Stepping off the mainland onto a boat and putting yourself in the hands of the wind and the waves is the very essence of adventure and freedom. The high seas have carried their fair share of great explorers, traders, pirates and romancing lovers, all with magical tales to tell and just as exciting are the voyages open to responsible travellers!
Here are our top picks of sailing holidays to whet your appetite.
Dhow sailing off the coast of Kenya Explore the islands of the Lamu Archipelago on board a beautifully hand-crafted dhow on this sailing holiday in the warm, pure waters off the Kenyan coast. Steeped in history, the islands were long a port of call for traders between the Arab lands and Zanzibar who moored their ships here, laden with spices, silver and precious stones.
You’ll stay at the
Diamond beach resort on Manda Island, from where you can explore your surroundings at your own pace. The islands are free of cars and modern transport, allowing you to slip back into a slower paced way of life, riding donkeys or sailing from beach to beach. Sustainable practices of water recycling and limited energy consumption combine with the car-free environment and investment in local individuals and businesses to create a truly authentic and eco-friendly holiday.
Local guides with expert knowledge will tell you of the archipelago’s rich, Swahili culture and Arab-influenced history. Resident chefs will cook you up a feast of succulent fresh seafood, vegetarian and Swahili dishes under a blazing African sunset. Expert sailors will ensure your comfort as you “dhow-down”on deck and glide across sparkling waves.
Perfect for beginners New to the whole skipper business?
Learn to sail in the pearly Mediterranean waters of the Pelopponese on this
Greek holiday . You’ll be trained up by a team of professionals and join a flotilla where you’ll get the chance to try out your new found skipper skills!
Take the family Take the kids with you for a
family trip in Turkey on board a stylish gullet which will cruise around tiny islets, the setting of many a Classical myth.
They’ll meet loggerhead turtles and will enjoy snorkeling in secluded bays in one of the more remote Lycian landscapes.
Intrepid sailing in the Hebrides If you prefer to sail closer to home, head to the blustering waves of the Scotland’s
Inner and Outer Hebrides .
Combine sailing and walking, making your way along the coast on board a private yacht stopping off at the dramatic outposts of St. Kilda’s, the Island of Harris and walk along the steep cliff roads over-looking the wild Atlantic from Mull or Jura.
Arctic expedition with the polar bears If you’re feeling more sea-faring Viking than exotic-island hopper, climb aboard this hardy Arctic ship for a chilled-out tour of
Spitsbergen ’s impressive fjords and tundra wildlife.
Free your mind and clear your lungs with the fresh, clean air of this Nordic territory as you observe polar bears, walrus and seals who will greet your ship as you sail by.
Luxury in St Vincent and the Grenadines If utter indulgence is a must on your sailing list,
St Vincent and the Grenadines will provide the soothing balmy setting to a sun, sea and sand holiday where you’ll start with a week on a luxury sloop and a second week in a stunning villa over-looking Moonhole beach, with visits to Mustique and Bequia on the way.
Step on board and unwind...
See all our sailing holidays 
