José Luis, you’ve spent a lifetime connected to Club de Mar. Can you tell us about your personal relationship with the marina and your path to becoming its President?
“My connection with Club de Mar began when I was 14 years old. My father was the director of the club, and during the summers I worked here—often because I had failed an exam and he wanted to keep me busy. My first job was in the club’s ice plant, making ice for the boats. That was back in 1983 or 1984.
Over the years, I developed a deep love and passion for this place. In 2010, after working in different sectors, the board invited me to return as director of Club de Mar. It was a natural progression. Club de Mar has always been part of me, and I am proud to continue the legacy my father helped build.”
Club de Mar has recently undergone a major transformation. What are the key innovations you’ve introduced, and how do they reflect your vision for the future?
“The renovation of Club de Mar, which will officially open in 2025, is based on the idea of opening the marina to the city of Palma. We wanted to create a space that integrates seamlessly with the new Paseo Marítimo, transforming what used to be an isolated area into a vibrant part of the city.
This transformation includes new exclusive facilities for our members, with three interconnected buildings offering premium services such as a spa, kids’ club, and fine-dining restaurants. At the same time, we’ve opened public areas so that the community can enjoy this space—creating a unique balance between exclusivity and accessibility.
Another key innovation is our commitment to sustainability. We’ve implemented a state-of-the-art wastewater collection system to prevent any discharge into the sea. This is a crucial step in protecting our marine environment, and we are proud to be leading the way in this area.”
Sustainability is clearly a priority for Club de Mar. Can you elaborate on the environmental initiatives you’ve put in place?
“Of course. We’ve adopted a ‘follow, not lead’ approach when it comes to sustainability. We prefer to implement proven solutions rather than risk untested technologies. That said, we’re at the forefront of many environmental practices.
One of our most important initiatives is the installation of a vacuum system to collect wastewater from boats of all sizes, ensuring that nothing is discharged into the sea. We’ve also prioritized selective waste collection, installed solar panels, and introduced water-saving measures.
In addition, we’re working to secure approval for a desalination plant. This would allow us to use seawater for cleaning boats, reducing our dependence on fresh water and helping conserve Mallorca’s limited water resources.”
The nautical tourism sector is key to Mallorca’s economy. How do you see this sector evolving over the next decade?
“Mallorca has established itself as a hub for luxury nautical tourism, and I believe this trend will continue. However, I think we’ll see a shift toward more sustainable practices and a focus on experiences rather than size. The days of building ever-larger yachts may be coming to an end. Instead, we’ll see greater emphasis on comfort, efficiency, and reducing environmental impact.
With the new Club de Mar, we aim to lead this transformation. We offer our members and visitors an experience that goes beyond mooring their boats. We want them to discover Mallorca’s cultural, culinary, and natural richness, fostering a more conscious and higher-value form of tourism.”
What makes Club de Mar unique compared to other marinas in the Mediterranean?
“The new Club de Mar is much more than a marina; it’s a symbol of the new Mallorca. We’ve cultivated an atmosphere of exclusivity and privacy that attracts high-profile visitors who want to enjoy their time here without drawing attention.
Our members value discretion and the feeling of being at home. We ensure their needs are met with exceptional service. The tranquility, security, and privacy we offer are unmatched.
Moreover, the renovation of Club de Mar includes a focus on sustainability and integration with the local community. This sets us apart from many other commercial marinas in the Mediterranean and strengthens our commitment to the island and its environment.”
What message would you like to share with premium travelers who will watch this documentary on Lufthansa?
“Mallorca is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, Club de Mar provides a unique experience. We’ve created a space where you can relax, enjoy world-class services, and explore the beauty of the Balearic Islands.
We invite you to discover the new Club de Mar in 2025. From our exclusive kids’ club and spa to our fine-dining restaurants and event spaces, there’s something for everyone. We’re here to make your stay unforgettable—whether you’re mooring your yacht or simply enjoying the facilities.
Mallorca is more than a destination; it’s a way of life. And at Club de Mar, we’re proud to be part of that lifestyle.”