Mallorca’s coastline stretches over 550 kilometres, offering an extraordinary variety of anchorages — from wide sandy bays backed by pine forests to narrow calas carved into limestone cliffs. With extensive experience around the island, our captains have identified the anchorages they return to season after season. Here are the 12 best.
1. Cala Deià
Tucked beneath the village of Deià on the northwest coast, this small rocky cove offers crystal-clear water and a depth of 4\u20136 metres over sand and rock. The anchorage is best in calm conditions and is ideal for a morning swim before lunch at Ca\u2019s Patró March, the waterfront restaurant accessible by tender. Arrive early in summer \u2014 space is limited to 4\u20135 yachts.
2. Sa Calobra
The dramatic gorge of Torrent de Pareis opens onto a small beach flanked by towering cliffs. Anchoring in 8\u201312 metres over sand, you\u2019ll find one of the most photogenic spots in the entire Mediterranean. The anchorage is exposed to northerly swells, so check the forecast and plan for a morning visit when conditions are typically calmest.
3. Es Trenc
The longest undeveloped beach in Mallorca, Es Trenc offers a wide sandy anchorage in 3\u20135 metres of turquoise water. The seabed is sand, providing excellent holding. This is the closest Mallorca gets to Caribbean-style water. It\u2019s popular with day charter yachts, so for quieter conditions, anchor at the eastern end near Ses Covetes.
4. Cala Mondragó
Part of the Mondragó Natural Park on the southeast coast, this double-bay anchorage offers sheltered water in most conditions. Anchor in 4\u20137 metres over sand between the two beaches. The surrounding pine forest and lack of development make this feel genuinely remote, despite being only 15 minutes by tender from Portopetro.
5. Portals Vells
Three small beaches at the southern tip of the Calvià coast, Portals Vells is a favourite lunch stop for yachts cruising from Palma. The main anchorage sits in 5\u20138 metres over sand with good holding. The caves carved into the cliffs are worth exploring by paddleboard or tender.
6. Cala Varques
Accessible only by sea or a 20-minute walk, Cala Varques on the east coast is one of Mallorca\u2019s most unspoilt beaches. Anchor in 4\u20136 metres over sand. The underwater caves nearby are popular with snorkellers. This anchorage is exposed to easterly winds, so it\u2019s best visited in settled weather.
7. Cala Figuera (Formentor)
Not to be confused with the fishing village of the same name in the southeast, this Cala Figuera sits on the Formentor peninsula. The deep, fjord-like inlet offers excellent shelter in 6\u201310 metres. The water is exceptionally clear, and the surrounding cliffs create a dramatic amphitheatre effect. It\u2019s one of the most peaceful overnight anchorages on the island.
8. Illetes
Just west of Palma, the Illetes coastline offers a series of small sandy bays with 3\u20135 metres of depth over sand. The proximity to Palma makes this ideal for a quick afternoon swim after provisioning. Several beach clubs and restaurants are accessible by tender.
9. Cala Pi
A narrow inlet on the south coast, Cala Pi is framed by low cliffs and a small sandy beach. Anchor in 4\u20136 metres at the mouth of the inlet. The sheltered position makes it suitable in most wind directions except due south. The old watchtower above the beach is a reminder of Mallorca\u2019s maritime history.
10. Cabrera Archipelago
The Cabrera National Park, 10 nautical miles south of Mallorca, requires a permit for anchoring (arranged by our team in advance). The main harbour offers mooring buoys in 5\u20138 metres of pristine water. The marine reserve status means the underwater visibility and marine life are exceptional. A visit to the 14th-century castle is recommended.
11. Cala Tuent
Neighbouring Sa Calobra but far less visited, Cala Tuent is a wide pebble beach backed by olive groves and the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Anchor in 6\u20138 metres over sand and rock. Restaurant Es Vergeret serves traditional Mallorcan cuisine \u2014 one of the best waterfront lunch spots on the island.
12. Porto Colom
A natural harbour on the east coast, Porto Colom offers all-weather shelter in 4\u20138 metres over mud and sand. The colourful fishermen\u2019s houses lining the harbour create a picturesque backdrop. Several restaurants and a small chandlery make this a practical overnight stop as well as a scenic one.
Planning Your Anchorage Itinerary
The best way to experience these anchorages is aboard a crewed yacht charter with a captain who knows the local waters intimately. Our team can build a bespoke itinerary incorporating your preferred anchorages, dining reservations, and water sports. Contact our charter advisors to start planning your Mallorca yacht charter.
