A much-publicised crackdown on excessive holiday boozing has failed to have any noticeable impact, according to resort bosses. New regulations were introduced after consultation with the Balearic government, tour operators and local businesses.
Authorities in Majorca have confirmed that from June 9, drinking in the streets will be banned between 10pm and 8am and authorities will control the size of bar crawls. But the most controversial rule limited alcohol for guests booked on all-inclusive breaks at some hotels in Majorca and Ibiza.
Visitors at selected hotels can only have three free drinks at lunch and three with their evening meal after the Balearic government said it needed to improve the image of party resorts, including Magaluf, which have a reputation for boozy and bad behaviour.
However, a local tourism official has disclosed more needs to be done to completely change the image of the troublespots. Pepe Tirade, boss of the Acotour tourist association, told local media action needed to be more widespread.
He said: "The tourism model will only improve by putting order on the streets. I'm sorry to have to say that we have started the season with the usual problems.
"Is the tourism model changing at all-inclusive hotels? Why insist on something that is not true? I repeat: the tourism model will only improve by putting order on the streets. And this isn't happening because there is a lack of police."
He added: "We have a new season, but with the usual problems. We have come through Covid, the tourists are returning. There is talk of improving the quality of tourism, but nothing changes.
"The pub crawls have returned. Going to a series of bars and drinking for little money. There are the party boats, illegal parties with alcohol at sea. Without any control, just as there is no control over those who organise them.
"Apart from illegal pub crawling and party boats without any type of activity licence, there is the general quality of the tourist who visits us. In particular the alcohol tourist, who has no qualms about urinating in the street and laughing about it."
Travel agent Thomas Cook warned customers about the changes on all-inclusive rules. An email to holidaymakers stated: "Please be advised that a decree has been issued by the Balearic Government on a new restriction for All Inclusive meal option. There is a maximum of six alcoholic drinks per person per day that can be served and these drinks will be provided only during lunch and dinner (three each).
"Please be aware that Magaluf, El Arenal, Playa de Palma in Majorca and Sant Antoni in Ibiza, there is new restriction on All Inclusive."
Travel trade group ABTA has supported the drinks limit. A spokesperson said: "ABTA will continue to engage with the Balearic Islands Government, ABTA members and other parties, to encourage clear communication and exchange of information, in order to ensure holidaymakers travelling to hotels in the designated areas enjoy a positive customer experience."
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