February Newsletter

What we’ve been up to

Hi there,

Hope you’re well! Just wanted to send you a quick update from Alcudia. We’re still anchored here and enjoying the peace and quiet, although the weather has been a bit wild lately. We’ve had our fair share of rain and strong winds, but to be honest it hasn’t been too bad. We made the most of it, staying nice and warm inside while the storm raged outside. There were a couple of days when we had to take shelter in the marina to get through the worst of it.

On the plus side, we decided to rent a car and it was great! We got a fantastic deal, just 167 euros for 28 days. It was the perfect way to explore the island and see more than we would have on foot or by boat.

One of our favourite spots so far has been Valldemossa. This mountain village is like something out of a dream. It’s tucked away in the Tramuntana mountains, with narrow, winding cobbled streets leading to ivy-covered stone houses and views that stretch endlessly to the horizon. There’s something incredibly special about it, a place where time slows down. It’s also famous for being the winter home of Chopin and George Sand in the 1800s. It’s a place full of history and beauty and we really enjoyed wandering around. We also stopped in Deia, another mountain village. The whole village has this quiet, artistic feel to it. I can’t recommend these villages enough. If you’re ever in Mallorca, they’re definitely worth a visit.

The Tramuntana mountains themselves are absolutely stunning. We drove along winding roads that carved their way through sheer cliffs, with every turn revealing a new, breathtaking view. The landscape here is unlike anything I’ve ever seen… rugged, dramatic and so beautifully wild.
These mountains stretch along the north-west coast of Mallorca, towering over the island with peaks reaching up to 1,445 metres, such as Puig Major, the highest point. It’s no surprise that they have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as being a natural wonder, the mountains are steeped in history, with ancient stone terraces, olive groves and quaint villages that have been inhabited for centuries. It’s the kind of place where you feel both small and in awe of the beauty that surrounds you.

We also spent some time in the Albufera National Park, a wetland area just outside Alcudia. It’s one of the largest and most important nature parks on the island and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, especially birds. The park covers over 1,600 hectares of marshes, dunes and lagoons, making it a perfect haven for birdwatchers. We saw so many different species, from migratory birds such as herons and flamingos, to the more elusive waterfowl and wading birds, and even ibises. The tranquil surroundings really allow you to get away from it all and immerse yourself in nature. We spent a couple of hours walking the trails. Whether you’re into birdwatching or just enjoying the tranquil beauty of nature, Albufera is definitely a must-see if you’re in the area.

Another highlight of our time on the island was visiting the Consell flea market, which takes place every Sunday. It’s one of the biggest and most popular markets in Mallorca and the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere. The market is a treasure trove of antiques, handmade crafts, vintage clothes and all sorts of quirky items you wouldn’t find in regular shops. As we wandered through the stalls, we came across everything from old records to rustic furniture and even beautiful locally made jewellery. But it’s not just about shopping. There’s also a real sense of community here, with locals chatting, swapping stories and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

All in all, it’s been a great time here. The weather has been a little unpredictable, but that hasn’t stopped us from making the most of it. I’m looking forward to exploring more and can’t wait to share more with you soon.

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!

Mallorca Travel Tip

If you’re planning a trip to Mallorca, be sure to check out The Calendar Mallorca for up-to-date information on the best events, festivals and activities taking place across the island! Whether you’re looking for local musical performances, cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, this site provides a comprehensive guide to ensure you don’t miss out on Mallorca’s vibrant scene. It’s an essential resource for making the most of your time on the island!

Life Aboard vs. Land Travel: A Personal Reflection

After almost three years of living on our boat, we’ve come to realise just how different life on the water is from life on land. Both offer unique experiences, but they shape our perspective in very different ways.

On land, travel is quick and easy. We can jump in a car or hop on a plane and within hours we’re in a new place. Life feels predictable, with easy access to shops, restaurants and social interactions. But on a boat, life moves at a much slower pace. The journey is guided by the tides and the weather, and we’ve learned to embrace the unpredictability. There’s no rush, it’s about enjoying the journey and staying present.

Living on board also means being self-sufficient. Space is limited and there’s no quick run to the store, so we’ve learned to adapt. It’s rewarding to live with less and make do with what we have. Socially, life is quieter. On land we were always surrounded by people, but on the boat it’s often just us and our two cats. The solitude can be peaceful, if sometimes lonely, but the boating community we’ve found is tight-knit and there’s a special bond between fellow sailors.

