book2sail-huge paella in valencia spain 1

If you’re anything like us, then a tacky fridge magnet does not classify as an adequate memento of your travels, at all. However, it is great to take home something that is both representative of the local flavors and your interests. For instance, take Spain. Spain is one of our favorite sailing destinations, the perfect place for a summer getaway, and it also happens to offer an incredible array of items to bring back home. So, we’ve included below (a by no means exhaustive) list of articles that we would be happy to buy while sailing in Spain.

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Espadrilles in Palma de Mallorca

book2sail-avarcas shoes

Source: The Avarca Store

There are various artisan footwear producers scattered throughout the Balearic Islands who craft handmade leather shoes, sandals, and espadrilles. If your boat shall be making a stop in the beautiful Palma de Mallorca, then we highly recommend Alpargatería La Concepción. This quaint little shop is stuffed to the brim with all sorts of espadrilles: colorful, neutral, flat or wedge. All espadrilles are made on the island, using traditional methods of production and all carry a reasonable price tag.

The Alpargatería also carries a vast selection of handmade avarcas sandals from the sister island, Menorca.

Why Buy: Apart from being a traditional Spanish shoe style, espadrilles also happen to be perennially stylish, versatile, and comfortable too.

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Turrón in Barcelona

book2sail-turron barcelona

Source: Mantel a Cuadros

With a museum dedicated to chocolate, one can say that Barcelona is a city with a sweet tooth. There is certainly a large variety of sweet treats to choose from and one is surely bound to be spoils for choice. However, if we can suggest…do bring back home a few slabs of turrón from La Campana. The renowned confectionery has been making this scrumptious Spanish nougat since 1890 and has as result become synonymous with Barcelona.

book2sail-la campana

Source: Lla Barcelona D’abans, D’avui I de sempre – Blogger

The renowned confectionery has been making this scrumptious Spanish nougat since 1890 and has as result become synonymous with BarcelonaTurrón is a must at any Christmas meal in Spain but it can (luckily) be purchased all year round from La Campana. It is worth noting that only high-quality ingredients such as Marcona almonds and Romero honey are used to produce La Campana turrón.

Why Buy: It’s delicious.

Paella Pan in Valencia

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Source: My Recipes

Sadly, it is not feasible to bring back home a big pan of delicious paella, but you can bring back the next best thing: the paella pan. You can find paella pans just about everywhere in Valencia but if your sailing schedule permits it, we recommend veering away from the touristy areas and instead try searching for a neighborhood market where the locals get their house ware.

Why Buy: So that you can impress your friends with your amazing cooking skills (or so we hope, at least).

Ceramics in Malaga

book2sail-malaga alfajar

Source: Alfajar

If your sailing trip shall be taking you to Malaga and you have some time to wander around the city, we recommend picking up a few ceramic pieces to take home with you. The production of clay objects is intrinsically linked to the origins of the city itself and has grown exponentially over the years to encompass a large variety of objects ranging from tiles to items intended for domestic use. We think that Artesanía Alfajar is doing an excellent job of showcasing both traditional styles but more contemporary designs too, all produced by local artisans and craftspeople.

Why Buy: Because it’s unique and you would be contributing directly to the live hood of local craftspeople.

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.