How did the fishing port of Cala Ratjada actually came about? Cala Ratjada was originally founded in the 17th century by the inhabitants of Capdepera as a small fishing settlement. For many years, the inhabitants used the fishing harbour to go out to sea day after day. They returned with freshly caught crayfish and rays.
A fishing village becomes a popular holiday resort
As the development of the tourism industry accelerated in the late 1960s, Cala Ratjada became more and more a popular and important holiday resort. Today, Cala Ratjada is one of the most popular holiday destinations on Mallorca.
Harbour and promenade
The once small fishing harbour has developed over the years into an impressive marina. It also offers space for sports boats, sailing boats, pleasure boats and, of course, yachts. Despite the changes, the harbour of Cala Ratjada has remained in its original form. It impresses both locals and tourists with its traditional, Mediterranean character. You can watch the fishermen at work here, climb the harbour wall and let a fresh sea breeze blow around your nose. Or you can decide to take a walk along the promenade and stop off at one of the restaurants there.
History of the crayfish houses
On the harbour promenade you can still see the so-called crayfish houses. These white angular buildings were used by fishermen to keep their fresh catch alive in large seawater tanks until it was sold. These crayfish houses are historic buildings and are now classified as historical monuments. The port of Cala Ratjada is still one of the most important fishing port on Mallorca besides Palma.