June Newsletter

What we’ve been up to

Hi there,

Wow, what a month it’s been. From soaking up the good vibes at El Firó in Sóller to sharing sunsets, pizzas and laughs with fellow sailors, we’re feeling super grateful for this floating life.

The ‘El Firó’ in Sóller was an unforgettable experience. It’s one of Mallorca’s most legendary festivals and now we totally get why. It’s all about commemorating the Battle of Sóller from back in 1561, when the townspeople defended themselves against invading Ottoman pirates. The highlight was the full-on reenactment, where locals dressed as pirates and villagers, recreating the chaotic battle across the beach, streets and town square. We had front-row seats for it all, watching the beach battle unfold from our dinghy with drinks in hand, surrounded by fellow sailors. Smoke, explosions, shouting, flares and the sound of cannons filled the air while we bobbed in the bay. Surreal and magical at the same time.

Last month was basically packed with everything we love: sunset barbecues, beach pizza nights, board games and all kinds of watersport fun: wakeboarding, windsurfing and even a little SUP expedition adventure.

And as much as we love a pretty anchorage (and wow, the views in Puerto de Pollença are next level), it hit us again how much it’s really about the people. Those spontaneous meetups, shared meals and laughs that make this life feel full.

Here’s to more of that magic this month. Let’s keep the good times rolling. ✨⚓️

Until next time,
Julie, Greg Nelly & Finn 🐾

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

June Mood Inspiration

June is here and it is giving full summer energy. The days are longer, the sunsets are better and everything feels a little more chill. It’s time to finally slow down, breathe a little deeper and actually enjoy life.

Here are a few easy ways to lean into the vibe:

🌞 Soak Up the Sun
Eat outside, walk barefoot in the grass or just sit on your porch with a cold drink. Let the sunshine do its thing.

🍓 Snack on Summer
Fresh fruit, iced drinks, easy dinners on the grill. Keep it simple and delicious. Bonus points for anything that does not require turning on the oven.

🎧 Set the Mood with Music
Make a feel-good playlist that sounds like summer. Play it while you clean, cook, drive, sail or do absolutely nothing.

🌊 Get Outside Even Just a Little
Go to the beach, hit a trail, find a hammock or just take your coffee out to the balcony. No pressure, just fresh air.

🧺 Do Something Just for Fun
Try a random craft, have a backyard picnic, play a silly game. June is not about being productive. It is about enjoying the ride.

🌸 Lighten Things Up
Declutter a bit. Take a breather from your phone. Say no to things that feel like too much. Keep it light inside and out.

☁️ Slow Down When You Can
There is no rush. Sleep in, wander around, daydream a little. June is the time to go easy on yourself.

Basically, let June be a reminder that life does not have to be all hustle. It can be warm, soft and a little bit lazy in the best way. 🌼

“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Songs on repeat

Music has a special power to shape our mood and this month we’re excited to share the tracks that have been motivating us. From uplifting anthems to soothing tunes that help us relax, these songs have been on repeat lately. We hope they inspire you too!

You & Me by Meute combines the vibrant energy of a live marching band with the steady rhythm of deep house music, creating an uplifting sound that fits perfectly with the spirit of summer. The track features catchy brass melodies, driving percussion and a smooth build that mirrors the feeling of long sunny days and warm nights. It brings to mind images of beach parties, open-air festivals and spontaneous gatherings with friends.

There’s something quietly powerful about Thirteen Thirty-Five by Dillon. It’s simple but emotionally rich, with a softness that pulls you in. The lyrics are poetic and a little mysterious, which leaves space for your own interpretation and feelings. The production is minimal, but that’s what makes it beautiful. Her voice floats over the soft beats in a way that feels intimate, almost like a quiet conversation.

And the Living Is Easy by Guts is one of those tracks that instantly puts you in a laid-back, feel-good mood. It has this smooth, jazzy vibe mixed with soulful beats that make it perfect for chilling out or just enjoying a slow, easy moment. The song’s groove feels warm and inviting, like a late afternoon spent lounging in the sun or a relaxed evening with friends.

