All At Sea - Holiday Special

SEE THE WORLD, DIFFERENTLY

Longing for a holiday that’s crowdfree with peace and privacy? A sailing yacht charter gives you the freedom to explore hidden gems and unspoilt areas that only travel aficionados and locals usually get to experience. A sailing holiday with Sunsail offers the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration and fun! From family-inclusive activities, water toys and beach barbecues, you can escape the ordinary and discover the best of your destination.

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Bareboat

Flotilla | Skippered

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When shall we go on holiday? Where shall we go on holiday? Who shall we go on holiday with? Which holiday provider shall we go with? Can we find a holiday that meets everyone’s needs? You are not alone if these are the types of questions being asked in your home.

To help you out, we have asked some of the leading boating holiday providers for their help and advice, and we have some fantastic holidays for you too.

Sunsail will be helping you find the perfect match for you and your family, while The Moorings dispels some common boating holiday myths. One of those myths involves sailing with young children, and so we asked Kraken Travel for their top tips for family travel.

The Med is the most popular destination for UK boaters and PainSailing.com has shared their top Med destinations for beginner, intermediate and expert sailors. Not forgetting Borrow A Boat, who have been looking at brilliant holidays right here in the UK.

Looking beyond Europe, The Moorings looking at yacht charter destinations further afield, while Dream Yacht Worldwide considers some interesting alternative destinations to the norm.

We hope you have a wonderful holiday!

CONTENTS

04 YOUR PERFECT MATCH

Not sure what type of holiday is best for you... bareboat, flotilla, skippered? Sunsail has put together this handy guide to your sailing holiday options.

05 FINDING A HOLIDAY

We asked some of the best-known names when it comes to boating holidays for suggestions for fantastic upcoming getaways in the Med and beyond. Find you perfect holiday with PlainSailing.com, Sunsail, The Moorings and Nautilus Yachting

06 THE BEST OF THE MED

If you are not sure where the best places to travel for your boating experience level are, take a look at this great guide to holiday destinations in the Med for beginner, intermediate and expert sailors from PlainSailing.com

07 IT’S SIMPLY NOT TRUE...

Have you been put off boating holidays because, for example, you think they are too expensive or you do not have the skills?

We asked Caroline Barbour, head of marketing for Sunsail and The Moorings, to dispel common boating holiday myths.

08 BEYOND THE MED?

Looking beyond the Mediterranean for your next holiday?

Caroline Barbour, UK marketing manager for The Moorings, looks at yacht charter destinations further afield for beginners to experts.

09 AROUND THE WORLD

Catch up with boating holiday news and ideas, including a top 10 list of destinations for 2023 from Nautilus Yachting, while sailingholidays.com predicts a busy season on the water.

10 LIVING THE DREAM

How often have you been on holiday and gazed into estate agent windows dreaming of making your holiday destination your home. Bethany Hemsley gives her recommendations for the best places in the world to live for yacht lovers.

11 SAME DIFFERENCE

If you enjoy exploring new or lesser known places then these holiday suggestions from Dream Yacht Worldwide might float your boat in 2023…

12 FAMILY ADVENTURES

Planning a boating holiday with children? Henry Burkitt, founder & CEO of adventure sailing holiday specialists, Kraken Travel, has great advice for anyone sailing with young children.

13 CLOSER TO HOME

It is easy to ignore the beauty on our own doorstep. From the West coast of Scotland to the South West, James Foot, on-the-water expert at Borrow A Boat, shares his top places to sail in the UK this year.

By Jane Hyde

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.

FLOTILLA HOLIDAYS

Whether you are completely new to sailing or learning the ropes, a newly qualified skipper or an old hand, there is a flotilla

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. www.sunsail.co.uk

“For watersport lovers, make sure to book a kayak, paddleboard or snorkelling gear to really make the most of your time while your yacht is anchored”

NAUTILUS YACHTING

CORFU FLOTILLA, GREECE

Explore the beautiful Northern Ionian on this Corfu flotilla. The classic ‘South Route’ takes a gentle and meandering route between mainland Greece and the famous Paxos island, visiting unspoilt villages, lively towns and world-famous bays. The more adventurous ‘North Route’ offers more challenging sailing conditions exploring the lesser known northern bays and remote Erikousa island.

DATES: 6 - 13 May

PRICES FROM: 20 per cent off ‘early season’

discount*. Starting from £1,770 for a 2-cabin yacht, £2,225 for a 3-cabin

WEB: www.nautilusyachting.com/corfu-flotillain-greece

IONIAN FLOTILLA, GREECE

Explore these beautiful Greek islands and experience gentle afternoon breezes, warm seas and friendly harbour-front tavernas. This flotilla is ideal for couples and families with children seeking a relaxed sailing holiday. The sheltered waters of the Ionian offer an unlimited number of tranquil bays and enchanting fishing harbours.

DATES: 21 - 28 May

PRICES FROM: 20 per cent off ‘early season’

discount*. Starting from £2,430 for a 2-cabin yacht, £3,050 for a 3-cabin

WEB: www.nautilusyachting.com/ionian-flotilla

WHERE TO GO IN 2023

SUNSAIL CHARTER IN DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

A 7-day Dubrovnik yacht charter, on a fully equipped Sunsail 38 3-cabin monohull.

