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+34Arrival by boat Entry formalities
Clearance
European vessels with only European nationals on board don’t need to take any action. Non-EU vessels and/or non-European nationals must report to Customs immediately upon arrival at the port of entry.
Visa & Immigration
Spain Visa Application Centres
Other ressources
Noonsite.com maintains an updated worldwide database of formalities for pleasure crafts. Click here for more details.
Weather & Navigation
Spain’s coastline, stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean shores, features two distinct wind systems. The Atlantic coast is known for its cooler climate and rich marine ecosystems, while the Mediterranean coast enjoys a warmer, drier climate. Here are several local factors that influence the wind system, currents, and weather surrounding Spain:
Atmospheric pressure systems: The Azores High and the Icelandic Low pressure systems, along with their seasonal shifts, greatly influence the region’s climate and winds.
Regional climate factors: The Sahara’s heat, European cold fronts, and regional wind systems collectively contribute to the area’s complex weather phenomena.
Thermohaline circulation: Variations in temperature and salinity between the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters create ocean currents that influence regional climate patterns.
Prevailing winds of the Balearic Sea
Mistral (Maestral)
Originating from the north, the Mistral is a strong, cold wind that sweeps down the Rhone Valley into the Mediterranean. Known for its gusty nature, it can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h (56 mph).
Sirocco
The Sirocco is a warm, dry wind that originates from the Sahara Desert, bringing with it dusty air. This wind typically appears in the spring and summer months, creating humid conditions and hazy skies.
Tramontana
This northern wind flows down from the mountains of northern Italy, over the Ligurian Sea. The Tramontana is characterised by its dry, cool air and is often associated with clear skies. It typically blows during the winter months.
Levante
Originating from the east, the Levante is a humid wind that brings moisture to the Western Mediterranean. This wind can be gentle or strong and is known for its tendency to cause cloudy weather and occasional rain.
Prevailing winds of the Atlantic coast
Alisios (Trade winds)
These winds are consistent and blow from the northeast, starting from the longitude of the Canary Islands. They typically occur year-round.
Poniente
This wind blows from the west, originating over the Atlantic Ocean with it mild, moist air. The Poniente is most noticeable during the summer months, often bringing some cloud cover leading to cooler temperatures.
Nordeste
This wind flows in from the northeast, and while it is less consistent than the trade winds, it can be quite strong at times. The Nordeste can bring cooler air and breezy conditions, particularly in the autumn and winter months.
Levante
Originating from the east, the Levante is a humid wind that brings moisture to the Atlantic coast. This wind can be gentle or strong and is known for its tendency to cause cloudy weather and occasional rain.
Currents in the Gibraltar Strait
Variations in temperature and salinity between the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters create a strong current that originates in the Strait of Gibraltar. The denser, more saline Mediterranean water forms a distinct outflow layer, sinking as it exits through the Strait. This creates a compensatory influx of Atlantic water and the formation of an eastward surface current.
Sailing itineraries in Spain
A brief maritime history of Spain
Long before the Romans set foot on the Iberian Peninsula, it was inhabited by diverse groups, including the Iberians and Celts, who left their marks in the form of ancient stone structures and burial sites. The early Iberians, skilled in agriculture and trade, thrived in the fertile lands, establishing communities that showcased their unique artistry and craftsmanship.
The Phoenicians arrived around the 9th century BCE, drawn by the promise of rich resources like silver and tin. They founded trading colonies, such as Gadir (modern Cádiz), which became a vibrant commercial hub. The Phoenician influence is still evident in the coastal towns, where remnants of their architecture and maritime culture linger.
Around the 3rd century BCE, the Carthaginians, descendants of the Phoenicians, took control of many coastal areas. Their military prowess, particularly during the Punic Wars against Rome, highlighted the strategic importance of the peninsula. As the dust of war settled, the Romans began their conquest in 218 BCE, and soon, Hispania became a vital part of the Roman Empire. The Roman impact was profound, with roads, aqueducts, and cities like Tarraco (Tarragona) flourishing under their rule.
As the Roman Empire began to wane, the Visigoths swept in during the 5th century CE, establishing their own kingdom and leaving behind traces of their governance and culture. This era, though brief, set the stage for the arrival of the Moors in the 8th century, who ushered in a golden age of cultural and scientific advancements. The stunning Alhambra in Granada stands as a symbol of this remarkable period, showcasing intricate architecture that blends Islamic art with local influences.
The coexistence of Muslims, Christians, and Jews in medieval Spain led to a cultural flourishing, giving rise to renowned philosophers, poets, and scientists. It was here that scholars translated Greek and Arabic texts, preserving knowledge that would later fuel the Renaissance across Europe.
27-sweetwater
Mann
C-3PO
