Majorca is facing a new issues in its waters on top of efforts to control illegal migration in the Balearics. Tourists visiting the Balearics are causing chaos on the coastline, sailors say. Renting a small motorboat for the day is a popular tourist activity in Majorca.
Visitors can enjoy the island's coastline from the comfort of a private boat for a low cost without needing a skipper's licence. But sailorshave said increasing numbers of boats being rented out is coming at a price. Most tourists have no experience on the water, creating situations that are "awkward" or even "hazardous".
Around holiday hotspotslike Migjorn and Ponent, sailors are constantly reporting reckless boat drivers. Sailors say tourists struggle with close-quarters navigation, as well as endangering swimmers and other boats, and many go on to need rescuing.
Environmental groups have raised concerns about tourists dropping anchors on the posidonia beds, a protected seagrass which is a crucial part of the ecosystem.
Visitors have also been reported as mooring too close to beaches on busy weekends in areas like Es Carbo, angering beachgoers and locals alike.
The prevalence of drinking while on these rented boats is also a concern. Sailors have complained of drunk people endangering others at sea and "spoiling the atmosphere" near Puerto Andratx, Santa Ponsa, and Colonia de Sant Jordi.
The Maritime Authority in Palma allows tourists to hire motorboats under five metres long and with engines up to 11.26 kilowatts without a licence.
They can only be hired when conditions are calm and visibility is good, and must stay within a mile of the coast. Rental companies are required to keep track of their boats and have a support vessel (one per 10 rental boats) ready to intervene if necessary.
But despite these rules, critics say that "easy boating" has outpaced oversight, leaving the Balearic waters more congested and unsafe. It comes as
