British tourists 'abandoning' holiday destination over price hikes

A surge in prices on a tourist island favoured by sun-loving Brits has led many to 'abandon' the destination. Majorca's tourism sector is facing a crisis due to escalating marina costs, which are reportedly driving tourists away in large numbers.

The increase has impacted the multi-million pound yacht industry, according to one industry leader, with Majorca's ports having traditionally been used by these vessels for leisurely trips. However, a senior figure has warned of potential economic repercussions for the Spanish island, as spiralling costs lead many pleasure seekers to abandon the ports.

Alex Casares stated that smaller yacht operators were finding it most difficult to meet the rising costs, while larger vessels "have no economic problems.

"Yachts are leaving Majorca because of the high price of marinas," the president of the Association for the Nautical Development of Businesses and the Self-Employed told Majorca Daily Bulletin. "This especially affects boats between 15 and 30 metres in length," he added.

His remarks follow a series of protests on the island over concerns about the impact of over-tourism. Thousands marched through Palma, the island's capital, in July to protest against the effects of mass tourism, reports the Mirror.

One political party even called on officials to reduce the number of beds available for tourists by 40% and impose a limit on annual visitor numbers.

The ADNEA president has warned that price surges, as reported by Express.co.uk, are putting Majorca at risk of losing its esteemed position as a nautical hub, with costs soaring by up to 30% in recent times. This leaves the Balearic island vulnerable amid increasing competition from other Mediterranean destinations such as Catalonia