Are you planning a sailing holiday in September? Is September a good time to sail? September is a fantastic time to sail and explore some of the world’s most beautiful waters. As the summer rush begins to dissipate across the Mediterranean, you’ll find ideal sailing conditions, fewer crowds and often better prices. This article highlights the best places to sail in September. We help with the best destinations, itineraries, yacht rental options & useful infos.
In this article you can read about the following:
- Where to sail in September?
- The Mediterranean
- East Coast of the North-Atlantic Ocean
- Sailing holidays in September: itineraries
Where to sail in September?
The Mediterranean is the best sailing destination in September, with pleasantly warm temperatures, calm seas and fewer tourists.
The Mediterranean
Spain
September is an ideal and popular time for a sailing trip in Spain. All the southern regions still have excellent sailing conditions. Choose the Balearic Islands, the hidden coves Mallorca, the untouched nature Menorca, or the legendary Ibiza parties. Popular regions on the southern coast include Costa Barava (Barcelona, Tossa de Mar, Sitges) or Costa del Sol (Marbella, Nerja, Malaga) can also be a great way to make some great memories.
Weather: September brings warm, pleasant temperatures as the intense summer heat has subsided, making it perfect for spending time on the water. Daytime highs are 25-30°C, water temperatures range between 21-23°C, and the number of hours of sunshine is 8-10 per day. Winds are light to moderate (6-15 knots), often blowing from the east or southeast, with predictable thermals. The light winds and calm waters make September an excellent time for beginners to learn sailing or practice their skills.
Italy
September sailing in Italy is one of the best times to sail. The weather remains warm and pleasant, the crowds are sparse, and the sea conditions are ideal. Sailing in the Amalfi coast, in Sardinia, Sicily, Naples Bay, Puglia or Liguria are ideal choice. September is the time for the Festa del Maret, a popular festival celebrated in many coastal towns in Italy, and the Genoa International Boat Show.
Weather: Temperatures in coastal areas range between 22-29°C, with sea temperatures ranging from 22-24°C. Weather patterns in September are stable. The Mediterranean Sea has light and steady winds, which are ideal for sailing. The sea is usually calm or moderate, the air is dry, with rare showers. rent a boat Italy
Greece
The sailing in Greece in September offers an unparalleled experience for those who want to explore one of the most beautiful and historically rich sailing destinations in the world. The summer heat is fading, but the weather is still warm enough, the skies are clear, and the winds are favourable, making this month an ideal time to sail the Greek seas. All 7 main regions, the Cycladic, the Ionian, the Dodecanese, Sporadess, the Saronic-gulf, the North-Aegean Sea and Crete still offer ideal sailing and relaxation conditions. Many regions celebrate the grape harvest with local festivals in September, offering the opportunity to taste delicious wines and experience traditional customs
Weather: The average daytime temperature in September is around 29°C, with sea temperatures between 23°C and 25°C. The sea and wind are often calmer than in the summer months, making for more comfortable sailing. The Meltemi wind, which prevails in summer, gradually subsides towards the end of September, giving way to the sea breeze, which blows from the southeast and southwest. In the Ionian Sea, the Maestro is the dominant wind, blowing from the northwest. It is a steady and reliable breeze, perfect for sailing. The southerly wind, the Sirocco, is typical in spring and autumn, usually with a force of 2-4.
Croatia
In one of the world’s most popular sailing destinations, the weather is pleasantly warm, the crowds are thin, and the sea is still enjoyable, making it perfect for sailing in Croatia in September. With late summer weather, steady winds and calm seas, September is a great time to explore Croatia’s beautiful regions of Istria, Kvarner Bay, or Dalmatia. Visit popular islands like Krk, Kornati, Losinj, Mljet, or historic cities like Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, Trogir, or Opatija. Although there are no major festivals or events in September, the off-peak season offers a calmer and more authentic experience.
Weather: The sea is typically around 22-23°C, and the average air temperature is expected to be around 23-28°C. In September, there is usually a moderate, steady wind, and the sea is generally calm, providing pleasant sailing conditions.
Montenegro
September’s sailing in Montenegro is a great program. Sail in the stunning Bay of Kotor a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the picturesque towns of Kotor, Perast and Risan. Explore the mysterious Blue Cave, a hidden gem with stunning turquoise waters, or sail to the enchanting islands of Sveti Đorđe and Gospa od Škrpjela. Visit Budva‘s historic old town, with its charming cobblestone streets and Venetian architecture, and relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of the islands, such as Sveti Nikola Island. While there are no major events in September, Montenegro’s serene beauty and pleasant weather make it the perfect time for a peaceful and relaxing yacht charter.
Weather: September is a great time to sail in Montenegro. The weather and sea are typically warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around 25°C. September offers favorable wind conditions for sailing. The Maestral, a refreshing northwest wind, provides a steady breeze. The sea is generally calm, with occasional moderate waves, and visibility is excellent.
