If there’s nothing you enjoy more than getting some wind in your sails in a location where there’s a stunning backdrop, you’ll simply love the world’s top ten sailing destinations we’ve put together for you. Sailing holidays offer peace and tranquillity and can be achieved once you’ve landed your very own sailing qualifications. Where will your sailing take you?
Greece
With around 6,000 characterful islands in Greece, this is one of the greatest places to discover on a sailing holiday. Creating your own itinerary, you can island-hop to your heart’s content, finding secluded spots, unique villages and mysterious coves wherever you go. Dining on the local cuisine (which may involve Ouzo), you cannot fail but to be mesmerised by the stunning Mediterranean Sea, whitewashed villages and glorious sunshine. Popular island clusters include the Ionians and the Cyclades, Lefkada and Corfu.
Croatia
As this becomes an increasingly popular tourist destination, there’s no better way to experience Croatia (the newly nicknamed “New Riviera”) than gliding up to it along the Adriatic. With vast coastlines to be discovered (over 1,100 miles of it) and 1,185 islands, there’s plenty to explore in this enthralling destination.
Thailand
Whatever ‘floats your boat’ on holiday, Thailand will offer you the perfect place to indulge in these activities. From relaxing on some of the most famous beaches in the world to partying until dawn, this beautiful setting makes for the perfect holiday destination. Explore at your leisure as the relaxed atmosphere here will make you feel as though you have all the time in the world.
Australia
One of Australia’s must-see destinations for sailors is the Whitsundays. Boasting no less than 74 exquisite islands and beautiful seas, visitors can enjoy the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, where coral gardens, colourful fish and sea turtles are just waiting to be discovered. From beginners to experienced sailors, everyone is provided for here with boats and tours that can be catered to your ability.
French Riviera
If you’re seeking the perfect romantic setting, the French Riviera offers this in abundance. From the rich, hedonistic locations of Cannes, Saint-Tropez and Nice to the quieter more humble locations of Antibes and Marseille, you’ll find a vast range of unspoiled islands, rocky inlets and sandy beaches.
Zanzibar
Situated just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is perfect if you like to indulge yourself in traditional cultures and snapshots of history. With plenty of idyllic beaches to be found and with the crystal ocean offering the perfect place to snorkel, there’s something for everyone at this picture-perfect destination.
New Zealand
As a place that’s responsible for producing some of the finest sailors ever seen, New Zealand and its Bay of Islands is definitely a destination to add to your bucket list. With approximately 150 islands nestled in the crystal clear waters, there are hundreds of coves and white sandy beaches to be found. As many of these islands haven’t been developed, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind, sampling the local delicacies of snapper, John Dory, kina and mussels.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Often referred to as the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale in Florida is a must-see for any keen sailor. Boasting over 40,000 resident yachts and more than 300 miles of waterways, this stunning setting is ideal for a whole host of boats with most things being accessible by water.
British Virgin Islands
Fantasies don’t come much better than this and with luxurious resorts, boutique shops, superb restaurants and pristine beaches, it is little wonder that so many flock to the British Virgin Islands. This incredibly popular place offers everything from salt water pools to national parks.
Spain
With lots of islands to sail to and with many undiscovered seaside locations, you’ll find cobbled streets, colourful houses and quaint villages aplenty in Spain. With secluded beaches and coves available in locations such as Minorca, the Spanish Islands offer the perfect tranquil setting for sailors.
Whichever destination appeals, First Class Sailing offers a range of RYA courses that will equip you for a sailing holiday. With various sailing qualifications available, including RYA qualifications, you’ll be setting sail in no time at all. Contact us for more information!
