I’ve been visiting Mallorca’s Port Andratx for the last six or seven years – and, although I love visiting the island’s flashier neighbours, the likes of Starck-designed Port Adriano or Puerto Portals, I have always loved the fact that Andratx is still first and foremost a fishing village with bags of charm.

When the Balearic Government Port Authority approved a project late last year to add new superyacht berths to the quay at Port Andratx, I must admit, I panicked. There may be increased demand from boats over 26 metres – but we don’t want to become an identikit billionaire’s playground – and I’m sure superyacht owners don’t want that either.

A quick chat with Lorenzo Vila, director at easyboats quickly put my mind at ease. “Port Adriano was a major extension with a budget of almost 100 million euros. The scheme included not only superyacht berths but also new restaurants, commercial units, underground parking and a new shipyard complete with 250 ton travel lift. In contrast, Port Andratx has a budget of 2 million euros and will add just seven superyacht berths and 34 additional car parking spaces. 

Thanks to a particularly mild climate, the project is expected to be completed by March 2016 – right on time for the summer boating season – and looks set to attract those who prefer things a little low key. As Lorenzo comments, “Port Andratx is considered to be one of the best natural harbours and fishing ports in Mallorca.  Its natural beauty and thriving fishing industry, with trawlers unloading and trading their loads on a daily basis to the local fish restaurants attracts a very elite multinational clientele. It has a very bright ambitious future and will appear on many superyacht charter itineraries for summer 2016." As for me, I’ll be heading over there on New Year’s Day to see the progress for myself – so stay tuned for more.”

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