With its magnificent crystal clear waters and colorful marine life, the Bahamas are considered the pinnacle of sailing destinations. Discover sailing in the Bahamas with family and friends. Cruise by catamaran or sailboat and explore the many islands and crystal clear sea. Dare for a unique experience and explore dream beaches, tropical environments and an exotic archipelago!

Bahamas in general

The Bahamas is a small island nation in the Atlantic Ocean comprising an archipelago of 700 islands east of Florida and north of Cuba. The Bahamas are the cultural, touristic, political and economic capital of the Caribbean islands, and the name ‘Bahamas’ is actually of Spanish origin and means “baja mar”, or shallow sea.

Only 30 of the 700 islands of the Bahamas are inhabited, so it’s very easy to find a paradise anchorage just for you!

 

Nautical infrastructure in the Bahamas

Throughout the Bahamas you will find well-equipped marinas with all the necessities for sailing and docking for boats of all sizes and lengths.

Nassau Yacht Haven Marina is located in the center of the historic capital of the Bahamas. It moors 135 boats up to 60 m in length and over 5 m (16 ft) in length, and caters to the needs of catamarans and superyachts. The marina offers shops and services from a grocery store to boat repairs, groceries, electronics, bars and restaurants.

You can anchor at Mangrove Cay on Andros, a tranquil anchorage that leads to a Caribbean pine forest, underwater blue caves, mangroves and miles of clean, pink sand.

You can also anchor in New Plymouth at Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos. This anchorage allows you to find the perfect spot to swim with charismatic shells.

Climate and cruising conditions in the Bahamas

From December to February the average temperature is the lowest, between 21C and 24C, while 27C to 29C is common in the months between March and November. Winds blow over the Bahamas year-round. Hurricane season runs from early June to late November, although most storms that pass along the North Atlantic Hurricane Lane miss the islands.

Bahamas sailing locations

The Exuma Cays Land and Marine Park is one of those places that only boaters can experience. It covers 112,640 hectares of land and sea, with seven safe and secluded anchorages. From there you can explore wonderful beaches and corals teeming with green turtles and reef fish. Or maybe head to Stroud or Halls Pond Cay. Here you will see king terns, green herons, white-tailed tropicbirds and other rare and beautiful birds.

Elbow Cay in The Abacos is the perfect anchorage. 10 km of clear water east of Great Abaco, its wide calm anchorage leads to the colorful wooden houses of Hope Town. Here you can see candy-striped lighthouses at the entrance to the harbor to beaches covered in talc-white dust. It is a special experience to dive around the dazzling eastern reefs.

We suggest you visit Harbor Island, better known as Briland, for its charismatic collage of pink sand beaches, inviting pastel houses and fun beach bars.

Diving in the Bahamas

For adventure lovers, the Bahamas has plenty to do! There are many activities that you can enjoy such as snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs and areas for beginners or advanced. You can swim with dolphins, nurse sharks or even swimming pigs!

Nightlife in the Bahamas

From rustic beach shacks playing local beats to city lights and non-stop activity, Bahamas nightlife has something for everyone. Enjoy it with the locals after a long day relaxing in the sun or head into town, where the harbor lights draw you into a world of clubs, casinos and cocktails. Wherever you are, you will be among friends in the Bahamas!

Explore a beautiful part of the British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean Sea that is full of spectacular scenery, beautiful mountains, coral reefs and sandy white beaches. The BVI have a lot to offer! You can try fishing, diving and underwater exploration, enjoy superb Caribbean food, swim on white beaches and relax in quiet hidden coves. Take an unforgettable cruise with a skipper and hostess on a fast sailboat or a spacious catamaran in the BVI to enjoy your vacation carefree. From expansive beaches to small villages, you’re sure to find your own reason to cruise the BVI again!

General about the BVI

The British Virgin Islands are located in the Caribbean, east of Puerto Rico, forming part of the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles. Located in the Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands have crystal clear seas, sun-drenched harbors and white sandy beaches. Among the more than 50 unspoiled islands that make up the BVI are various harbors. The British Virgin Islands consist of 4 larger islands: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Anegada and 32 smaller islands. The British Virgin Islands lie northeast of the United States Virgin Islands.

 

Nautical infrastructure in the BVI

You can be sure you’ll get the support you need to make your trip a smooth cruise experience, from start to finish. On the islands, you will always be close to amenities, from delicious restaurants and cocktail bars to local shops.

Prices for a catamaran or sailboat cruise vary depending on several factors. First, the condition and characteristics of the ship and the sailing season can affect the price. Likewise, chartering with or without a captain and crew will also affect the cost of your sailboat or catamaran cruise in the BVI.

Climate and cruising conditions in the BVI

The best time for sailing is from mid-November to the end of May. The main season is from mid-December to March when the weather conditions are perfect. Sailing in the BVI at this time is a very good idea because the weather is ideal.

