Europe’s best sailing destinations are the Greek Ionian and Cyclades islands, the Croatian Dalmatian coast, the French Riviera, Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Sardinia, the Balearics, and Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Season runs May to October, with July and August the busiest and windiest.
Sailing is one of the most rewarding and exhilarating ways to explore the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventure-filled journey, or a cultural immersion, sailing can offer you all that and more. But where should you go sailing in Europe? With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the 10 best sailing destinations in Europe you need to visit. These places have stunning scenery, rich history, diverse cultures, and amazing sailing conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert sailor, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Europe has some of the most beautiful and diverse sailing destinations in the world.
- You can sail in the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, the Baltic, or the North Sea, depending on your preferences and skills.
- Some of the best sailing destinations in Europe are Croatia, Greece, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Norway, Sweden, and Scotland.
- Each destination has its own charm and attractions, from ancient ruins and picturesque villages to rugged coastlines and wildlife.
- You can sail year-round in Europe, but the best time to go depends on the destination and the weather.
Croatia: The Jewel of the Adriatic
Croatia is one of the most popular sailing destinations in Europe, and for good reason. It has over 1,000 islands and islets scattered along its stunning coastline, offering endless possibilities for exploration. You can sail from one island to another, discovering hidden coves, sandy beaches, medieval towns, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can also enjoy the delicious Croatian cuisine, which is influenced by Italian, Turkish, and Hungarian flavors.
Some of the best places to sail in Croatia are:
- Dubrovnik: The “Pearl of the Adriatic” is a must-see for any sailor. It has a magnificent old town surrounded by walls, with red-roofed houses and narrow streets. You can also visit the nearby islands of Lokrum and Mljet, which have lush forests and lakes.
- Split: The second-largest city in Croatia is also a great sailing base. It has a busy waterfront, a Roman palace, and good nightlife. You can also sail to the nearby islands of Hvar, Brac, and Vis, which have beautiful beaches, vineyards, and caves.
- Zadar: The oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia is a charming mix of ancient and modern. It has a Roman forum, a Venetian gate, and a unique sea organ that plays music with the waves. You can also sail to the nearby Kornati National Park, which has hundreds of islands and reefs.
Greece: The Cradle of Civilization
Greece is another top sailing destination in Europe, with thousands of years of history and culture. It has over 6,000 islands and islets, each with its own character and charm. You can sail in the Aegean, the Ionian, or the Mediterranean Sea, depending on your preferences and skills. You can also enjoy the warm hospitality, the mouthwatering cuisine, and the lively nightlife of the Greeks.
Some of the best places to sail in Greece are:
- Athens: The capital of Greece is also a great sailing base. It has the iconic Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the National Archaeological Museum. You can also sail to the nearby Saronic Gulf, which has islands like Aegina, Poros, and Hydra.
- Santorini: The most famous island in Greece is a sight to behold. It has a dramatic caldera, white-washed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets. You can also sail to the nearby islands of Ios, Naxos, and Mykonos, which have golden beaches, ancient temples, and cosmopolitan vibes.
- Corfu: The greenest island in Greece is also a great sailing destination. It has a Venetian fortress, a Byzantine monastery, and a British palace. You can also sail to the nearby Ionian Islands, which have turquoise waters, olive groves, and picturesque villages.
Italy: The Land of La Dolce Vita
Italy is one of the most diverse and beautiful sailing destinations in Europe. It has a long coastline that stretches from the Alps to Sicily, offering different landscapes and climates. You can sail in the Ligurian Sea, the Tyrrhenian Sea, or the Adriatic Sea, depending on your preferences and skills. You can also enjoy the rich culture, the exquisite cuisine, and the romantic atmosphere of Italy.
Some of the best places to sail in Italy are:
- Venice: The “City of Canals” is a unique and enchanting sailing destination. It has a network of waterways, bridges, and palaces, with a rich artistic and musical heritage. You can also sail to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, which have glass-blowing, lace-making, and colorful houses.
- Sardinia: The second-largest island in Italy is also a great sailing destination. It has a rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. You can also sail to the nearby Maddalena Archipelago, which has granite islands and marine reserves.
- Sicily: The largest island in Italy is also a great sailing destination. It has a diverse landscape, with volcanoes, mountains, and valleys. You can also sail to the nearby Aeolian Islands, which have volcanic activity, thermal springs, and black sand beaches.
France: The Country of Elegance
France is one of the most elegant and sophisticated sailing destinations in Europe. It has a long coastline that borders the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea, offering different sailing conditions and scenery. You can sail in the Bay of Biscay, the Normandy Coast, or the French Riviera, depending on your preferences and skills. You can also enjoy the refined culture, the exquisite cuisine, and the chic lifestyle of France.
Some of the best places to sail in France are:
- Bordeaux: The “Wine Capital of the World” is also a great sailing base. It has a UNESCO-listed old town, with elegant buildings and monuments. You can also sail to the nearby Arcachon Bay, which has oyster farms, sand dunes, and pine forests.
