Features of winter yachting

Publication date: 23.10.2024

The conventional belief that yacht vacations are only enjoyable in summer has become outdated. The extensive geography of maritime travel allows for water excursions at any time of year. Charter companies offer yacht rentals for all possible sailing destinations - which aren't necessarily limited to warm southern seas.

Only the most extreme sailing enthusiasts dare to go winter yachting in the northern hemisphere seas. During this season, marinas aren't crowded with yachts, allowing for peaceful sailing on calm waters.

When sailing in cold weather, several specific factors must be considered:

• low air temperatures make winds particularly strong and powerful;
• sea temperature changes differ from onshore weather conditions;
• light fog in coastal waters and dense fog banks over open seas.

Winter yachting in cold waters requires significant sailing skills, perfect crew coordination and careful weather monitoring. Despite the challenges, cold-water sailing brings intense emotions and joy from overcoming difficulties.

However thrilling winter sailing may seem, yacht vacations are far more enjoyable under warm sun and clear skies. The vast oceans offer alternatives to summer European cruises - winter sailing in comfortable climates.

Thailand is truly a paradise for lovers of exotic winter vacations, and a yacht trip along the resort islands shows this wonderful country from different angles. While sailing freely, you can enjoy not only popular beach parties but also visit the most secluded and quiet places.

Most often, winter yachting starts from Phuket as the kingdom's largest island. You can plan your route for several days and visit various Thai attractions.

Phang Nga Bay National Park between the island and mainland is rightfully considered Thailand's most beautiful. Hollywood films were shot here, boosting tourism and related infrastructure. Numerous rocky islets fill the bay, with some still inhabited by small communities living off fishing and rice farming.

Be sure to visit Phuket City's main tourist street Soi Romanee with souvenir shops and local cafes. End your day at Promthep Cape for breathtaking sunsets. The yacht marina offers full amenities: water, electricity, internet.

Next, sailors head to Ko Yao island - a true kingdom of tropical plants and animals. Highlights include ancient rock paintings, virgin forests, and a bat cave only accessible at low tide. Anchor in the bay.

Panak Island is a favorite for canoeing enthusiasts. Nine underground lakes connected by caves feature limestone stalactites. Walk through mangrove roots for a Tarzan-like experience.

The Phi Phi archipelago is famous for Maya Bay (from "The Beach" movie) with white sand beaches, mackerel fishing, snorkeling and hiking.

Another interesting route circles Koh Samui island, where coconut palms and the giant Big Buddha statue are visible from all sides.

The Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean consists of 75 large granite islands and numerous small atolls. Calm seas free from cyclones, crystal-clear waters, and pristine white beaches offer travelers perfect tranquility and complete seclusion. Lush vegetation and countless coconut palms create a truly paradisiacal setting.

A charter yacht trip allows time to visit luxurious marinas, relax in quiet bays, and capture stunning photos against picturesque landscapes. Navigating the many reefs requires an experienced skipper familiar with local channels.

On Curieuse Island, see Seychelles' national symbols: giant tortoises and the Coco de Mer palm featured on the archipelago's coat of arms.

Praslin Island boasts world-class beaches (top 10 globally) and the endemic Coco de Mer palm, whose distinctive 20kg+ nuts became Seychelles' icon. The Vallée de Mai nature reserve resembles the biblical Eden, where spotting rare black parrots supposedly brings luck.

The small Sister Islands and Coco Island form an infinity symbol when viewed from above. Pristine coral reefs attract snorkelers, while uninhabited waters shelter giant tortoises. Many bays offer ideal anchorage for soaking in exotic beauty.

Cousin Island leads ecological restoration - no introduced species, only native flora/fauna. Conservation programs protect endemic wildlife. Fearless birds nest here, while beaches host thousands of turtle hatchlings annually.

Yachting in the Caribbean can be called the ultimate dream vacation for many travelers - crystal clear waters, white sand, exotic fish among coral reefs, and local cuisine with fresh seafood paint the picture of a perfect getaway. The Caribbean offers diverse sailing destinations year-round.

Antigua and Barbuda attract visitors with both numerous quiet coral reef lagoons and excellent rum-serving restaurants, duty-free shopping and lively casinos. The capital St. John's preserves colonial mansions and hosts a museum of indigenous culture.

