This page was translated automatically from German. View the original

Intensive skipper training from Barcelona to Mallorca: precise harbour manoeuvres, professional anchoring, an impressive night passage by moonlight, and genuine man-overboard training in turquoise bays. A trip full of hands-on practice, adventure and real skipper experience.

Sailing area: Balearics
Country: Spain
Departure: Port Ginesta
Destination: El Arenal
Route: Barcelona - North Mallorca - South Mallorca
Nautical miles: 280
Travel dates: 23.08.2025 – 30.08.2025
Sailing yacht: Monohull, Elan Impression 514, 52 feet
Organiser: sunsailing.ch

Our skipper training began in Port Ginesta near Barcelona, where the crew got to know each other over Spanish tapas on the first evening together. It was clear from the start: everyone on board didn't just want to come along for the ride, but to really learn, take on responsibility and raise their own safety at sea to a new level.
The very next morning showed just how intensive and hands-on this training is. Harbour manoeuvres were on the programme – not once, not twice, but until every participant could manoeuvre the yacht safely and with confidence. Berthing and casting off in tight marina berths, stern-to or alongside, under varying conditions. Slow speed manoeuvring, precise stopping, controlled turning in confined spaces. Plus targeted line handling and clear commands. Many people realise here for the first time just how much composure and precision they possess when given the right techniques.
The next day we continued with one of the most important topics of all: professional anchoring. Without words, using hand signals only, we manoeuvred the yacht in the immediate vicinity of the harbour. The crew learnt how to calculate anchoring depths, how to drop the anchor safely, how to hold, check and correct. Anyone taking part quickly understands why a good skipper doesn't just sail, but leads situations with foresight.
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: preparation for the night passage to Mallorca. Chart work, navigation lights, watch systems, safety – everything was covered thoroughly. When we later left the Catalan coast behind us in the moonlight, the atmosphere was a mixture of adventure, concentration and pride. The crew took turns on watch, steering, checking courses and learning how to rely on technology, team and their own senses even in the dark. When the silhouette of Mallorca appeared at dawn, everyone knew: this crossing was a milestone.
In a stunning bay with turquoise water, the training continued. Sail trim, course stability, role distribution on board – and then the topic every skipper must master: man overboard. First in theory, then in practice. In the sheltered bay we practised the actual recovery of a person overboard using onboard resources. Safe, professional and as realistic as possible. Participants learnt how to stay calm in stressful situations, how to give clear commands and how important teamwork is. Many said afterwards that it was precisely these exercises that gave them the confidence to really take responsibility.
Further MOB manoeuvres, sail trimming and fine-tuning followed, until the crew operated confidently and safely. Finally, we set course for our final harbour, El Arenal. The faces upon arrival said it all: those who sail on this trip don't just go home with a certificate, but with real experience, self-confidence and the feeling of truly mastering a large yacht.
On the last evening we rounded off the trip with a fragrant paella – tired, proud and full of new skills. That's exactly what skipper training should be: intense, educational, adventurous and full of moments you'll never forget.