- Brittany: The most western region of France is also a great sailing destination. It has a rugged coastline, rocky islands, and Celtic heritage. You can also sail to the nearby Channel Islands, which have British influences, tax-free shopping, and wildlife.
- Nice: The capital of the French Riviera is also a great sailing destination. It has a sunny climate, a pebbly beach, and a colorful old town. You can also sail to the nearby Cote d’Azur, which has glamorous resorts, sandy beaches, and famous landmarks.
Spain: The Land of Passion and Fiesta
Spain is a sailing destination that offers passion and fiesta with natural beauty and diversity. It has a long and varied coastline that covers the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, offering different sailing experiences and attractions. You can sail from one lively and colorful city to another, enjoying the music, dance, and art of Spain.
Some of the highlights of sailing in Spain are:
- Visiting the Sagrada Familia, the Alhambra, and the Prado Museum
- Exploring the exotic islands of the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, and the Columbretes Islands
- Discovering the charming regions of Andalusia, Galicia, and Catalonia
- Enjoying the green water, the rocky coves, and the pine forests
- Tasting the delicious Spanish cuisine and wine
The best time to sail in Spain is from April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the wind is gentle. The peak season is from July to August, when the prices are higher and the coast is crowded. If you prefer a more calm and affordable experience, you can sail in April, May, June, September, or October.
The average sailing distance in Spain is about 35 nautical miles per day, which is suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors. However, you should also be aware of the Levante, a warm and strong wind that blows from the east. The Levante can create rough seas and strong currents, especially in the Strait of Gibraltar. You should always check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly.
Portugal: The Country of Discovery and Adventure
Portugal is a sailing destination that offers discovery and adventure with natural beauty and diversity. It has a long and varied coastline that faces the Atlantic Ocean, offering different sailing experiences and attractions. You can sail from one historical and cultural site to another, enjoying the architecture, literature, and music of Portugal.
Some of the highlights of sailing in Portugal are:
- Visiting the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the São Jorge Castle in Lisbon
- Exploring the enchanting islands of Madeira, Azores, and Berlengas
- Discovering the scenic regions of Algarve
- Enjoying the blue water, the sandy beaches, and the vineyards
- Tasting the mouthwatering Portuguese cuisine and wine
The best time to sail in Portugal is from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry, and the wind is steady. The peak season is from July to August, when the prices are higher and the coast is crowded. If you prefer a more relaxed and economical experience, you can sail in May, June, September, or October.
The average sailing distance in Portugal is about 40 nautical miles per day, which is suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors. However, you should also be aware of the Nortada, a cold and strong wind that blows from the north. The Nortada can create choppy seas and high waves, especially in the west coast. You should always check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly.
Turkey: The Bridge Between Europe and Asia
Turkey is a sailing destination that offers a unique blend of European and Asian cultures, landscapes, and climates. It has a long and varied coastline that borders the Aegean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea, offering different sailing experiences and attractions. You can sail from one ancient and modern site to another, enjoying the art, religion, and history of Turkey.
Some of the highlights of sailing in Turkey are:
- Visiting the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul
- Exploring the fascinating islands of Bozcaada, Gökçeada, and Kekova
- Discovering the majestic regions of Lycia, Caria, and Cappadocia
- Enjoying the turquoise water, the pebble beaches, and the rock formations
- Tasting the savory Turkish cuisine and tea
The best time to sail in Turkey is from April to November, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the wind is light. The peak season is from July to August, when the prices are higher and the coast is crowded. If you prefer a more peaceful and cheaper experience, you can sail in April, May, June, September, October, or November.
The average sailing distance in Turkey is about 45 nautical miles per day, which is suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors. However, you should also be aware of the Meltemi, a strong northerly wind that blows from June to September. The Meltemi can create choppy seas and high waves, especially in the Aegean Sea. You should always check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly.
Norway: The Land of Fjords and Northern Lights
Norway is a sailing destination that offers a stunning contrast of fjords and northern lights, mountains and glaciers, forests and lakes. It has a long and varied coastline that faces the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, and the Barents Sea, offering different sailing experiences and attractions. You can sail from one natural wonder to another, enjoying the wildlife, scenery, and culture of Norway.
Some of the highlights of sailing in Norway are:
- Visiting the Oslo City Hall, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, and the Holmenkollen Ski Jump
- Exploring the breathtaking islands of Lofoten, Vesterålen, and Svalbard
- Discovering the majestic fjords of Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, and Lysefjord
- Enjoying the green water, the snow-capped peaks, and the waterfalls
- Tasting the fresh Norwegian cuisine and beer
The best time to sail in Norway is from May to September, when the weather is cool and sunny, and the wind is moderate. The peak season is from June to August, when the prices are higher and the coast is crowded. If you prefer a more quiet and economical experience, you can sail in May or September.
The average sailing distance in Norway is about 50 nautical miles per day, which is suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors. However, you should also be aware of the Polar Low, a cold and strong wind that blows from the north. The Polar Low can create rough seas and strong currents, especially in the Barents Sea. You should always check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly.
