Head family in Ibiza

We had an early start leaving Ibiza as the ferries and cruiser liners were all arriving, we had force 3-5 north easterly winds all morning but when the wind then dropped it was an uncomfortable afternoon motoring with the a heavy swell and with no wind it was baking hot, but I did find a new spot to relax in.

Yes that is Amanda lying on the up turned dingy

With the swell running onto the east coast of Ibiza we started to get concerned about where we could find shelter knowing that the Alan, Karen & Dan were staying in Es Cana on the east coast.

We tucked in behind Tagomago which is an island just of the coast with not much other than a light house.  We were protected by the swell but the water was deep and bottom weedy so the holding was poor. There were around 10 other sailing boats (mainly charter boats) and we were all very amused when one launched pirates in their dingy to “arrhhaaa” their way around the anchorage. 

Pirates ahoy

We were pleased to be just a few miles away from Es Cana and it felt strange knowing Alan, Karen & Dan were so close.

Leaving Tagomago

Next morning we motored to Es Cana, manoeuvred our way into the shallow Cala, dropped anchor and we could see them waiting on the quayside. We quickly launched the dingy and Mark rowed over to collect them, Alan was still to perfect rowing on the way back.

Mark, Alan, Karen & Dan heading to board Magnum

With not much wind we sailed a few miles along the coast to Cala Boix to anchor, this provided enough shelter from the remaining swell.  We had a fantastic day swimming and snorkelling off the boat, the rocks made for some great snorkelling and Dan was like a fish! He loved the water and was also fast becoming an expert at diving off the boat.

We headed back to drop them off to the comfort of their hotel (ohh for a long shower with unlimited water) and although we had to motor due to the lack of wind it did mean that the anchorage was sheltered. We decided if we laid a stern anchor we would prevent ourselves swinging near the shallow reef and we would be safe to stay here for the night.

The next day we took advantage of Alan’s car and did a big supermarket shop which is always appreciated.  We then spent our time between Magnum and relaxing on the beach at Es Cana. On one trip back to the boat, Alan, Karen and I went in the dingy whilst Dan and Mark swam, good swimming as Magnum as anchored about 800m off the shore.  It was nice to be settled for the day, Es Cana is quite a nice little resort and Alan treated us to a nice meal in the evening, lucky us.

Dan living it up at a beach side bar

Mark, Alan & Karen enjoying a glass of bubbly

Dan looking a little sleepy with Magnum the only boat anchored at Es Cana

With an easterly wind forecast we knew we could not stay at Es Cana for another day and we knew Dan was keen to get out on the boat again.  We picked Dan up in the dingy and sailed along the east coast towards Cala Llonga. Where Alan and Karen would meet us later by car.

Dan heading for a fun day out, Mark getting fit as always

Dan as always we keen to get involved, so Mark had him hauling the anchor chain, winching in the sails and generally letting us relax.

Can hauling anchor chain

We were really lucky in seeing a couple of dolphins and loads of flying fish which we kept disturbing.

We then decided we should stop the boat and let Dan have a swim in the deepest water he had been in – 42 metres, look at them go!

In 42 metres of water

We arrived at a quieter than expected Cala Llonga and anchored and Dan & I headed off to see some fish.  Not long after Alan and Karen arrived by car and came out to the boat for lunch and a dip.

Alan & Mark cooling off

Karen enjoying a dip

Dan was still launching himself in as many ways as possible from the boat.

Dan mid flight

It was then time to say goodbye, as they headed back to their hotel and we readied ourselves to head for Formentera.

Saying goodbye