Sailing is one of the nicest sea activities to partake in; anchoring in idyllic bays, diving into azure waters, the warm breezes that fill the sails, dinners under the stars and the gentle lapping of the water against the boat drifting you off to sleep. There aren’t many other ways to describe paradise, are there?
The sailing experience is one not to be missed, but first the location to explore has to be decided. Below, we dive into the best sailing destinations around the world.
A rugged volcanic chain that consists of 7 magical islands. Each with their own personality and of course, emerald seas, it is an area not easily forgotten. From the black sands of Stromboli and hot springs of Vulcano to car-free Alicudi, there is something unique that every island has to offer. Filicudi, an island that’s nickname is “Bone Island” due to the pirates who passed away there are long sieges is also an interesting visit.
Greece is a country with gorgeous seas and many islands to explore. Greece provides the perfect canvas for a sailing journey, with its sunny beaches, sparkling waters, olive groves and white-washed houses. The Ionian islands offer charming villages and gentle breezes, these islands are an easy line-of-sight sailing route. If you are looking for a challenge, you can try taking on the strong summer meltemi winds of the Cyclades islands. East of the mainland, the Cyclades islands are some of the most famous ones in Greece consisting of Mykonos, Santorini and Ios to name a few. This might be the perfect exploration mission for those sailors who have some more experience. The Dodecanese islands, off the Turkish coast, are another area worth exploring. They are the perfect compromise between the two areas of islands mentioned above, as it is not as windy as the Cyclades islands but more untamed and natural than the Ionian islands.
The coast of Turkey has lots to offer, from isolated coves filled with pine trees, delicious local restaurants to a lively night life, there is something for every type of sailor. The Gulf of Gokova is perfect for those looking for many small harbors and isolated bays to hop around on. Another gulf that you might want to explore is the Hisaronu Gulf, filled with many waterfront towns and quiet anchorages.
An Adriatic gem that features many historic towns, beautiful harbors, isolated anchorages, and islands that are deserted all in one. Starting from Pula all the way to Dubrovnik, this coastline offers lots of sailing opportunities with reliable afternoon winds and thousands of islands to explore. The Kornati National Park is a remote and unspoiled oasis that is truly stunning.
Oh, the British Virgin Islands, otherwise known as “a sailors paradise”. With warm winds, and deep blue seas, white sand beaches and cozy shacks for eating and living the island life. Unfortunately, hurricane Irma caused a lot of damage in the region, but yachting has made a quick come back and sailing is once again joyful. Tortola, the main island, and often the starting point to head over to the outlying islands, has outstanding scenery and sheltered anchorages. For those who love snorkeling, this is the area to head to as it is the perfect spot for it, specifically the coral atoll of Anegada which has a sunken shipwreck, and the sea life is like you’ve never seen before.
Which island will you be heading to on your sailing voyage? Let us know!
