Set sail from Badalona – Your gateway to the Mediterranean
Just five minutes from the heart of Barcelona, Badalona Marina offers an exceptional year-round base for yacht and powerboat cruising. Blessed with Mediterranean sunshine and a prime location, it opens the door to an incredible variety of cruising experiences. From the dramatic cliffs of the Costa Brava to the turquoise bays of the Balearic Islands, and even the nearby Pyrenees for onshore adventures, Badalona is the perfect launch point for your next voyage.
With so many incredible places to explore, we asked the team at Ancasta Barcelona, (based in Badalona) to share their top sailing spots for this summer:
Cruising the Catalan Coast: Rugged beauty and culinary delights
For those who prefer mainland cruising, head northeast along the Costa Brava – a stretch of coastline renowned for its raw natural beauty, secluded coves and world-class cuisine. Dotted with picturesque bays and vibrant seaside towns, this region is ideal whether you’re seeking peaceful anchorages or vibrant local culture.
Begur & Sa Riera: Timeless Mediterranean charm
The town of Begur is enchanting with its rustic architecture, boutique shopping, and exceptional dining scene. Just a short sail away, Sa Riera offers a tranquil anchorage in a pine-covered cove. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back seaside restaurants, it’s a delightful stop for swimming, snorkelling, and unwinding in a setting that still feels untouched.
Cap de Creus: Wild, windswept, and wonderfully remote
At the northeastern tip of Catalonia, Cap de Creus is a dramatic peninsula of weathered cliffs and hidden inlets. The rugged coastline, shaped by centuries of wind and sea, is perfect for adventurous cruisers. In fair weather, the calm calas and scenic anchorages are simply unforgettable.
Drop anchor near Cadaqués, a bohemian haven of whitewashed buildings and cobbled streets, where art, culture, and sea views collide. Or head to El Port de la Selva for a mix of nature and history, with nearby Cala Tamariu offering an idyllic anchorage backed by golden sands and waterfront dining.
Sailing to the Balearic Islands: Islands of tranquillity and celebration
From Badalona, the Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera – are just a day’s sail away. Each island offers a unique blend of vibrant marinas, peaceful anchorages, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re in search of solitude or celebration, you’ll find your perfect destination here.
Sa Calobra, Mallorca: A hidden natural wonder
Tucked into the mountainous northwest coast of Mallorca, Sa Calobra is a spectacular anchorage at the end of the Torrent de Pareis. Its deep, narrow bay is framed by towering cliffs, leading to a beautiful pebble beach and translucent waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Cala Jondal, Ibiza: Stylish vibes and stunning sunsets
Ibiza is known for its energy, but Cala Jondal Beach offers a more refined escape. Popular with celebrities and families alike, this cove blends luxury and nature, with chic beach clubs, turquoise water, and dramatic red cliffs setting the stage for both relaxation and revelry.
Bahía de Fornells, Menorca: A watersports paradise
The expansive Bay of Fornells on Menorca’s north coast is a sailor’s dream. Protected by a narrow entrance, the calm waters inside are perfect for anchoring, with mooring buoys available year-round. Spanning 5 km in length, the bay is a hub for water activities, from kayaking and windsurfing to diving and dinghy sailing.
Playa Cavall d’en Borràs, Formentera: Laid-back island luxury
Looking for peace and simplicity? Playa Cavall d’en Borràs on Formentera’s northeast coast delivers. This stretch of white sand, fringed by dunes and pines, is quieter than Ibiza’s busier beaches but equally alluring. Shallow aquamarine waters are ideal for a refreshing swim, while beachside restaurants offer the perfect place to toast the sunset with a glass of local wine.
Why base your yacht in Badalona?
Beyond its unbeatable location, Badalona offers modern marina facilities, excellent transport links to Barcelona, and a welcoming atmosphere for visiting crews. From here, you can choose your cruising adventure – coastal charm, island hopping, or even inland excursions to the Pyrenees, all with the convenience of a well-connected home port.
Whether you’re dreaming of calm anchorages in pristine coves or lively evenings in world-renowned resorts, the Catalan Coast and Balearic Islands deliver. With Badalona as your base, your Mediterranean adventure is just a sail away.
