Formentera and summer storms

Ibiza is well known being a party island, we didn’t know that that’s also true for Formentera. Unfortunately the parties here are not ashore but in the bay. We didn’t have so much noise in a bay ever as in Cala Soana at Formentera, – and that till the early hours. – Compared to that it was extremely quiet in the bays of Ibiza. – Naturally we can’t remember being that rude, – can we?

In any case, after two nights we sail back to Ibiza. Although not before going to San Fransisco, – where I always wanted to go to since I first heard the song… – The capital of Formentera is a wee bit smaller compared to its namesake in the USA, nevertheless lovely.

After another stop at Cala Caxaizota on Ibiza, we sail back to Mallorca. There we anchor in a completely new bay to us: Cala Peguera. The Cala is close by Santa Ponsa, but not as crowded and offers much better sandy bottom for the anchor, – although not as well protected from swell. At the moment with almost no wind and swell it’s perfect. Originally we wanted to sail along the west coast towards Pollenca, but the wind tells us to differ, thus we sail along the east coast.

At the nice Cala Agulla, we enjoy the clear water which even is a bit more refreshing compared to the south. Then it’s time to sail to Puerto de Pollenca.

To weather at Pollenca was a real challenge this time. Instead of the forecasted 45 knots gusts we have to endure 70 knots (128 km / hour), which may be called a hurricane. – Although our anchor was very nicely settled, with loads of chain, it didn’t hold, which may also be due to the not so good anchorage. We have to re-anchor many times and fight with full engine power against the wind and water fronts to avoid crashing into other boats and the land. – And it won’t stop. – During our many sailing years we never had such an awful weather.

The captain tells me that it also has its good sides, for example the boat is super clean, we don’t need sun protection, – and nothing – grrr! – In any case my knees and my stomach don’t feel too well, but I keep on hoping that some when it will stop. – Finally, it stops, but only for a few hours, before it starts again. The second wave is not as bad as the first one and by now we are better prepared and trained to fight. – Nevertheless, it was a rather demanding day and night, – and I am sure that we won’t forget August 27, 2023.

Now everything is peachy again and we sail towards the west coast of Mallorca.

See u soon!