Sailing on a sailboat
Did you ever wonder how the adventurers of the 16th and 17th century must have felt when arriving in North America or Australia for the first time? Or how they have passed their time while waiting for the wind to pick up again in the middle of the sea before being able to continue their journey? A sailboat rental allows you to ignite your adventurous spirit for a little while and feel like a child again - just with more responsibility.
The pros of renting a sailboat
Renting a sailboat gives you the freedom to set your own course and explore various destinations while on route. You can choose to sail along coastlines, visit different islands, or embark on longer journeys. You have the flexibility to adapt your itinerary based on your preferences and weather conditions. Sailboats are the ideal companions for longer journeys as you don’t need to stay close to the marinas in case you need to refuel. They are solely powered by the wind, making them the ideal water vessels for anyone who loves their independence.
Sailing on a sailboat allows you to immerse yourself in nature. You can enjoy the sound of the wind and waves, feel the fresh sea breeze, and witness stunning sunrises and sunsets. It's a serene and tranquil experience that connects you with the natural environment. I mean, when was the last time that you really put your phone aside and lived in the moment for a full week?
Sailboat rentals are also perfect for those who are concerned about the environment. Sailboats don’t produce additional CO2-emissions and are therefore more environmentally friendly than other types of boats. They solely run on wind.
Sailing can be a very social activity if you want it to be, especially when renting a larger sailboat with family or friends. It offers an opportunity to strengthen relationships, share memorable moments, and create lasting bonds. It's a chance to disconnect from technology and focus on quality time with loved ones. A small sailboat rental might mean the opposite, but can be equally satisfying.
The cons of renting a sailboat
One of the downsides of a sailboat rental is the fact that they are solely powered by the wind. White it might be good for the environment, you have to keep in mind that it also means that you are 100% dependent on mother nature. Whether the wind stops blowing and prevents you from continuing your journey or a storm forms over the sea, the weather always strongly determines whether you can sail or not.
Another disadvantage of renting a sailboat is the fact that you need more extensive sailing skills than with other types of boats. Rather than enjoying a boat holiday where you can lean back and sunbathe, you actively need to participate in order to sail from one destination to another.
Charter a luxury sailboat
While sailboats are not necessarily known for their luxury amenities, there are some more luxurious sailboat charters you can sail on. These often include an experienced captain or skipper who is taking care of navigating and operating your boat. You might even learn a thing or two from them. All in all, the cabins of a luxury sailboat charter are more comfortable and spacious than those of a regular sailboat. However, don’t expect the space and comfort you might know from a catamaran.
How much does it cost to charter a sailboat
A sailboat rental is often the most affordable option when it comes to a week-long boat holiday. However, it also highly depends on your destination - some locations are simply more expensive than others. A sailboat charter in Greece for example only costs you 50 EUR per person per day and a sailboat rental in Italy costs just 58 EUR per person per day. Often you can even charter a sailboat for a lower price than renting a hotel room in some of the top destinations in the Mediterranean. Rent a sailboat in Spain for just 68 EUR per person per day and either sail in the Mediterranean sea or the wild Atlantic ocean. Wind conditions are ideal in both, but the sailing conditions in the Atlantic are definitely a little more challenging and should only be considered if you’re an experienced sailor. A sailboat charter in Turkey is also very affordable. Outside of Europe the prices are a bit higher and a sailboat charter in the Bahamas comes at an average price of 205 EUR per person per day and a sailboat rental in BVI is going to be 120 EUR per person per day on average.
What are the best locations for a sailboat rental?
You might be thinking: Where can I rent a sailboat? Well, you will be very pleased to know that there are many different locations around the world that offer ideal sailing conditions and beautiful terrain to enjoy a wonderful sailing experience. There are also different destinations that are more suitable for more experienced sailors, including the Cyclades in Greece.
You might even wonder: Are there any sailboat charters near me? A sailboat for rent might be closer than you think, but you could also always opt for one that is further away if you want to explore a new country and dive deeper into a different culture. After all, isn’t that what travel is all about?
Both the Mediterranean and the Caribbean offer ideal sailing conditions for adventurers who are ready to set their sails. However, keep in mind that you should avoid the Caribbean during hurricane season and the best time to visit is between December and March. The Mediterranean is a sailing paradise during the summer months June, July and August, but you can sail here from April through October. Off-season you might experience stronger winds, but will also enjoy some sunny weather.
The best sailing routes for sailboats
There are numerous fantastic sailing routes for sailboats around the world, each offering unique experiences and stunning landscapes. It all depends on the time of year you plan on sailing here and the places you would like to explore.
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The Greek Islands are a popular sailing destination in the Mediterranean - not just for Europeans, but also for international travellers. The Ionian Islands are also a great spot for novice sailors, but the Cyclades require more advanced sailing skills as the winds tend to be very strong and the terrain is filled with rocks and other natural landscapes underneath the water complicating your sailing experience.
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A sailboat rental in the glitzy French Riviera allows you to experience the glitz and glamour on land while practicing your sailing skills in relatively moderate sailing conditions. Sail along the glamorous French coast and visit the most popular cities like Nice, Cannes and Saint-Tropez.
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The Amalfi Coast in the South of Italy is obviously known for the colourful houses lining the majestic cliffs, but it is also a popular sailing destination in the Mediterranean
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Sailing along the Turkish Coast in a sailboat allows you to cruise along the stunning coastline. Stop at ancient ruins, charming fishing villages, and secluded bays to make the most of your sailboat holiday.
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The British Virgin Islands or BVI are one of the most popular spots for a sailboat holiday in the Caribbean. Enjoy island hopping in this sailing paradise and visit the wonderful islands of Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. You get to swim in the turquoise waters that you might have only known from the pictures before
If you prefer to sail in the Indian Ocean, want to experience something a little bit different and have the necessary funds, you could sail in the Seychelles, experience white sandy beaches that look like Windows screensavers, admire granite rock formations, and go snorkelling to explore the abundant marine life from up close. You could also discover the Maldives' coral atolls with their crystal-clear waters, vibrant reefs, and secluded anchorages. These destinations will definitely make for a relaxing sailboat vacation
