Skippered sailing holidays in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea is deservedly the most popular skippered sailing holidays destination in the world. It is divided into two main areas – the Western Mediterranean and the Eastern Mediterranean. Both parts are culturally unique, but both have stunning beaches, hidden coves, huge marinas and luxury yachts. This fabulous area offers the untamed extravagance of the French Riviera, the unique, historic architecture of the Italian beaches, the untouched charm of Croatia, the fragrant orange groves of Spain, the exotic allure of Turkey and Greece, the birthplace of civilization. The Mediterranean rental area includes the Tyrrhenian, Ionian, Aegean and Adriatic seas. Without claiming to be complete, we present the most popular sailing charter areas of the 7 most popular countries:

The West Mediterranean sailing charter destinations

Skippered sailing holidays France

The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur)

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a stunning sailing destination with a unique blend of glamour, history and natural beauty. The Côte d’azur is famous for its cities such as Cannes, the Cannes Film Festival Nice, Marseille and Saint Tropez. These cities offer world-class restaurants, casinos and nightlife, as well as beautiful architecture. It is one of the playgrounds of the world’s rich and famous. Also sail to charming towns such as Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer, which offer a more relaxed atmosphere and the chance to experience Provençal culture. The French Riviera is home to some of the world’s most famous marinas, such as Marina Port Vauban in Antibes and Port Canto in Cannes. The South of France sailing charter season usually runs from April to the end of October.

Corsica

Corsica offers more unspoiled and natural sailing routes compared to the French Riviera. It has wild, mountainous coastlines, secluded beaches and protected natural parks such as the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse. Corsica has a unique culture that mixes French and Italian influences. The island has its language (Corsican), slower pace of life, tradition and cuisine. Discover charming villages with traditional Genoese architecture, and visit historic sites such as watchtowers and fortresses.

Corsica offers a variety of sailing conditions for beginners and more challenging open-water sections for experienced sailors. The Strait of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica is known for its strong winds and currents, making it an exciting place for experienced sailors. Its most popular ports: Ajaccio, Calvi, Propriano, or Bonifacio. yacht charter Corsica

If you want a glamorous and luxurious experience, the French Riviera may be the better choice. If you want a more natural, adventurous and budget-friendly sailing trip with a unique cultural experience, then Corsica could be the perfect destination for you.

Skippered sailing holidays Spain

Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands are an archipelago of four main islands: Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera, which offer a fantastic sailing experience with a unique blend of relaxation, luxury and natural beauty. The islands have the most predictable sailing conditions in the Mediterranean; the wind is generally moderate and predictable, and there is plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Each island has its own unique charm and character. For those who love nature, the Tramuntana mountains stretching along the coast of Mallorca, the pristine beaches of Formentera, the charming villages of Menorca, and the world-famous luxury and bustling nightlife of Ibiza. You can sail along rugged beaches dotted with lighthouses, explore underwater caves, or anchor in turquoise bays with crystal-clear blue waters. The Balearic Islands are a well-established sailing destination with world-class marinas that have all the amenities.

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, a group of Spanish islands – Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Palma, Lanzarote, La Gomera, El Hierro and Fuerteventura – off the northwest coast of Africa, with a year-round spring climate. This means consistent trade winds and pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for sailing all year round. Unlike the Mediterranean, which can get quite cold in winter, the Canary Islands have sunshine all year round and pleasant sailing conditions. The volcanic islands have a fascinating and varied landscape.

The Canary Islands are an area rich in marine life, you can meet dolphins, whales and even sea turtles while sailing. The crystal clear waters also offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving, where you can discover underwater volcanic formations and vibrant coral reefs. Each island has its own unique traditions and festivals that offer a glimpse into the local way of life. Visit the charming villages, taste fresh seafood infused with local flavours and soak up the culture of the Canary Islands. The islands are a special zone of the European Union where shopping is duty-free. boat rentals Canary islands

Both destinations are fantastic if you want to sail in Spain. In the Canary Islands, you can sail all year round and the wildlife is fascinating, in the Balearic Islands, you will find classic Mediterranean landscapes and a well-developed sailing infrastructure.

