Regardless of whether you are an amateur looking for some thrilling experience of open waters or a weathered sailor looking forward to challenging the blues; these offshore holiday locations are bound to take your breath away.
Livening vacations and adventure trips in more ways than one, these places in Europe offer some of the best sailing opportunities in the world—similar to the ones that can be savored in Australian and South Asian waters, located halfway across the world.
Devon, England
Sailing can be a lot of fun, especially if you choose to explore the scenic East Devon Coast of United Kingdom. Apart from being home to much acclaimed Agatha Christie, Devon is also renowned for its mild climate, beautiful coastline and its historical coastal villages.
The region is often referred to as the Jurassic Coast and lures travelers with its stunning geographical bounties and outdoor activities alike. If you are willing to give sailing a go, do get in touch with the local operators offering some of the best expeditions and sailing holidays in Devon county, for individuals and groups alike.
Jurassic Coast, England, UK
Cote D’Azur, France
Leave your stresses far behind and gear up for a sailing vacation in Cote D’Azur, France. Arguably the best ways to enjoy French sophistication and experience high life, a yacht ride with other likeminded tourists or a trip on a chartered private sailboat lure you with some of the most memorable sailing moments.
Gaze upon impressive cliffs towering high above you or indulge in the clear crystal waters below—either way, you will love to steep your senses in the mesmerizing views of Cannes, Monaco and Antibes.
Cote D’Azur, France
Azores, Portugal
The Azores – made up of nine small islands fringed by the Atlantic Ocean and warm waters of the Gulf Stream, are perfect for spotting playful dolphins, larger sized whales and many other aquatic species.
Largely untouched, these islands are the ideal choice for lovers and tourists looking for their own personal space under the sun –far from the maddening crowds.
Azores, Portugal
Balearics, Spain
More commercialized and “touristy” than most other sailing destinations in Europe, the Balearic Islands consist of Minorca, Ibiza, Majorca and Formentera. Widely recognized for their stunning Mediterranean sights and bounties, these islands attract visitors with their deep blue waters, gorgeous sandy beaches and remnants of historic civilizations like those of Greeks, Romans, Moors and French crusaders.
Beach on Formentera, Balearics, Spain
Sicily, Italy
The charming island of Sicily is one of the often visited and most beautiful sailing destinations in Europe.
Its magnificent coastline provides the perfect setting to the volcanic islands of Salina and Lipari and offers loads of opportunities for swimming, sailing, bird watching and diving. Rich cultural heritage and delectable cuisines are in store for those who want to visit the villages and tucked away places in Sicily.
Cefalu, Sicily, Italy – panorama
Croatia
The list of popular sailing destinations in Europe is obviously topped by the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and over 1000 islands credited to Croatia. A hot favorite among tourists and sailors looking towards the welcoming geographical offerings of the region, Croatia is a great vacation spot for those waiting to explore the many jewels of Dubrovnik, Split or Makarska.
Arguably the best sailing spot in the Mediterranean, Croatia features the pleasant winds of Bura (Bora), – Maestral (Mistral) and Jugo—extremely ideal for great sailing experiences. The region’s many beaches, islands and channels bring tourists closer to the untouched natural treasure trove of Kornati, Fakusa, Krk island, Vis Island, Pakleni Islands, Hvar harbor as well as the delights of 50 fully serviced marinas, about 500 harbors and a lot more!
Kornati islands, Croatia
If you are still not sure where to spend your next vacation, rent a yacht and begin your sailing holidays in Croatia – you will not be disappointed.
So, are you ready for some magical moments of sailing in Europe?