Warm breeze filling the sails en route to the next enchanted spot. A sailing odyssey in the Greek islands offers everything from quiet coves to charming harbors.
Most visitors split their time on the open ocean with visits to a number of intriguing archaeological sites, many of which are found not far from shore. The Grenadines are an island chain located across six miles of the southern Caribbean in the West Indies. This is truly the place that stereotypical ideas of a tropical paradise come from. If you are aged 15-25 and live in the Caribbean, you may be eligible to receive the Caribbean bursary. This timeless part of the world is one of the most relaxing spots on the planet, offering the chance to completely recharge among breathtaking surroundings. There is really no better way to experience it than upon the crystalline Adriatic, where the sun is almost always shining brightly and its tranquil waters gently lap more than 1,100 miles of coastline, including a collection of postcard-perfect islands. For a sailing adventure that combines time both on sea and on land, travel to Turkey and take on the Lycian Coast. Sailing east past lively Marmaris takes you to the calm waters and gentle sailing in Fethiye Bay, with its scattering of secluded coves, some with a lone, rustic taverna. For those just after a quick taste of paradise, plenty of ex-America's Cup and former racing yachts take tourists and backpackers on short overnight cruises to sample the silica sands of Whitehaven, the sublime views from Hill Inlet and possibly spot some whales migrating along the east coast of Australia. A land lapped by sparkling seas and seemingly more islands than stars in the sky. The Hisaronu Gulf has charming waterfront towns such as Datca, Selimiye and Bozburun as well as plentiful quiet anchorages. Most visitors to the Galapagos stay aboard a small cruise ship while visiting the islands. These waters novelist Zane Grey once dubbed the anglers El Dorado, are also famed for big game fishing. The Ionian, with Captain Corelli's Kefalonia in the south and Gerald Durrell's Corfu in the north, offers gentle breezes and easy line-of-sight sailing on Greece's west coast.
The region has 32 islands (nine of which are inhabited), so theres always something new to discover. The islands that are scattered across a massive expanse of the South Pacific stretch for over 770 miles, an area about the size of Western Europe. To experience this amazing location for yourself, join one of Peter Sommer Travels' departuresfor Turkey.
The main yacht charter area is focused on the inner islands around the forested Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. The region also boasts some of the most pristine beaches found anywhere on the planet, many of which can only be reached by ship. The clear waters are also perfect for diving and sailing, with an average year-round temperature of 27C. The Mediterranean is filled with great opportunities for sailors, but few options compare with island hopping off the coast of Greece. The region has 118 islands (67 are inhabited), the largest of which is Tahiti with its spectacular waterfalls. Of course, if you dont have your own boat, there are a number of boat rentals and private charters available. Love wildlife and nature? With spectacularly beautiful beaches, an abundance of wildlife, and waters that are a shade of blue that isn't found anywhere else on Earth, this is a place that visitors will never want to leave. Sister island Barbuda -- 40 miles to the north -- has more birds than people and offers a gentler pace with pink sands and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. Visit sleepy fishing villages as well as bustling towns and historic sites for an unforgettable sailing getaway. Picturesque Vava'u, with myriad islets, lagoons and coral reefs, is the starting point, either for quick hops or longer open-water passages to deserted tropical beaches and idyllic anchorages. Travelers will also find ancient villages to visit, markets to explore, and beaches to wander too. Its also the home of the legendary New England Laser Masters Regatta. New Zealand is a nation thats spawned some of the worlds best sailors and has one of the highest per-capita rates of boat ownership on the planet, with the maritime reserves in the Bay of Islands in the countrys winterless north rated among the most beautiful sailing spots in the world. Thailand's Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea offers exotic sailing amid spectacular scenery.
