2023 already? Yes, you did indeed read that right. With the 2022 edition of the British summer holidays coming to a close and the weather noticeably going south, we’re determined not to get stuck in past and are already considering our options for next year’s adventures.
And what better adventure could there be than traversing the seven seas in a sailing boat, cruise liner or yacht? If there’s one, we certainly haven’t found it!
If sailing holidays in Greece or island hopping in the South Pacific Ocean sound like your sort of thing, then rest assured, we’re right there with you. A warm sea breeze, a sense of unbridled freedom, the wind in your sails and hair, and an unrivalled variety of destination…what’s not to love?
If this is your idea of a holiday in heaven and you’re already making plans for next year’s holidays, then read on; here are our 10 IDEAL destinations for a yachting holiday in 2023.
The Bahamas, The Caribbean
From sheltered harbours and beautiful islands to a variety of sailing areas catering to easy-to-complex sailing abilities, the Bahamas are known to have everything to make your yacht holidays perfect and unforgettable. They’re also well-known for luxurious cruise ships and commercial resorts, the Bahamas are a popular go-to destination for many high-profile and wealthy visitors.
For an alternative experience, why not rent your own private yacht and head to the Caribbean to explore some untouched islands and stunning white-sand beaches. Dive into the ocean with your scuba gear and snorkel for a swim around the coral reefs with the incredible aquatic creatures – you won’t regret it!
The Greek Islands
Famed for having one of the longest coastlines in Europe, Greece truly stands out for its enchanting beauty and rich history. The Greek Islands are spread across the four seas around the mainland – Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, Cretan Sea and Mediterranean Sea. There are numerous unexplored yet open coves and beaches which are accessible only by boat, superb for exploring while on board. Yacht charters in Greece offer both with-skipper and bareboat (without-skipper) options for renting yachts, provided you have an experienced or certified sailor in your group.
The Dalmatian Islands, The Adriatic Sea
Staying in Europe, the Croatian Adriatic has become hugely popular as a sailing destination for the affluent and adventurous in recent years. The beauty of the extraordinary Dalmatian Coast, in particular, is best appreciated from the vantage point of the ocean, with plenty of interesting pit-stops (or should that be port stops?) along the way, both cosmopolitan and remote, on the mainland and on the islands.
As the guys at Sebastus, experts on yacht charters in the area tell us, you should start your cruise from The Port of Spilt, part of Croatia’s second largest city, and then head to famous islands Hvar, Brac and Korcula, which are just a short sail away. If you are a fan of the popular television series Game of Thrones, don’t forget to sail to Dubrovnik city where the scenes of Kings Landing were filmed.
You may want to end your Croatian yacht holiday in Marsaka, which is just an hour’s sail across the water from the beautiful island of Brac, and boasts stunning views of the ocean (and back out towards Brac!) from its resort hotels and villas. Click here to see some particularly breathtaking places to stay in the area.
The Seychelles, The Indian Ocean
With 115 breathtaking islands in the Indian Ocean, this island nation of East Africa is now considered one of the top honeymoon destinations by travellers all around the world. Yacht charters mainly focus on the relatively closely located 41 inner islands including Mahe, La Digue and Praslin, and their two coral islands.
The pristine white-sand beaches, imposing granite rocks, rare animals and birds, giant palm and coconut trees by the beach as well as the rich variety of red, blue, brown and green coral reefs peeking through the clear, turquoise water, makes this secluded and relatively less-commercialised island nation an exotic paradise. Yep, if you’re keen for a yachting holiday with a difference in 2023, you’ll love The Seychelles.
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Want to experience an amazing nautical trip to an uninhabited wildlife paradise where you get to observe rare animals in their natural habitat? Well, who doesn’t? Here’s your chance; rent a yacht and sail to the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. From sea lions, spiky marine iguanas, giant turtles, penguins to blue-footed boobies, frigatebird, flightless cormorant and more, these islands are famed for their rich biodiversity.
The famous Darwin Island is the smallest amongst these islands. Indeed, the Galapagos Islands are where Charles Darwin observed several species of finches that helped him come up with the famous theory of evolution by natural selection. Perhaps you’ll come up with your own groundbreaking ideas while visiting, perhaps?
The British Virgin Islands
Known as a sailor’s paradise owing to the well-sheltered anchorages around the area and the warm, consistent trade winds, the British Virgin Islands are great for a smooth sailing experience. Head to the Anegada Island for some stunning views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and white-powdery beaches crowded with pink flamingos.
Among the four main islands, Jost van Dyke is the smallest, and least inhabited. Norman Island is known for its spectacular seascape, and Virgin Gorda Island for The Baths, which comprises of stunning rock formations forming several natural pools, is also spectacular.
The Maldives, The Indian Ocean
It comes as no surprise that Maldives makes it to the top spot in almost all honeymoon destination charts. This small island nation in South Asia is located in the Indian Ocean. It consists of thousands of small coral islands surrounded by a blue lagoon of shallow, clear water. Apart from sailing to these beautiful islands, you can enjoy the grand services of luxurious resorts in private islands as well as indulge in various water sports such as diving, snorkelling, scuba diving and more
Fiji Islands, The South Pacific
Considered among the safest destinations for yacht holidays, Fiji Islands of the South Pacific are known to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are the largest islands of Fiji and should be the first stop on your yachting itinerary should you choose this beautiful part of the world.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are a collective of 74 islands located next to the world’s largest coral reefs, the Great Barrier Reef. What’s more, it’s the only place in the world that allows you to sail a boat without a certified license. As such, you can choose your own bareboat charter or opt for a skippered yacht if you would rather enjoy a relaxed sailing experience while a certified skipper handles the boat.
Do not forget to sail to the famous, award-winning Whitehaven Beach, known as one of the most beautiful in the world. For a fun partying and sailing experience, plan your holidays in accordance with the Hamilton Island Race Week or Airlie Beach Race Week to get amongst it.
French Polynesia, The South Pacific
French Polynesia includes 118 islands (67 of which are inhabited) that are well-known for their coral-fringed lagoons, towering waterfalls, black and white-sand beaches. Tahiti is the largest and most populated of the French Polynesia islands, though you might want to plump for some slightly more remote sailing destinations; Bora Bora, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Moorea, Hiva Oa, and Fakarava are particularly lovely to explore by boat
The Bottom Of The Sea
Now that you have the ultimate list of ideal yacht holiday destinations, choose one that fits your budget and duration the best and get set to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime sailing experience