Skippered sailing holidays Italy

Amalfi Coats

The Amalfi Coast offers a unique and picturesque sailing experience that combines stunning scenery, rich history and culture. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its dramatic beauty. Explore the nearby islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida, each with its own character and charm. Capri is known for its luxurious atmosphere, blue grotto and designer shops, Ischia offers thermal baths and volcanic landscapes, while Procida offers a more relaxed and authentic island experience. Sail to Sorrento, a charming town, wander the narrow streets of Positano, famous for its pastel-coloured houses, or visit Amalfi and admire the colourful houses that tumble down the cliffs. The Amalfi Coast is more expensive than other Mediterranean destinations but offers a more relaxed atmosphere with limited nightlife options. Amalfi coast sailing charter

Sardinia

Unlike the Amalfi Coast with its developed cities, Sardinia offers a wilder and more natural sailing experience. Explore the stunning La Maddalena archipelago, a national park known for its pink sand beaches and crystal clear waters, or hidden coves and caves such as the Grotta di Nettuno (Neptune’s Cave). Admire the fascinating Nuragic archaeological sites, and unique beehive-shaped stone towers from the Bronze Age. The area is known for its constant winds, making it a great destination for sailing all year round. The conditions are particularly pleasant in spring and autumn. Sardinia offers a more relaxed atmosphere, quieter nightlife and less developed port infrastructure than some other popular Mediterranean sailing destinations. The most popular ports are Olbia, Portisco, Cannigione, Bosa, or Alghero. The northeastern part of the island, Costa Smeralda, is a luxury charter destination, so you should expect higher costs here. Sardinia sailing charter

Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, has a rich and fascinating history shaped by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and others. Its capital is Palermo. The world-famous Aeolian Islands of volcanic origin are located here, each of which has a unique character and which you can reach most easily by sailing from Milazzo. Stromboli is known for its black sand beaches and the charming villages of Lipari. Visit the Egadi Islands, located halfway between Marsala and Trapani, with crystal clear waters and known for their ancient tuna traps, and as part of it the car-free island of Favignana. On the northwest side of the island, sail to the Zingaro Nature Reserve. Compared to other popular Mediterranean destinations, Sicily is more affordable, especially outside the high season. You can find good offers: skippered sailing holidays Sicily

It doesn’t matter which destination you choose if sailing in Italy all three destinations offer fantastic sailing.

The East Mediterranean sailing charter region

Skippered sailing holidays Greece

The Cyclades

The Cyclades are an easily accessible destination from all over the world. 35 km from the Athens airport, there are many ports in Athens in the north and Lavrion in the south. It consists of several islands, each with its own unique charm. The lively nightlife on Mykonos and Paros, the volcanic landscape on Santorini the sunset on Oia or the calm atmosphere on Naxos. Its history dates back to ancient Greek civilizations. The area is full of whitewashed villages clinging to the mountainsides. Meltemi, the strong northerly wind that blows in the summer months, can be an exciting challenge even for experienced sailors. It has a developed port infrastructure. yacht charter Cyclades islands

Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands consist of 7 islands; Corfu, Paxos, Lefkas, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Kythira. Popular destinations include Corfu, with its Venetian influences and vibrant nightlife, Zakynthos, known for its stunning beaches and shipwreck bay, the more secluded Paxos and Antipaxos, the largest island, Kefalonia, boasting wonderful scenery and historic sites. The Ionian Islands offer a more relaxed atmosphere and are cheaper than e.g. the Cyclades. The boat infrastructure on the islands is well-developed. Ionian yacht charter

The Dodecanese region

The Dodecanese Islands have a long sailing season with lots of sunshine and warm temperatures from spring to late autumn. With more than 160 islands and islets, the Dodecanese offers an incredible island-hopping adventure. The largest, cosmopolitan island of Rhodes, the favourite destination of rock climbers and water sports lovers is Kalymnos, the popular pilgrimage site of Patmos, or Kos, known for its beautiful beaches, archaeological sites and lively nightlife. skippered sailing holidays Dodecanese

If you are planning Greece sailing, then the Cyclades are easily accessible from Athens, easily navigable, with many islands but more expensive. The Dodecanese islands require more experience, with lots of islands, while the Ionian, with calmer waters but fewer islands, is a more affordable sailing location.

