Palma: The Other Side of the Med Season
Refit yards, agencies and crew life in Mallorca, and when Palma beats Antibes for finding work.
Why Palma
A huge refit and yard industry means work exists in winter and spring when the French Riviera is quiet. Many crew base here from January to May.
Where the work is
STP and the surrounding yards, Club de Mar, Puerto Portals and Port Adriano. Yard periods generate steady day work: washdowns, teak, varnish and interior deep cleans.
Agencies and networks
Several major agencies have Palma offices. Crew Facebook and WhatsApp groups move faster than job boards for day work.
Living costs
Generally lower than Antibes, with better long-term rental options if you plan to stay a full winter.
Timing
Arrive February to March for the refit rush and to be in place before summer crew hiring peaks in April.
The trade-off
Fewer guests-on trips means fewer tips but far more technical learning. For crew who want to understand how a yacht actually works, a Palma winter is worth more than a quiet summer.