DATE: departing 21 May

PRICES FROM: £2,487

WEB: www.sunsail.co.uk

CHARTER IN LEFKAS, GREECE

A 7-day Lefkas yacht charter, on a fully equipped Sunsail 41.0 3-cabin monohull.

DATE: departing 2 July

PRICES FROM: £5,508 (includes yacht damage insurance)

WEB: www.sunsail.co.uk

TROGIR FLOTILLA, CROATIA

If you are thinking of sailing in Croatia for the first time, this flotilla is ideal to show you all the best places. The lead yacht accompanies the flotilla and is on hand to give advice on the cruising area. Reliable winds make this flotilla sailing holiday a great choice for more experienced skippers.

DATES: 22 - 29 July

PRICES FROM: 10 per cent off ‘early season’ discount*. Starting from £4,975 for a 3 or 4-cabin yacht

WEB: www.nautilusyachting.com/trogir-flotillain-croatia

*Offer valid until 31 January, 2023. Please use offer code AAS23

PLAINSAILING.COM

EASTER IN THE SUNSHINE

Charter your own yacht or catamaran in Greece for Easter Sunday and treat yourself to a bit of sun along with all that chocolate! Available bareboat or with a skipper.

DATES: 8 – 15 April

PRICES FROM: €1,100 for a 38ft 3-cabin yacht (suitable for 6-8 people)

WEB: PlainSailing.com

THE BEST PLACE TO SAIL ON EARTH

Sail to the Tobago Cays, arguably THE best place to sail to on earth, with your own charter yacht or catamaran. Google them – they are an amazing and idyllic remote archipelago reachable from Grenada in a week of sailing. Boats available bareboat or with a skipper.

DATES: Sailing season runs from November - July

PRICES FROM: €3,500 for a 42ft 4-cabin catamaran (suitable for 8-10 people) in June

WEB: PlainSailing.com

GRENADA YACHT CHARTER

THE MOORINGS

A 7-day Grenada yacht charter on a fully equipped The Moorings 4000 3-cabin catamaran.

DATE: departing 13 May

PRICES FROM: £4,899

WEB: moorings.co.uk

AGANA YACHT CHARTER

A 7-day Agana, Croatia yacht charter, on a fully equipped The Moorings 4500 4-cabin catamaran.

DATE: departing 6 May

PRICES FROM: £5,249

WEB: moorings.co.uk

BVI YACHT CHARTER

A 7-day BVI yacht charter on a fully equipped The Moorings 4000 3-cabin catamaran.

DATE: departing 15 April

PRICES FROM: £7,749

WEB: moorings.co.uk

ATHENS YACHT CHARTER

A 7-day Athens yacht charter on a fully equipped The Moorings 434 Power Cat.

DATE: departing 6 May

PRICES FROM: £5,249

WEB: moorings.co.uk

Charter a yacht or catamaran from Salerno and sail along the Amalfi coast to arrive at the iconic island of Capri in style, before sailing onwards to Ischia, Naples or Sorrento. Complemented with the tastiest food and the finest wine.

DATES: Saturday to Saturday. Sailing season runs from April - November

PRICES FROM: €1,700 for a 34ft 3-cabin yacht (suitable for 6 people) in May

WEB: PlainSailing.com

DELIGHTFUL DUBROVNIK

Hop around the Elaphiti islands, sail to the incredible walled city of Korcula, sample wine on a vineyard tour, overnight in a remote bay, explore magnificent Dubrovnik, snorkel and much more.

DATES: Saturday to Saturday. Sailing season runs from April - November

PRICES FROM: €1,100 for a 34ft 3-cabin yacht (suitable for 6-8 people) or €2,500 for a 40ft 6-cabin catamaran in May

WEB: PlainSailing.com

We have been searching for fantastic new year boating holiday deals and ideas so that you can book your 2023 getaway with ease, and then sit back and relax and look forward to some spring and summer fun in the sun!

MAMMA MIA! SAIL ITALIA

Image: George Kamper

HOLIDAY SPECIAL

SET SAIL FOR THE MED

PlainSailing.com’s guide to holiday destinations in the Med for beginner, intermediate and expert sailors.

comfortable anchoring out or who like a bit of land beneath their feet in the evenings. There are some marinas, like Piskera, which are purpose built to allow sailors to get as remote as possible, and almost all of them are now bookable online, which means you will not have to rush or stress about finding a berth.

Neighbouring Montenegro also offers not-too-strong wind conditions, even more so in the Kotor Bay area, where you are sailing between mountains. The country is something of a millionaire’s playground, with superyachts and big, fancy brandnew marinas.

Wherever you are reading this, the odds are that it is cold, grey and miserable outside, which makes it the perfect time to start planning a holiday. Ideally somewhere sunny and warm and, naturally, involving some sailing.

We are truly blessed to live just a short plane, or even train, journey from the Mediterranean Sea - the biggest, best and most diverse sailing ground on the planet. However, if you are not sure exactly where to go for your ideal sailing holiday, here are a few ideas from charter experts PlainSailing. com, based on how proficient you are in the cockpit…

BEGINNERS

The Mediterranean is ideal for beginners –the waters are non-tidal (so you do not need to panic about racing into port or trying to understand tide-tables) and the whole area is also generally well sheltered from the elements, so you can rest easy that you are not going to come across giant, metres-high waves. There are, however, some bits of the Med that are even more sheltered than the rest – making them the ideal places for beginners to learn the ropes or hone their skills.

