Top 7 Sailing Destinations in the World

What could be better than the feeling the wind in your hair, or smelling the salty fresh air of the ocean? Sailing is one of ways to enjoy the expanse of the ocean, to overcome your fear, to explore the unknown. From thousands of destinations to choose from for a sailing experience, where is the best place to go? We've listed 7 places to help you find your next yacht cruise!

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Photo: ISail Whitsundays

Whitsunday Islands, the heaven on earth! The Whitsundays is an archipelago of 74 tropical islands located just 55 kilometres (34 miles) off the Queensland coast, next to the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors travel to the Whitsundays from all around the world to relax on the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach, soar over Heart Reef in a sea plane and stay in world-class accommodation on luxury islands. The clear, protected waters around the island's secluded beaches and hidden bays are also ideal for sailing. You can sail beneath cloudless skies and take in all that the region has to offer, including Whitehaven Beach which is considered to be one of the best in the world.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Photo: Barefoot Sailing Adventures

A three-hour drive or 35-minute flight north of Auckland, the Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region known for its stunning beauty & history. For those that love beaches and water activities, it's paradise. Sailing in the Bay of Islands is an absolute must do! The Islands and their marine reserves are rated as one of the most beautiful sailing spots in the world. You can sail through the turquoise water as dolphins swim alongside you, then explore the coves and sink your toes into white sand beaches. You'll be sure to have a great time!

The Grenadines, Caribbean

Photo: Sail Grenadines

The Grenadines rise up out of the emerald Caribbean Sea in a chain of exquisite islands stretching from the Spice Island of Grenada in the south as far as St Vincent, 50 miles to the north. These beautiful, unspoilt islands have idyllic beaches with white sand, palm trees, clear turquoise waters and a myriad of bays, anchorages, and moorings - perfect to explore on a sailing holiday.

Greek Islands, Mediterranean

Photo: visitgreece

There's nothing quite like a sailing holiday in Greece. Imagine long, sun-drenched days hopping between sparkling bays and authentic villages where the locals will welcome you with open arms. Get off-the-beaten-tourist track as you explore remote monasteries and blissful beaches or discover UNESCO World Heritage-listed towns that are steeped in history. There are more than 300 days of sunshine a year in the region and plenty to see and do. By day, you can find a secluded swimming spot, or explore the whitewashed villages and ancient ruins and by night feast on octopus, souvlaki and baklava. As each day ends, you'll have the opportunity to witness some of the world's best sunsets from the water.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Photo: Nemo Galapagos Cruises

These volcanic islands are a naturalist's paradise that home to some of the world's rarest wildlife, much of which inspired Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution. There are species of bird, animal, and plant life here that you simply won't find anywhere else. Blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, sea lions, marine iguanas – it's like a nature documentary you can walk through. Sail around the islands and take in some breathtaking scenery, or dive into the crystal clear waters and see some fantastic marine life. Just remember to tread carefully…as the region is protected.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Photo: INGimage

The Zanzibar Archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean 15 miles off the coast of Tanzania, is a breathtaking spot to escape from the world. Once there you'll find many enchanting sights and landmarks including a former palace, a Persian bathhouse and Stone Town (a UNESCO world heritage site) waiting to be explored. Or just go beach to beach between tiny fishing villages—each one's better than the next. The clear waters are also perfect for diving and sailing, with an average year-round temperature of 27°C.

French Polynesia, South Pacific

Photo: Tahiti.com

French Polynesia, a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, stretches across 2000 sq km, an area the size of Western Europe. The region has 118 islands (67 are inhabited), the largest of which is Tahiti. White, sandy beaches, pristine, turquoise lagoons and exciting aquatic wildlife await you and the hospitality of the locals is definitely going to make you want to return to this sailing region again and again.

Photo: INGimage

Which one will you be dreaming of visiting?

Source:

sailtraininginternational.org/sailonboard / www.australia.com / www.newzealand.com / www.nautilusyachting.com / sailnstay.com / www.gadventures.com / www.tripadvisor.com / yacht4less.com