The scenery is one of the most striking differences. On land, landscapes change as you travel, but on the water the horizon feels endless. Waking up to the sound of the waves and the open sea has become our daily norm. A kind of freedom that can’t be replicated on land.

While life on a boat has its challenges, such as repairs or unpredictable weather, the rewards far outweigh them. It’s an adventure that has taught us patience, resilience and a deeper connection with nature. Whether on land or at sea, both lifestyles offer valuable lessons, but for us, life on the water has changed everything.

Meet the people we’ve met

Our journey has been made so much richer by the amazing people we’ve met along the way and one of the highlights has definitely been meeting Kirsten and Gonzalo from @sailingdmed. We first met in Greece, anchored next to each other, and immediately hit it off, sharing stories of life at sea. They’ve been sailing the Mediterranean for three years now, embracing the freedom and adventure that come with living on the water. Their passion for sailing is truly contagious and it’s been such a joy getting to know them.

Kirsten and Gonzalo are just the kindest, most down-to-earth people. Whether it’s swapping sailing tips or just having a casual chat, they make every conversation feel personal and meaningful. Their journey is a reminder that following your dreams, no matter where they lead, can be incredibly rewarding.

And then there’s Tinto, their cute dog, who’s honestly the real captain of their boat. He’s always full of energy and joy and it’s clear how much they all enjoy every moment of their adventure together. Watching them as a family, you can see how much they’ve created something special out on the water.

If you want to learn more about their journey, be sure to check out Boatlife, the book I featured in last month’s newsletter, where they are represented. It’s an engaging read that gives a deeper look into the amazing adventures they’ve experienced. People like Kirsten, Gonzalo and Tinto are what truly make this journey unforgettable and they’re a perfect reminder that the best part of any adventure is the people you meet along the way.

Gear we never knew we needed

Having a cordless KitchenAid blender on board has been such a game changer for us. It’s incredibly convenient, especially since space and power can be tricky on a boat. The fact that it’s cordless means we can use it just about anywhere.

The battery life is honestly one of the best features. It lasts surprisingly long and we’ve been able to use it multiple times on a single charge without any issues. From smoothies to soups to sauces, it handles everything we need it for, and we never have to worry about it running out of juice halfway through. When it does need a charge, it’s super easy to plug in and the charger doesn’t take up much space at all.

It’s one of those little luxuries that makes life on the water so much easier. Whether we’re making a quick snack or whipping up something more elaborate, having this blender on board is a total win.

New episode highlights

The second part of our Mallorca sailing adventure!

This autumn and winter, we’re setting sail in the Balearics, uncovering some of the islands’ most stunning destinations.

📍 In this episode, we journey along Mallorca’s southeast coast, visiting Son Matias, Estanyol, and the picturesque island of Cabrera, just south of Mallorca.

Next episode will become available on 02nd of February.

A love for reading

Salt on Your Tongue by Charlotte Runcie is a beautifully written exploration of the sea and its profound impact on our lives. In this book, she blends memoir, nature writing and personal reflection, creating an intimate journey that dives deep into the ways the ocean shapes our experiences, emotions and identities.

Runcie takes us on a sensory journey, evoking the sounds, smells and sights of the sea, while also exploring its symbolic significance. The book doesn’t just focus on the beauty of the sea, though, it also grapples with its darker side, the unpredictable nature, the challenges it presents and the way it mirrors our own internal landscapes. Her exploration of water as both a source of solace and a space for contemplation is thought-provoking and her ability to weave in different stories and perspectives—from famous sea explorers to mythological tales—adds layers of richness to the narrative.

Salt on Your Tongue is a perfect read for anyone who has ever felt the magnetic pull of the ocean or those who have wondered about the deep connection we share with the water. It’s a love letter to the sea, but also an invitation to reflect on our own relationship with it and the ways it influences us. Runcie’s prose is captivating and her personal connection to the sea makes this book a heartfelt and immersive experience.

A beautiful meditation on nature, memory and the sea, this book will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the world’s ocean and perhaps an urge to dip your toes into the water a little more often.

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.