And beginners will be glad to know that they do not lose out on any of the Med sailing experience by heading somewhere with lighter winds or less swell - some of the most iconic and beautiful places in the Med fall within this bracket.

This includes the North and South Ionian islands in Greece, which is the most popular

area to sail in the Med, and offers turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, colourful fishing villages, simple line-of-sight navigation and plenty of things to see and do. If flights to Corfu or Lefkas do not work out, then the Saronic gulf is just as suitable for beginners, and you can get there by flying into Athens.

Further north (which makes it slightly cooler temperature-wise, particularly in August), the whole of the epic coastline of Croatia is positioned in the sheltered Adriatic part of the Mediterranean. There are hundreds of islands to hop around, and you can visit the medieval towns of Dubrovnik, Korcula or Trogir; find a sandy beach or sail around one of their protected marine nature reserves.

Sail-tourism has only been around in Croatia for 20 or so years, so they have a very well-planned network of modern marinas, which is great for those who are not

Outside of Greece and the Adriatic, beginners can also relax and enjoy life on board in Malta or the Balearic islands (Mallorca and Ibiza). There are plenty of places to visit to keep you busy for the week, but they are smaller cruising grounds, so sailing distances can be shorter and you will find yourself making simple and confidencebuilding hops up and down the coast.

If you are happy with short distances in idyllic islands, the other place to consider is Sardinia where you can explore the exclusive Costa Smeralda and the Maddalena islands very comfortably, and sample the high life on your own yacht. You can moor up in Porto Cervo and pick up, say, a new Gucci bag.

INTERMEDIATE

Most of the Med opens up for sailors who have a few years of experience on board, and particularly people who are comfortable on the anchor, reefing up and sailing in slightly stronger or direction-changing winds (in

general, this includes most British sailors, who are well known for being hardy in the face of the elements).

In Greece, this encompasses the Sporades islands or Cyclades islands – both offer excellent sailing conditions and you should be able to get a fair rate of knots as you hop between the islands. The time you are willing to commit to standing at the helm alone dictates how remote you can sail here, and the Cyclades would make an outstanding two or three-week break.

In Italy, head to Salerno, where you can get the best view of the famous Amalfi coast as you sail along it, visiting iconic touristmagnets like Sorrento, Amalfi and Capri, and anchoring out at colourful Corricella. Or sail from Sicily for volcanoes, Tuscany for Elba (the best island in the Med?) or Sardinia also becomes intermediate if you sail across the potent Bonifacio strait to Corsica (and the trip to the hill-top castle-town of Bonifacio is almost certainly worth it).

Intermediate sailors should also consider the French Riviera (imagine arriving on your own yacht or catamaran in St Tropez, Nice or Monte Carlo…!), or sailing up and down the turquoise coast in Turkey where you will find restaurants and jetties hidden in remote bays and floating supermarket boats, which mean you do not even need to head to the mainland to get provisions.

Med winds are strongest in areas like Rhodes

Whilst the sailing conditions might be similar, every area of the Med proudly has their own identity and culture, so you will find that the local food, drink and experiences on land will be quite different – it really is a cruising ground which could occupy you for decades, without you ever running out of new places to visit.

EXPERT

Thankfully, with the Med being as sheltered as it is, you do not need to be an expert to sail in it – and when it comes to charter boats, they simply do not exist in places where sailing is not first and foremost enjoyable.

Most experts will be happy anywhere in the Med, and will enjoy feeling relaxed, prepared and under control whilst they bask in the sunshine - which are possibly the best conditions for sailing.

Sailors in search of more exhilarating sailing will find the winds at their strongest in the Dodecanese islands (Rhodes and Kos) in Greece, where you can heel over at speed as well as taking in all the usual charms of Greek island sailing. Alternatively, ‘experts’ can spend an extra hour or so on the plane and sail in the Canary islands (Tenerife, Lanzarote), where they will find tidal sailing in the Atlantic a little more of a challenge.

You could step away from the usual destinations with a holiday in Malta

You could be enjoying the stunning French Riviera this year

Image: Kavalenkava/Shutterstock

Image: Balate Dorin/Shutterstock

Image: Fesus Robert/Shutterstock

THE TRUTH ABOUT BOATING HOLIDAYS…

Dispelling common boating holiday myths with Caroline Barbour, head of marketing for Sunsail and The Moorings.

Yachting holidays are too expensive.

Caroline: The cost of having your own private yacht charter with a skipper may not be as expensive as you first imagine. One week with a skipper can cost about the same as a week in a four to five star hotel for a family of four!

It is always cheaper to book a last minute holiday.

Caroline: Booking last minute does not always guarantee better prices. It can be a good idea if you want to be more spontaneous, but you cannot be too picky! Booking last minute will mean that your travel plans will need to be pretty flexible, as your choice of yacht, destination, flight dates, boarding type and plane seats will be limited. You can often find great deals by booking your holiday far in advance, with more availability to choose from.

I need to have sailing qualifications to take a sailing holiday.

Caroline: If you cannot sail or do not have the required qualifications, then you can either hire a skipper, take a sailing school course at home or abroad to earn an accredited Royal Yachting Association qualification or combine the best of both worlds with a specialist flotilla starter course with Sunsail.

Children are not welcome on a chartered yacht and would not enjoy it anyway.

