Following club weeks to Ibiza in 2019 and 2022, we will be returning to Ibiza once more this year from Saturday 2nd September to Saturday 9th September 2023. Last year, the flotilla consisted of a fleet of six yachts. Thirty three new and returning members were present and whilst several people did not know each other beforehand, many new friendships were created.
Ibiza has a reputation as being ‘the party island’, with thousands flocking there each year for hot days on the beaches and hotter nights at the mega-venues with world class DJ's flying in each week all summer. But there is another, more tranquil side to the islands of Ibiza, Formentera and Espalmador, if you know where to go and when. The Ibiza 'party season' traditionally starts in early May and concludes late September. But of course, the mass tourists tend to leave the islands in late August or early September. The 'White Island' boasts many hidden pristine sand beaches, away from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots, that can only be accessed, almost exclusively, by sea.
Early September is the absolute ideal time to visit Ibiza; the seas are warm, the weather is favourable, the island's atmosphere is still in full swing and flight/yacht charter availability/prices in September should be more favourable too.
The sailing is not challenging. There is no set itinerary; last year, we circumnavigated Ibiza. In 2019, our focus was on the western and southern coasts. On both occasions, the skippers consulted and agreed each morning on where the flotilla would navigate to that day for the next overnight anchorage. The water is deep all round the islands and navigation is primarily 'line of sight'. All relatively short hops, with late afternoons spent swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding and socialising
Evenings, particularly on the western coast, provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world famous Ibiza sunsets, whilst enjoying a sundowner, on board barbeque or visit to a beach chiringuito. As with previous years, having stocked up for the week ahead at normal supermarket prices, before departing the charter base, most yachts tend to cater for themselves onboard during the week. But it is your holiday, so of course you are free to eat ashore if you prefer. The nights should all be at anchor or on a mooring buoy, only turning to a port if the conditions dictate this as absolutely necessary.
Feel free to contact Lionel (RC, Med - contact details below) direct if you want any more information. It goes without saying that the sooner we can firm up on numbers and secure flight reservations and bookings with charter companies, the better. We very much look forward to welcoming you to Ibiza. Baby….
mediterranean@gaysailing.org.uk