Skippered sailing holidays Croatia

Dalmatia

Croatia, and Dalmatia within it, is one of the world’s most popular skippered sailing holidays areas. It has a very well-developed sailing infrastructure and more than 1,200 islands. Discover charming villages, and hidden coves and soak up the unique atmosphere of each island. Popular islands include Hvar, Brač, Korčula, or Vis. It has many popular port cities, some larger: Split, Zadar, Sukosan, Biograd, Sibenik, Trogir, Rogoznica or Dubrovnik. The skippered sailing holidays Croatia saison is long, from May to October. yacht charter Dalmatia

Istria

Istria is less crowded than Dalmatia. Its proximity to Italy means that its architecture, cuisine and general atmosphere show Venetian and Austro-Hungarian influences. Istria can serve as a starting point for exploring the Kvarner Bay islands such as Cres, Krk, Rab, and Mali Losinj, or the northern Italian coasts of Venice and Trieste. Visit the Roman amphitheatre in Pula, the colourful town of Rovinj, and the charming fishing villages such as Vrsar and Porec and finish start your trip in the picturesque towns of Novigrad, or Umag. yacht charter Istria
Croatia is 1 of the world’s leading skippered sailing holidays destinations. Whichever region you choose, you will find well-equipped ports, interesting scenery and excellent gastronomy.

Skippered sailing holidays Turkey

Turkey has a very long coastline. In all respects, it is cheaper than Greece. The area with the largest selection of gulets, so larger groups can more easily find affordable luxury for their sailing vacation. The most popular Turkish sailing charter destination is the Turkish Riviera; Fethiye, Göcek, Marmaris. From here you can easily reach the Dodecanese islands, so you can also combine your vacation with a Greek sailing trip. The historic region of the Aegean Sea is known for its ancient ruins, charming villages and secluded coves. The most popular ports are Bodrum, Datça, or Izmir. The southwestern coast of Gökova Bay, Olympos and the Mediterranean coast of Kas, Kekova are undiscovered regions perfect for those who want a more remote and natural sailing experience.

Rent a skippered sailing yacht in Montenegro

When sailing in Montenegro, you will encounter bays hidden by mountains plunging into the Adriatic Sea and beautiful beaches. Compared to Croatia, Montenegro is less crowded and more affordable for a sailing holiday. The boat infrastructure is well-equipped, and the beach is relatively small, so you can sail across the entire coast in a week. It has charming coastal towns like Kotor with its Venetian architecture, medieval Herceg Novi, and historical sites like the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš on top of Lovćen Hill.

Travelling in the Mediterranean

As there are several countries and shores located along the Mediterranean Sea, we can choose from various opportunities to reach our destination. Browsing through the flights offered by the different airlines, we may get very cheap tickets if we book on time. We can consider going by car or taking a train between two countries; however, the greatest experience is exploring by renting a boat. This way the travel itself becomes an experience of a lifetime, and we will be able to see places that we couldn’t discover any other way.

Mediterranean sailing destinations Sailing destinations & Sailing routes

Where is the best sailing in the Mediterranean? Mediterranean sailing holidays

Sailing in the Mediterranean is a real wonder. Sparkling sea, picturesque coastline and different cultures [...]

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In the autumn

If you do not insist on visiting in the hottest period, the autumn season is perfect for exploring the Mediterranean region as there are no large crowds and the temperatures are also milder. You should still be careful, as the weather often becomes unpredictable in the spring and autumn, combined with strong winds from time to time. During this time, it is safer to stay close to the marinas. Amalfi coast sailing tours, Athens sailing holidays, sailing in Pula, Trogir sailing

In the winter

In the winter, it is recommended to monitor the weather forecast due to the variable conditions and frequent storms. The most popular Spanish cities are Valencia, Barcelona and Cartagena in this season. The latter is a perfect starting point when exploring the Balearic Islands, France and Corsica. Licata and Marina di Ragusa are two very popular destinations on the largest island of the Mediterranean Sea: Sicily. sailing in Sicily, sailing in Spain.

In the Spring

The region of the Mediterranean Sea is beautiful in the autumn, and it is also very peaceful around here during this time. In this period, we suggest that you head towards Croatia, Greece, Sicily, Sardinia or the Balearic Islands. In Greece, we particularly recommend visiting Lefkada – belonging to the Ionian Islands – in the west. The town of Préveza in the southwest and the famous island of Crete are also excellent choices. Menorca sailing , Paros sailing, Zadar sailing

In the summer

When summer is approaching, many people sail on the Mediterranean Sea; the busiest months are July and August. Sardinia is among the most popular sailing destinations; the northern and northeastern parts are rich in anchorages, even though they can still get full in the summer. There is a strong summer wind present on the island, so it is recommended to sail counter-clockwise. Would you prefer to avoid large crowds? Spain and France, as well as the southern part of Sardinia, Tunisia, the northern part of the Aegean Sea, and the Peloponnese, are all considered quiet regions. sailing Sardinia, Costa Barava sailing routes, Rhodes sailing, Split sailing

For more precise information about the Mediterranean area,  please narrow down your search. It is necessary in this case, because of geographic diversity and the large scope of the area. First, select a destination on the How much does a Mediterranean skippered sailing holidays cost? tab choose the Weather tab of the selected area, and read the related description.