Temperatures in the BVI are around 77°F to 82°F year round. August is the warmest and sunniest month and sea temperatures are warmest in September, which is ideal for BVI yacht charter. The off-season is summer, when there are less crowds. Hurricane season is between June and October, which is also the rainiest month.

Sailing conditions in the British Virgin Islands are excellent for beginner sailors, with light and almost constant winds for most of the year, calm seas and easy navigation.

Winds are mostly east or northeast, depending on the season. Watch out for hurricane season from September to mid-November.

 

BVI sailing locations

Whether you plan to explore the area for a week or longer, there are plenty of places to discover. Your Caribbean utopia awaits with its picturesque coastlines, huge granite rocks, delicious Caribbean food and great diving spots.

With a string of islands in the northeastern Caribbean, charter guests can expect beautiful blue waters flowing into shaded caves and onto soft-sand beaches. Whether you’re on a romantic vacation, a family adventure, or celebrating something special like a birthday, when you leave our base in Tortola, you’ll greet true paradise.

We suggest that you start your sailing in Virgin Gorda and explore the famous Virgin Gorda Baths. Then head to Necker Island, a stunningly unspoiled area of the Caribbean. Then head to pristine Anegada, the only coral island in the volcanic chain of the Virgin Islands. Anegada is characterized by its almost flat altitude, striking coral reefs that surround it, hidden sandy beaches and clear springs that spring from coral beds.

Facilities and activities in the BVI

When it comes to activities in the British Virgin Islands, there is so much to see and warm Caribbean waters where you can dive, snorkel and swim. During your BVI yacht charter, you can easily hop between uninhabited islands, resorts and beachside villages, dine at waterfront restaurants, shop at local boutiques and relax at some of the world’s best beach bars.

On the islands, you will always be close to many amenities, from delicious restaurants and cocktail bars to local shops.

Whether you’re at the helm or lounging on the sundeck, you’ll find there’s nothing better than island hopping from the deck of your very own British Virgin Islands catamaran.

For all explorers, coral reefs surround the coast in an array of colors and are home to equally colorful marine life. Anegada Coral Atoll is the resting place of many shipwrecks and offers incredible underwater views for diving. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation, bars, shops and restaurants further inland spill over the winding streets, and timeless villages are filled with the familiar island ambience. Regardless of your idea of a good time, a BVI sailing vacation has something for everyone.

The BVI is also one of the best places to enjoy sailing if you are a history buff. With residents settling 2,300 years ago, the BVI’s history includes pirates, Dutch settlers and hurricanes. There are plenty of places to soak up history on our BVI itinerary, including the ruins of St. Michael’s Church and Fort Charlotte.

You can explore the ‘sunken island’ of Anegada or visit the geological wonder known as The Baths, with towering granite cliffs forming a maze of pathways leading to hidden pools and grottoes.

Be sure to try the cuisine on Anegada, a low coral island where you will see flamingos, salt lakes and white sandy beaches.

Try diving in the Rhone Marine Park. One of the best things to do in the BVI is to explore the caves on Norman Island, before sailing to the Rhone Marine Park to dive over the wreck of the steamer RMS Rhone, which sank in 1867.

Nightlife in the BVI

Along with a lush landscape, this colorful archipelago has a wonderful Caribbean culture. From dancing under the stars at the many full moon parties to sipping rum cocktails to live steel drums, the BVI has a rich nightlife.

Head to Tortola, the largest island in the archipelago, to visit Road Town – the capital of the BVI. This vibrant city is also the entertainment capital of the archipelago, with live music and dancing in bars and clubs until the early hours of the morning. As an essential BVI yachting hub, Road Town also has sheltered harbors, plenty of mooring options and a downtown marina. Alternatively, head to Cane Garden Bay on the north side of the island for a beach bar with live music and full moon entertainment.

The Spanish town on Virgin Gorda is the second largest city in the BVI. After a day of exploring the Baths – a beach of giant granite rocks – to the south, head into town for sunset cocktails by the roaring fire.

Sail to the southern side of the volcanic island of Jost Van Dyke and visit a beach bar named after the sailors who swam ashore to pay with wet bills. Try the Painkiller cocktail; a more powerful and deceptively punchy mix of dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice and coconut cream with a hint of nutmeg.

With a breathtaking coastline, crystal clear sea and more than a thousand islands, sailing in Croatia is like a dream. Discover the spectacular landscape, wonderful untouched bays, countless islands and enjoy the clear, clean sea. Sailing in Croatia allows you to experience the most beautiful hidden places.

It’s surprising how much you can see in a week. The diverse appeal of Croatia’s many islands, islets and cliffs, along with a variety of land ports and anchorages, will keep you wanting to come back for more!

