Marina La Palma reclaims its role as a key yachting destination in the Canaries
A first of its type in Spain, Marina La Palma’s new gate will provide 24hr protection from occasional swell problems that previously affected the basin. The steel structure stands nearly 14m tall with a two-part vertical blade system that entirely closes the 8m-deep entry.
The 180-berth facility is set in the heart of historic maritime capital Santa Cruz de la Palma and only 10 minutes from the international airport. A rambler’s paradise due to the spectacular verdant landscape and clear night skies, La Palma is also the most NW of the Canary Islands, making for an ideal spot to provision and prepare for westwards ocean cruising. Visitors staying in the marina are also invited to make use of the impressive outdoor pool facilities belonging to the nearby Real Club Náutico de La Palma.
Yachting in the Canaries has however seen an important shift over the last 10 years from being best known to boaters as a transatlantic starting post. The combination of a gentle year-round climate, extensive cruising grounds and world-class European marinas, has recast the Canaries is an increasingly attractive base for boat-owners.
José Juan Calero, Managing Director of Calero Marinas, stated that he was delighted to finally see the gate installed and working: “I can’t deny that this marina has had a complicated infancy and I would like to take this opportunity to thank marina manager Guillermo Cabrera and his team for their faith in the project. We have always seen a great potential in Marina La Palma and the island’s natural beauty and the convenience of a city location are perfect for cruising visitors. The year here on in looks very promising as the marina will be hosting two important events: the Canarias-Madeira Regata and later in November, the international transatlantic Rallye des Iles du Soleil.”
Local cruiser/racer Norberto Delgado, whose boat is based in Lanzarote, is an active representative in the Spanish national cruising association and races regularly within the islands. He expressed his satisfaction with the new gate: “Since its opening, I’ve been heading over to Marina La Palma at least once a year and I’ll be back in order to take part in the Canarias-Madeira regatta. The welcome addition of this new gate is certain to convert Marina La Palma into a very popular sailing destination.”