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Punctuated by countless coves and filled with crystal clear waters that range from deep blue to turquoise, these roughly 150 islands that have escaped development, are usually the first port of call for hundreds of yachts that drop down from the tropics in the cyclone season. How to get there: International flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, domestic flights to Proserpine or Hamilton Island. cadiz need before 2021 It's the stuff of quintessential South Pacific dreams, with world-class diving and snorkeling, sport fishing and humpback whale watching thrown in as standard. This famous but tiny archipelago of islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean is remote, though it entices people from all over the world to see its legendary abundance of rare wildlife from blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises to penguins and sea lions. Snorkel or dive by day while sailing around the volcanic archipelago, occasionally coming ashore to play among the astounding wildlife. If youre looking for a unique place to stay, check out the top Airbnb rentals in the area. Sailing options include single day outings or week-long excursions, with Intrepid Travel offering one of the most affordable and full-featured options, including a seven-day journey aboard a modern catamaran that somehow manages to be both active and restful at the same time. Boats and tours cater to everyone from beginners to the most experienced. The company's seven-day excursion out of Tortola is a good mix of activities and relaxation at a solid price. Sea kayaking is a great way to explore these islands, and day-excursions to wander the villages and landscapes are a must-do as well. Charles House Dont miss Fort Lauderdales other top attractions on land. Getting there: Flights to Preveza for the Ionian; Athens for the Saronic Gulf; Volos for the Sporades; Kos and Rhodes for the Dodecanese; Santorini, Mykonos and a host of local airports for the Cyclades. French Polynesia is the name given to a wide swath of islands and section of sea that is located in the South Pacific. Ashore, historic Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is the throbbing heart, but further afield you'll find waterside dining for all budgets and lively rum bars, perfect for a famous "jump up" -- a dance session to the rhythm of steel drums. Pretty Favignana is known as the tuna capital of the Mediterranean, while remote Marettimo provides solitude in a stunning setting. Richard Branson's Necker Island is one of the British Virgin Islands, a mecca for sailors. This Adriatic gem features historic towns, picturesque harbors and smart marinas, isolated anchorages and deserted islands in one neat package in the northern Mediterranean. You'll find affordable options for Greek Islands excursion from G Adventures, with more upscale offerings coming from National Geographic Expeditions. astrid haunted anna italy poveglia rest places With over 300 miles of waterways and more than 40,000 resident yachts, its really no surprise that Fort Lauderdale has been nicknamed the Venice of America. It not only borders the Atlantic, but its crisscrossed by the Intracoastal Waterway as well as a number of rivers, several lakes and hundreds of canals.
For those that prefer to stay atop the water, or explore both options, youll find many different ways to do just that, including everything from glass-bottom boats and charter yachts to open ocean rafting, sailboats and more. If youre dreaming of a vacation that includes feeling the wind in your hair and the spray of the sea on your skin while enjoying magnificent scenery, get ready to pack your bags. And when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the vibrant Croatian cities, try sailing into some of the remote fishing villages that can be found in the numerous hidden lagoons that dot the shore. When visiting Australia most travelers have the Sydney Opera House, the Outback, or the Great Barrier Reef on their bucket lists. Be sure and explore the hidden coves, traditional fishing villages and remote island groups like Elafiti and Kornati too. Whether you enjoy hiking, diving, taking in ancient history or just sitting back and watching a beautiful sunset, our list of the seven best places to sail in the world might help you choose where to go on your next adventure at sea. The diving and snorkeling are practically unmatched and the scenery is simply awe inspiring. Peter Sommer Travels' departuresfor Turkey. Tahiti offers the quintessential South Pacifc vision of aquamarine water, powder-white beaches and palms trees. PO12 1AH Third Beach Newport is the best there is when it comes to easy access to sailing the sea, the ease of launching and the ability to park near your boat. All excursions are aboard a traditional tall sailing ship