Thunder & Lightning by Major Lazer is a high-energy track that really grabs your attention from the start. It’s packed with bold beats, vibrant rhythms and that signature dancehall and electronic fusion that Major Lazer is known for. The song feels electric and powerful, almost like a storm in sound form. Intense and unstoppable.

Follow The Sun by Xavier Rudd is hands down my favourite summer song, but also the perfect soundtrack for being out at sea. The slow sway of the boat, the wind on your face, the horizon stretching out forever… it just fits. When you’re surrounded by nothing but water, sky and land in the distance, the song makes even more sense. It reminds you to move with the elements, not against them.

For more inspiration: Listen to El Burro Radio on Spotify!

What the Summer Solstice is all about

The Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year, when we get the most daylight. It usually falls around June 20th or 21st and feels like nature’s way of giving us some bonus sunshine to really enjoy those summer vibes.

People have been marking the solstice for centuries because it’s all about the power of the sun and the energy it brings. It’s a nice reminder to slow down, spend time outside and reconnect with nature.

Celebrating it doesn’t have to be a big deal. You can simply go for a walk, relax at a park or spend time by a lake or the beach. Watching the sunrise or sunset can feel really special. In the evening, lighting a small fire or even just a few candles can be a meaningful way to honor the light. Hanging out with friends or family over some good food and laughs is always a solid option too. In the end, it’s just about enjoying the longest day, feeling a little more grounded and being grateful for the light and everything good that comes with it.

Summer essentials

Alright, summer’s almost in full swing and it’s time to make the most of those golden hours. Whether you’re lounging in your backyard, hitting the beach or heading out on a boat, a little prep goes a long way. Here’s an easy checklist of must-haves for max relaxation, zero stress and all the good vibes.

🌞 Sun protection

Let’s start with the obvious: sunscreen. Keep it high SPF and water-resistant and don’t forget to reapply. Toss in some sunglasses (polarised if you can) and a good hat. Bonus points if it’s wide-brimmed.

🔊 Bring the tunes

Music changes the vibe. Bring a small portable Bluetooth speaker and make a playlist ahead of time. Just make sure it’s charged.

🛋 Lounging time

You can’t go wrong with a hammock if you’ve got the setup, but even a thick deck cushion or beach mat will do the trick. Add a cold drink and you’re golden.

🏊‍♀️ Swim & snorkel gear

If water’s nearby, don’t forget the fun stuff: swim fins, snorkels, masks or even just some goggles. Floating around with a mask on, spotting fish or shells, is one of those low-key joys that never gets old.

🧊 Keep things cool

An ice cube machine might sound over-the-top, but once you try it (whether at a backyard party, camping or on a boat), you’ll get it. It’s one of those small touches that makes the whole day feel a little more deluxe. If you don’t have a machine, just pack your cooler well and bring extra ice. Cold drinks = happy people.

🌴 Shade game

Whether it’s a pop-up shade, umbrella or just stringing up a beach blanket, having a shady spot is a summer lifesaver. Great for food, naps or hiding when the sun gets a bit too enthusiastic.

🦟 Bug patrol

Don’t let bugs ruin your sunset. Pack some bug spray. We always check whatever we’re using on our skin with the Yuka app, it’s super handy for spotting any potentially harmful ingredients. It takes two seconds and gives a little peace of mind.

🍔 BBQ time

Nothing screams summer like the smell of a good barbecue. Keep it simple and delicious. Pro tip: prep everything before so you can kick back and not play chef all day.

🧢 The extras you’ll actually use

A lightweight long sleeve can be clutch for sun protection and post-sunset chills. And don’t underestimate a solid pair of flip-flops or water shoes if you’re on rough sand or rocky beach terrain.

