Sailing Around Mallorca: Our 5-Stop Journey from Palma to Sa Calobra
Mallorca by land? Beautiful. Mallorca by sailboat? Next level magic.
Recently my partner and I set off on a sailing loop around this Balearic gem — starting from the buzzing port of Palma, dropping anchor in the protected waters of Cabrera, and tracing the rugged northern coast past dramatic cliffs, sleepy villages, and secret anchorages.
Whether you’re a fellow sailor, a travel dreamer, or plotting your next Mediterranean escape, here’s how our Mallorca sailing route shaped up — one turquoise cove and sunset at a time.
1. Palma – A Lively Start to Mallorca
We kicked things off in Palma, Mallorca’s energetic capital — and one of the Mediterranean’s best cities to prep for a voyage. We anchored around the corner in a bustling bay called Cala Nova, with every service you could need, from provisioning to last-minute boat tweaks.
We then headed on around to the city, where we parked our boat near the Marina and walked into town. There is heaps to do in Palma from the grand Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca, to the 14th centery Bellver Castle.
Heres our rundown of what we did on our one-day stop in Palma:
Took a stroll through the Old Town and admired the La Seu Cathedral towering over the waterfront.
Took a stroll down Passeig des Born, where we hit the shops and had a light bite to eat in one of the quaint cafes.
Took a hike up the Bellver forest to see the Bellver Castle (is a must!)
Grabbed sundowners and tapas at Bar Cuba — very much recommended before a week at sea.
Palma is polished, practical, and full of charm — the perfect springboard for a slower-paced sail around the island.
Nighttime view of Cabrera
2. Cabrera – Serenity in a Marine Sanctuary
Sailing south from Palma, we made our way to the Cabrera Archipelago, a protected marine and national park that feels like Mallorca’s quiet cousin.
We applied in advance for a mooring permit (a must), and having being lucky enough to attain this, we made our way to the island. Once anchored, the stillness was instant. No beach bars, no tourist boats buzzing around — just crystal-clear water, rugged hills, and the soundtrack of cicadas. Quite the contradiction to Palma and Ibiza which we had been to the previous week (read about our time in Ibiza here).
Highlights:
Snorkeling in translucent coves with shimmering seagrass meadows.
Climbing to the old fortress for sweeping views at sunset.
Hiking the beautiful paths to find old ruins and discover the islands history.
Falling asleep to total silence — a rare luxury in the Med.
It’s wild, peaceful, and humbling. Cabrera was easily one of the trip’s most memorable stops. Want to find out more? Read about it here!
Our anchor spot in Punta de sa Fordada
3. Deià & Punta de sa Fordada – Cliffside Beauty and away from tourists
After rounding the southern tip of Mallorca, we hugged the island’s West Coast, where mountains plunge into the sea and tiny villages seem to grow out of the cliffs.
We made a stop near Deià, anchoring in Punta de sa Fordada — a large anchorage with crystal clear water. The anchorage here is scenic and you can find lots of fish swimming near the rocks, however it can be a bit tight and rolly, so we timed our stop with calm weather and stayed just long enough for a refreshing morning swim. Being only accessible by boat, you can enjoy this beautiful landscape to yourself. There is also a restaurant on the cliff, definitely a place you don’t want to miss!
The tram in Sóller Town
4. Port de Sóller & Sóller Town – A Sailor’s Favorite
This natural harbor was like a breath of fresh sangria after days of remote sailing. Port de Sóller is one of the few true anchorages along the northwest coast and offers a safe, scenic place to stop, resupply, and recharge. As it is on the Northern side of the island, you’ll find it is more calm than Palma, whilst providing enough shops, restaurants and entertainment for enjoyment. Whist stopping in Port de Sóller, we took a 10-minute tram ride into the inland town of Sóller - a charming and artsy town that’s perfect for an afternoon wander.
What we loved:
Dinghying ashore for morning pastries and local orange juice (Sòller is famous for its citrus, and bonus, there is a dinghy dock).
Taking the vintage tram up to the inland town of Sóller.
Watching the sun set behind the Tramuntana mountains with a cold drink in hand.
It’s a favourite among cruisers for a reason — and we could’ve easily stayed longer. But as per usual, the weather had other plans for us and we had to keep on going!
In the canyon in Sa Calobra
5. Sa Calobra – Where Mountains Meet the Sea
Last but definitely not least, we stopped at Sa Calobra, one of the most dramatic anchorages on the island. Framed by towering limestone cliffs that plunge into crystal-clear water, and a hidden canyon leads to one of Mallorca’s most awe-inspiring beaches. This spot feels otherworldly.
It’s not the easiest anchorage — limited holding and can get crowded midday with tour boats — but if you go early or stay late, you’ll see it at its best.
Unmissable:
Dinghying ashore and walking the stone tunnel to Torrent de Pareis, a hidden beach between two cliffs.
Swimming in aquamarine water that looks straight out of a dream. Near the rocks also shows an unmissable snorkelling spot!
Seeing mountain goats play along the coast.
Feeling totally dwarfed by nature — in the best way possible.
Final Thoughts: Would We Sail Mallorca Again?
Absolutely. Mallorca offers the perfect blend of comfort and wildness for a week (or more) at sea. You’ll find:
Calm, protected anchorages and top-tier marinas
Remote coves and lively coastal towns
Crystal-clear water, dramatic landscapes, and a whole lot of sunshine
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or planning your first charter, this island delivers the dreamy Mediterranean escape.
Planning Your Own Sailing Trip?
Let me know in the comments (or DM me on Instagram @therashshop) if you’re planning to sail Mallorca! I’m happy to share charts, anchorage tips, or our full provisioning list.