Sailing in Palamós is one of the most exciting experiences you can live in the Costa Brava. Its calm waters, rocky landscapes, postcard-perfect coves and easy access from the Port Marina make it a perfect destination for beginners and experienced sailors alike. However, although sailing may seem simple, many users -especially those renting a boat for the first time- make mistakes that can ruin the experience or even compromise safety.
In this guide we take a closer look at the most common mistakes when sailing around Palamós and explain how to avoid them so that you can enjoy the sea with peace of mind, safety and confidence. Whether you rent a licensed or unlicensed boat, these tips will help you get the most out of your outing.
Failure to check the weather forecast and wind forecast
One of the most frequent mistakes is to go sailing without checking the weather forecast, and especially the strength of the wind. The wind is the factor that most influences sailing on the Costa Brava, and Palamós is no exception. In the summer months, the tramuntana can surprise sailors even when the day seems clear.
If you are renting a boat, it is essential to check apps such as Windy or Meteocat, as they show wind direction and intensity in time slots. A wind of more than 12-14 knots can already be uncomfortable for small boats without a license, while more powerful boats, such as the Calion 730, can sail with greater stability.
If you rent a boat with Rent Boats Costa Brava, we will inform you in person about the best times of the day to sail and the most protected areas. Knowing the forecast is key to avoid unnecessary surprises.
Failure to plan the route before sailing
A classic mistake, especially among those renting a boat for the first time, is to go out to sea without knowing where to go. Palamós has two main areas: the northern route and the southern route, and each has very different coves, sailing times and characteristics.
If you do not plan the route:
- You may spend more fuel than necessary.
- You may take too long to reach your destination.
- You may end up in areas with stronger waves or wind.
- You can miss some of the best coves.
The northern route is usually ideal for unlicensed boats:
- S’Alguer Cove
- Cala Estreta
- La Fosca
- Margarida Cove
- Cala Golfet
The southern route is more suitable for licensed boats with more power, such as the Calion 197 Leros or the Trimarchi 57S, due to the distance:
- Sant Antoni
- S’Agaró
- Cala del Pi
- Futadera Cove
- Giverola Cove
Planning your tour saves you time and ensures that you see the best of the area.
Failure to respect bathing areas and limits for approaching the coastline
This mistake can not only generate danger, but also important sanctions. In summer, the coast of Palamós has long yellow lines that delimit the bathing area. No boat can enter this area, and you must always keep a safe distance.
The most common errors are:
- Getting too close to the beach.
- Sailing near bathers when leaving or entering the port.
- Do not reduce speed in areas with other vessels.
It is essential to stay outside the yellow buoys, always respect the swimmers and follow the port’s indications during entry and exit.
Anchoring improperly or in prohibited areas
Anchoring is one of the points where most mistakes are made. Many users do not know where and how to anchor correctly in the Costa Brava.
Common errors:
- Anchoring on posidonia, something totally forbidden.
- Not leaving enough line for anchoring.
- Anchoring too close to other vessels.
- Do not check if the anchor has gripped properly.
In coves such as Cala Estreta, Cala S’Alguer or Cala Margarida, the bottom is rocky or mixed, which requires special attention. Bad anchoring can cause the boat to shift or even damage the hull.
At Rent Boats Costa Brava we always explain the ideal anchoring areas and the correct technique to do it safely.
→ Complete guide to anchoring in Palamós
Overloading of the boat or poor weight distribution
Something seemingly insignificant can change everything: weight distribution. Sailing with too many people in the bow, or carrying heavy luggage accumulated in one area of the ship, can affect:
- Stability
- Maneuverability
- Consumption
- The speed
Unlicensed boats, such as the Trimarchi 53s or the Remus 450, are designed for a very specific weight. Putting six people sitting on the bow, for example, can cause the boat to sail “sunk”, reducing its maneuverability.
The rule is simple:
evenly distributed weight + moderate load = stable and comfortable sailing.
Not knowing how to interpret sea signals
Even if the day is clear, the sea may show signs that indicate upcoming changes. Some common mistakes are:
- Ignore the progressive increase in waves.
- Do not observe the movement of other vessels.
- Do not recognize sudden changes in wind direction.
Inexperienced sailors tend to rely only on what they see at the time. But in Palamós, the tramuntana can enter in a matter of minutes.
If you notice that “borreguitos” (white foam ridges) start to appear, it is time to return to Palamós before the swell increases.
Failure to keep a safe distance from other vessels
It is surprisingly common for some users to get too close to other boats, either out of inexperience, trying to get a closer look at a cove or following other boats.
You should always keep a safe distance because:
- The swell generated by one ship can destabilize another.
- Many patterns slow down or turn unexpectedly.
- In small areas, any movement can produce an unintended shock.
Safe navigation begins with respect for others.
Failure to properly use the bimini top, sundeck or boat equipment
Although they may seem like minor details, using the boat’s elements correctly promotes comfort and safety:
- Raising the bimini in strong winds can damage it.
- Failure to secure the solarium cushions may cause them to fly off.
- Failure to close compartments causes personal items to get wet.
On board, everything must be insured.
Failure to ask for clear explanations before setting sail
At Rent Boats Costa Brava we always take the time to explain:
- How to start and stop the engine.
- How to anchor.
- How to calculate distances.
- What areas to avoid.
- How to return to the port.
But some novice skippers don’t ask as many questions as they should.
If in doubt, ask. It’s better to spend an extra 5 minutes at the dock than to make a mistake at sea.
Sailing in Palamós is easy… if you know what to avoid.
Making mistakes is normal, especially if it is your first time sailing. But knowing the most common ones and knowing how to avoid them allows you to enjoy the sea with total peace of mind.
Choosing the right boat, planning the route, checking the wind, anchoring correctly and respecting other boats are the pillars of safe sailing in Palamós.
In Rent Boats Costa Brava we accompany you from the first minute so that you live an unforgettable experience, safe and adapted to your needs.
If you have any doubts about which boat to choose or which route to follow, you can write us directly by WhatsApp or call us: we will be happy to help you.