 

General about Croatia

The Adriatic Sea is the bay of the Mediterranean Sea that is the deepest part of the European mainland. The coast of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia is 1,777.3 kilometers (1,104.4 miles) long, and it is the most indented coast of the Mediterranean. There are 78 islands, 524 islets and 642 rocks along the coast, so Croatia is rightly called the “land of a thousand islands”. The Adriatic Sea along the Croatian coast stands out for its exceptional transparency and intense color, which with its picturesque coast contributes to a unique landscape.

The mild Mediterranean climate with 2,400 to 2,800 hours of sunshine per year also contributes to the natural beauty and picturesqueness of the Croatian coast, which ranks it among the sunniest European coasts.

Among all the Slavic countries, Croatia is the only one in which maritime and Mediterranean orientation are deeply rooted in the tradition and everyday life of its inhabitants.

On January 1, 2023, Croatia became part of the Schengen visa-free area. This means that border and customs checks at the borders between Croatia and other Schengen members have been abolished for people crossing the borders by road, rail or water. From March 26, 2023, there will be no border checks at airports upon arrival in Croatia from other Schengen member states – this includes most European Union countries. Also, Croatia officially adopted the euro as its currency, replacing the Croatian kuna.

Nautical infrastructure in Croatia

Croatia contains a number of destinations for sailing routes that are accessible to everyone. Beginner sailors can charter a boat with a qualified skipper, cruise around the islands and learn as much as they want about sailing. Those who seriously want to learn to sail or improve can attend a course at one of the sailing schools.

There are more than 50 marinas in Croatia, about half of which are state-owned, recognizable by the acronym ACI. In the marinas you will have access to toilets, showers, electricity and water from shore, although electricity and water supply may be limited on more remote islands. There are restaurants, a shop and a cafe in the marinas, and in some there are night clubs, swimming pools and other facilities.

If you are staying outside the marina, a fee must be paid in some anchorages.

Climate and cruising conditions in Croatia

The nautical season in the Dalmatian coast lasts from May to the beginning of October. The warmest and sunniest days are in August and July, but then there are also the biggest crowds on the coast. Then popular marinas and ports can be difficult to access due to crowds, and prices are at their peak.

Croatia is off-season from October to April, when many shops, restaurants and hotels are closed, and opportunities to tour the island are limited. But many serious sailors prefer to sail in the off-season in the more challenging weather conditions of April and October.

Croatia does not have a big difference in tides. There are occasional strong currents, in channels or river mouths.

In summer, the weather is usually calm and sunny, with the occasional rare thunderstorm.

Throughout the year, but rarely in summer, there is a possibility of a strong wind – gale from the northeast.

In the summer, the northwest mistral wind prevails, but there are also days without the appearance of wind when it is necessary to move on the boat’s engines.

 

Locations for sailing in Croatia

Whichever part of the Adriatic coast you choose for sailing, you will not regret it. The most popular is to start from the city of Split, the second largest city in the country. Split is the ideal place to start a tour, with some of the most popular and well-known islands, Hvar, Brač, Vis and Korčula.

In the north, the Istrian peninsula and Kvarner Bay have a high concentration of marinas and a more cosmopolitan atmosphere than Dalmatia, due to the ubiquitous Italian influence. If gastronomy and culture are important to you, this may be your sailing area. Stunningly popular islands like Lošinj, Rab and Brijuna are magnets for luxury yachts. What distinguishes this area from the south of Dalmatia is the diversity and smaller number of islands.

If you start your sailing from Zadar, Biograd, Murter or Šibenik, you can visit the easily accessible Kornati. The Kornati archipelago with its 152 islands, islets and rocks is the densest group of islands in the Mediterranean. The islands around Šibenik are also very special, they are less deserted and remote, but still mostly undiscovered.

Upstream from Šibenik, there is Skradin with a large marina, a favorite for boaters who want to explore the Krka waterfalls.

Central Dalmatia is the most popular part for starting sailing. You can start your sailing in Trogir or Split and visit the famous islands of Šolta, Brač, Hvar, the Hell Islands and Vis. Split has a lot to offer, and it dates back to the late 3rd century, born when the Roman emperor Diocletian decided to build his palace here. There is also an international airport in the nearby town of Kaštela near Trogir, less than 30 minutes’ drive away with flights from all major European cities, making it a very affordable holiday in Croatia.

You can also start from the southern part of the Adriatic coast, the city of Dubrovnik, and see the famous medieval stone walls and start sailing towards the islands of Mljet, Korčula, Lastovo and Vis, and visit the town of Ston on Pelješće.

