The Mediterranean by sailboat
Guide to the Mediterranean's most beautiful destinations, coasts and islands
From the rocky shores of Greece to the pristine islets of Croatia and the white beaches of Sardinia and the Balearic Islands, opting for a sailing vacation in the Mediterranean will leave you spoiled for choice.
The one thing that unites Italy, Greece, Spain, France and Croatia is precisely the Mediterranean Sea. A sailing vacation is an alternative way to visit the islands and coastlines of these countries. You can discover dream destinations that are more or less close, but very different from each other, such as the French Riviera, the Balearic Islands, the Cyclades, the Amalfi Coast, and many more. It can be difficult to choose where to go, but you have to consider that in one week you can visit well at most one region; if you want to visit more areas you have to add more weeks.
The Mediterranean is one of the richest regions of biodiversity in the world. It is estimated to contain about 10% of the planet's marine species. Its climatic, geomorphological and hydrological conditions make it a unique basin compared to other oceans, so much so that about 28% of the species present are endemic. Snorkeling in these waters or sailing in the famous Cetacean Sanctuary is a truly unique experience.
The Mediterranean Sea is quite large and touches areas that are also diverse and far apart. The climate can therefore vary depending on the destination you choose.
Balearic Islands: From May to August the weather is warm and suitable for those who also want to practice water sports. For sailing in peace and away from the crowds, the best months are September and October.
Italy: For a week-long vacation, it is best to go from May to September. August is undoubtedly the most popular month while June and the first half of July turn out to be the best choice for enjoying warm temperatures without crowds and competitive prices.
Greece: For a sailing vacation, the weather is ideal from April to October. May, June and September offer perfect conditions; July and August are windier.
Croatia: The sailing season is from May to October. July and August can be very crowded, but the weather is perfect and the days are still quite long.
The Mediterranean Sea: the most beautiful places to sail
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Sailing cruises in the Mediterranean
The best Mediterranean destinations for a sailing vacation
Aeolian Islands - Italy
The Aeolian Islands, north of Sicily, are a must for all sea and sailing lovers. Also called the "seven wonders of the Mediterranean," Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi and Alicudi are all islands of volcanic origin but very different from each other. The terrain varies from sheer cliffs, black beaches and rocks of various colors, from the white of pumice to the gold of sulfur and the red of basalt.
An exclusive landscape and only a sailing vacation can reveal all its intensity, making even the most remote places accessible.
Sardinia - Italy
This island is home to some of the most beautiful and famous beaches in the Mediterranean such as Cala Marilou, Cala Coticcio and La Pelosa. Many other, lesser-known ones can be found along the southwest coast. There is a big difference in landscape between northern and southern Sardinia. The north coast is characterized by rocky coves, numerous small islands that can be reached by boat, and exclusive resorts such as Costa Smeralda. The south coast, on the other hand, is characterized by large bays with fine sand such as Porto Pino, Porto Giunco, and Chia beach. Quieter and less touristy resorts are also found here, with the exception of Villasimius where you can enjoy a bit of nightlife.
Ionian Islands - Greece
The Ionian Islands are among the most popular islands in all of Greece. In addition to being easily accessible, they are also the most suitable for a sailing vacation for novices due to excellent wind conditions. They may not be the first islands that come to mind when thinking of Greece, but they are definitely the ones that have the most to offer in terms of landscape variety. Whether you decide to sail among the larger ones, such as Corfu, Zakynthos, Lefkas and Kefalonia, or the smaller ones, such as Paxos and Antipaxos, Kalamos and Atakos, you can enjoy relaxing moments aboard a comfortable boat or catamaran.
Split Archipelago - Croatia
This area of Croatia can be easily reached from Italy by plane, ferry or car. This convenience makes it a suitable destination not only for individual travelers and groups of friends, but also for families with children who do not want to take flights or face too long trips. The islands of the Split archipelago offer crystal clear water and breathtaking beaches, unspoiled landscapes and quaint villages rich in history. Among the various islands are some that are famous throughout the Mediterranean for their liveliness, such as Hvar, and others for their natural and picturesque landscapes, such as Lastovo. A destination that guarantees the right mix of relaxation, hiking and fun. Nature and sailing enthusiasts can spend hours sailing between islands, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and engaging in trekking. Those seeking a fun-filled vacation, on the other hand, will also find flotilla experiences.
Balearic Islands - Spain
Ibiza, Formentera, Majorca and Menorca are the four islands that make up this small archipelago. Each one with its own characteristics and identity will make you experience different emotions every day. Majorca, the largest island, is home to colorful and quaint villages; Menorca the most unspoiled and wild; Ibiza, the most renowned and undoubtedly the liveliest; and Formentera, natural and at the same time cool, with white sandy beaches and seaside clubs.
A sailing or catamaran vacation among these islands is characterized by quiet sailing to discover small coves and hidden bays. Often the one-week itinerary visits Ibiza and Formentera or Menorca and Majorca; those with two weeks can easily touch all four.
Other destinations to consider for your Mediterranean sailing vacation
French Riviera - France
One of Europe's most sought-after destinations for its variety of landscapes and activities. A long French strip that attracts more and more sailors and enthusiasts. An ideal destination for both weeks and weekends, thanks to the many bays and ports.
Corsica - France
Wild nature, blue sea, fine sand and rich cultural and historical heritage make Corsica a complete travel destination, and it is no coincidence that it is called the island of beauty. Two weeks of sailing are required to circumnavigate it, weather permitting; in one week you can sail along the north coast from the comfort of Tuscany, or along the south-east coast.
Tuscan Archipelago - Italy
A cruise among the Tuscan islands allows you to dive into crystal-clear waters and stop in front of the most striking coves, but at the same time to learn about ancient traditions and taste typical products while coming into close contact with an area rich in history and culture. The destination is ideal both for weekly cruises and for short or long weekends even in the company of your children.
Kornati Islands - Croatia
For lovers of boating vacations, the Kornati National Park represents one of the most enchanting destinations in the entire Mediterranean. More than 150 islands and islets full of pristine nature and history dating back to prehistoric times, perfect for exploring by sailboat by easily sailing from one to the other.
Cyclades Islands - Greece
To admire the typical villages with small white houses and blue roofs from the sea, the Cyclades islands are the perfect destination. These islands are a true paradise for those who visit them by sailboat. The famous Meltemi, a strong wind especially in July, blows over the entire archipelago; for this reason they are recommended for experienced sailors or at least those with some experience already.
Dodecanese - Greece
Nestled between Greece and Turkey, the Dodecanese is one of the most popular sailing areas. The abundance of wind, breathtaking nature and often affordable prices attract more and more sailing enthusiasts. Conveniently embarking from Rhodes, the main islands can be touched in 7 days: Kos, Symi, Nisyros, Tilos and Kastelorizo.
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