Like many countries in the Mediterranean, Spain presents a sailor with a treasure trove of places to explore and a way to do it for every budget. Steeped in history, it's easy to dive in and learn a lot about it in museums and archaeological sites or just enjoy the traditions of today that are based on such a rich legacy from those who lived here long ago. From visiting the Alhambra Palace in Granada to tasting Valencian paella at a restaurant in an historic walled city, there is much to explore and experience, whichever way you choose. And the people have a laid back, friendly style that makes you feel welcome. While Spanish/Catalan and several other dialects predominate, you can still get by with a little bit of Spanish and a will to try to be understood!
The winters are mild, the summers are hot & dry. The sun just shines & shines and the days are long in summer. Spain has a very good infrastructure for boating so you can tuck in to marinas or visit a myriad of anchorages and be all alone in solitude or in plenty of company. Winter rates can be negotiated for many marinas. There are a few "cruiser hotspots" for wintering aboard of which Cartagena is one. Winter can be a great time to explore other places in Europe and flights can be really inexpensive from Spain to other destinations as well as hotels and car rentals.
If you want to hike, there are limitless opportunities wherever you go as well as a good network of bike paths in many areas. The Spaniards have to be the most polite drivers you can meet when it comes to being a pedestrian or biker and it is no surprise, since they are out there doing it themselves. The Baleares Islands have incredibly clear water and lovely calas to explore with loads of sandy beaches and interesting rock sandstone rock formations. You can truly be tan everywhere at most beaches as there is a laid back attitude for nude sunbathing. Ashore there are just as many historic sites, beautiful flora & fauna and ways to get out and see them. Each island is within a daysail from the other so you can easily reach them all.
There is a good selection of marine supply vendors & chandleries within Spain including the Baleares although they can be difficult to find until you get to a place and walk around. Many are not listed on mapping providers so you can only find them once you walk past the storefront. This is the same with laundromats and grocery stores. You will often find that there is more than enough wherever you are or at least adequate until you reach the next port.
One of the nicest things about Spain is the wonderful food that is available. The produce is varied and available almost everywhere you go. You will find large, modern supermarkets in the cities and many smaller but very well stocked markets elsewhere. There is no shortage of cafe's and restaurants either!
Although everyone has a different budget, Spain can be very affordable. Food is inexpensive on a world scale and as mentioned previously, there is something for most budgets, including off-season dockage. Boating equipment, fuel and summer dockage are among the most expensive things.
All in all, Spain feels like a country with friendly, laid back people who value their traditions and family life but are interested in moving forward and keeping up with modern times. They embrace the outdoors, the sun and the sea. The national & local governments are ensuring that there are natural, protected spaces with access to enjoy them including marine parks and clean beaches. The country as a whole feels orderly, safe and free. Come see for yourself!