Diving in Croatia

The summer months at sea are not only reserved for lounging on the beach, but are ideal for exploring underwater beauty. The Adriatic Sea is home to beautiful marine organisms, corals, periwinkles, other small plants and animals, and numerous species of fish. The Croatian undersea hides more than 110 registered and described diving destinations that include scenes of ancient sailing ships and coral meadows on vertical underwater walls, sea caves and wrecks of warships inhabited by shoals of fish.

Nightlife in Croatia

Apart from the rich nautical world, Croatia is also a famous summer party destination. You can dance the night away at some of the best entertainment destinations in the region. From beach festivals to luxury nightclubs with private pools, Croatia has something for everyone who wants to have fun while on vacation. Some of the most famous places for entertainment on the Croatian coast are: the island of Pag (Zrće), the island of Murter (Tisno), the city of Split (Ultra music festival), the island of Hvar (Hvar), Pula…

Greece is definitely the place to go if you want a luxury cruise full of unforgettable experiences. Take a look back in time at the Acropolis or venture into the bustling capital city of Athens to see how Greeks live today. Explore the magical landscape, enjoy the crystal blue sea, try Greek food and get to know the wonderful culture and history of Greece. Greece has a rich history, fantastic weather throughout the year and many beautiful beaches that attract tourists from all over the world. A catamaran or sailboat cruise in this European capital of culture gives you the opportunity to experience this stunning country like never before!

General about Greece

The Greek islands make up 20% of the total area of Greece, an ideal area for sailing, creating a coastline of more than 15,000 kilometers. Greece has about 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian seas. Just 12 privileged islands (Astypalaia, Chalki, Ikaria, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Symi, Tilos) have so much to offer that you’ll want to have enough time to explore their unique nature, culture and heritage! The Greek islands are grouped into the following groups: Argo-Saronic Islands; Dodecanese; North Aegean Islands; Sporades and the famous islands of the Cyclades-Kikládhes, a large but dense collection of islands and islets occupying the central part of the Aegean Sea. The beautiful Cycladic islands form a circle around the holy island of Delos where, according to Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, enraged at the Cycladic nymphs, turned them into islands! The Cyclades group of islands is the perfect choice for your sailing trip as it is a stunning combination of lifestyle, culture, history, cuisine and natural beauty that can rival any dream island getaway in the world.

Nautical infrastructure in Greece

People have sailed in Greece since ancient times. The ancient Greeks worshiped the gods of wind and sea, and since there are many islands, sailing was part of everyday life and trade throughout Greek history. As a result, every small village has a harbor or wharf, and you’ll find that you’re never far from a safe haven or anchorage.

Climate and cruising conditions in Greece

The climate along this coast has a Mediterranean character: mild, wet winters and dry, hot summers. The sailing season in Greece lasts from May to October. Mid-season weather is mild with very few storms, making it the perfect time to sail the Greek Islands. The main months for sailing in Greece are July and August. This is the perfect time to sail to the Greek islands and enjoy the Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers with average temperatures between 26 and 30°C.

Sailing locations in Greece

Cruising Greece is a special experience, whether you stick to the mainland or visit the surrounding islands. The islands near the mainland have something special that makes them unique and unforgettable, and by entering the port of Piraeus you enter a world of rich history that will delight you. The capital of Greece, Athens, is home to the impressive ruins of the former city fortress. The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous, best-preserved depictions of an ancient citadel that you can still see today. On Corfu, an island once ruled by the Venetians, the French and the British, you can visit the town of the same name, which has the influences of many contrasting but complementary cultures. One of the places that everyone must see during a Greek sailing or catamaran cruise is Santorini, the pearl of the Mediterranean. Located in the southern Aegean Sea, an eruption of volcanic lava created this archipelago approximately 1,500 years ago. White houses with blue domed roofs stand high on the cliffs, passive guardians of the island, beckoning tourists from near and far. Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is also one of the most popular. To visit this island during your cruise, dock in Heraklion or Chania and discover the many cultural attractions the island has to offer. Mykonos is a party island in the Aegean Sea, many bars lined up along the promenade with a sensational view of the sea. Watch one of Mykonos’ magnificent sunsets before partying the night away.

Diving in Greece

With more than 240 inhabited islands and a significant coastline, you’ll find a wide variety of diving that includes walls, wrecks, caves and reefs. The Peloponnese Wreck near Mykonos is one of the most legendary dives in the islands, so be sure to dive into this 1930 shipwreck. On Naxos, see the seaplane wreck, Arado 196. Koundouros Reef teems with marine life and visibility can be excellent.

Nightlife in Greece

When the sun goes down, you’ll find that Greece is also home to a vibrant nightlife, and that’s something you don’t want to miss. Enjoy dancing to everything from cutting-edge electronic music to traditional Greek songs, or relax in an Irish pub or jazz bar. Some of the more famous locations for a varied and rich nightlife are: the island of Mykonos, Paros, Ios, Rorfu, Rhodes, Zakynthos.

