Minister Lafuente emphasizes that inspection pressure and coordination against unauthorized activity "are essential to protect companies that comply with regulations"

The Balearic Islands Government has conducted a day of monitoring and inspection of nautical activity in Port d'Andratx, one of the busiest maritime hubs during the summer season. The operation focused particularly on detecting potential illegal charter services and verifying that vessels are operating in accordance with regulations.

The Minister of the Sea and the Water Cycle, Juan Manuel Lafuente; the Mayor of Andratx, Estefanía Gonzalvo; and the Director General of Ports and Maritime Transport, Antoni Mercant, have followed the development of the action and have learned firsthand about the work carried out by the professionals of the Coastal Surveillance, Inspection and Control Service.

Lafuente emphasized that the increased inspections reflect the Government's commitment to businesses and professionals operating legally. "We cannot allow those who break the rules to compete on a level playing field with those who fulfill their obligations, have the necessary permits, and offer all guarantees to users," he stated.

The regional minister added that combating illegal chartering requires a combination of on-the-ground surveillance, processing of cases, and coordination between different government agencies. “The goal is not only to detect infractions, but also to consolidate a model in which nautical activity is carried out in an orderly and safe manner, with the same rules for everyone,” he stated.

The event held in Andratx is part of the schedule of actions that the Balearic Government carries out during the peak months for nautical activity in the ports and coastal areas of the Balearic Islands. The inspections allow for the verification of vessel documentation and permits, professional qualifications, and the conditions under which rental or passenger transport services are provided.

This action is also part of the cross-cutting strategy promoted by the Balearic Government through the Balearic Islands' Roundtable for Combating Unfair Competition. This body fosters collaboration between public administrations, social partners, and economic sectors to identify illegal practices, improve information sharing, and coordinate prevention and control measures.

In the nautical field, this coordination is especially relevant to combat unfair competition and protect a professional sector that generates economic activity and employment and that is subject to specific requirements in terms of safety, authorizations and environmental protection.

The Coastal Surveillance, Inspection, and Control Service has 22 operational vessels deployed across the islands this season. The service carries out scheduled operations and also responds to reports of potential irregularities in maritime activity.

The operation is complemented by the eighth campaign against illegal yacht chartering. During 2025, 162 sanctioning proceedings were initiated for infractions related to maritime transport and boat rental, with proposed fines totaling €471.600. In the first months of 2026, 35 proceedings had already been initiated, with proposed fines exceeding €92.000.

Citizens, local councils and professionals in the sector can report possible irregularities by emailing vigilancia@portsib.es , providing photographs, videos, locations or any other information that facilitates the intervention of the inspectors.