May 12th 2024.
As the clock strikes 9:30pm, the party scene in some holiday destinations in Spain takes a sudden halt. In an attempt to improve their reputation, certain areas such as Llucmajor, Palma, Calvia, and Sant Antoni have implemented a new alcohol ban. This ban prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages from 9:30pm until 8am the following day. So, no more stocking up on drinks before the curfew and continuing the fun throughout the night. These new rules also mean that you can't just take your drinks to the streets and continue the partying, as it is not allowed during these designated times.
But wait, there's more. If you were thinking of taking the party to a boat, you might want to think twice. A law passed in 2020 states that party boats are not allowed to operate within one nautical mile of the designated areas. This strict regulation is aimed at curbing rowdy behavior caused by excessive drinking. The Balearic government is investing a whopping £14 million to ensure the success of this project. They are focused on improving inspections, safety measures, and promoting responsible tourism in these popular resort areas.
The ban on alcohol is not a temporary one, as officials have stated that it will remain in effect until 2027. The hope is that this law will change people's attitudes towards these destinations, which have gained a reputation as party islands. Luis Pomar, from the Balearic Islands Tourism Council, expressed his desire for the law to become unnecessary, as people learn to behave responsibly while on vacation.
The implementation of this ban may have a significant impact on the resort towns, as off-licenses will not be open at all during the designated hours. The government has clarified that the correct interpretation of the law means that all commercial establishments must be closed between 9:30pm and 8am the next day, not just the alcohol display cases. This means that even if you're not looking for alcohol, it may be challenging to find a store that is open during these hours.
As part of the crackdown, bar crawls are also under strict supervision. Tourists who are excessively drunk may face a fine of €3,000 for causing a public nuisance or engaging in antisocial behavior. This strict enforcement also extends to all-inclusive resorts, where drinks will no longer be unlimited. Guests will now be limited to six alcoholic beverages per day, three with lunch and three with dinner. This change applies to popular party areas such as El Arenal, Playa de Palma, Magaluf, and San Antonio in Ibiza.
Visitors to these areas should be aware of these new regulations, as it may affect their vacation plans. Extra drinks can still be purchased at hotels in these locations, but they will not be included in the all-inclusive package. So, it's essential to do your research before traveling to these destinations. Do you have any experiences to share? We would love to hear from you, so please feel free to email us.
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