Message in a bottle #3

What we’ve been up to

Hi there!

The past month has been quite an adventure and we’re excited to tell you all about it.

Sailing to Mallorca
Our journey began with what we thought would be an easy 65 mile sail. It turned out to be 80 miles thanks to the direction of the wind. Still, it was a relaxed trip with a nice mix of sailing and motoring. Poor Finn wasn’t too happy about a rogue wave that made him a bit seasick, but otherwise it was smooth sailing. We didn’t see any dolphins this time, but as we got closer to Mallorca we started to see lots of branches and logs floating in the water, an unusual sight. We think it has something to do with the recent heavy rains.

Exploring Port d’Andratx
When we arrived at Port d’Andratx we found a great place to anchor. To make sure we were really secure, Greg dived down to attach us to a massive concrete block with a heavy chain. We weren’t going anywhere!

The view was breathtaking. Terraced hills full of houses that seemed to climb up the slopes. And at night? Wow. Everything was lit up like a giant Christmas tree.

One day we took a bus to Palma, a city we’d visited before but which still felt new and exciting. It’s always a pleasure to wander its streets and soak up the atmosphere.

Santa Ponça: A Surprising Turnaround
Our next stop was Santa Ponça, which didn’t make the best first impression. The town seemed overrun with apartment blocks and Irish pubs. Not quite the charm we were looking for. But after a walk through the nearby forest and lush residential areas, we began to see its appeal. The views were stunning and, to make it even better, a dolphin appeared in the bay. This magical moment made it all worthwhile.

The Caves of Portals Vells
We also explored the caves at Portals Vells, which are steeped in history. Legend has it that after surviving a terrible storm, sailors carved an altar in the caves to thank the Virgin Mary. Walking through the caves, you can really feel the history. It’s incredible.

Back to Palma
After some time on the water, we returned to Palma by boat, combining practical tasks with fun. On the to-do list: replacing our rusty anchor chain, fixing the water pump and tackling a mountain of laundry (not glamorous, but necessary!).

We made up for it with some great moments: cycling around the city, visiting Castell de Bellver (what a view!) and enjoying the Christmas lights.

After a busy and rewarding month, we’re ready to continue exploring Mallorca. The journey so far has been full of surprises, challenges and unforgettable memories and we can’t wait to see what comes next.

Until next time,
Greg, Julie, Nelly & Finn 🐾

If you’d like to read the whole story of our adventures, you can find all the details on Polarsteps!

Sailing the Balearics in autumn

Sailing around the Balearic Islands in autumn is a completely different experience to the busy summer season. With the crowds gone and the heat diminishing, the islands feel quieter, more relaxed and much more personal. It’s as if they’ve slowed down, creating the perfect setting for a more peaceful getaway.

The days are warm and sunny without being overwhelming and the evenings bring just enough of a cool breeze to make it cosy. Watching the sunset from the deck in a light sweater is a simple pleasure. The sea is still warm, too, and the bays and coves that were crowded a few weeks ago now feel like private getaways.
Another highlight of autumn sailing in the Balearics is the food. Local markets are full of seasonal produce such as figs, grapes, almonds and pomegranates.

Of course, the weather can be a little unpredictable. Most of the time you’ll get calm winds and sunny skies, but depending on where you are, you might get a quick shower, especially in areas like the north coast of Mallorca, which has been getting more rain lately. It doesn’t last too long and the landscapes look even greener afterwards.

To stay one step ahead of the weather, apps like Windy or PredictWind come in handy, along with local forecasts like Aemet. It’s easy to check and adjust plans if necessary.

Sailing in the Balearics in autumn gives you a more relaxed, authentic side of the islands. It’s less about ticking boxes and more about soaking up the experience, from quiet anchorages to seasonal food. If you’re looking for a trip that’s special and memorable, autumn is the perfect time to go.

Christmas on a boat

Spending Christmas on a boat is a unique way to celebrate the festive season. Instead of the usual hustle and bustle, you wake up to the gentle rocking of the boat and the sound of the water lapping against the sides. Whether you’re anchored in a quiet bay or tied up in a marina, the whole atmosphere is calm and peaceful. A welcome break from the usual holiday frenzy.

One of the best things about Christmas on a boat is how simple it can be. You don’t have to go all out with decorations. A string of lights, a small tree or a wreath on the cabin door is more than enough to make things festive.

If you’re in a warm part of the world, Christmas can mean soaking up the sun, barbecuing on the deck or enjoying a seafood feast in shorts and flip-flops. But when it’s cooler, it’s just as lovely. Imagine curling up in a blanket on deck, sipping mulled wine or hot chocolate and looking up at the stars or the glow of the Christmas lights on land.