More than 10 million tourists visit Mallorca annually. Most of them are looking for sun and a good time at Badia de Palma, a large bay whose fine sand is dotted with palm trees and umbrellas. But sail away from the resorts and you’ll discover a quieter side to the biggest and boldest island in the Balearic Islands. There are fragrant groves of almonds and carobs, honey-colored villages, Roman ruins, silky beaches and wickedly dizzying cliffs.

If you want to get to know Mallorca from its calmer side, it is best to explore the island on a sailboat. Away from mass tourism, sailing around Mallorca allows you to discover the region off the beaten track and explore the island’s hidden gems. Sail with a local skipper, let him show you the locals’ favorite spots and taste the country’s specialties!

 

General about Mallorca

The island of Mallorca (Majorca) is approximately 170 km from the Spanish mainland, and with an area of 3,640 square kilometers, it is the largest of the Balearic Islands. The capital of Mallorca is Palma, which is located on the west coast of the island and includes Magaluf in the west and Arenal in the east. Palma is a popular tourist destination and the supply center of the Balearic Islands.

 

Nautical infrastructure in Mallorca

Mallorca has an excellent maritime infrastructure and has many convenient anchorages. There are a total of 42 ports and 83 anchorages. Mallorca is an ideal sailing area for beginners and less experienced charter crews. Apart from maneuvering in overcrowded and closed ports, there are no special navigational challenges. There are not many shallows and the currents are weak. If sailing in Mallorca isn’t enough of a challenge for you, you can explore the other Balearic Islands and the coast along the Spanish mainland for a bluewater sailing area.

Real Club Náutico de Palma hosts the largest marina on the island. It has room for about 1,000 ships, with a maximum length of 35 m (115 ft). Boutique hotels and quayside restaurants dot the harbor area, and sights such as the cathedral are a few minutes’ walk away. On the south and west coasts, you can anchor in the clear waters off Es Trenc, the wide, palm-lined Cala de Santa Ponça and the elegant, lush Cala Mondragó. In the north, try Bahia de Sóller, a lagoon-like bay, from where you can hike to the lighthouse and enjoy some of the best sunsets on the island.

 

Climate and cruising conditions in Mallorca

Mild temperatures, steady winds and mostly calm seas make Mallorca a good sailing destination. The sailing season in Mallorca lasts all year round due to the Mediterranean climate. Temperatures in spring and autumn are pleasant and range from 15 – 25°C. Summer starts in April and lasts until the end of October. In August, the water is 25°C, and the average daily temperature is 30°C. Winters are short, mild and rainy with an average temperature of 12°C. Mallorca has 303 sunny days a year. Storms sometimes hit in the winter, when winds can be strong and waves are bigger. Bad weather usually passes quickly.

 

Sailing locations in Mallorca

Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and an extremely valuable area for sailing. Before setting sail from Palma, explore the capital’s enchanting medieval architecture and see La Seu Cathedral. There will also be plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine and get into the holiday spirit. The first stop, Port d’Andratx, is a glamorous Mallorcan town popular with movie stars and celebrities whose villas are nestled among the hills.

The beaches and coves of the coast of Mallorca are lined up one after another. On the edge of the capital Palma, S’Arenal is popular with locals – and beyond is a water park. Head north towards Sa Calobra, a village where the mountains meet the sea, with a beach set in an abyss best reached by boat. Near the southern tip of Mallorca, Es Trenc is a postcard come to life, with clear water, golden sand and tufted dunes.

The coast of Mallorca is 550 km long and surprisingly diverse. On the northwest coast, a large mountain range – the Serra de Tramuntana stretches along the steep coast. At its highest peak, Puig Major, it reaches 1445 m. The 90 km long coastline between Capa Formentor and Dragonera in the north is incredibly beautiful coastline. The northeast coast has wide, open bays with long sandy beaches. There you will find Pollensa Bay, known as one of the best sailing spots in Europe. The east coast is crossed by the Serres de Levante cave, a central mountain range with heights of up to 500 m, in which the highest mountain is Puig Morei. On the southern coast there are numerous bays with picturesque beaches, safe anchorages and well-equipped marinas. In the bay of Palma, the 6 km long Playa de Palma Can Pastilla beach leads to Arenal.

 

Diving in Mallorca

Mallorca is a diverse island that offers numerous activities on land as well as an impressively beautiful underwater world. Mallorca has a large number of nature reserves where fascinating underwater flora and fauna could develop. At the best diving spots in Mallorca, you can encounter large schools of fish, spot endangered species and enjoy perfect diving conditions. A lot of diving centers are located in the south-west and east of the island due to the ideal conditions for diving and many diving sites nearby.