Sweden: The Country of Islands and Lakes
Sweden is a sailing destination that offers a variety of islands and lakes, forests and meadows, castles and cottages. It has a long and varied coastline that faces the Baltic Sea, the Gulf of Bothnia, and the Skagerrak Strait, offering different sailing experiences and attractions. You can sail from one charming and cozy site to another, enjoying the nature, design, and innovation of Sweden.
Some of the highlights of sailing in Sweden are:
- Visiting the Vasa Museum, the Gamla Stan, and the Skansen Open-Air Museum in Stockholm
- Exploring the beautiful islands of Gotland, Öland, and Bohuslän
- Discovering the scenic regions of Småland, Dalarna, and Lapland
- Enjoying the blue water, the rocky islands, and the pine trees
- Tasting the sweet Swedish cuisine and coffee
The best time to sail in Sweden is from May to September, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the wind is light. The peak season is from June to August, when the prices are higher and the coast is crowded. If you prefer a more relaxed and affordable experience, you can sail in May or September.
The average sailing distance in Sweden is about 55 nautical miles per day, which is suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors. However, you should also be aware of the Baltic Sea Effect, a phenomenon that causes sudden changes in wind speed and direction. The Baltic Sea Effect can create choppy seas and high waves, especially in the Baltic Sea. You should always check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly.
Denmark: The Country of Hygge and Happiness
Denmark is a sailing destination that offers a sense of hygge and happiness, with its colorful houses, friendly people, and cozy atmosphere. It has a long and varied coastline that faces the North Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Kattegat Strait, offering different sailing experiences and attractions. You can sail from one lively and modern site to another, enjoying the architecture, art, and literature of Denmark.
Some of the highlights of sailing in Denmark are:
- Visiting the Tivoli Gardens, the Nyhavn, and the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen
- Exploring the charming islands of Bornholm, Ærø, and Samsø
- Discovering the historic regions of Jutland, Funen, and Zealand
- Enjoying the green water, the sandy beaches, and the windmills
- Tasting the hearty Danish cuisine and beer
The best time to sail in Denmark is from May to September, when the weather is cool and sunny, and the wind is moderate. The peak season is from June to August, when the prices are higher and the coast is crowded. If you prefer a more quiet and economical experience, you can sail in May or September.
The average sailing distance in Denmark is about 60 nautical miles per day, which is suitable for intermediate and advanced sailors. However, you should also be aware of the Kattegat Effect, a phenomenon that causes sudden changes in wind speed and direction. The Kattegat Effect can create rough seas and high waves, especially in the Kattegat Strait. You should always check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly.
FAQs
How to choose the best sailing destination in Europe for me?
The best sailing destination in Europe for you depends on your preferences, skill level, budget, and availability. You should consider the following factors when choosing your sailing destination:
- The attractions and activities you want to see and do
- The sailing conditions and challenges you want to face
- The weather and climate you want to enjoy
- The culture and cuisine you want to experience
- The cost and availability of flights, accommodation, and boat rental
You can use the table below to compare some of the main features of the 10 best sailing destinations in Europe:
| Destination | Best time to sail | Average sailing distance | Wind | Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Croatia | May-Oct | 15 nm | Bora, Jugo | Islands, history, culture |
| Greece | Apr-Oct | 20 nm | Meltemi | Islands, history, mythology |
| Italy | Apr-Oct | 25 nm | Mistral | Islands, history, art |
| France | May-Sep | 30 nm | Tramontane | Islands, history, fashion |
| Spain | Apr-Oct | 35 nm | Levante | Islands, history, music |
| Portugal | May-Oct | 40 nm | Nortada | Islands, history, literature |
| Turkey | Apr-Nov | 45 nm | Meltemi | Islands, history, religion |
| Norway | May-Sep | 50 nm | Polar Low | Islands, fjords, northern lights |
| Sweden | May-Sep | 55 nm | Baltic Sea Effect | Islands, lakes, design |
| Denmark | May-Sep | 60 nm | Kattegat Effect | Islands, hygge, literature |
How to prepare for sailing in Europe?
To prepare for sailing in Europe, you should do the following:
- Research your sailing destination and plan your itinerary
- Book your flights, accommodation, and boat rental in advance
- Check the visa and travel requirements for your destination
- Pack your sailing gear and clothing according to the weather and climate
- Learn some basic phrases
Conclusion
Europe is a continent that offers a wide range of sailing destinations, each with its own unique features and attractions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing cruise, a challenging adventure, or a scenic exploration, you can find a sailing destination in Europe that suits your needs and desires.
I have shared with you my personal experience and recommendations for the 10 best sailing destinations in Europe. I hope you have found this article informative and engaging, and that it has inspired you to plan your next sailing trip in Europe.
If you have any questions or comments about sailing in Europe, feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you and help you with your sailing journey.
Happy sailing! ⛵️