Port d'Andratx — The Best Base for Sailing in Mallorca

Why Port d'Andratx?

Most boat trips in Mallorca depart from Palma, the busy capital, or from the tourist resorts of Magaluf and Santa Ponsa. Port d'Andratx is different. It is a real village — fishermen still unload their catch at the harbour every morning, locals sit in the cafes along the waterfront, and the pace of life is refreshingly slow.

But the real reason Port d'Andratx is special for sailing is geography. It sits at the southwestern tip of Mallorca, where the Serra de Tramuntana mountains meet the sea. From here, you have immediate access to the wildest, most beautiful coastline on the island — cliffs, caves, hidden coves, and the spectacular island of Sa Dragonera, all within a short sail.

This is why we chose Port d'Andratx as the base for Alegria Sailing. Every trip begins and ends here, and every guest who visits falls in love with the village itself.

Getting to Port d'Andratx

From Palma (30 minutes)

Take the Ma-1 motorway southwest from Palma towards Andratx. The road is modern and fast. Follow signs to Port d'Andratx (not Andratx town, which is inland). The drive takes about 30 minutes and is scenic, passing through the hills above Santa Ponsa.

From the Airport (40 minutes)

Similar route via the Ma-1. If you are coming directly from Palma airport, head west on the motorway. Total drive time is approximately 40 minutes depending on traffic.

By Bus

TIB bus line 102 runs from Palma (Estacio Intermodal) to Port d'Andratx. The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs around 5 euros. Buses run roughly every hour in summer.

By Taxi

A taxi from Palma to Port d'Andratx costs approximately 40-50 euros. From the airport, expect 45-60 euros. Taxis are available at the airport and in Palma city centre.

Parking

This is the question every visitor asks. Parking in Port d'Andratx can be challenging in peak summer, but here are your best options:

• Harbour car park: Free, but fills up quickly in summer. Arrive before 10:00 for the best chance.
• Street parking: Available along the roads leading into the port. Blue-zone spaces require payment (approx. 1-2 euros/hour). White-zone spaces are free.
• Upper village parking: If the harbour is full, park in the upper part of the village and walk down (5-10 minutes). There is usually space available even in August.

Tip: If you are joining an Alegria Sailing trip, arrive 20-30 minutes before departure to allow time for parking and the short walk to the meeting point.

Where to Eat

Port d'Andratx has an excellent restaurant scene, ranging from simple tapas bars to high-end dining. Here are our recommendations:

Before Your Sailing Trip

• Cafe La Consigna: Perfect for a light breakfast or coffee before boarding. Right on the harbour.
• Trespais: A charming cafe with excellent pastries and fresh juices. Good for a morning start.

After Your Sailing Trip

• Rocamar: The classic. Seafood restaurant overlooking the harbour with tables right at the water's edge. Try the paella or the fresh fish of the day.
• Sumailla: Modern Mediterranean cuisine with Asian influences. Beautiful terrace and creative cocktails.
• Tim's: A local favourite for hearty meals. Great steaks, burgers, and Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
• La Pergola: Italian-Mediterranean with harbour views. Excellent pasta and pizza.

Things to Do Before or After Sailing

• Walk the harbour promenade: A leisurely 20-minute loop around the entire harbour. Beautiful at sunset.
• Visit the fish market: In the morning, watch local fishermen sell their catch at the harbour. A genuine Mallorcan scene.
• Explore the village streets: Narrow lanes climb the hillside above the harbour, lined with bougainvillea, galleries, and traditional Mallorcan houses.
• CCA Andratx: A world-class contemporary art centre located just outside the village. Worth a visit for art lovers.
• Drive to Sant Elm: 15 minutes further west, this small village has a beautiful beach with views of Sa Dragonera island.
• Sunset from the lighthouse: The lighthouse at Cap de sa Mola is a short drive above the port. The sunset views are spectacular.

Why It's the Best Base for Sailing

From Port d'Andratx, you are:

• 10 minutes from Cala Llamp, the first hidden cove
• 30 minutes from the dramatic cliffs of Cap de sa Mola
• 45 minutes from Sa Dragonera island
• Surrounded by the most pristine coastline in Mallorca — no hotels, no roads, just sea and mountains

The winds here are consistent and predictable in summer — a gentle thermal breeze typically builds from the southwest in the afternoon, perfect for sailing. The harbour is well-sheltered, making departure and return smooth even on breezy days.

No other starting point in Mallorca gives you this combination: authentic village character, immediate access to wild coastline, sheltered harbour, and consistent sailing conditions.

Start Your Sailing Trip Here

Every Alegria Sailing experience begins and ends in Port d'Andratx. Whether you choose a half-day exploration of hidden coves, a full-day adventure to Dragonera, or a sunset cruise along the cliffs, this village is your gateway to the Mediterranean at its most beautiful.

Book your sailing trip from Port d'Andratx and discover why this corner of Mallorca is so special.