Palma 39:33.96N 02:38.08E

Red Skies
David Alexander
Thu 29 Apr 2010 17:51
We
spent 2 nights on a mooring buoy in Puerto Andraitx for no charge but
overlooking the expensive marina.
![]() Red Skies moored outside Andraitx
Marina.
However, the sight of a sunken boat against the
town quay was a chastening reminder that conditions can become
problematic.
![]() Whoops!!!
Andraitx also has a fishing fleet, which made its
presence felt when it left and returned to port.
![]() Fishing nets drying in the sun at
Andraitx
Despite the daily influx of resources, we decided
not to partake of dinner at the hotel Italia (see photo).
![]() We prefer our lobster wholly fresh!!
On Wednesday 28th April, we left for the short 7
mile hop to Santa Ponsa. Although not as pretty as Andraitx, it holds special
significance for us as we spent our honeymoon there 40 years ago. We found the
very hotel but sadly it didn't open until the 1st May so we were unable to have
a nostalgic drink in the bar. We reckoned that Santa Ponsa had aged in 40 years,
even more so than us. It was quite tatty and geared for Brits and Germans on
holiday.The South side of the bay (the older part) is more attractive than the
North with some grand houses.
![]() Red Skies anchored on the North side of Santa Ponsa
Bay
![]() Our honeymoon hotel - somewhat aged and
shut!
![]() We left the following morning for the trip to
Palma. Again it was sunny but a cool breeze kept the temperature down but it
inevitably it was in the wrong direction to permit sailing. Palma is crowded -
the combination of the May Day holiday and the Palma Boat Show. We found a
berthing in the Real Club Nautico with a view of the cathedral through the masts
and booked for 2 nights on the understanding we could stay longer if required.
However, on goung to extend our stay we found the berth had been relet and there
was no more room. We had to hope for a cancellation or another berth-holder
letting the office know that they would be away. Luckily, a few minutes later,
we had a call to say that another berth had become available.
![]() Palma Cathedral
![]() The Parliament building being prepared with stands
for the Labour Day fiesta. |