Mallorca's charter industry under pressure - private boat rental permitted since this year

Last year, the Spanish central government passed a royal decree allowing private individuals to charter out their boats to private parties during the summer months. This is now permitted in July, August and September, which are the busiest months. Previously, private individuals were prohibited from renting out their boats.

Charter companies fear for their existence

The companies that offer boats and yachts for charter on Mallorca and the neighbouring islands are very worried. They fear unfair competition - especially now, when bookings for charter yachts are down by 15 to 20 percent for the coming months.

José María Jiménez, President of the Balearic Association of Charterers, explained that there are already internet platforms on which private individuals offer their private boats for hire - sometimes so cheaply that charter companies cannot compete.

Director General of the Balearic Ministry of the Sea calls liberalization "barbaric"

The Director General of the Balearic Ministry of the Sea, Antoni Mercant, has clear words for the "royal decree". "This liberalization is barbaric for the Balearic Islands," says Mercant. The Minister of the new Balearic Ministry of the Sea, Juan Manuel Lafuente, and his Director General, Antoni Mercant, have requested a meeting with officials from the Central Spanish Ministry of Transport. "There are many highly professional companies dedicated to charter activity here. It could cause a lot of chaos," the Director General regrets. The regional government will do everything in its power to prevent this.

You also have the opportunity to list your yacht on HappyCharter.com for advertising.