Swagmans Sailing Blog

27th - 28th July 2005 - Andraitz to Palma

Posted at 7:32 AM, Thursday, July 28, 2005

Enjoyed having some breeze yesterday for this trip even though we had to beat our way around the bottom of the island and across the bay to Palma town. Had a largish German yacht for close company the half of the trip - so it kind of - turned into a race!

Nice to get back to it and pleased to advise we held him off - despite his extra 15 foot length and mylar sails!

Should not have been suprised to find Real Club Nautico full when we arrive but began to feel worried when we could not then raise Pier 46 on the radio. I was beginning to eye up the commercial wharf and wondering if we could hang alongside there somewhere after Club de Mar advised they were also full - but we finally found a spot at the Govt run Port de Mallorca.

Our berth was on the outside but it is actually a great facility. The pilot book says security is not good - but that's certainly not true today. Big glass gates and overnight security guards ensure the only people on the jetties are bona fides. We are tied up alongside a big blue yacht - she's a US registered 90 footer - and despite her 15 year age - could be yours for only US$3.5M.

No laundrette at this marina or apparently close by - but found the 'British Laundry' does a pick up and delivery with 24 hour service. Not too expensive either - call 971 693 407 - Rita Dunns the manager.

Superb showers here - icy cold aircon and all chrome and misted glass - very modern and clean - right behind the capitanairs office.

Rates for Palma seem reasonable for July. As it's Govt owned one has to pay a Eu40 Govt mooring fee as part of the overall charge - but that Eu40 is valid for 10 days and can be 'used' at other Govt marinas also. The total for two nights was Eu130.

We've just seen Pattie and Paul into a cab for the airport - the laundry man arrives soon to pick up 5 big bags of clothes and bedding - Erich arrives later today to try one last time to sort the charging issues - and in the meantime we'll clean down the boat.

Our plans are to exit early tomoorw once the laundry returns, and we hope we'll be dropping anchor tomorrow evening in the crystal clear waters of Formentera. I'm not sure what the GPRS reception may be down there as it is so deserted - so if we don't post blogs for a week of so - do not get too worried.

Cheers

JOHN

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He McHo

Posted by Anonymous at 9:42 AM, Thursday, July 28, 2005

Hi John/Sue

Let's hope the electrician get's the electrics sorted for you once and for all.

With all the marina's being as busy as they appear to be; what would happen if you simply couldn't find a berth or suitable spot to anchor? Would you go to the pub and leave Sue sailing Swagman all night off shore ? :-) or vice versa?

Just checked my mcpiggy bank and couldn't find the required $3.5m for the yacht tied alongside Swagman, so I'll just have to settle for the one I'm buying here - albeit at a reduced price due to all the hassle ;-) Sometimes I just can't help myself in maximising any opportunity to "enhance" the overall deal.

Fingers crossed she will be mine a week on Monday (15th) it's been a hell of a time since March, but I'm sure she will have been worth the wait.

It's great to read the blog and keep up with the adventure - keep smiling.

Take Care

Gerry n 'Sara

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Hi Gerry & Sara

Posted by Swagman at 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 28, 2005

There's no shortage of anchoring spots dotted around the island - and with either no wind, or wind from the right direction - one can always find a cala to stop in. Guess it's an expected eventuality as it seems the whole world and their boats want to park up in local marinas during July and August.
It's a shame but most seem happy to take bookings from other nationalities - but those who sail under a Brit flag apparently have a reputation for booking and then not arriving! Hence they tend not to take bookings from us!

We are due back here to Palma so we can pick up Rob and Louise in two weeks time - but I've been able to make that reservation by going round to the office and paying in advance. I think it was a bias on the Ozzie accent that did the trick.

Looks like we've also sorted a parking spot in Palma at a good rate. So once we've said goodbye to Rob etc we'll be packing things up and trying to get home before month end so we can at least have a week or two of UK summer before going back into the office.

I know it is almost a month away - but it suddenly seems real close!

Nice to hear you've sorted the new yacht to your advantage - they say you can't keep a good guy down. Enjoy!

Take care
JOHN

Edited by swagman on Jul. 29, 2005 at 5:58 PM

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