🚤 Summer sail essentials

If you’re heading out on the water, lucky you! Here’s a mini sail checklist:

• Dry bag for phones, wallets, sunscreen, etc.
• Waterproof phone pouch for snapping pics without panic.
• Light layers: it gets breezy fast out there.
• Plenty of water and snacks
• And don’t forget motion sickness bands or tablets, just in case.

✨ Vibes after dark

Planning to stick around after sunset? Toss in some fairy lights or battery/solar-powered lanterns. They’re easy to set up and instantly turn any space into a cozy, glowy hangout.

🚿 Quick Rinse? Yes Please.

For beach or camping days, a solar shower is a total game-changer. Go for a pressure solar shower, the kind with a foot pump or built-in hand pump. That little bit of pressure feels closer to a real shower and makes quick rinses (or even washing dishes) way easier.

Little joys / favourite moments

I wanted to share a few of the small moments that made last month feel special, so here are some of my favourite bits and pieces from the month. I hope they bring a smile to your face, too!

𖤓 Lunch on a bench in Portocolom: Nothing fancy… Just simple, good food (cheese, grapes, bread), sea views and a little bench in Portocolom. Sometimes it’s the simple moments that stick with you the most.

𖤓 El Firo Soller: What a day! El Firó in Sóller was wild, chaotic and completely unforgettable. From the costumes to the mock battles and cannon blasts, it felt like stepping into a living piece of history. We got caught up in the madness (in the best way) and loved every second of it. The Spanish really know how to party! 

𖤓 Dinner and boardgames evenings with friends: The best kind of nights. Good food, laughs around the table, a bit of friendly competition and the kind of company that makes everything better. These evenings reminded us how nice it is to slow down, share a meal and just enjoy being together. 

𖤓 Spotting Barracudas: One of those moments where you blink and think, Did that really just happen? There they were, sleek and fast, gliding underneath our boat like shadows. Let’s just say… I definitely had to think twice the next time I wanted to jump into the water.

𖤓 Pizza and games on the beach: Simple moments like these hit different. Salty air, full stomachs, good vibes all around, and those deep, easy talks that make the night feel even more special. 

𖤓An amazing sunset barbecue: We had such a great time hanging out with fellow sailors, eating and watching the sunset together. Just good food, good people and relaxed vibes by the water. Moments like that are what it’s all about.

𖤓 Our little SUP expedition: All fun and smiles at first, until the wind picked up and things got a bit wild. Definitely an adventure we won’t forget anytime soon! 

𖤓 Stargazing with good company and chocolate milk: Nothing beats lying under the stars, chatting away, and sipping on chocolate milk. Simple moments like these make everything feel just right.

𖤓 Watersport fun: Nothing like the thrill of catching the wind and riding the waves. Windsurfing and wakeboarding kept us buzzing with adrenaline and smiles all day long. Can’t wait to do it again! 

New episode highlights

Time for a change of scenery. We’re sailing from Port d’Alcudia to beautiful Pollença (Mallorca) and taking you along from start to finish. Along the way: sun, sea, sailing and everything that comes with it.

BIG NEWS

Our newsletters are changing! Instead of monthly updates, we’re turning them into a seasonal mini magazine full of even more stories, tips and inspiration to enjoy. We’re really excited about this fresh new format and can’t wait to share it with you.

The first edition will be the fall issue, coming soon with all the cozy vibes and seasonal highlights you love. But first, enjoy your summer. Soak up the sun, make the most of these long days and get ready for something special ahead!

In the meantime, you can find us on:

• Instagram: Check out our photos and reels. We hope you love them and get inspired! Find us on @sailingelburro.
• YouTube: Vlogs of our adventures (in Dutch but subtitles are available in English).
• PolarSteps: Regular updates of our adventures, written in Dutch and English, where you can follow our route and see photos along the way.
• Ship’s Blog: Tips and advice from our life at sea that we hope inspire you.
• SeaPeople: Regular updates (including our sailing tracks) of our adventures, in English. Find us on @sailingelburro.

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. If anyone wants to mention anything or share a story, feel free!
We’d be more than happy to hear about other people’s adventures.”