East Coast of the North-Atlantic Ocean
The Azores (Portugal)
The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, are a stunning natural paradise. With volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters and a diverse marine life, they offer a unique and unforgettable sailing experience. September is a great time to visit, as the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. The Azores are a famous whale-watching destination, and September is one of the best times to spot these magnificent creatures. You can spot a variety of species, including sperm whales, dolphins and even the majestic blue whale. Explore the nine main islands, each with its own unique character. Sail between the islands, discovering hidden coves, volcanic craters and charming seaside towns. The Azores offer world-class diving and snorkeling.
Weather: Warm, pleasant temperatures of 18-24 degrees Celsius, water temperatures around 20-22 °C. Although the weather is generally dry, occasional showers occur, especially in the afternoon. September offers favorable sailing conditions with light to moderate winds and calm oceans.
The Canary Islands
Known for its year-round mild climate, diverse landscapes and excellent sailing conditions, the Canary Islands consist of seven main islands, the most popular: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The Canary Islands are one of the best places in Europe to see whales and dolphins in the wild. In September, the Fiestas del Pino are held in Gran Canaria, a religious festival with colorful processions and traditional music. boat rentals Canary islands
Weather: Daytime temperatures in September are usually between 23°C and 28°C, while sea temperatures range between 22°C and 24°C. Moderate trade winds are still present in September, visibility is excellent, and the sea is calm, providing consistent and reliable winds for sailors of all levels.
Sailing holidays in September: itineraries
Spain
Day 1. Barcelona – El Masnou 18.90 km (11.75 nm), Day 2. El Masnou – Mataró 13.84 km (8.60 nm), Day 3. Mataró – Calella 20.61 km (12.81 nm), Day 4. Calella – Santa Susanna 5.82 km (3.61 nm), Day 5. Santa Susanna – Malgrat de Mar 2.81 km (1.75 nm), Day 6. Santa Susanna – Blanes 6.45 km (4.01 nm), Day 7. Blanes – Lloret de Mar – Barcelona 70.12 km (43.57 nm).
sailing in Barcelona
Italy
Day 1. Olbia – Tavolara Island (Spalmatore di Terra) 16.22 km (10.08 nm), Day 2. Tavolara Island (Spalmatore di Terra) – Caprera (Pontile di Porto Palma) 44.81 km (27.84 nm), Day 3. Caprera (Pontile di Porto Palma) – Spargi (Cala Corsara) 12.39 km (7.70 nm), Day 4. Spargi (Cala Corsara) – Bonifacio 26.80 km (16.66 nm), Day 5. Bonifacio – Santa Teresa Gallura 16.45 km (10.22 nm), Day 6. Santa Teresa Gallura – Palau 21.16 km (13.15 nm), Day 7. Palau – Porto Cervo – Olbia 54.94 (34.14 nm)
Costa Smeralda sailing itineraries
Montenegro
Day 1. Tivat (Porto Montenegro) – Zlatna Luka-bay 19, 31 km (12, 00 nm), Day 2. Zlatna Luka – Bigova 11, 22 km (6, 97 nm), Day 3. Bigova – Herceg Novi 20, 57 km (12, 78 nm), Day 4. Herceg Novi – Bijela 11, 63 km (7, 22 nm), Day 5. Bijela – Risan 8, 29 km (5, 15 nm), Day 6. Risan – Dobrota (A Day Out on Yacht Monty B) 13, 09 km (8, 13 nm), Day 7. Dobrota (A Day Out on Yacht Monty B) – Kotor – Tivat (Porto Montenegro) 16, 13 km (10, 02 nm).
Greece
Day 1. Paros (Parikia) – Kolymbithres 18.50 km (11.49 nm), Day 2. Kolymbithres – Santa Maria Beach 13.78 km (8.56 nm), Day 3. Santa Maria Beach – Naxos 8.70 km (5.40 nm), Day 4. Naxos – Aliki 28.94 km (17.98 nm), Day 5. Aliki – Kamares (Sifnos Island) 57.83 km (35.93 nm), Day 6. Kamares – Livadi (Serifos island) 22.85 km (14.20 nm), Day 7. Livadi – Serifopoula – Parikia 70.02 km (43.51 nm).
Paros sailing trips
Canary-islands
Day 1. Lanzarote – Playa Honda 17,69 km (10,99 nm), Day 2. Playa Honda – Punta Mujeres 29,47 km (18,31 nm), Day 3. Punta Mujeres – Caleta del Sebo 17,47 km (10,86 nm), Day 4. Caleta del Sebo – Tenesera Lanzarote 27,51 km (17,09 nm), Day 5. Tenesera Lanzarote – El Golfo 20,48 km (12,72 nm), Day 6. El Golfo – Lobos Island 26,87 km (16,70 nm), Day 7. Lobos Island – Lanzarote 19,22 km (11,94 nm)