The ‘Ley de Puertos’ that governs the ports and surrounding areas in the ports under the direct control of the Spanish state (not those under Balearic control) have announced an increase in port taxes.
The law came into effect on the 1st January 2004 and when finally approved by ministers responsible can be retroactively applied.
These increases have brought swift condemnation from the clubs and companies within this jurisdiction.
The local nautical companies’ group, APEAM, have calculated that this could mean an increase in costs of between 13O - 140%.
Alberto Pons, manager of Real Club Nautico Palma has quoted a possible price hike for their members of around 75% and added, “We are returning to the old days when only the rich can have yachts”.
This new taxation regime will affect some of the biggest and most prestigious marinas throughout Spain and locally those within the ports of Palma; Alcudia; Mahon; Ibiza and La Savina (Formentera).
The estimates of the new taxes are 34.66 Euros/m2/year against the old tax of 16.34 Euros/m2/ year. (These vary from port to port). There is an incentive of a 20% discount for early payment.