Balearic government opens proceedings against Lista Séptima and Airbnb for irregular yacht rentals, despite increased inspections. Digital platforms continue offering luxury routes in coves of Ibiza, Formentera, and Menorca for thousands of euros. Clash between state and regional regulations keeps activity in legal gray area.
Charter skippers in the Balearic Islands denounce trespassing by luxury yacht ads on platforms like Airbnb, operating without tourist licenses. Eva Cokes, owner of a family charter firm in Sant Antoni de Portmany, states: “Balears has dragged for years an oversupply of nautical charter and high level of trespassing”.
In 2025, the central government amended the Maritime Navigation Ordinance Regulation to allow private vessels to operate for profit up to three months a year. Weeks later, the Balearic executive approved Decree 44/2025, effectively banning 'nautical Airbnb' in regional ports and requiring Lista Sexta registration for tourist rentals.
The Superior Court of Justice of the Balearic Islands dismissed a precautionary appeal by the Lista Séptima Vessel Owners Association, emphasizing the “strong public interest” of the regional rule. Government sources confirm two preliminary proceedings against Lista Séptima and one against Airbnb.
Lista Séptima argues that the Directorate General of the Merchant Marine authorizes these rentals across Spain and that the Balearic decree invades state powers. The business alliance claims state rules will eliminate irregular Lista 7ª rentals and generate public revenue, operating in state and private Balearic ports.
