Menorca

Menorca offers two primary all-weather gateways: the long, protected natural harbour of Maó (Port de Maó) in the east and compact, well-sheltered Ciutadella in the west.

Along the north coast, Fornells Bay and Addaia form enclosed, wind-shadowed basins with buoyed channels and ample shelter when the tramontana sets in.

The south coast strings together numerous calas with sandy bottoms and short approaches, lending itself to easy day hops in settled weather. Navigation is straightforward but benefits from early planning: fairways are marked, ferry and leisure traffic are seasonal, and local wind patterns can funnel through headlands.

Environmental rules are strict: protect Posidonia seagrass by anchoring on sand or using regulated moorings where provided. The entire island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and several marine protected areas add specific zoning and activity limits—factor these into route and overnight choices.

Overall, Menorca rewards unhurried itineraries: short legs, many sheltered stops, and reliable summer sea-breeze windows, with Maó and Ciutadella acting as your all-round bases.