5 Incredible Sailing Destinations

The Top Five Places in The World To Sail

Avid sailors vary in their opinions on what makes a great sailing destination. Some prefer natural beauty, some seek smooth seas and gentle winds, and others prefer a challenge. A few choice sailing spots offer something for everyone, though. These five locations bring together some of the best features of any sailing destination worldwide.

The Grenadines

Situated between the Caribbean islands Saint Vincent and Grenada, the lush, tropical rain forests and aquamarine waters of the Grenadines are postcard perfect. Most of these small, remote islands aren't accessible by air, which makes sailing not only a way of life for the locals, but also the ideal way in for travelers.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the soft, white sands of Princess Margaret Beach, dance the night away in Port Elizabeth on Bequia island or explore the extensive reefs found throughout these islands.

The weather is inviting year round so great sailing awaits you no matter when you schedule your trip. The Grenada Sailing Festival at the end of January and Carnival in August are particularly good times to visit.

Cyclades, Greece

South-east of the Greek mainland, the Cyclades archipelago consists of over 220 islands encircling the sacred island of Delos, the mythic home of Apollo and Artemis.

Sailing past these large and small islands gives you time to take in the view of the rocky hills and traditional white-and-azure Greek architecture. Stop by Mykonos Island to enjoy a day on Paradise Beach or tour the Aegean Maritime Museum. Visit Santorini Island to sample wine made from the famous Assyrtiko grapes while enjoying one of the island's equally famous sunsets.

The Cyclades' climate is mild and dry, with no significant winter, so it's worth a visit any time of year. Sailing the Aegean can be a challenge, though, so plan to spend at least two weeks working your way through the area.

San Diego, California

Although the San Francisco Bay area garners the most attention of all California's sailing destinations, the waters around San Diego also make for enjoyable sailing.

Get a close-up view of the sinuous Coronado Bridge and the Star of India, a windjammer build in 1863 and the world's oldest active sailing ship. Sailing San Diego Bay gives you the opportunity to see both the historic ships of the Maritime Museum and modern U.S. Navy craft, too. For shopping, dining, and entertainment, lively Seaport Village offers plenty of opportunities.

While the seas and winds around San Diego are typically moderate, the Pacific ocean is highly unpredictable. If you decide to go, be prepared for difficult weather.

Whitsundays, Australia

Australia and New Zealand both boast miles of spectacular waters and coastline. Among the best-loved sailing destinations in this part of the world are the 74 islands of Australia's Whitsundays. This archipelago, sheltered in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, offers magnificent forests and white sand beaches surrounded by turquoise waters.

If it's peace and quiet you're looking for, stop by Whitehaven Beach. For restaurants, shopping opportunities and other modern attractions, Airlie Beach is the place to head.

This tropical area receives a considerable amount of rainfall, but the weather is warm and seas largely calm most of the year. Winter is an exception. Southerly winds are strong from April to September, so certain south-facing anchorages are best avoided during this time.

Yasawa Islands, Fiji

One of the most untouched of all popular sailing destinations, the Yasawa Islands offer not only gentle, warm winds and unforgettable scenery, but also a chance to connect with another culture. Native Fijians are renowned for their friendliness and someone might just invite you along for a night-time lobster hunt or even dinner at their own home.

Wildlife is particularly abundant on and around these islands. Coral, colorful tropical fish, and manta rays inhabit the waters, while over 200 species of birds enliven the forests. The steep, jagged peaks of the island's volcanic mountains provide a dramatic background to the waters and forests.

Sailing conditions are generally excellent any time of year. In some areas, however, the coral reefs make for tricky sailing, so consult knowledgeable locals before you head out.

If it's warm breezes and crystal-clear seas you seek, set out for the Grenadines or the Yasawa Islands. If a cosmopolitan atmosphere is more your thing, consider San Diego or the Whitsundays. For fine weather and a chance to explore ancient history, the Cyclades are ideal. The list of breathtaking sailing destinations around the world is nearly endless, but any of these top spots is well worth an extended stay.