known as a Gulet, which serves as a comfortable and accommodating vessel for adventurous travelers. However one chooses do it, the life aquatic is not to be missed. Start planning your trip here. scotland From Rhodes north via Kos, Kalimnos, Lipsi and Patmos, the islands provide a snapshot of traditional Greece and as much life or solitude as you can handle. White-sand beaches backed by swaying palms and jungle, sheer limestone towers jutting out of jade-colored seas and exotic flora and fauna are just some of the treats on offer on a sailing trip to Thailand. Of course, sailing through the surrounding turquoise waters and stopping at picture-perfect beaches are the trademarks of a Spice Island vacation. There are literally dozens of options to choose from when it comes to sailing the Bay of Islands. Charming villages such as Kioni on Ithaca or Fiskardo on Kefalonia are some of the highlights. A sailing holiday is a passport to another -- watery -- world where land-based worries are blown away on the breeze. Sail to Spring Bayor take in some of the breathtaking scenery that provided the perfect backdrop to several scenes in the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Or there is the Saronic Gulf south of Athens, an area of easy sailing and short hops, with highlights such as historic Aegina, romantic Hydra and cosmopolitan Poros. But the British Virgin Islands just might offer the best sailing in the entire region, giving visitors a chance to combine luxury and adventure into one epic excursion. The famous Antigua Sailing Week regatta is a melting pot for sailors looking for competitive racing and punishing partying. With pristine white sands, luxury waterfront resorts, outstanding restaurants and chic boutique shopping, the British Virgin Islands have it all as a true sailing fantasy land. The Dalmatian coast south of Split contains the islands of Brac, Hvar, Vis and Korcula, the birthplace of explorer Marco Polo. UK These secluded spaces make for stunning places to drop anchor, providing great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging in the sand. From historic Tropea on the Italian mainland, sailors can access the beautiful beaches and swimming spots, quiet anchorages and sleepy waterfront towns in which to savor authentic Sicilian cooking. Anchoring in idyllic bays. The laid-back culture and beautiful surroundings make the area a fantastic place to sail to and take in everything the islands have to offer. The Caribbean has long been a mecca for sailors looking to navigate between its numerous islands, each with its own culture, history, and attractions. The Galapagos Islands have long been a popular adventure travel destination, offering exceptional opportunities to view wildlife that simply can't be found anywhere else on the planet. There's everything from quiet coves and gentle towns to buzzy cosmopolitan Hvar and Dubrovnik-light Korcula. You'll find crystal-clear and warm seas all year long, with great diving and snorkeling across the entire region. The stronger summer meltemi winds of the Cyclades chain to the east of the mainland, with islands such as Mykonos, Ios and the flooded crater of Santorini, offer a challenge to more experienced sailors. Bald eagles can almost always be seen perched high in the treetops along the shore, searching for their next meal. Sail Training International By subscribing I agree to the terms and privacy policy. From here, its just a 70-mile journey to Dry Tortugas National Park, renowned for its world-class snorkeling. Located in the Southern Ocean, South Georgia Island is probably best known for the crucial role it played in Ernest Shackleton's doomed Endurance expedition to the Antarctic. Now that youve reached the end of our list of the seven best places to sail to in the world, which one will you be dreaming of visiting? Visit Sailing-Whitsundays.com to sort through all of the choices. If you dont have the big bucks of a royal or a rock star or, happen to be friends with one, you can always head to Marseille, Cannes or Antibes and hire a set of sails. Some prefer the help of a skipper and crew, others like to take charge while sailing into a flotilla for shared. There are more than 300 days of sunshine a year in the region and plenty to see and do. Catch glorious sunsets from the deck and make stops for snorkeling or diving, with the average year-round water temperatures of slightly over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Here you can follow in the footsteps of Captain James Cook, who explored the island in the 18th century, and experience Tahitis beautiful black sand beaches. Visitors can spot giant tortoises, sea lions, blue footed boobies, and the archipelago's famous aquatic iguanas. Sail around the islands and take in some breathtaking scenery, or dive into the crystal clear waters and see some fantastic marine life.
Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. There's a perfect beach for every week of the year. Getting there: International flights to Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, Zadar. Sailing the Southern Ocean is an adventure in and of itself, taking travelers across some of the most turbulent waters on the planet. The large cosmopolitan resorts of Nice, Saint-Tropez and Cannes feature everything from hedonism aboard monumental yachts to billion-dollar estates. Zanzibar, an island in the Indian Ocean, is steeped in history. With reliable winds and blue-water passages, white-sand beaches and dazzling reefs, colorful towns and verdant hillsides, the Windward Islands will reward sailors looking for a true Caribbean adventure. These volcanic islands are home to some of the worlds rarest wildlife, much of which inspired Charles Darwins Theory of Evolution. Today, sailing the ocean isn't quite so dangerous, although it does remain quite adventurous. Further afield the pink sand beaches on Eleuthera or the 365 cays of the Exuma group offer endless opportunities for exploring and relaxation. There are several island groups to choose from, with some of the most popular including the Cyclades, home to Mykonos and Santorini, and the Ionians which include Skorpios, the private island of late shipping billionaire Aristotle Onassis, Corfu and Lefkada. There are numerous options for islands on which to base your trip, including Raiatea, the ideal starting point for an unforgettable Tahitian sailing adventure for discovering the Society Islands, which include Tahiti as well as Moorea, Bora-Bora, Tahaa and Raiatea. The clear waters off the island are filled with an abundance of marine life as well as sunken ships and even a plane wreck. Image courtesy of Julius_Silver via Pixabay. Further east, the Dodecanese islands off the Turkish coast offer a compromise -- not quite as windy but still untamed and authentic. Breathtaking scenery, vibrant cultures and delicious delicacies are just some of the things you can find on a sailing adventure around the world. Port Townsend also hosts the annual Wooden Boat Festival the weekend after Labor Day, drawing boating enthusiasts from around the world. Steady trade winds, beautiful beaches and good harbors make Antigua synonymous with sailing. You'll also have the opportunity to tour the UNESCO heritage site of Dubrovnik, while enjoying local food and wines while en route. For those who want to truly relax, a traditional wooden gullet crewed by professionals could be the answer. Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. With more than 1100 miles of coastline, not to mention a dizzying number of islands to explore, Croatia has seemingly endless miles of beaches and crystal clear waters to snorkel and dive. They are famous for their unspoilt white beaches, and offer ideal sailing conditions for those who want to explore the sky blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. With sun-baked beaches, turquoise waters, olive groves, deserted bays, rustic harbors with white-washed houses and spilling bougainvillea, Greece provides the perfect canvas for a sailing odyssey.
Most visitors split their time on the open ocean with visits to a number of intriguing archaeological sites, many of which are found not far from shore. The Grenadines are an island chain located across six miles of the southern Caribbean in the West Indies. This is truly the place that stereotypical ideas of a tropical paradise come from. If you are aged 15-25 and live in the Caribbean, you may be eligible to receive the Caribbean bursary. This timeless part of the world is one of the most relaxing spots on the planet, offering the chance to completely recharge among breathtaking surroundings. There is really no better way to experience it than upon the crystalline Adriatic, where the sun is almost always shining brightly and its tranquil waters gently lap more than 1,100 miles of coastline, including a collection of postcard-perfect islands. For a sailing adventure that combines time both on sea and on land, travel to Turkey and take on the Lycian Coast. Sailing east past lively Marmaris takes you to the calm waters and gentle sailing in Fethiye Bay, with its scattering of secluded coves, some with a lone, rustic taverna. For those just after a quick taste of paradise, plenty of ex-America's Cup and former racing yachts take tourists and backpackers on short overnight cruises to sample the silica sands of Whitehaven, the sublime views from Hill Inlet and possibly spot some whales migrating along the east coast of Australia. A land lapped by sparkling seas and seemingly more islands than stars in the sky. The Hisaronu Gulf has charming waterfront towns such as Datca, Selimiye and Bozburun as well as plentiful quiet anchorages. Most visitors to the Galapagos stay aboard a small cruise ship while visiting the islands. These waters novelist Zane Grey once dubbed the anglers El Dorado, are also famed for big game fishing. The Ionian, with Captain Corelli's Kefalonia in the south and Gerald Durrell's Corfu in the north, offers gentle breezes and easy line-of-sight sailing on Greece's west coast.
The region has 32 islands (nine of which are inhabited), so theres always something new to discover. The islands that are scattered across a massive expanse of the South Pacific stretch for over 770 miles, an area about the size of Western Europe. To experience this amazing location for yourself, join one of Peter Sommer Travels' departuresfor Turkey.
