Spain and the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca, offer many vibrant, flamboyant and idyllic destinations to explore.

The coastal region of the Costa Brava, which is a Catalonian area in northeastern Spain, is a great place to begin a luxury Spanish yacht charter.  Embark in the harbour of Port Vendres and head for the Bay of Roses, one of the most attractive cruising areas of mainland Spain, with scores of beautiful calas and sandy beaches perfect for anchoring and swimming. From here, sail south past the Port of Estartit and the Medes Islands, which are part of a protected marine park, until you reach the cosmopolitan capital city of Barcelona.

Barcelona, with its large superyacht marina and bustling port, is an enchanting and culturally rich seaside city boasting iconic architecture, a thriving art and music scene and fantastic bars and restaurants. Must-see sights include the Gaudí-designed church La Sagrada Familia, which has been under construction since 1882, the Gothic Quarter and the Montjuïc Park with its museums, Olympic Stadium and spectacular views over Barcelona and the sea.

Barcelona is one of the best places to discover Spain’s culinary landscape. Indulge in the array of options from Basque-style tapas counters and traditional catalan bodegas, to Galician seafood taverns and modern avant-garde Japanese restaurants. 

Continuing south and tracing Spain’s coastline, you’ll reach the Costa Dorada, known for its calm and shallow coastal waters, ideal for watersports. The village of Sitges, backed by the mountainous Parc Natural del Garraf, has long been a favourite hangout for celebrities, footballers and artists with its internationally renowned film festival and carnivals. The old town’s labyrinth of narrow streets spills out onto a seafront promenade lined with prestigious properties and the restaurant terraces here are a pleasant spot for an evening meal whilst you enjoy a view of your yacht at anchor.

Lying in blissful sunshine off the east coast of Spain and the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca is the perfect way to enjoy a long, hot summer. 

Ibiza may be known worldwide for its clubbing scene and nightlife, but the island has many lesser-known treasures to delight travellers. In the white washed streets and plazas of Ibiza’s Old Town, shop for local artisan crafts or head to one of the many beaches in the area before enjoying sunset drinks in the harbour at one of the many sophisticated bars.

Lying less than 12 miles south of Ibiza is the island of Formentera – this stunning spit of land is a beach lover’s paradise, with perfect white sands and crystal clear waters that appear turquoise to the eye. This blissful retreat is renowned for its healing properties and celebrities from Jimi Hendrix, Madonna to Leonardo DiCaprio have all fallen under its magical spell. Take a mud bath in the hot spring on the adjacent island of Espalmador or dance barefoot in the sand at one on the many beach clubs open day and night.

Mallorca is abundant in pretty ports, secluded bays and historical villages. Mallorca’s most popular destinations include the city of Palma, with its Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral, seafront paseo and designer shopping, the crescent-moon-shaped port of Soller which is sheltered by its own small mountain range and Andratx on the east coast - one of Mallorca’s most affluent corners with luxury villas and exclusive restaurants.

Known as Mallorca’s little sister, the island of Menorca, though smaller and quieter than Mallorca, over the years it has managed to conserve its rural charm. Less-frequented by tourists, this gem of the Balearics has a fascinating history and its inhabitants have a healthy respect for the environment - putting the preservation of this island’s natural and unspoilt beauty top of the agenda. Visit Menorca to escape the crowds, cruise between pristine coves and bays and travel back in time to a simpler, traditional Spanish island life.