 

Nightlife in Mallorca

The island of Mallorca has many great locations to enjoy a night out. Diverse and extremely popular, the capital of Mallorca, Palma, has districts known for their nightlife. Restaurants, bars and enjoying live music are part of the city’s lively social scene. As you may know, Spanish nightlife is very different from that of other countries around Europe.

Sardinia is located in the middle of the Mediterranean, and it is made up of extraordinary white sand beaches, emerald blue sea and mostly undeveloped coasts with rugged cliffs and lush vegetation. Sardinia has a coastline of 1848 km which includes many small islands, rocky shores and white sandy beaches. The nearby Maddalena Islands, once Lord Admiral Nelson’s naval base, are now a nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From national parks to indigenous cuisine, there’s nothing that won’t impress us while sailing Sardinia!

General about Sardinia

Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean, with an area of 24,000 square meters, with about 1.6 million inhabitants. It belongs to Italy and is located 202 kilometers from the Italian mainland. It is separated from the French island of Corsica by the Strait of Bonifacio. The capital of Sardinia is Cagliari in the south. Castello, the old town of Cagliari, is located on a hill with a beautiful view of the entire bay of Cagliari.

The landscape in Sardinia is so diverse that some call it a “microcontinent”. The region is full of yellow-beige sand and secret caves, as well as pink granite beaches and abundant minerals. Sardinia is a place that is best explored on a sailing holiday.

The island’s history is quintessentially Mediterranean, and its Italian roots mean that this destination combines great food, wine and climate with a distinctly Sardinian rocky landscape.

Nautical infrastructure in Sardinia

Along the coast of Sardinia there are almost 40 marinas, many harbors and anchorages. In the northeast of the island, Sardinia has an excellent infrastructure with modern and comfortable marinas.

 

Climate and cruising conditions in Sardinia

May, June, July, August and September are perfect times to visit Sardinia. Late summer is especially good because then the sea is warm. Sardinia’s climate is classic Mediterranean, which means you’ll experience hot, dry summers that are tempered by refreshing sea breezes.

This area is ideal for experienced nautical crews with strong westerly to northwesterly winds along the west coast and strong southerly to southeasterly winds prevailing along the east coast.

Sailing locations in Sardinia

Apart from the possibility of sailing along the coast of Sardinia, perhaps the most attractive reason to sail here is the magnificent islands of La Maddalena. A collection of islands so spectacular that they have been declared a national marine park.

We recommend that you definitely check out the stunning Costa Smeralda coastline, the natural wonders of Maddalena and the incredible cliff-top village of Bonifacio.

The stunning rock site of Isola Tavolara is best viewed from the sea. The waters around the rock are beautiful and it is the perfect place to snorkel or enjoy a sunset dinner.

If glamor attracts you, then visit Porto Cervo. Its harbors are full of the world’s best superyachts, and on the coast you will find the most popular and highly regarded restaurants, bars and shops of the Costa Smeralda.

Take a look at the following locations: Prince’s Beach, Cannigione, Santa Teresa Galura, Corsica, Portisco.

Diving in Sardinia

Sardinia is one of the best places for the best diving in the entire Mediterranean. Divers love the area’s caves, wrecks and rich marine life.

Among the sandy seabed, labyrinth-like caves, divers have the opportunity to find rays, tunas, groupers, barracudas, fish that cannot be reached by the sun, dolphins, octopuses…

Nightlife in Sardinia

Sardinia is known for its legendary nightlife. Some of the most famous destinations are: Costa Smeralda, San Teodoro, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Alghero, Villasimius.

Explore the beautiful archipelago of Seychelles with more than 115 islands.

With its white sand, crystal clear sea and stunning lagoon, Seychelles is the perfect destination for an unforgettable charter experience.

Watch the sunsets over the Indian Ocean and admire some of nature’s most spectacular sights. Discover small, hidden coves and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. With its picturesque beaches, lush forests and vibrant culture, Seychelles is sure to make your yacht charter experience unforgettable. Embark on a journey of discovery with a Seychelles cruise!

General about Seychelles

Seychelles is an island country located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, which geographically belongs to Africa, and is surrounded by the sea of dreams and beautiful shores with turquoise blue water. Victoria is the capital of the Republic of Seychelles, and it was named after the British Queen Victoria. In the city of Victoria, you can see the monuments, organize various excursions or visit some of the top restaurants. Covering an area of 455 km², around 115 Seychelles islands offer stunning coastlines and bays for your trip and are perfect for a catamaran cruise.

 

Yachting infrastructure in the Seychelles

The central part of navigation with the base of most charter boats is located around the main island of Mahé. On that island there is also an international airport and a luxurious marina with all the necessary infrastructure where you can rent the perfect boat for you.

The marina is located on an artificial island between the airport and the capital city of Victoria, and boats are easily accessible by taxi across the bridge.

