Balearic buoy fields face checks by trained boat crews

Palma, Mallorca: PortsIB staff are to train to take boats beyond the Balearic Islands’ regional ports and inspect buoy fields and anchoring areas. The Balearic Ministry of the Sea and Water Cycle announced its agreement with the Directorate-General of the Merchant Marine on Tuesday, 3 November 2026. The checks will also cover other installations at sea.

Training for checks beyond the ports

The plan covers port managers, quay guards and coastal surveillance staff. The Directorate-General will set the classroom and practical requirements, taking account of the boats they will use and the work they need to do.

Staff will learn navigation, communications, safety at sea and boat handling at approved or recognised centres. PortsIB will pay for the courses. Those without recognised prior training will take courses and complete practical work; staff who already hold nautical qualifications may have some or all of their training recognised.

A certificate for PortsIB boats only

The Directorate-General will issue a certificate allowing staff to handle PortsIB boats on duty. It will not be a professional Merchant Marine qualification, and it will be valid for five years while the holder works for PortsIB.

The agreement runs for four years, with an option to extend it for another four. Both administrations will oversee its rollout together. The detailed training plan and courses have yet to be finalised.

Topics: Sea & coast

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com