Habaneras in Port de Sóller: Weekend Sailor Songs by the Bay

This weekend, old Cuban seafaring songs fill the air above Port de Sóller once again. Bands perform from boats, the audience listens on the beach — and for Palma locals there's a cheap train transfer.

Music on boats, listening pleasure on the beach

When on Saturday and Sunday evenings the sun slowly sinks behind the Tramuntana, something special is happening in Port de Sóller again: habaneras, the nostalgic seafaring songs from Cuba, are played from the water. The ensembles sit on small boats and sail slowly through the bay, so you can listen relaxedly from Playa d’en Repic. Sometimes it sounds as if the voices come directly from above the water — almost cinematic, to be honest.

Atmosphere reminiscent of earlier times

The mood is completely relaxed: blankets on the sand, a few lanterns, children still building sandcastles and older ladies with cheese sandwiches on their laps. There is no huge stage, no barriers — only musicians, boats and listeners. Some of the songs are immediately recognizable; others belong more to the margins of memory: slow, slightly melancholic melodies about sailors, long journeys and returning home. When a refrain sounds, many start humming and some even join in loudly.

The whole spectacle lasts several hours; ideal is to arrive early to grab a place on the beach. In the evenings a cool breeze often ensures comfortable temperatures — at this time of year around 20–23 °C are typical, and the scent of pine needles and salty air belongs to it.

Arrival: The red train and the tram

For all those who come from Palma and don't want to drive: The red train to Sóller offers a special price on one of the evenings. A connection at 18:30 is popular; you pay a flat rate of around 12 euros and travel comfortably to the town. From there the historic tram rolls directly to the harbor — a nice addition to the evening planning. The return trip is organized: around midnight TIB buses back toward Palma, ideal for night owls who do not have to get home too late.

Practical information and small tips

If you go, bring a light jacket; it can get a bit cooler on the water. Snacks and drinks are offered on the beach, but if you prefer something specific, better bring it yourself. Taking photos is allowed; however: staying quiet pays off. The concerts are open to visitors of all ages and are suitable for family outings.

If you are curious or want to check concrete departure times, it's worth looking at the information page of the town of Sóller. There you'll usually find times, map information and notes about possible changes.

Why it's so beautiful

Such evenings are a small piece of locally lived culture: no big show, no sponsor overdose, but music that simply exists and fills the bay. For locals and visitors alike it's a chance to unwind — ideal if you want to experience something unexpected after a day at the sea.

So if you're in the mood for maritime sounds and a relaxed evening: pack a blanket, come early to Playa d’en Repic, and let the habaneras drift over the water. It feels like a small time travel — only with sea view.