It is recommended that you buy most of the food you will need on the sailing trip before you set sail. You can do your shopping at the market in the pier or you can take a taxi to a cheaper supermarket.

If you are a fan of comfort and convenience, we recommend renting a catamaran, which, among other things, will allow you to get closer to the most beautiful parts of the coral atolls and beaches.

Seychelles includes an area within which even beginners in sailing can do well. There are many good anchorages in many locations, and the distances are short, that is, there are no large crossings of the open sea, the currents are gentle, the winds are relatively predictable, and storms are very rare. However, there are a few details that make the Seychelles a destination for more experienced sailors. First, apart from the main marina on Eden Island, La Passe Marina on La Digue and the floating dock at Baie Sainte Anne on Praslin, Seychelles lacks yachting infrastructure. So, if you don’t like anchoring and prefer to spend the night in the marina, Seychelles is not the right choice for you.

You also have to watch out for various rocks and crags, not all of which are marked on the maps, especially outside the main islands. Therefore, it is essential to be alert throughout the journey. However, if you prefer to have fun on your trip rather than following a route, this problem can easily be solved by hiring a professional skipper.

 

Climate and cruising conditions in Seychelles

Although the Seychelles are current throughout the year and officially most of the islands are outside the cyclone belt, you should know that this is a destination where it probably rains most often. So don’t be surprised if you experience a few showers even in the middle of the dry season. The temperature is pleasant for swimming all year round. The most rain falls during the winter months (December, January and February), and the least during July and August. July and August are the peak season in the Seychelles and that’s when hotel prices are the highest. The best time to visit is May and June, when prices are not at their highest, and September and October.

From December to March, a weak northwest wind blows, so showers are more frequent. From May to October there is a strong southeast wind, which rarely brings rain and instead there is no cloud. The weather is relatively dry and humid, with a high season in June and July. Many anchorages become unusable between May and October as the south-easterly current washes large quantities of sea grass onto the southern shores. If you want to avoid this problem, it is better to come during the low wind months of April and November and book your flight during that time. You can also enjoy clear water and ideal conditions for diving.

 

Seychelles sailing locations

The area of the inner islands of the Seychelles, known as the Seychelles Bank, is an important destination for tourists. Most boaters visit the area, which is bordered by private Bird Island to the north, Mahé to the south, Silhouette Island to the west and Grande Soeur to the east. The other islands of the archipelago are too far away and can only be accessed with a special permit and a local captain on board. But the inner islands alone will keep you busy for several weeks. Within this area you can also find the well-known Cousin Island.

You can start your trip on the island of Mahé – an island that you should definitely not miss on your trip, and is famous for its beaches. On the 28 km long main island of Mahé, you can explore the beautiful bay of Beau Vallon in the northwest during a cruise or discover the unique flora and fauna of the Seychelles Islands.

Due to the constitutional protection of nature, Seychelles has incredible biological diversity across the island. You will see wonderful beaches with palm trees and tropical forests while sailing in the interior of the islets. Here you can even see giant turtles Or you can go snorkeling in the turquoise blue water and explore the fantastic underwater world of the island of Mahé. It is also recommended to go to the famous beaches in the area such as Anse Takamaka, Anse Intendance or Police Bay. Everyone can enjoy the coast and the sea, incl. stay on board here – so your Indian Ocean vacation is sure to be a success, and at the best price (see early booking offers). And if you want to relax, the cabins or decks on board are the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring some enchanting destinations.

If you want to explore the entire inner islands, expect to cover around 250-300 nautical miles (furthest Bird Island is 54 NM from Mahé, popular Praslin around 20 NM). If you want to enjoy a leisurely sailing without a lot of stress and enough time to discover all the beauties of the area, we recommend that you choose a two-week vacation.

Snorkeling in the Seychelles

It’s a shame to miss the unique experience of snorkeling in the Seychelles! Diving will allow you to have a direct view of the marine life, to see fish, turtles, sharks and corals, all in their natural habitat. It is an opportunity to observe and appreciate the diversity of ocean ecosystems and the beauty of marine species.

Snorkeling can be an adventurous and exciting activity as you explore uncharted waters and discover the hidden underwater world. Snorkeling can also be a peaceful and meditative activity as you float on the surface of the water and enjoy the serene beauty of the ocean. Diving is a great way to stay fit and healthy, and in addition, diving is not only a fun and exciting activity, but it can also be educational and informative. By observing marine life and understanding its behavior, you can learn more about the ocean and its ecosystems and how to protect them.

