Sailing holidays are the perfect escape from the bustle of everyday life. Offering you freedom and privacy all at once, with the ability to manage your own itinerary and enjoy quiet locations, sailing holidays will always be sought after for those seeking a luxurious escape.
Explore secluded coves, lounge on powdery white sand beaches, and discover unspoilt islands. And, of course, indulge in stretches of turquoise seas that invite you to swim, snorkel, and explore.
Wherever in the world you are and wherever you want to travel, there is a plethora of places to visit that will provide all you desire from a holiday on the water. Let’s take a look at some unforgettable destinations across the globe for a sailing holiday. Which one makes it to the top of your list?
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
One of the most stunning parts of Italy is the Amalfi Coast. Just below Naples, this 50km stretch of shoreline on the southwest coast of the country is a must-see. One of the most magical ways of enjoying this coastal region is with a sailing holiday. May to October makes for the optimum time to explore the waters here as the surrounding sea is calmer with temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius and higher. If travelling in high season – July and August – having your own boat provides a welcome escape from the crowds.
Visitors have flocked to this UNESCO listed landscape for years. It has pretty pastel-hued fishing villages and towns with their narrow and steep streets, interesting history, and delightful cuisine. With so much to see and discover, the Amalfi Coast is perfect for your next vacation.
British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
If your sumptuous sailing holiday must include some of those picture-perfect white powder sand beaches, then the Caribbean is the best place to be. And if you’re looking for the best of the best, then the British Virgin Islands is your number one choice. Often tucked away in hidden coves, these secluded spots make for the perfect place to drop anchor and take in all the surroundings. Whether that involves diving in for a swim or snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach or on your luxury vessel.
The archipelago comprises Tortola, which boasts the rainforest-filled Sage Mountain National Park, and Virgin Gorda, famed for its boulder-filled beach creating a series of pools and seawater grottoes known at the Baths. You will also find Anegada, where you can spot flamingos, iguanas and rare plants; Jost Van Dyke, where beaches, bars and restaurants are at their finest, and more than 50 other smaller islands.
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Follow in famed naturalist Charles Darwin’s footsteps and visit the Galapagos Islands by boat, and discover an exciting range of flora and fauna that is sure to leave you in awe.
Sat along the equator, the archipelago are volcanic outcrops some 600 miles from the shores of Ecuador and the unique islands contain diverse wildlife, such as giant tortoises, sea-lions, albatross, pelicans, marine iguanas, lava lizards, and more.
Pristine white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and lush green palm trees make up the setting for a stunning escape, where you’re snorkeling, paddle boarding, exploring on foot, or relaxing on your elegant boat.
The Bay of Islands, New Zealand
If you fancy the idea of sailing around a selection of some 140 subtropical islands that epitomise the vision of paradise, then head to the Bay of Islands, just off New Zealand’s North Island.
Beautiful beaches, fishing, water sports, Māori culture and artifacts and so much more. This micro-region expertly blends history and stunning natural beauty to provide an all-round escape for keen sailors.
Look out for penguins, whales, and dolphins while you sail, and learn all about the local history when you venture on land.
The Adriatic Coast, Croatia
Whether you choose to spend your time on a sprawling sailboat or a super-stylish catamaran, there’s no doubt that Croatia’s Adriatic Coast will provide so many picturesque moments that you’ll treasure for life.
Spring and summer in the Mediterranean are the best times to visit and you won’t want to miss the pearl of the Adriatic that is Dubrovnik with its UNESCO Old Town encased in stone walls.
With 1,770 kilometres of coastline, the Adriatic Coast is one that blends tiny islands, big cities, small villages, expanses of rich blue seas, hidden lagoons, hefty stretches of beaches, snorkel-worthy crystal-clear waters and so much more. What are you waiting for?
