cala Macarella. On the island’s southern coast, this secluded beach is framed by steep limestone cliffs and lush pine trees, making it the perfect spot for those in search of seclusion.
Mallorca's Tramuntana coast
Stretching for almost 90km along Mallorca’s west coast, the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range forms the backbone of the island. From glittering reservoirs and soaring peaks to ancient dry-stone terraces, historic monasteries and stone-walled trails, hiking here is a must for anyone who wants to stay active during their charter.
Back at sea, the Tramuntana coastline offers some of the most dramatic and secluded anchorages in the Mediterranean, defined by towering cliffs and turquoise waters accessible primarily by boat.
Ibiza's secluded northern coves
The wild northern coast of Ibiza boasts some of the quietest spots, including Ex Portitxol – a hidden horseshoe-shaped rocky cove reachable only by boat or a cliffside hike. Another secret bay attracting adventurers and hikers alike, Cala Llentrisca may be hard to find on foot but for those with a yacht at their disposal, it’s an incredibly rewarding destination. This quiet Ibiza beach is pebbly, with traditional fishing huts lining the shore and great waters for swimming.
Which Balearic Islands can you combine in seven days?
‘The beauty of the Balearics is that they offer both vibrant beach clubs and restaurants as well as remote anchorages and untouched nature. And the further one moves away from the busy coastline, the more authentic and serene the experience becomes.
‘For a week, I’d recommend a circular itinerary exploring Mallorca and combining it with either Ibiza and Formentera to the south, or Menorca to the north. That said, it is equally possible to dedicate an entire week to a single island, exploring two or three anchorages per day without excessive navigation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in each location.
‘Adding one or two evenings ashore in historic town centres such as Palma or Ibiza, along with a lunch at a world-renowned beach club, creates a balanced and memorable experience blending nature, culture, and refined leisure.’
Captain Jose, AZIZA
How to choose the right yacht for the Balearic Islands
Looking for your next private yacht charter in the Balearics? With the help of our charter team, create your own Balearic Islands itinerary and explore at your own pace. Whether you're interested in a wellness charter or simply sailing the Balearic Islands, there's something for everyone.
We've rounded up a selection of yachts available for charter in the Balearic Islands, but this is only a small handful. You can view the full selection here, or for more information, please contact your Burgess broker.
Find your perfect side of the Balearics with the Burgess charter team
Looking to book a private yacht charter in the Balearic Islands?
At Burgess, we pride ourselves on crafting unforgettable yachting experiences. With our extensive fleet and decades of experience, we ensure every charter is tailored to perfection. Whether you’re new to yachting or a seasoned sailor, let us take care of the details while you embrace the journey.
Speak to our Burgess Balearics charter experts and let us organise the ultimate itinerary for you today.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to charter a yacht in the Balearic Islands?
The best time for a luxury yacht charter in the Balearics is during the shoulder seasons of May–June and September–October for warm, sunny weather and fewer crowds. July and August offer peak heat and vibrancy, while April–May and October are best for relaxed sailing.
Which is the best Balearic island for a yacht charter?
While each of the Balearic Islands has its own unique personality, Mallorca is the best for variety and first time charter clients. With a varied coastline, excellent marina infrastructure and cultural hotspots both at sea and on land, if you could only pick one island to visit, Mallorca would be our recommendation.
Can you visit all the Balearic Islands in one yacht charter?
The Balearics cover a large cruising area, so unless you are chartering for two weeks or more, we wouldn’t recommend visiting every island in one yacht charter. Shorter charters will find it more rewarding to focus on two or three nearby islands, or solely on Mallorca or Ibiza for an unhurried Balearic island hopping charter.
How long do you need for a Balearic Islands yacht charter?
We’d recommend at least seven days for a Balearic Islands yacht charter, allowing you to visit the hotspots, explore multiple islands and not feel rushed. If you’re looking for a true exploration of two or more of the Balearic Islands – pairing Mallorca and Ibiza or Ibiza and Formentera, for example – you may want to charter for 10 days to two weeks.
Is Mallorca or Ibiza better for a yacht charter?
Neither Mallorca nor Ibiza is universally better for a yacht charter; the decision depends entirely on your preferences, which is something your Burgess charter broker can help you with. Mallorca is significantly larger than Ibiza, bringing with it a wider variety of coves, marinas, hikes and sights. On the other hand, Ibiza is world renowned for beach clubs and nightlife, so this side of the island is much more developed.
Is Menorca quieter than Mallorca and Ibiza?
Menorca has earned its place as the more laid-back Balearic island. With protected natural coves, historic coves and a slow pace of life, it’s significantly quieter than Mallorca or Ibiza.
Can you charter a yacht from Mallorca to Ibiza?
Visiting Ibiza from Mallorca by yacht is a popular way to explore the Balearic Islands on a Spain yacht charter. A week-long charter often will include both Ibiza and Formentera, stopping off to explore sleepy Spanish coastal towns along the way.
Can you visit Formentera from Ibiza by yacht?
Absolutely. With about 12 nautical miles between the two islands, it can take less than an hour, depending on your departure point and sea conditions.
Which Balearic island has the best beaches?
Formentera is considered to have the best beaches, often likened to those of the Caribbean with white sands and crystal clear waters.
Which Balearic island is best for families?
For families looking for a quiet island vibe with shallow waters for safe swimming, we’d recommend Menorca. For those looking for a wide variety of activities and more facilities, we’d choose Mallorca.
Where should you start a Balearic Islands yacht charter?
Most Balearic island yacht charters start from Mallorca, with Palma offering the largest marina and a convenient airport for international arrivals.
To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.
- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.
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