Cooking Christmas dinner on a boat doesn’t have to be complicated either. Even in a small galley you can prepare something delicious. Whether it’s a traditional roast or a simple, fresh seafood dinner, it’s about the company and the setting, not how fancy the meal is.
With music playing softly in the background, the gentle sound of the water and no rush to get anywhere, the day unfolds at a relaxed pace.

Christmas on a boat isn’t about grand gestures or extravagant plans. It’s about slowing down, creating new traditions and enjoying the peace and quiet. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends or just a loved one, it’s a holiday you’ll never forget for its simplicity and the magic of being surrounded by water and the beauty of the season.

Meet the people we’ve met

We met Elena and Ben one evening in Greece. They came over for a drink. There was something instantly easy about the connection. We swapped stories about our travels and laughed over a few drinks as the evening stretched on. Elena and Ben were just as down-to-earth and welcoming as they seemed online and their easygoing vibe made for an unforgettable night.

They have been a true inspiration to me in so many ways. Their energy and approach to life left a lasting impression. They have this incredible way of embracing the world around them, from the people they meet to the places they explore, with a sense of curiosity and openness that I find so inspiring.

Elena’s creativity is truly something special. There’s an effortless flow to the way she expresses herself, whether it’s through her photography/videography or how she brings her ideas to life. She has a unique ability to see beauty in the world around her and her work reflects that. It’s not just about the subject, but about telling a story, evoking emotion and creating a connection with her audience. It’s clear that her creativity is driven by her passion.

What really stands out about Elena and Ben is their incredible adaptability. They have this natural ability to adjust to whatever life throws their way, whether it’s a change of plans or unexpected challenges. No matter the situation, they manage to stay calm, positive and open to new possibilities, which is something I really admire. Watching Elen and Ben handle the ups and downs of life with such grace has reminded me that adaptability isn’t just about survival, it’s about embracing the adventure of it all and finding joy in the process, no matter what direction it takes you.

So yeah, I don’t even think they realise what an influence they have. But the way they live and the energy they bring to everything they do has touched more lives than they probably know, including mine.

Gear we never knew we needed

The Hünersdorff Fuel Can Spout is honestly a lifesaver when it comes to refueling outboard engines, especially on dinghies or tenders where spills can quickly turn into a headache. It’s one of those things you don’t realise you need until you’ve used it, and then you wonder how you ever managed without it.

The auto-stop nozzle is a total game-changer. You know that moment when you’re trying to top off the fuel tank and you either overflow or underfill because you’re guessing? Not with this. The nozzle automatically stops when the tank is full, so you’re not spilling fuel all over the boat or, worse, into the water.

It simplifies the whole refueling process. Instead of stressing about making a mess or wasting fuel, you just pour, stop, and go. It’s quick, clean, and surprisingly satisfying. For anyone with an outboard engine, this is a no-brainer. It makes something as mundane as refueling feel like less of a chore and that’s worth every penny.

New episode highlights

In the latest video, we’ll be sailing through the crystal-clear waters of Ibiza, hiking some of the best trails for stunning views and experiencing the thrill of an off-road buggy adventure across the rugged landscape. From the ancient town of Dalt Vila to the hidden gems of Ibiza’s coastline, this travel vlog will take you on a journey through Ibiza’s natural wonders, cultural landmarks and exciting outdoor activities.

Next episode will become available on 08th of December.

A love for reading

“Bread and Oil: A Celebration of Majorcan Culture” is an absolute gem and it’s made even more special now that we’re exploring Mallorca ourselves. If you’re into food, culture or just want to dive a bit deeper into the heart of the island, this book is a must-read.

The title really says it all—Bread and Oil—because in Mallorca, these two simple things are more than just food, they’re part of the island’s soul. The book takes you through the island’s rich traditions around homemade bread and its world-famous olive oil, showing how these basics are tied to the people and the land. It’s not just about eating; it’s about connection, history and the care that goes into every loaf and every drop of oil.

What makes this book even more fun right now is that as we’re exploring Mallorca, it feels like we’re getting an insider’s guide. The author shares personal stories and practical info about everything from traditional bread-making methods to the fascinating world of olive oil production. And then there’s the festivals and local customs that make this place feel so alive. It’s like having a local guide who’s welcoming you into their home and sharing all the good stuff.

The photos in the book are gorgeous, too. They perfectly capture the vibrancy of Mallorca, from the colourful markets to the serene countryside. You can almost feel the sun and smell the sea air through the pages.

Overall, “Bread and Oil” is more than just a book about food. It’s a love letter to Mallorca. If you’re planning to visit or just want to know more about this beautiful island, it’s the perfect read to make you feel connected to its people, its traditions and its amazing food.

Ask us anything

Got questions about sailing, travel or life on the water? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment to this blog and we’ll happily answer all your questions.