Caroline: Children will always have something to do, see or explore on yacht charter. Flotillas are ideal for families and specialist routes even have dedicated activity coordinators, who plans games and activities, from treasure hunts to water activities, for the smallest of sailors. Charter companies take care of the sailing holiday essentials and cover everything from child safety nets to lifejackets, as well as ensuring you have the right yacht.

Charting a yacht abroad involves lots of paperwork

Caroline: Before you start planning your holiday, if you are not booking a skipper, it is best to doublecheck the experience level and qualifications needed before your holiday, as it varies in each country. When you book with a charter company like Sunsail and The Moorings there is minimal paperwork to complete, and is about the same as if a customer were to book a hotel or villa. We have implemented a simple online booking portal for our charter companies, and the link can be shared with all crew so they can enter their details, making it even easier for the lead crew member.

We will not have any independence if we take a flotilla holiday.

Caroline: It is a common myth that all the boats sail together like a row of ducklings, but the reality is a flotilla gives each yacht the freedom to be as independent or as sociable as they like. You will be guided by a lead crew including a skipper, host and technician who are on hand to make sure you have a fantastic holiday, from daily briefings and organising social events to ironing out any niggles along the way.

There are too many ‘extra’ costs like moorings, food and so on…

Caroline: We would aways recommend double checking any extras so that you are clear about what is included in your charter and have no surprises whilst you are away. Fuel, food and mooring costs are not usually included as standard as these rates can fluctuate so greatly. There are options to go all-inclusive too, such as a crewed charter with The Moorings, which includes an expert captain and personal gourmet chef, inclusive of all meals and beverages, fuel and much more.

I can only charter a boat in the spring and summer.

Caroline: You can charter a boat throughout the year. At Sunsail and The Moorings there are more than 20 stunning destinations to choose from. So, whether you want to escape the winter blues and travel to the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Australia, Indian Ocean or South Pacific, or you fancy spending the spring and summer in the Med, you can get afloat and see the world any time of year!

www.sunsail.co.uk www.moorings.co.uk

“It is a common myth that all the boats sail together like a row of ducklings”

THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER

Looking beyond the Mediterranean for your next holiday?

Caroline Barbour, UK marketing manager for The Moorings, looks at yacht charter destinations further

NASA estimates there is 372,000 miles of coastline on Earth, which provides plenty of incredible yacht charter destinations. But with so many options, we know it can be difficult to choose!

To begin narrowing down the vast number of choices, we recommend looking at what type of charter is best for you. You can charter a power or sailing yacht and have the choice of hiring a skipper or a professional crew.

If you have the required qualifications and are confident to charter without a skipper, we suggest taking a look at the cruising conditions in your top locations, as some are better suited to beginners whilst others are better suited to experienced skippers.

The Mediterranean is one of the most popular destinations for yachting and is a great choice for all levels of experience, but there are plenty of other exciting places beyond the Med worth considering too. Below is a guide to some of these fantastic sailing destinations, with options for both first-time sailors and experienced explorers.

BEGINNERS

For those new to yacht charter holidays, we recommend looking for somewhere that offers line-of-sight navigation with the opportunity to make short crossings between islands and points of interest.

The British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands are a Caribbean delight for beginners. Steady trade winds provide calm cruising conditions, allowing your crew to enjoy lounging on the sundeck while you island hop between pristine beaches. The wildlife spans the whole spectrum of the rainbow, which you can experience through coral reef snorkelling and hiking through the nature reserves.

INTERMEDIATE

There are several locations perfect for sailors with a good foundation in coastal navigation, but do not want their skills tested too much. Tahiti offers calm conditions with opportunities for open

water cruising. Situated between Australia and South America, the islands of Tahiti are a vibrant mix of ancient stone temples, artistic chic and nature in all its glory.

Beyond the Virgin Islands, the rest of the Caribbean, including Antigua, Grenada, Saint Lucia and St Martin, all provide a mix of intermediate sailing conditions. Get a true sense of the Caribbean culture and charm as you leave your troubles behind. Many of the crossings between the islands are short, but the steady trade winds and opportunities for open water sailing are the reason that many of the islands host world famous regattas.

EXPERIENCED

For the sailors with a taste for more challenging conditions, heading further off coast to an isolated location is a great choice. Not only will you find more opportunities for open water cruising and interesting navigation choices, but you will also get the sense of a true independent adventure at sea.

The Seychelles Islands are 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa and are densely packed with unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Giant tortoises nest on the white sandy beaches and heading further inland reveals the wonders of the tropical forest nature reserves.

Currents and wind speeds change throughout the year and can be swift in narrow channels, meaning crews should be led by an experienced and confident skipper.

for beginners to experts.

group’s preferences, and a personal gourmet chef will delight senses with locally inspired dishes and drinks for every meal.

CHOOSING A SAIL OR POWER CHARTER

It is also worth bearing in mind that your choice of yacht should be dependent on your preferences and experience. A powered charter provides a smoother platform as you glide the crystalclear waters aboard a spacious, high performance power catamaran. The Moorings yachts are designed to be fuelefficient, fast, stable and stylish.

Whether you decide to set sail on a classic monohull or a custom-built sail catamaran with modern features, when under sail, some prior experience is required to understand the limitations and challenges that come with the territory but provides its own sense of accomplishment! Hopefully this guide has provided some insight into destinations outside of the Mediterranean and suitability for different experience levels.

