The Balearic Islands government has enforced stricter rules on late-night alcohol sales to curb anti-social behaviour.
- A prohibition on alcohol sales between 9.30 pm and 8 am has been applied in Majorca and Ibiza’s ‘excessive tourism’ areas.
- The decree modifies previous laws by forbidding public alcohol consumption in certain zones, excluding bars and legal venues.
- Party boats are restricted from operating within one nautical mile of affected destinations due to these enhanced regulations.
- €16 million will be allocated for law enforcement and public awareness campaigns in targeted resort areas.
The Balearic Islands, comprised of popular tourist destinations Majorca and Ibiza, have introduced more stringent regulations on late-night alcohol sales as a measure to reduce anti-social behaviour in areas deemed ‘excessive tourism’ hotspots. These regulations entail a prohibition on the sale of alcohol from 9.30 pm to 8 am, aiming to mitigate incidents related to alcohol consumption in these lively holiday locales.
A significant amendment to existing decrees now includes a ban on consuming alcohol in public thoroughfares within specified zones of Majorca and Ibiza. This new aspect of the law targets troublesome tourist areas, while allowing consumption in bars, restaurants, and appropriately sanctioned zones, thus not impacting businesses operating within legal confines.
Additionally, notable restrictions have been imposed on party boats. These vessels are now prohibited from sailing within one nautical mile of any of the designated tourist regions and are not allowed to pick up or drop off passengers in these areas. Such measures are designed to limit venues that contribute to excessive alcohol consumption and disorderly conduct.
The Balearic government is investing up to €16 million towards enforcing this ban, enhancing security measures, conducting inspections, and increasing tourist awareness regarding the new regulations. This financial commitment underscores the seriousness with which the authorities view the need to address these issues in affected areas.
Despite the intention behind these regulations, some local businesses express concern that such restrictions may drive tourists to adjacent resorts where these rules do not apply, potentially impacting local economies adversely. Yet, officials like Luis Pomar of the Balearic Islands tourism council, emphasise the success of prior legislations introduced in 2020 aimed at curbing anti-social behaviours. Pomar expresses optimism that in three to four years, such laws might become redundant if tourists adapt to behavioural expectations.
Another proactive step includes expanding a commission focused on promoting civility in tourism zones, including representatives from nations particularly associated with problematic tourist behaviour, namely the UK and Germany. This strategic inclusion aims to foster a shared responsibility in addressing the behavioural issues identified in tourists from these countries.
The enhanced regulations in the Balearics are part of a concerted effort to instil responsible tourism behaviours and mitigate disturbances in popular holiday destinations.
