Giant Warship in Palma Bay: USS Gerald R. Ford Visits Palma in Early October

An Unusual Guest in Palma Bay

\n

When on October 3 a steel colossus steams into Palma Bay, many heads will naturally tilt upward. The USS Gerald R. Ford, currently described as the largest aircraft carrier in the world, plans according to ship plans for a multi-day stop until October 8. About 4,500 people are aboard – that means suddenly different shoes on the Paseo Marítimo, more bags at the Mercat de l’Olivar, and fully booked reservations in Santa Catalina.

\n

Local merchants expect sales

\n

In the old town, the anticipation is already evident. A small shoe shop on Calle de Sant Miquel says they are stocking a few extra sizes; bakeries are planning larger bread deliveries. Early estimates circulating in the city speak of expenditures in the millions – up to ten million euros are cited as a possible sum. Sounds like a lot, and yes: for bars, souvenir shops and taxis it's a real boost.

\n

But, there's also the other side. More people mean more traffic, stricter controls in the port area and unusual traffic arrangements on days with bus and pedestrian transport. Some residents of Playa de Palma have already adjusted to shop earlier or shift their beach walks in time.

\n

City, port and security

\n

Those working at the port report increased presence of port police and customs. Security zones are established so that pedestrians can see the giant silhouette but not approach the berth closely. For photographers and curious onlookers: good views from Punta Gorda or the promenade, but only from afar.

\n

Some hoteliers plan special offers: breakfast earlier, later check-outs, shuttle services. For restaurants that previously had to hold reservations, this is a chance to be fully booked at short notice. A small fish restaurant on Passeig Marítim says it has already ordered additional deliveries of fresh fish – “you don’t want to serve an empty plate when hundreds suddenly want to eat,” smiles the owner.

\n

A few days that leave their mark

\n

Such a visit does not go unnoticed. Residents will remember police checks and more taxis. Businesspeople in Santa Catalina and Palma city will remember full tills. And for many crew members, the short shore leave will be their first encounter with Mallorcan everyday life: a café on the corner, the colorful market hall, the steep cathedral, and the salty smell of the sea.

\n

Whether in the end ten million euros really flow into the local economy or if it's much less, that will become clear in the days after the anchor drop. One thing is certain: for a week in autumn Palma will have a very different audience. I, for one, will stand at the port with a thermos of coffee, watching how this enormous visitor briefly interrupts the island and then sails on.