4 minute read
PERFECT MATCH
Sunsail’s handy guide to your sailing holiday options.
Sailing holidays will evoke a different image for each of us. Some will prefer to be chasing fast winds, striking out on their own adventure with just their friends and family onboard as their crew. Others would rather have their feet up, with the sailing and navigation taken care of while they fully relax on their holiday. Some would like to meet new people on their holidays, socialising with other like-minded groups and families who share a passion for sailing.
Everyone has their own preferences for their getaway, which is why the different options for a sailing holiday make it a great choice. Anyone can tailor their experience to match their desires and experience levels, meaning everyone can be catered for.
Here is a quick guide to the different sailing holiday options to find the perfect match for you and your family.
DESTINATION CHOICES
The most obvious way to customise your sailing holiday is by picking the right destination. There are several ways to filter your destination choice. Typical sailing conditions vary around the world. Somewhere like the Croatian coastline, for instance, provides gentler, line-ofsight sailing, perfect for those who are newcomers. The Seychelles will have you experiencing more open water and stronger winds for a real sense of sailing adventure.
Italy may be the right destination for foodies or those in search of a romantic getaway. Families and social groups may prefer to explore the culture-rich, historic islands of Greece or to find some winter sun in the tropical British Virgin Islands. Once you have picked your destination, you need to decide on the type of sailing holiday.
SKIPPERED CHARTER
A skippered charter is a great option for those who are new to sailing or want to sail with extra reassurance. Your onboard skipper will tailor your trip to your preferences, listening to what you want and providing suggestions throughout the trip. They can take full control if you wish, taking care of all the sailing, or can be a helping hand for sailors looking to improve their skills. Skippered charters are available from every Sunsail base and should be considered for those new to sailing or even experienced sailors who want to take a step back.
BAREBOAT CHARTER
On the other end of the scale from skippered charters, bareboat charters are for those looking to take the helm and strike out on their own adventure of independent sailing. You will be in complete control of your own yacht, with just your friends and family as crew. You will be in charge of when and where you explore each day. Squeeze in a few extra anchorages or take it at a slower pace, the choice is yours. To book a bareboat charter, you will need a relevant qualification, which differs depending on which destination you wish to go sailing in. holiday for you. You will be in the company of other yachts guided by a lead crew who will plan out the itinerary. Flotillas give you as much or as little support and involvement as you want, and the flexibility to take things at your pace. So, if the flotilla itinerary does not list a destination you would like to visit, all you need to do is let the lead crew know that you will be going rogue for the night. Meeting up with other yachts at anchorages or at evening stopovers is a great way for families and groups to socialise with like-minded people. There is a great range of flotilla routes to choose from; Sunsail even has specialist food and wine flotillas for those really wanting to immerse themselves in local cuisine.
PICKING A YACHT
When most people picture a yacht, it will be the classic monohull. Designed to cut through the water and make the most of any sailing conditions, these yachts are a great choice for experienced sailors and smaller groups. The one thing to keep in mind is the deep keel below the hull that does limit how shallow the yacht can explore.
Catamarans have two hulls with the cabin spread between them, creating a larger living space. Sitting higher in the water, these yachts can explore shallower areas and their luxurious amount of space makes them a great choice for larger groups.
To add that extra level of personalisation, there are many optional extras to take your holiday to the next level. Alongside a professional skipper, you could also hire a chef to cook your favourites, while sampling highlights from the local cuisine. Or you can book advanced provisioning, so that when you arrive at your yacht, all the shopping has been done for you.
And for watersport lovers, make sure you book a kayak, paddleboard or snorkelling gear to really make the most of your time while your yacht is anchored.
This guide should help you to choose a yacht charter that is right for your group, giving you an experience you will not forget.
