The sector asks Ports IB special rates on buoy fields for boats based in the Balearics

The Association of Nautical Sports Facilities of the Balearic Islands (ANADE), the Association of Yacht Clubs of the Balearic Islands (ACNB) and Associated Marinas of the Balearic Islands (PDBA), have submitted a proposal to Ports IB to improve the management of buoy fields.

These three associations, representing the yacht clubs and marinas of the Balearic Islands, have drawn up a four-point proposal taking into account that Ports IB manages the buoy fields following Decree 25/2018, which is the decree for the conservation of posidonia in the Balearic Islands. And this regulation prioritizes the conservation of the species over economic criteria and maritime safety.

For this reason, these entities are asking to sign an agreement with Ports IB so that all vessels based in the Balearic Islands have a special rate. It should be remembered that the rates currently applied at these anchoring points, depending on the length, are 100 times more expensive than the rates in the Cabrera Natural Park, for example. "It is not possible that Ports IB was given competition and that suddenly the rates were increased by 21%", they comment.

Furthermore, in relation to the safety of boats moored in these buoy fields, they request an increase in the maximum wind threshold, which is currently 10 knots, for which the management company assumes responsibility in the event of accidents. 

They also ask that when designing the buoy fields, the opinion of the users be taken into account, in order to ensure that they are better adapted to the needs of each area.

And finally, they ask that the booking and payment system be made easier, giving the option, for example, of paying both in advance and on the spot, in cash or by credit card. This was possible a few years ago and facilitated access to the buoy fields for users. 

In addition to the associations that have submitted these proposals, other entities such as the Federation of Nautical Associations for Environmental Issues (FANMED), the Nautical Charter Commission (CHÁRTER-APEAM), the Spanish Association of Tall Ships (AEGY) and the Association of Mediterranean Yachtsmen have joined the letter. 

"It is important for the users and good for the protection of the seabed, that since this infrastructure is available, all the means are put in place for its use", the organizations point out.