Religious festivals & traditions
Virgen del Carmen: Mallorca's boat processions on 16 July
Dozens of decorated fishing boats accompany the statue of the Virgin Mary out to the open sea, while hooting horns and brass bands fill the harbour.
Festive atmosphere on the water: the Mare de Déu del Carme boat procession in July.
Quick answers
What is the Virgen del Carmen?
The Virgen del Carmen (Catalan: Mare de Déu del Carme, Our Lady of Mount Carmel) is the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. On her feast day, 16 July, her statue is lifted onto a decorated boat in Mallorca's coastal towns and accompanied out to sea by a fleet of fishing boats. The largest and most accessible procession takes place in Port de Sóller.
Fixed date July
Quick facts
- When
- 16 July (some harbours on the nearest weekend), processions mostly in the evening
- Where
- Port de Sóller, Port d'Andratx, Portocolom, Cala Ratjada, Port de Pollença, Colònia de Sant Jordi
- Duration
- Mass in the afternoon, boat procession in the evening
- Admission
- free
- Who it's for
- Families, photographers, coastal holidaymakers
- Special feature
- A procession on the water rather than in the street
- Date rule
- The feast day is 16 July; some harbours move the procession to the nearest weekend.
Note on currency of information
This information is updated before each season, in particular start times for each harbour and the supporting programme on land.
Location: Port de Sóller, Port d'Andratx, Portocolom, Cala Ratjada, Port de Pollença, Colònia de Sant Jordi.
What happens during the procession?
After Mass in the harbour church, the statue of the Virgin Mary is carried to the quay and lifted on board the lead boat. Then the fleet sets out: fishing boats, excursion boats and private yachts head out in convoy, accompanied by hooting horns and a brass band on the quay.
Out at sea, wreaths of flowers are laid on the water in memory of sailors lost at sea. The fleet then returns, and in many harbours a harbour festival with stalls and music follows.
Where is the procession most impressive?
The harbours differ greatly in setting and audience. These six are the most relevant.
- Port de Sóller: almost circular bay, plenty of spots for spectators by the water, the largest event on the island
- Port d'Andratx: smaller, maritime in character, a genuine fishing tradition
- Portocolom: quiet and authentic, not very touristy
- Cala Ratjada: active fishing port in the north-east, good views from the harbour walkway
- Port de Pollença: wide bay, the best photo opportunities in the evening light
- Colònia de Sant Jordi: small, intimate setting in the south
Conclusion: where should you go?
Port de Sóller offers the grandest setting and the best infrastructure for spectators, including getting there on the historic tram. If you prefer something more traditional, go to Portocolom or Colònia de Sant Jordi.
Can you go along on a boat?
Officially, boats from the fishermen's associations and invited guests take part. Some excursion operators take passengers out on the day – this is up to the local boat companies and must be requested in advance.
Tips for your visit
- Secure a spot on the quay early, especially in Port de Sóller.
- Sun protection for the afternoon: you will be waiting in the blazing sun before the procession.
- In Sóller, take the tram to the port – there is no hope of finding a parking space that evening.
- After the procession, harbour bars and restaurants stay open late – book a table in advance.
Who is it worthwhile for?
Good for:
- Families
- Photographers
- Anyone looking for a festival right where they are staying
Less suitable for:
- Anyone who avoids crowds on the quay
- Those prone to seasickness, if going on a boat
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Frequently asked questions
When is the Virgen del Carmen on Mallorca?
The feast day is 16 July every year. In some harbours the procession is moved to the nearest weekend.
Where is the boat procession at its best?
Port de Sóller has the grandest setting and the best spots for spectators. Portocolom and Colònia de Sant Jordi are quieter and more traditional.
Can you go on one of the boats yourself?
The fleet is made up of boats from the fishermen's associations and invited guests. Some excursion operators take passengers along; this must be requested in advance.
Is there a supporting programme on land?
Yes, in most harbours a harbour festival with stalls, music and sometimes fireworks follows in the evening.
Next steps
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