We lifted anchor from Porto Petro bay on 19th September at 10.40 with 14 to 17 knots of wind to head towards Palma.

The wind increased as we neared the channel between the Island of Cabrera and Mallorca where the seas built and wind increased to 24 knots.  The sea state and wind strength would have been fine if we were running down wind with the wind behind us but we were trying to beat towards it--- being pushed more off course and out to sea by the angle.

We decided that our ( zig-zag) tacks heading to Africa and then north were not allowing us to make good progress with our VMG—the actual movement towards our destination at only 2 knots---walking pace.

 

So we looked for alternative bays to shelter for the afternoon and overnight--- a little difficult as most of the bays were exposed to the south westerly swell.

At last we spotted Playa de Rapita, an open bay but with the possibility of some shelter behind a marina mole and small headland.

 

We arrived in Rapita at 15.40 and anchored on a sandy bottom in 4.1 m of clear aquamarine water. The beach is said to be one of the finest on Mallorca--- and it didn't disappoint us.

John and Tony swam the distance to the beach in warm late season sea temperature,   whilst Jackie and I chilled after being shaken around on the sea trip.

 

We had a lovely evening at anchor in 18 c which felt cold after the hot Greek weather and a calm nights sleep.

 

We lifted anchor the next day to head for Palma Nova bay.

 

Photos of-------

 

Sailing past the Island of Cabrera, Mallorca

Lumpy seas

The beach at Rapita

Water quality

 

Love to all

 

Tina, Tony, Jackie and John x x x x