To learn more about these destinations and offers with The Moorings, please visit www.moorings.co.uk.

Thailand is another exotic destination suited to more experienced crews. Wet and dry seasons mean conditions change throughout the year. While there are opportunities for open water sailing, most of the passages between the 130 picturesque islands are short.

The coral reefs are abundant with life but require an experienced skipper to navigate them due to the narrow channels and tidal ranges. Phuket is also well-known for its vibrant nightlife after a good day of cruising.

SKIPPERED CHARTERS

If you are new to chartering a yacht, you can hire an expert skipper for your holiday. They can show you the ropes if you want to learn more, or you can simply sit back and relax as they take the helm. Hiring a skipper gives you access to a full range of destinations as they will expertly navigate you in conditions you might not be confident in. They also double up as a personal tour guide, with excellent local knowledge.

CREWED POWER AND SAIL OPTIONS

For the ultimate first-class experience, a crewed charter is suitable for all experience levels, as it means you can put your feet up and relax, knowing everything is taken care of. Your professional captain will handle the navigation, tailoring your itinerary to your

afield

Image: George Kamper

“There are several locations perfect for sailors with a good foundation in coastal navigation, but do not want their skills tested too much”

SAIL AWAY - HOLIDAY NEWS

BUSY BOOKING HOLIDAYS

Did you book a sailing holiday at the start of the year? sailingholidays.com told us January was extremely busy with many people sorting out their summer sailing in the sun. Many two week flotilla dates are full already, particularly in September and October. The team suggest, for those looking for something a little different, a new one week North to South Ionian trip leaving on 18 June, returning South to North on 25 June. sailingholidays.com

WHERE ARE YOU GOING?

If you have still not decided where to holiday this year why not try one of PlainSailing.com’s many comprehensive destination guides, available at their website. The team are more than happy to chat through your options too.

An early-season Easter break in Greece for under €1,000 a boat, an island-hopping adventure in Croatia, arriving in style in France or Italy, exploring somewhere new - like Turkey, Spain, Malta or Montenegro - or a week or two chartering in the Caribbean, the choice is yours. Here are some PlainSailing.com holidays to tempt you…

EASTER IN ATHENS!

Charter your own yacht or catamaran from Athens for Easter Sunday and treat yourself to a bit of sun along with all that chocolate! Available bareboat or with a skipper.

DATE: Saturday 8 – Saturday 15 April 2023

PRICES FROM: €950 for a 36’ 3-cabin yacht

Destination of the Year

The Yachting Destination of the Year has been awarded to Grenada in the Southern Caribbean, with Port Louis Marina receiving particular mention by the Caribbean Travel Awards judges.

“Grenada has quietly become an in-demand yachting hotspot in recent years, both for the tri-island state (including nearby Carriacou and Petite Martinique) and for its place as an easy-toreach hub for exploring the wonders of the islands of the Grenadines. The Moorings (www.moorings.co.uk) is here too,” said the judges.

Grenada is known as the ‘Island of Spice’ and is one of the most authentic and charming Caribbean islands, offering a wonderful yachting experience for visitors. Grenada consists of the island of Grenada, two smaller islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, and several small islands which lie to the north of the main island and are a part of the Grenadines. Due to

its rich cruising grounds, Grenada is fast becoming the must visit destination on the yacht charter map. Visitors to the islands of Grenada can enjoy many activities both on land and on the water. Popular excursions include rum and chocolate tasting tours, waterfall and jungle walks, horse riding along Great Anse Beach and diving at the infamous Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park.

Zara Tremlett, CMM, marina manager at Port Louis Marina, said: “We are so excited to receive the special mention from the judges. Grenada is one of the most fantastic cruising locations, and our marina is working hard to help facilitate and service yachts throughout the year. The team at Port Louis Marina has seen incredible occupancy growth in the last year, and is now exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

“We are hosting seven international and regional sailing events in the marina this season, which certainly brings a fantastic atmosphere to the docks.”

LIFE’S A BEACH!

Ever fancied sailing around the Bahamas? You can charter a yacht or catamaran (with or without a skipper) in May or June 2023 for the best possible prices.

DATES: Sail in May or June 2023

PRICES FROM: €2,500 for a 3-cabin yacht or €4,500 for a 4-cabin catamaran

CRAZY CROATIAN EARLY SEASON OFFERS!

Charter a yacht or catamaran from Zadar or Split for under €1,000 bareboat if you pick up the boat on or before Saturday 13 May. Boats also available with a skipper.

DATES: Saturday to Saturday. Sailing season runs from April to May 2023

PRICES FROM: €800 for a 34’ 3-cabin yacht (suitable for 6 people) in April 2023

PlainSailing.com

Top 10 for 2023

If you are looking for inspiration Nautilus Yachting has put together a great guide to the top 10 destinations for 2023. How many can you already tick off?

South Ionian, Greece: the sheltered Ionian on the west coast of Greece is ideal for a relaxed sailing holiday, making it popular with families.

Split, Croatia: located on the Adriatic Coast of Croatia between Zadar and Dubrovnik, with its warm weather, clear Adriatic waters and numerous coastal coves, beaches and islands it is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts.