The main yacht charter area is focused on the inner islands around the forested Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. The region also boasts some of the most pristine beaches found anywhere on the planet, many of which can only be reached by ship. The clear waters are also perfect for diving and sailing, with an average year-round temperature of 27C. The Mediterranean is filled with great opportunities for sailors, but few options compare with island hopping off the coast of Greece. The region has 118 islands (67 are inhabited), the largest of which is Tahiti with its spectacular waterfalls. Of course, if you dont have your own boat, there are a number of boat rentals and private charters available. Love wildlife and nature? With spectacularly beautiful beaches, an abundance of wildlife, and waters that are a shade of blue that isn't found anywhere else on Earth, this is a place that visitors will never want to leave. Sister island Barbuda -- 40 miles to the north -- has more birds than people and offers a gentler pace with pink sands and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. Visit sleepy fishing villages as well as bustling towns and historic sites for an unforgettable sailing getaway. Picturesque Vava'u, with myriad islets, lagoons and coral reefs, is the starting point, either for quick hops or longer open-water passages to deserted tropical beaches and idyllic anchorages. Travelers will also find ancient villages to visit, markets to explore, and beaches to wander too. Its also the home of the legendary New England Laser Masters Regatta. New Zealand is a nation thats spawned some of the worlds best sailors and has one of the highest per-capita rates of boat ownership on the planet, with the maritime reserves in the Bay of Islands in the countrys winterless north rated among the most beautiful sailing spots in the world. Thailand's Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea offers exotic sailing amid spectacular scenery.
How to Spend a Weekend in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Best Cruise Ports in the Eastern Caribbean, The Top 20 Things to Do in San Diego, California, The 8 Best Great Barrier Reef Tours of 2022, Try These Adventurous Activities on Your Trip to Malta, The 15 Best Places in the World to Swim With Sharks, The Most Adventurous Things to Do in Hawaii, The Best Destinations in the World for Birdwatching. Punctuated by countless coves and filled with crystal clear waters that range from deep blue to turquoise, these roughly 150 islands that have escaped development, are usually the first port of call for hundreds of yachts that drop down from the tropics in the cyclone season. How to get there: International flights to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, domestic flights to Proserpine or Hamilton Island. cadiz need before 2021 It's the stuff of quintessential South Pacific dreams, with world-class diving and snorkeling, sport fishing and humpback whale watching thrown in as standard. This famous but tiny archipelago of islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean is remote, though it entices people from all over the world to see its legendary abundance of rare wildlife from blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises to penguins and sea lions. Snorkel or dive by day while sailing around the volcanic archipelago, occasionally coming ashore to play among the astounding wildlife. If youre looking for a unique place to stay, check out the top Airbnb rentals in the area. Sailing options include single day outings or week-long excursions, with Intrepid Travel offering one of the most affordable and full-featured options, including a seven-day journey aboard a modern catamaran that somehow manages to be both active and restful at the same time. Boats and tours cater to everyone from beginners to the most experienced. The company's seven-day excursion out of Tortola is a good mix of activities and relaxation at a solid price. Sea kayaking is a great way to explore these islands, and day-excursions to wander the villages and landscapes are a must-do as well. Charles House Dont miss Fort Lauderdales other top attractions on land. Getting there: Flights to Preveza for the Ionian; Athens for the Saronic Gulf; Volos for the Sporades; Kos and Rhodes for the Dodecanese; Santorini, Mykonos and a host of local airports for the Cyclades. French Polynesia is the name given to a wide swath of islands and section of sea that is located in the South Pacific. Ashore, historic Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is the throbbing heart, but further afield you'll find waterside dining for all budgets and lively rum bars, perfect for a famous "jump up" -- a dance session to the rhythm of steel drums. Pretty Favignana is known as the tuna capital of the Mediterranean, while remote Marettimo provides solitude in a stunning setting. Richard Branson's Necker Island is one of the British Virgin Islands, a mecca for sailors. This Adriatic gem features historic towns, picturesque harbors and smart marinas, isolated anchorages and deserted islands in one neat package in the northern Mediterranean. You'll find affordable options for Greek Islands excursion from G Adventures, with more upscale offerings coming from National Geographic Expeditions. astrid haunted anna italy poveglia rest places With over 300 miles of waterways and more than 40,000 resident yachts, its really no surprise that Fort Lauderdale has been nicknamed the Venice of America. It not only borders the Atlantic, but its crisscrossed by the Intracoastal Waterway as well as a number of rivers, several lakes and hundreds of canals.