Croatian sailboat charter itinerary

Day 1. Dubrovnik – Lopud 13.65 km (8.48 nm), Day 2. Lopud – Sobra (Mljet) 28.79 km (17.89 nm), Day 3. Sobra – Vela Luka (Korcula island) 94.69 km (58.84 nm), Day 4. Korcula – Vis (Vis island) 45.80 km (28.46 nm), Day 5. Vis – Rogoznica 58.47 km (36.33 nm), Day 6. Rogoznica – Zirje 31.36 km (19.48 nm), Day 7. Zirje – Murter 23.44 km (14.57 nm), Day 8. Murter – Pirovac 7.87 km (4.89 nm), Day 9. Pirovac – Tribunj 19.25 km (11.96 nm), Day 10. Tribunj – Krka waterfall 28.77 km (17.88 nm), Day 11. Krka – Primošten 36.04 km (22.39 nm), Day 12. Primošten – Stari Grad 72.01 km (44.75 nm), Day 13. Stari Grad – Lastovo 86.28 km (53.61 nm), Day 14. Lastovo – Saplunara (Mljet) – Dubrovnik 107.53 km (66.81 nm)

More sailing routes Croatia, or read about Croatia sailing holidays

Greece sailboat charter itinerary

Day 1. Fira (Santorini) – Oia 9.53 km (5.92 nm), Day 2. Oia – Karavostasis (Folegandros island) 42.34 km (26.31 nm), Day 3. Folegandros – Alopronia (Sikinos island) 19.87 km (12.35 nm), Day 4. Sikinos – Chora (Ios island ) 12.80 km (7.95 nm), Day 5. Chora – Ag. Georgios (Iraklia island) 38.18 km (23.72 nm), Day 6. Iraklia – Keros island 16.29 km (10.12 nm), Day 7. Keros – Vlychada – Santorini 82.37 km (51.18 nm)

More sailing routes Greece, or read about Greece sailing tours

Italian sailboat charter itinerary

Day 1. La Maddalena (Porto Massimo) – Cannigione 21, 27 km (13, 21 nm), Day 2. Cannigione – Porto Cervo 13, 48 km (8, 37 nm), Day 3. Porto Cervo – Golfo Aranci 27, 02 km (16, 79 nm), Day 4. Golfo Aranci – Olbia 13, 09 km (8, 13 nm), Day 5. Olbia – Budoni 39, 68 km (24, 65nm), Day 6. Budoni – La Caletta (Gold Hook Marina Services) 13, 18 km (8, 19 nm), Day 7. La Caletta (Gold Hook Marina Services) – Tavola Island (Spalmatore di Terra) – La Maddalena (Porto Massimo) 85, 58 km (53, 18 nm)Read more Italy sailing tours, or choose from Italian sailing routes

Spanish sailboat charter itinerary

Day 1. Barcelona – Castelldefels 30.40 km (18.89 nm), Day 2. Castelldefels – Sitges 9.85 km (6.12 nm), Day 3. Sitges – Vilanova i la Geltrú 9.54 km (5.93 nm), Day 4. Vilanova i la Geltrú – Tarragona 48.23 km (29.97 nm), Day 5. Tarragona – Cambrils 17.13 km (10.65 nm), Day 6. Cambrils – Coma-ruga 44.00 km (27.34 nm), Day 7. Coma-ruga – Garraf – Barcelona 63.72 km (39.59 nm)Read more about Spain sailing holidays, or choose from Spanish sailing routes

Montenegro sailboat charter itinerary

Day 1. Kotor – Tivat (Porto Montenegro) 15, 29 km (9, 50 nm), Day 2. Tivat (Porto Montenegro) – Herceg Novi (Harbor) 13, 76 km (8, 55 nm), Day 3. Herceg Novi (Harbor) – Cavtat (Harbor) 44, 80 km (27, 84 nm), Day 4. Cavtat (Harbor) – Dubrovnik (ACI Marina) 23, 13 km (14, 38 nm), Day 5. Dubrovnik (ACI Marina) – Sudurad 18, 48 km (11, 48 nm), Day 6. Sudurad – Mamula-island – Molunat 65, 81 km (40, 89 nm), Day 7. Molunat – Perast – Kotor 29, 49 km (18, 33 nm).

More yacht week Montenegro, or read about sailing holidays in Montenegro