11 of the Top Sailing Destinations in the World
With a fresh breeze blowing as you manage the interplay between the wind and waves and your rudder and sails, there’s nothing quite like sailing. A sailboat allows boat owners to visit some of the most remote and beautiful locations in the world. But with access to the world’s oceans at your disposal, where are you to go? To help you plan the perfect excursion, Boatmart has compiled a list of 11 of the top sailing destinations in the world.
1. Adriatic Coast, Croatia
With crystal clear waters and innumerable areas to explore, the Adriatic Coast along Croatia is a sailing hotspot. From the cities of Pula to Dubrovnik, sailors can boat along a beautiful coastline, with reliable winds occurring typically in the afternoon. More than 1,000 islands are a short distance off the coast of the mainland, so sailors have a plethora of remote areas to explore.
2. Newport, Rhode Island, USA
Referred to as the “sailing capital of the world,” and a previous America’s Cup host for nearly half a century, Newport is a premier destination. With easterly breezes and temperate weather from May through October, Newport provides comfortable conditions for all types of sailors.
3. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Located next to the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands are perfect for dropping anchor and exploring the marine life that inhabit the area. With white sand beaches and a pristine environment, Whitehaven Beach is the top destination to relax in the area. A major draw to these islands is the consistent weather year-round, though the water tends to be chillier from May through August.
4. Turks and Caicos
Less crowded than top sailing destinations such as the Bahamas and even the British Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos offers great sailing. Owners of catamarans and other shallow-draft vessels will find so many great anchorages and beaches. Snorkelers and divers love the Turks and Caicos for the crystal clear waters and great visibility. Sailing between the islands is easy and not as far as some other island chains. Just be aware of shallow areas and reefs that could leave a hole in your hull. Visit the area in the January to March window and you may spot humpback whales on their migration.
5. Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Rich with a history of expeditioners and traders coming from around the world, Zanzibar Island has plenty to do for different types of sailors. Mnemba Island, known as “Millionaire’s Island,” is a lavish getaway for those seeking a luxurious escape. If you desire a more recreational excursion, drop anchor and explore the diverse history Zanzibar has to offer. If you are feeling adventurous, island-hopping dive trips are a top highlight, offering reef, wall, and wreck diving across 30 different dive sites.
6. French Polynesia
Let us twist your arm with this one. Beautiful water. Beautiful islands. A vibrant culture. Steady trade winds—April to October is best—make for great sailing in French Polynesia and the South Pacific. And sailors can spend as much time as they have exploring a single island or bouncing between the island groups: Society Islands, Tuamotus, and the Marquesas. Atolls that surround islands such as Bora Bora create peaceful lagoons for great anchoring and easy snorkeling on the reef. November to April is the cyclone season, so keep that in mind. But whether you sail your own boat across the ocean or charter a sailboat, postcard opportunities exist everywhere.
7. Greek Islands
If you are seeking a culmination of stunning landscapes of Grecian towns, ideal weather, and a place for a great meal after docking your sailboat, the Greek Islands meet all your needs. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, sailing through this archipelago should be a breeze. Budget yourself for about two weeks. With so much to do and see, you’ll want to have sufficient time to soak up everything in the Mediterranean.
8. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Roman villas. Medieval cathedrals. The ruins of Pompeii. And much more. Sailors with an eye toward history will enjoy spending time along Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Foodies will love the cuisine—Italian seafood, pasta, and more. Wine-loving sailors can visit vineyards situated on ancient terraces. You won’t find the same types of anchorages you might in French Polynesia or Turks and Caicos, but protected marinas and mooring fields are available. The people-watching and yacht-spotting are great during the summer months, though it is also crowded then. And if you want to spend a little time in Capri, it’s not far.
9. Bay of Islands, New Zealand
With endless places to explore along the New Zealand shoreline, the Bay of Islands is one of the top sailing destinations for an adventure-seeking sailor. Known for its diverse wildlife, travelers will find themselves amongst whales, dolphins, and even penguins. Dock your boat and explore the vast number of islands to feel almost completely isolated from all civilization.
10. Seychelles
Known for its bright blue waters, granite rocks, and giant palm trees, Seychelles is a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean. During the months of May through September, southeasterly winds typically blow between 10 to 20 knots, providing cool and windy conditions ideal for sailing.
11. Thailand
For the sailor seeking a more exotic experience, travel to Thailand and explore the shores. There, you will find pristine beaches, colorful marine life, and extraordinary rock formations, as well as the Phi Phi Islands. Sailing during the southwest monsoon season typically provides stronger winds, so make sure to sail from May to October for a more thrilling experience.
Journeying to any one of these top sailing destinations around the world will surely give you a thirst for exploring more remarkable destinations. Be sure you know your abilities, limitations, and adaptability, because crossing an ocean is a difficult yet rewarding adventure.
Alex Hoyes
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