SET SAIL FOR THE BALEARICS FROM BARCELONA’S ONEOCEAN PORT VELL
In many ways, Spain is the ultimate yachting destination – a sparkling coastline, a vibrant culture, wonderful food and wine, and a warm, Mediterranean climate. Experience Spain, coast to coast, on a Barcelona to the Balearics yacht charter.
The Spanish Revolution
Until fairly recently, Spain was something of a no-go for yacht charters, thanks mainly to some rather unfriendly rules and regulations imposed by the Spanish government on charter vessels, including its infamous Matriculation Tax (which levied a one-off charge valued at 12 per cent of the yachts total value). In 2015, when it was announced that this, and other prohibitive bureaucracy would be lifted, the entire yachting industry said a collective hola! to the land of tapas and flamenco and a renewed enthusiasm emerged for yacht charters in Spain.
OneOcean Port Vell, A World Class Marina in the Heart of Barcelona
Understandably, as one of Europe’s most dynamic cities, overflowing with Catalan pride and charm, Barcelona has quickly become the centrepiece of the country’s revitalised yachting industry. And, within the city limits itself, OneOcean Port Vell has quickly affirmed itself as a world class marina. Originally built for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, major renovations were undertaken in 2014 to transform the marina which is located a stone’s throw from Barcelona’s iconic La Rambla. Today it is one of the few in the world with the capacity to welcome large superyachts up to 190m LOA and the host of both the MYBA Charter Show and the inaugural Large Yacht Brokers Association (LYBRA) Superyacht Show. Its private members club and restaurant, OneOcean Club boasts a sun-drenched waterfront setting and an exclusive Rare Beauty Salon.
Bowled over by the Balearics
The Catalan capital is the perfect starting point to discover the four islands that comprise the Balearics: Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. In fact, just over 200 kilometres, or 120 miles, (as the crow flies) separates Barcelona and Palma, the enchanting capital of Mallorca. A mix of intriguing history, food and wine, secluded beaches, rocky mountains and spectacular panoramas make the largest island in the archipelago a popular charter destination. Yet the Balearics don’t start and finish with Mallorca – and neighbouring Ibiza needs no introduction. It may have a reputation as a summer playground of the jet set crowd, but this sundrenched island is also the perfect family destination – easy to explore with safe beaches where the younger members can practice their snorkelling skills. The islands of Menorca and Formentera are the smallest of the four, but what you sacrifice in crowds you make up for with authentic experiences. The former has been declared a Unesco Biosphere Reserve while the latter still retains a laid-back, bohemian charm. Read our post on sailing around the Balearics for further inspiration.
The Charter Yacht
Turn Heads onboard M/Y SEAWATER, a 24.72m Sunseeker motor yacht built in 2015. A sporty design, complete with distinctive navy blue hull, is matched by equally energetic engines – this vessel is capable of cruising speeds of 26 knots. But when not zipping between the islands, why not drop anchor in one of the Balearics secluded coves and make use of her many tenders and toys? Onboard you’ll find something for everyone, including water skis, wakeboard, doughnut, seabob and snorkelling gear. Her weekly charter rate is between €43.500-€47.500, + VAT and expenses.
There’s never been a better time to say hola! to Barcelona and the Balearics!
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