For those that prefer to stay atop the water, or explore both options, youll find many different ways to do just that, including everything from glass-bottom boats and charter yachts to open ocean rafting, sailboats and more. If youre dreaming of a vacation that includes feeling the wind in your hair and the spray of the sea on your skin while enjoying magnificent scenery, get ready to pack your bags. And when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the vibrant Croatian cities, try sailing into some of the remote fishing villages that can be found in the numerous hidden lagoons that dot the shore. When visiting Australia most travelers have the Sydney Opera House, the Outback, or the Great Barrier Reef on their bucket lists. Be sure and explore the hidden coves, traditional fishing villages and remote island groups like Elafiti and Kornati too. Whether you enjoy hiking, diving, taking in ancient history or just sitting back and watching a beautiful sunset, our list of the seven best places to sail in the world might help you choose where to go on your next adventure at sea. The diving and snorkeling are practically unmatched and the scenery is simply awe inspiring. Peter Sommer Travels' departuresfor Turkey. Tahiti offers the quintessential South Pacifc vision of aquamarine water, powder-white beaches and palms trees. PO12 1AH Third Beach Newport is the best there is when it comes to easy access to sailing the sea, the ease of launching and the ability to park near your boat. All excursions are aboard a traditional tall sailing ship known as a Gulet, which serves as a comfortable and accommodating vessel for adventurous travelers. However one chooses do it, the life aquatic is not to be missed. Start planning your trip here. scotland From Rhodes north via Kos, Kalimnos, Lipsi and Patmos, the islands provide a snapshot of traditional Greece and as much life or solitude as you can handle. White-sand beaches backed by swaying palms and jungle, sheer limestone towers jutting out of jade-colored seas and exotic flora and fauna are just some of the treats on offer on a sailing trip to Thailand. Of course, sailing through the surrounding turquoise waters and stopping at picture-perfect beaches are the trademarks of a Spice Island vacation. There are literally dozens of options to choose from when it comes to sailing the Bay of Islands. Charming villages such as Kioni on Ithaca or Fiskardo on Kefalonia are some of the highlights. A sailing holiday is a passport to another -- watery -- world where land-based worries are blown away on the breeze. Sail to Spring Bayor take in some of the breathtaking scenery that provided the perfect backdrop to several scenes in the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Or there is the Saronic Gulf south of Athens, an area of easy sailing and short hops, with highlights such as historic Aegina, romantic Hydra and cosmopolitan Poros. But the British Virgin Islands just might offer the best sailing in the entire region, giving visitors a chance to combine luxury and adventure into one epic excursion. The famous Antigua Sailing Week regatta is a melting pot for sailors looking for competitive racing and punishing partying. With pristine white sands, luxury waterfront resorts, outstanding restaurants and chic boutique shopping, the British Virgin Islands have it all as a true sailing fantasy land. The Dalmatian coast south of Split contains the islands of Brac, Hvar, Vis and Korcula, the birthplace of explorer Marco Polo. UK These secluded spaces make for stunning places to drop anchor, providing great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging in the sand. From historic Tropea on the Italian mainland, sailors can access the beautiful beaches and swimming spots, quiet anchorages and sleepy waterfront towns in which to savor authentic Sicilian cooking. Anchoring in idyllic bays. The laid-back culture and beautiful surroundings make the area a fantastic place to sail to and take in everything the islands have to offer. The Caribbean has long been a mecca for sailors looking to navigate between its numerous islands, each with its own culture, history, and attractions. The Galapagos Islands have long been a popular adventure travel destination, offering exceptional opportunities to view wildlife that simply can't be found anywhere else on the planet. There's everything from quiet coves and gentle towns to buzzy cosmopolitan Hvar and Dubrovnik-light Korcula. You'll find crystal-clear and warm seas all year long, with great diving and snorkeling across the entire region. The stronger summer meltemi winds of the Cyclades chain to the east of the mainland, with islands such as Mykonos, Ios and the flooded crater of Santorini, offer a challenge to more experienced sailors. Bald eagles can