North Ionian, Greece: this sailing area is less crowded than the Southern Ionian. A bareboat yacht charter from Corfu is an ideal sailing holiday for couples and families with older children looking to explore the Ionian off the beaten track. Saronic Gulf, Greece: plan a relaxed sailing holiday in the Saronic Gulf south of Athens with reliable winds and a good variety of islands to visit.

Fethiye & Gocek, Turkey: enjoy a relaxed sailing holiday in the Gulf of Fethiye with short passages, easy sailing conditions and remote, protected anchorages.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Dubrovnik is a beautiful medieval city with an amazing Old Town, now a UNESCO World heritage site. On the southern coast is where you will find most of the sandy beaches in Croatia.

British Virgin Islands: anchor off your own white sandy beach. Dive into warm turquoise seas to snorkel among the coral reefs. Relax with a rum punch sundowner on the deck of your yacht while you watch another glorious sunset.

Sporades, Greece: explore the beautiful Sporades and scenic gulf of Volos from Skiathos and experience exciting sailing off the tourist track.

Dodecanese, Greece: Explore the unspoilt Dodecanese islands in the southeast Aegean sea, just off the coast of Turkey. Perfect for early or late season sailing from Kos.

Sardinia, Italy: enjoy a sailing holiday on Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, ‘the Emerald Coast’, famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and jet-set lifestyle. www.nautilusyachting.com

LIVING THE DREAM

How often have you been on holiday and ended up gazing into estate agent windows dreaming of making it your home. Bethany Hemsley, from The Luxury Property Show, gives her recommendations for the best places in the world to live for yacht lovers.

The yacht industry has boomed in recent years, turning over almost £700m in the UK alone. As more and more people take to the seas, many are looking for the perfect land-based property to complement their yachting adventures. But where are the best places in the world to live for yacht lovers?

MONACO

We cannot write about the most beautiful locations for yachting without mentioning Monaco. This glamorous spot on the French Riviera is the epitome of sophistication, so do not be surprised if you bump into a few A-listers.

Hercules Port is the main marina in Monaco and is one of the best in the world. Set in a breath-taking position at the foot of the idyllic Monaco hills and lined with Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end boutiques and flashy casinos, it really is something special.

The marina is right in the action for some of the biggest calendar events of the year too, such as the Monaco Yacht Show (27 – 30 September) and the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix (28 May), when even more celebrities descend on the area. What is more, once you have enjoyed the wonders of Monaco, you are only a short distance away from some of Europe’s other moststylish resorts; these include Cannes, Saint Tropez and Portofino.

MALLORCA

The crystal-clear azure waters of the Mediterranean have long attracted yacht enthusiasts to the island of Mallorca. Known as the ‘crown jewel of the Balearic Islands’, Mallorca offer some of the most beautiful yachting in the world, with soft sandy beaches, tucked away coves, quaint fishing villages and lush green mountains.

Port Adriano sits just nine kilometres from the capital city of Palma de Mallorca. It is a fantastic base to explore Mallorca, as well as her sister islands of Ibiza and Menorca. The marina has a very large capacity, holding up to 487 moorings, and offers a whole host of facilities and amenities making it ideal for families. Once moored, you can try your hand at everything from sailing and paddleboarding to jet skiing and kayaking. There is even a kids’ area at the marina to keep the little ones entertained.

GREECE

With glistening blue water, pictureperfect islands and an enviable climate, you

will never get bored of yachting around Greece. The Ionian Islands in particular are perfect for that bucket-list Greek islandhopping experience.

For your basecamp, look to Lefkas Marina on the island of Lefkada. This modern marina has top-notch facilities including a reception office in a control tower, ensuring your boat and belongings remain safe and secure.

The island itself is stunning with colourful towns and villages that create a stark contrast against the lush green countryside behind. You would have ample opportunity to leave behind the tourist trail and enjoy rustic Greece with its friendly locals and delicious local cuisine.

CROATIA

The Croatian coast is extremely wellequipped for yachting with a network of more than 50 marinas, stretching from Umag to Dubrovnik. Explore Croatia’s endless islands with their spectacular historical ruins and get to know the locals in the many coastal towns and villages. The islands are relatively close together too, making for a safe sail – combine this with the calm winds and you really do have the perfect conditions for yachting.

Each of Croatia’s marinas have something different to offer, but ACI Marina Dubrovnik is a favourite. Situated in Dubrovnik, it is a brilliant base to explore this charming and alluring city or to venture further along the beautiful Dalmatian Coast. You would even be close enough to hop over to Italy if you wish.

ITALY

Italy’s coastline is truly exquisite, filled with colourful towns teetering on cliff edges, vast sandy beaches and dreamy turquoise waters. It is safe to say you are spoilt for choice when it comes to yachting destinations.

The picturesque villages of Cinque Terre first spring to mind, a string of five old fishing villages perched high on the Italian Riviera. To hike along this scenic coastline is the best way to explore the villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso.

However, there are plenty of alternatives that are equally as beautiful. One such spot is Capri. Nestled within a pretty and sheltered cove on the northern part of the island, the impressive Marina Grande is a fabulous place to moor up. With a backdrop of quaint, bright-coloured houses and magnificent luxury villas, the port offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the town of Capri up above. Nevertheless, you would only ever be four minutes from the action thanks to a handy funicular cable car.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A PROPERTY NEAR A MARINA

Wherever you choose to buy, there are several things to consider and questions to ask yourself.

Firstly, how close to the marina do you want to be? Are you looking for a waterfront home or would you be happy living further out, perhaps in the nearby town/city?

