Fecal contamination on the beaches of the Balearic Islands has doubled during 2025 compared to the previous year, in a context of a progressive and generalized decrease inquality of bathing watersThis is reflected in the Balearic Sea Report 2026, which is being launched this year with a new chapter. BeachesThis chapter analyzes the state and evolution of these spaces in the Canary Islands based on three key areas: the sanitary quality of bathing water, usage and density of people, and the pressure exerted by anchored vessels. The chapter reveals that the islands' beaches not only suffer a progressive decline in water quality but also endure increasing pressure from both bathers and boats. For the experts of the collaborative research project, it is essential to extend the monitoring of users and vessels to all the islands, as it is currently only carried out in Menorca, with the aim of improving the management of these spaces and guaranteeing both the conservation of marine ecosystems and a safe and satisfactory experience for users. The conclusions indicate that, although the overall values for quality and usage remain within normal parameters, the trend is toward worsening water quality and increased human and nautical pressure.

Five years ago we presented, with emotion and a touch of vertigo, the firstBalearic Sea Report in the Parliament of the Balearic Islands. It seemed like an almost impossible challenge: getting dozens of researchers from twenty-five institutions to work together to make the best scientific information available about our sea available to citizens and managers. Today, looking back, we can proudly say that not only have we overcome that challenge, but it has grown, consolidated, and improved over time.

The Platform Against Megacruise Ships has warned that a technical report prepared by a security inspector at the port of Palma warns of the "risk" posed by docking and departure maneuvers by large cruise ships.