Palma's residents raise the alarm: party boats are ruining our paradise!

Palma's residents raise the alarm: party boats are ruining our paradise!

In the harbor district of Palma, the capital of Mallorca, the situation is described by residents as “Sodom and Gomorrah”. This drastic description is part of a growing protest against excessive tourism and the excesses associated with it. Residents report intolerable conditions, ranging from noise and garbage to urinating in the bushes. In particular, the party boats that are anchored in the bay are a big problem. Waste from these boats often ends up directly in the sea and contributes to environmental pollution. These conditions not only affect the living standards of local residents, but also the city's image, indicating long-lasting consequences for tourism. The residents are therefore urgently calling for measures to curb mass tourism and have, among other things, called for the immediate relocation or suspension of tourist activities.

In May 2024, the neighborhood association had already sounded the alarm in an open letter. This happened at a time when thousands of people on the island were protesting against mass tourism under the slogan “Let’s say that’s it!” and “Mallorca is not for sale!”. The protesters blame the increasing number of visitors and the increase in holiday apartments for the worsening housing shortage and dangerous pollution.

A comprehensive catalog of measures

Mayor Jaime Martínez of Palma has responded to the criticism and presented a catalog of measures to restrict tourism. This includes limiting the number of holidaymakers, rental cars, cruise ships and holiday apartments. Another noteworthy element is the proposal to introduce a double fee for cruise vacationers and to impose a total ban on alcohol on public streets, especially on Playa de Palma. These measures aim to improve the quality of life of local residents and reduce the negative effects of mass tourism.

However, some of the proposals require the approval of other authorities, such as the Island Council and the Government of the Balearic Islands. The measures that can be implemented immediately include a ban on new guest beds in private holiday rentals and higher penalties for establishments that cause excessive pollution. It remains to be seen whether these measures will have the desired effect.

Tragic incidents and increased crime

In addition to the problems of over-tourism, there have also been recent tragic incidents that have raised awareness of the dangers in the area. A restaurant on Ballermann collapsed, killing four people, including two young women from Germany. During the investigation, it emerged that the restaurant did not have an operating license for its balcony terrace. Such events have increased residents' concerns about their safety and the safety of tourists.

Given the ongoing problems and the city administration's inadequate response, the pressure on those responsible is increasing. Residents and activists hope that their voices will be heard and that real changes will occur to make life in Palma worth living again.

Further information and background information on these developments can be found in the reports from Watson and daily news.