Nightlife

The nightlife and party scene in Seychelles is not as wild as in other destinations, but you can still have a good time with your friends, dancing and enjoying the nightlife. There are several bars and clubs, live music venues and casinos on the islands. Many hotels and resorts also have their own bars and lounges. Popular activities include going out drinking and dancing, enjoying a sunset cruise, or seeing a live band or DJ. In addition, many islands in the Seychelles are places where you can spend nights gazing at the stars and stunning sunsets. The area has a small but vibrant club scene, with a mix of local and international DJs, bars and nightclubs. After a day relaxing on board, we recommend spicing up your nights at one of these popular clubs: The Pirates Arms in Victoria, The Plantation Club in North Mahe, The Pirates Island in North Mahe, The Blue Banana Club in Victoria.

The islands of Vis and Sušac – They form the link between the two islands of the god of the wind – the Aeolian Islands – where the winds collide, the problem of navigation.

Vis (Italian Lissa and ancient Greek Ίσσα, Issa) is an outlying Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea. It is 45 km from the mainland.

The surface of the island is 89.72 km2, and the total length of the coast of Vis is 84.9 km. Around the island of Vis there are numerous smaller islands, islets and shoals (Biševo, Veliki and Mali Budikovac, Brusnik, Jabuka, Ravnik, Svetac and others).

Natural beauties worth seeing are the Blue Cave on the nearby island of Biševo, the Green Cave on Ravnik and the Queen’s Cave on Vis, and among the historical sights, Tit’s Cave, a restored monument to sailors killed in the Battle of Vis, should be mentioned.

There are also unique bays on Vis, such as Stiniva.

The Viška cruiser regatta, which has been held since 1945, is one of the oldest regattas in Croatia and a race of FALKUŠA-type boats.

The larger towns on the island are Vis (1,776 a.s.l.) and Komiža (1,523 a.s.l.).

Vis is the only part of the former Yugoslavia that was never occupied by the German army. At that time, an allied military airport was located on it (today under the vineyards). Tito took refuge on Vis in June 1944 after the German landing on Drvar.

Water area Vis – Hvara

The Battle of Vis was a naval conflict in the Vis channel between the French and British navies that took place on March 13, 1811.

The Austrian-French conflict temporarily subsided with the peace in Požun (today’s Bratislava) in 1805, according to which France received Istria, Dalmatia, the Republic of Dubrovnik and Boka Kotor, including the island of Vis. The name was ILIRSKE PROVINCIJE, and the upper border was the river Sava and Zagreb. Napoleon joined it all to the Kingdom of Italy.

In II. in the coalition war against Napoleon (England, Russia and Turkey) in September 1805, Admiral Senjavin’s fleet sailed into the Adriatic, which first occupied Boka Kotor, and then operated in the central Dalmatian islands, including the island of Vis.

When the peace between Russia and France was signed in July 1807 in Tilsit, the Russians sailed from the Adriatic. Their activity in the Adriatic was temporary and peripheral in relation to the Dalmatian coast.

The conflict between Austria and England, on the one hand, and France, on the other, continues.

The French strategy consisted in preventing Europe’s trade with England, and England in preventing the overseas trade of France (mutual blockade).

In the Adriatic, the Russians were replaced by the English.

In accordance with their strategy, they immediately created a plan that would prevent trade between the Apennine and Dinaric coasts, which were in the hands of Napoleon or his brother, the Italian king.

The easiest way to achieve this task was by capturing the island of Vis, which was already frequented by pirates and smugglers from the Mediterranean. France did not have the strength to resist piracy.

At the same time, the economic power of the island of Vis grew.

  At that time, thousands of merchants from England, Italy, Germany and Dalmatia stayed in it, so the houses were full of foreigners. Vis then had 12,000 inhabitants, more than ever in its long and rich history.

 

Battle

French Admiral Bernard Dubourdieu, commander of the Franco-Italian squadron, died during the battle

Napoleon became convinced that the French were only nominal masters of the Vis, so he ordered his Franco-Italian fleet to capture and fortify it. The first attempt by Napoleon’s admiral Bernard Dubourdieu ended with a raid on pirate ships in the port of Vis, which did not yield special results. The English were not even there.

 

At Napoleon’s insistence, a second attempt followed, leading to the Battle of the Hell Islands on March 13, 1811. The Franco-Italian squadron, which was far superior in number of ships and men, suffered a defeat by a well-trained squadron under the command of the young and ambitious Commodore William Hosta. After this battle at sea (in the Vis channel), the English conquered Vis and began building fortresses, the remains of which can still be seen today at the entrance to the port of Vis.

 

Consequences

The island of Vis became a strong stronghold for the English on the eastern coast of the Adriatic, which was held by the French. They were not a force capable of dealing with the English, because since 1812 they were busy with the great invasion of Russia, which, as is known, will end with Napoleon’s defeat and the abandonment of the Adriatic coast.

During 1813, the English, relying on Vis, began to get more involved in Dalmatia by capturing Korcula, Mljet, Hvar and the Dubrovnik islands of Šipan, Lopud and Koločep.