Unsurprisingly, the closer you get to the water, the more expensive it gets. Nonetheless, these types of properties are incredibly desirable, creating huge potential for rentals as well as a great long-term investment.

Once you have decided on a location, you will also need to consider how often you plan to spend in your marina home. Are you moving there permanently or just using it for a holiday? If it is a permanent move, ensure that you are near the required amenities, such as shops and transport links. If the property is purely somewhere to sleep after a long day of boating, then you may be happier with a smaller place that is further from the amenities.

Most importantly, though, your chosen location should put you in a prime spot to start your dream yacht adventure. As mentioned, Marina Dubrovnik presents the opportunity to explore both the Croatian coast and the Italian coast, while marinas on the Greek islands are fantastic for island hopping.

“Most importantly, though, your chosen location should put you in a prime spot to start your dream yacht adventure”

SAME DIFFERENCE!

If you enjoy exploring new or lesser known places then these suggestions from Dream Yacht Worldwide, www.dreamyachtcharter.com, might float your boat in 2023…

Instead of the Maldives, visit the Seychelles…

Dream Yacht Worldwide began its first yacht charters in the Seychelles. And for good reason, as it is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, comprising 41 of the earth’s oldest granite islands and 74 low-lying reef islands which embody the phrase ‘tropical paradise’. On a Seychelles yacht charter, travellers can snorkel among the treelike corals on Coco Island, or at stunning St. Pierre islet where rugged granite rocks merge with lush tropical vegetation.

An unmissable highlight on any yacht charter in the Seychelles is a visit to the scented vanilla plantations at Union Estate on La Digue, one of the most beautiful islands in the region. While for nature lovers, there is bird watching at Aride Island and the rare Aldabra tortoises at Curieuse, a protected island where you can observe these gentle giants.

There are also the larger islands of Mahé and Praslin to explore. Here, you will find stunning landscapes, relaxed island hopping and plenty of opportunities to swim in the reefs.

Instead of the French Riviera, explore New Caledonia…

Dream Yacht Worldwide was the first company to offer sailing charters in this exciting cruising ground, and now has an extensive fleet operating from its base at Port Moselle in Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia in the southwest Pacific Ocean.

New Caledonia is home to the world’s largest lagoon, a beautiful and unique natural aquarium covering more than 9,000 square miles, and is one of the most remarkable and beautiful sailing destinations. The archipelago is also home to one of the world’s most extensive reef systems, with a diverse range of healthy coral and marine life, including whales, turtles and tropical fish.

Nouméa is a cosmopolitan city which feels much like the French Riviera. Colourful waterfronts are lined with bars, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs, and it is an ideal place to stock up on superb French gourmet food and wine. The city is within easy reach of the south lagoon, where you can sail Îlot Maître, Île des Pins, Île Ouen, Îlot Brosse and Ilot Kuaré.

Instead of Sicily, check out Sardinia…

The island of Sardinia is off Italy’s west coast in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Sardinia sailing adventures begin from Dream Yacht Worldwide’s base in Olbia on the northeast coast. From there, it is an easy sail to the Maddalena Archipelago and the glamorous Costa Smeralda – Sardinia’s most coveted sailing areas.

Well known for their miles of craggy coastline, the world-famous Emerald Coast and the Maddalena Archipelago National Park and Marine Reserve are the places to find superb beaches and scenic coves. Travellers can swim, snorkel and take in stunning sunsets in the solitude of these largely uninhabited islands.

Many enjoy boutique shopping in the super-exclusive ports of Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo, where travellers can mix with the international jet set. With a wide choice of dining options, from local trattoria to fine dining, it is recommended to sample the local cuisine during a boat charter in Sardinia, especially the amazing fresh seafood found on the coast.

FAMILY ADVENTURES

Henry Burkitt, founder & CEO of adventure sailing holiday specialists, Kraken Travel, explains how he sails with two young children.

Boats have always been my second home, so I had always hoped my future family would share my passion for sailing. I was five when I first stepped foot on one and last summer, my oldest (5) and youngest (2) followed in my footsteps as we set sail on our first trip as a family of four. My wife was understandably nervous; you would think the children would be fine as we were

in an enclosed space, so there was no chance of us losing sight of them. However, in reality, there are hazards to be aware of. Despite this, we boarded the catamaran in Palma, Mallorca and had a holiday to remember. Planning goes a long way to ensure it is smooth sailing. If you are thinking of doing the same, here are my top tips for successful family holidays on the water:

1. Choose your boat carefully. Our catamaran had a choice of berths, which included bunk beds opposite our cabin for the children, so even during the night they were next door and always within earshot. There is a degree of soundproofing for the benefit of the rest of the crew too.

2. Choosing the correct destination for your charter is crucial when travelling with your family. Island or archipelago destinations are generally more sheltered and offer flatter seas than a long coastal journey. Enjoy the naturally diverse beauty of island sailing, and explore everything it will have to offer. In addition, sailing in a smaller area allows a shorter sailing time, eliminating the worry of keeping the kids busy. Lots of beaches are always a winner.

3. Take your own lifejackets for the little ones. My girls had them at all times when on deck, when swimming from the boat and on the tender - it provided huge peace of mind for us as parents. And, by taking your own, you know they will be the right size. Our catamaran was fitted with netting on the guard wires to stop them from falling in; it is always worth asking for this when booking. Try and get the charter base to fit it for you too.