For sailing, it's a beach paradise of pink sands and breathtaking sunsets. By yacht you can circle both islands and visit many uninhabited beaches with gentle waves.

The modern Jolly Harbour Marina lies 10 km from the capital, accommodating over 150 yachts with full infrastructure: water supply, electricity, shops, pharmacies, supermarket, pool and tennis court. Nearby are boat service companies, customs and border control.

Winter is ideal for yachting in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - minimal rainfall and stable temperatures. Numerous sandy islands of varying sizes make sailing between them exciting. Experienced sailors can find strong winds and high waves or reach remote spots. The reward is snorkeling with turtles among reefs and uniquely delicious cocktails at a seashell-built bar.

Despite their fame, the Bahamas offer yacht charters in just one calm area - the Sea of Abaco. However, calm waters hide coral reefs requiring careful navigation even for shallow-draft vessels. In port you can climb a century-old lighthouse for panoramic views of the 700-island chain.

The Greek name Polynesia, meaning "many islands," perfectly describes the scattering of archipelagos across the Pacific Ocean. Volcanic islands are mountains covered in lush vegetation, often with volcanoes, rivers, and waterfalls. Coral islands, in contrast, rise only slightly above the sea, have smooth rounded shapes, and feature sandy soils with coconut palms. The landscapes—vibrant tropical greenery, turquoise waters, and pristine white beaches—resemble paintings by French Impressionists.

Yachting in Tahiti is the quintessential exotic journey: palm trees swaying in tropical breezes, powdery white beaches, and mountain peaks rising straight from turquoise waters. Bora Bora captivates with its crystal-clear lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Sheltered by the reef, the anchorage offers serene relaxation on gentle waves. In shallow waters, rays, turtles, and colorful mollusks are visible. Steady winds make it ideal for sailing catamaran charters, though rainy months like January and December are best avoided.

The Kingdom of Tonga, one of the most extensive archipelagos, is a hub for sailing cruises. The proximity of islands and consistent winds create perfect yachting conditions, welcoming even novice sailors. Calm waters within the reef attract snorkeling enthusiasts. The capital, Neiafu, is filled with restaurants and entertainment spots.

The Maldives has a yachting season all year round, and you can always find a pristine lagoon with fine sand. The archipelago consists of a thousand coral islands forming 26 atolls. Catamarans, sailing, and motor yachts are available for charter, offering spectacular journeys across the ocean with its turquoise waters. The warm and pleasant climate is perfect for surfing and diving, jungle walks, or lazy beachside relaxation. The stunning sea, home to whales, dolphins, and sharks, along with exotic fruits and seafood delicacies, will enhance your yachting experience. Tourism is the main driver of the Maldivian economy, with numerous luxury hotels and magnificent yachts docked in marinas.

The unique climate of the Canary Islands, with its stable air and water temperatures, attracts yachting tourists at any time of the year. The variety of whales, dolphins, and other marine life entertains diving enthusiasts. Here, you can fish right from the deck of your yacht. The constant trade winds provide true delight for sailing fans as they navigate between the islands.

Teide National Park on the island of Tenerife is located in a volcanic crater and stands at the highest point in the Atlantic Ocean. A cable car ride to the summit immerses tourists in snowy landscapes, after which they can descend back to warm up on a hot beach.

Among the many Canary Islands, you can choose a vacation to match your mood. Strolling through the historical landmarks of the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, reveals the Canarian architectural style. Shows and medieval-style performances at Castillo de San Miguel transport visitors back in time to experience Spanish traditions.

The vibrant resort of Costa Adeje is full of entertainment, stunning beaches, gourmet restaurants, and fashionable shops. History lovers will appreciate the ancient monastery and the Church of Santa Úrsula.

The quiet island of La Gomera attracts eco-tourism enthusiasts with its forests and ravines. The capital, San Sebastián, is notable as the starting point of Christopher Columbus's voyage to conquer America, with all the city’s key sites linked to the great navigator.

The famous pyramids of Güímar intrigue researchers with theories about their origin and purpose. The simple explanation of piled stones does not align with the pyramids' astronomical orientation relative to the sun. The six pyramids undoubtedly hold a still-unknown sacred meaning.

Winter yachting is just as exciting as summer yachting. Yachts can be chartered in Bali, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, or Mexico. No matter the location, you are guaranteed a sea of impressions and diverse adventures.