almost always be seen perched high in the treetops along the shore, searching for their next meal. Sail Training International By subscribing I agree to the terms and privacy policy. From here, its just a 70-mile journey to Dry Tortugas National Park, renowned for its world-class snorkeling. Located in the Southern Ocean, South Georgia Island is probably best known for the crucial role it played in Ernest Shackleton's doomed Endurance expedition to the Antarctic. Now that youve reached the end of our list of the seven best places to sail to in the world, which one will you be dreaming of visiting? Visit Sailing-Whitsundays.com to sort through all of the choices. If you dont have the big bucks of a royal or a rock star or, happen to be friends with one, you can always head to Marseille, Cannes or Antibes and hire a set of sails. Some prefer the help of a skipper and crew, others like to take charge while sailing into a flotilla for shared. There are more than 300 days of sunshine a year in the region and plenty to see and do. Catch glorious sunsets from the deck and make stops for snorkeling or diving, with the average year-round water temperatures of slightly over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Here you can follow in the footsteps of Captain James Cook, who explored the island in the 18th century, and experience Tahitis beautiful black sand beaches. Visitors can spot giant tortoises, sea lions, blue footed boobies, and the archipelago's famous aquatic iguanas. Sail around the islands and take in some breathtaking scenery, or dive into the crystal clear waters and see some fantastic marine life.
Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. There's a perfect beach for every week of the year. Getting there: International flights to Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, Zadar. Sailing the Southern Ocean is an adventure in and of itself, taking travelers across some of the most turbulent waters on the planet. The large cosmopolitan resorts of Nice, Saint-Tropez and Cannes feature everything from hedonism aboard monumental yachts to billion-dollar estates. Zanzibar, an island in the Indian Ocean, is steeped in history. With reliable winds and blue-water passages, white-sand beaches and dazzling reefs, colorful towns and verdant hillsides, the Windward Islands will reward sailors looking for a true Caribbean adventure. These volcanic islands are home to some of the worlds rarest wildlife, much of which inspired Charles Darwins Theory of Evolution. Today, sailing the ocean isn't quite so dangerous, although it does remain quite adventurous. Further afield the pink sand beaches on Eleuthera or the 365 cays of the Exuma group offer endless opportunities for exploring and relaxation. There are several island groups to choose from, with some of the most popular including the Cyclades, home to Mykonos and Santorini, and the Ionians which include Skorpios, the private island of late shipping billionaire Aristotle Onassis, Corfu and Lefkada. There are numerous options for islands on which to base your trip, including Raiatea, the ideal starting point for an unforgettable Tahitian sailing adventure for discovering the Society Islands, which include Tahiti as well as Moorea, Bora-Bora, Tahaa and Raiatea. The clear waters off the island are filled with an abundance of marine life as well as sunken ships and even a plane wreck. Image courtesy of Julius_Silver via Pixabay. Further east, the Dodecanese islands off the Turkish coast offer a compromise -- not quite as windy but still untamed and authentic. Breathtaking scenery, vibrant cultures and delicious delicacies are just some of the things you can find on a sailing adventure around the world. Port Townsend also hosts the annual Wooden Boat Festival the weekend after Labor Day, drawing boating enthusiasts from around the world. Steady trade winds, beautiful beaches and good harbors make Antigua synonymous with sailing. You'll also have the opportunity to tour the UNESCO heritage site of Dubrovnik, while enjoying local food and wines while en route. For those who want to truly relax, a traditional wooden gullet crewed by professionals could be the answer. Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. With more than 1100 miles of coastline, not to mention a dizzying number of islands to explore, Croatia has seemingly endless miles of beaches and crystal clear waters to snorkel and dive. They are famous for their unspoilt white beaches, and offer ideal sailing conditions for those who want to explore the sky blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. With sun-baked beaches, turquoise waters, olive groves, deserted bays, rustic harbors with white-washed houses and spilling bougainvillea, Greece provides the perfect canvas for a sailing odyssey.