4. Hire a skipper or holiday with competent sailing friends. As any parent knows, holidays – on land or the water – can be stressful, so being with friends or having professional support can make it more enjoyable for everyone. We were with friends last summer, who were all great with our girls, not least because, between us, our group always had eyes on them and kept them entertained, allowing us to also take turns at the wheel, cooking dinner or going for a swim.

5. Plan some off-the-water activities. While sailing allows you to visit a different place every day, boats do not always have lots of space to run around. Take beach days, visit the park or go for a stroll around the city so the children can burn off some energy before they get back on board. I would also recommend hiring a boat with water toys if you can; watersports are fun for all the group – old and young. We had SUPs on board, which everyone loved.

6. Plan ahead with the children in mind. This is not unique to sailing but, depending on where you are, dining options can be limited, so either fill the fridge before you leave port on day one or, better still, pack your children’s favourite snacks in your suitcase. I would also recommend taking some activities – a travel game or two and a colouring book and pens – to help pass the time if you have a long sail one day.

kraken.travel/yacht-charter

UK SAILING HOLIDAYS

James Foot, on-the-water expert at Borrow A Boat, shares his top places to sail in the UK this year.

We Brits are very lucky to live on an island, and it is no wonder we have always been a seafaring nation, as our encompassing coastline snakes around Great Britain and each individual British Isle. But in an age of international travel, where we can easily escape to the warmer climes of the Mediterranean or Caribbean, it is easy to ignore the beauty on our own doorstep. Below are four of James’ favourite places to sail without leaving the UK.

WEST COAST OF SCOTLAND

From Largs, conveniently accessible via Glasgow International, you can meander around the stunning Kyles of Bute before stopping at Portavadie, a superb marina which features an infinity pool overlooking Loch Fyne. You can then set off early to get to the entrance of the Crinan canal ideally before 10am.

Getting through the canal’s 15 locks is an engaging process (you can opt to have Scottish Canals staff assist) and you will drift past lovely countryside before exiting into the sea at Crinan (where you may be greeted by a pod of dolphins).

Then you can begin your island hopping down the Hebrides of Jura and onto Islay, where you will find several of Scotland’s most famous distilleries. Go easy on the local produce, as the Mull of Kintyre on your return leg is famed for putting even seasoned sailors to the test!

THE SOLENT

The Solent is often referred to as the home of British yachting, and is a magnificent playground for sailors who love the technicalities and challenges of sailing in strong tidal water. It offers incredible sailing conditions with a prevailing south-westerly allowing you to tack and gybe your way from Notley to the Needles and back.

With tricky transits and strong currents, the Solent holistically tests your ability to navigate into some of the most quaint and charming anchorages on the South Coast, such as the sumptuous Newtown Creek on the Isle of Wight, or bucolic Beaulieu, nestled in the New Forest.

The West Coast of Scotland provides beautiful cruising grounds and abounds with incredible wildlife including whales and seabirds. It is no wonder that sailors return to cruise this area time and again.

Two marvellous options for chartering in Scotland can be boiled down to the Firth of Clyde and further north from Oban and Dunstaffnage. The former has the best options in terms of charter yachts and provides access to a fantastic innerHebridean itinerary, wonderful whisky and world class scenery.

SOUTH WEST

Charter a yacht on the River Fal, head out through Carrick Roads and relish the very best of the South West coastline, once home to naval officers, fishermen and nefarious smugglers alike.

Falmouth’s nautical history makes it the perfect place to explore on or off the water, and it plays host to the impressive national maritime museum.

The Helford River area also boasts golden sandy beaches, sub-tropical gardens and heritage sites such as Pendennis Castle.

Anchor off the gorgeous Roseland peninsula, take the dinghy ashore and stroll through St Just in Roseland, or hike over to classically Cornish St Mawes. There are many beautiful beaches, great for swimming, sunbathing, rock pooling and watersports. Sail around the Lizard, mainland Britain’s most southerly point, and on to Mount’s Bay and Penzance. From here you can make a pasage across to the magical Isles of Scilly, a cluster of beachfringed jewels with their own warm microclimate and unique diversity of species.

After snaking your way through the mouth of Newtown River into the heart of the National Trust Nature Reserve, all you need do is drop anchor, pop your anchor light on and open a bottle of wine while taking in the stunning sunset with your evening meal and listening to the array of wildlife.

So varied are the conditions that there is a popular saying that if you can sail in the Solent, you can sail anywhere in the world, and it is certainly a good proving ground – many of the UK’s top ocean sailors cut their teeth on the Solent, and it is home to world-famous races and regattas such as the Round the Island Race and Cowes Week.

Charters from the Solent are also a great way to get some more miles under your belt, heading out across to the Channel Islands and Brittany.

LONDON & SOUTH EAST

Start your sailing trip in the quiet marina right outside the Borrow a Boat offices, in the heart of London next to Tower Bridge. Head East along the River Thames, past the Greenwich Peninsula, overlooked by the O2 arena, through the Thames Barrier and onwards to the isolated creeks of the east coast.

Explore the picturesque market town of Faversham, the tranquil Oare Marches, the Isle of Sheppey and the River Medway’s twisting nature reserves, or go north towards Burnham-on-Crouch and the River Blackwater. Boats are available for day trips in and around London, too.