Top 10 World-Class Sailing Destinations to Sail into the Sunset
Discover exceptional island-hopping adventures in our curated guide to the world's premier sailing destinations, drawn from Lonely Planet's 1000 Ultimate Experiences. Whether you're a novice or seasoned sailor, these spots offer unparalleled beauty and accessibility.
1. British Virgin Islands
Steady trade winds, calm currents, and over 40 islands with countless protected bays make the British Virgin Islands (BVIs) a sailor's paradise. Hundreds of anchorages are visible from one another, earning it the title of one of the easiest and most popular sailing destinations worldwide. Over a third of visitors, from beginners to experts, arrive to sail these waters.
Did you know? The BVIs are a self-governing British Overseas Territory, yet the US dollar serves as their official currency.
A boat at sunset in Zanzibar by Kitetraveller.com. Creative Commons ShareAlike Licence
2. Bay of Islands, New Zealand
New Zealand boasts world-class sailors—evidenced by its America's Cup victories—and one of the highest boat ownership rates per capita. The Bay of Islands in the 'winterless north' showcases stunning coastal scenery, dozens of coves, and crystal-clear waters in shades of turquoise and deep blue. With around 150 undeveloped islands, it's a top tourist and sailing hub.
Paihia serves as the main hub. This compact town buzzes in summer, so reserve accommodations early.
3. Nile River, Egypt
For thousands of years, the Nile has been Egypt's vital transport artery. Today, travelers can sail into ancient history via budget-friendly feluccas (traditional canvas-sailed boats) or luxurious dahabiyyas, which outshine large cruisers. Powered by sails, they allow stops at remote islands and sites bypassed by bigger vessels. Evenings offer stargazing and the river's soothing sounds after history-filled days.
Most multi-day felucca trips launch from Aswan, with the popular three-day, two-night sail to Edfu.
4. Zanzibar
Zanzibar, off Tanzania's coast in the Indian Ocean, evokes ancient Persia, Oman, and India through its timeless allure. Stone Town, the arrival point, is among Africa's most atmospheric spots. Iconic turquoise waters and pristine beaches pair perfectly with dhow cruises (traditional Arabic vessels) to explore the archipelago's top diving and snorkeling sites.
Original Dhow Safaris offers trips on a dhow named after Zanzibar's famed export, Freddie Mercury.
The Bay of Islands by mnapoleon. Creative Commons Attribution Licence
5. Croatia
Dubbed the 'new Greece' or 'new Riviera,' Croatia delivers timeless Adriatic charm with brilliant sunshine, 1,778 km of coastline, and 1,185 islands. Sailing is the ideal way to explore hidden coves, fishing villages, and remote groups like Kornati or Elafiti. Popular Hvar attracts yacht enthusiasts, but don't rush—gateway cities like Split and Dubrovnik offer rich history for all.
6. French Riviera
From Nice and Cannes to Saint-Tropez and Monaco, the French Riviera glimmers with legend and luxury. Indulge in its yacht-filled glamour by chartering from Antibes, Cannes, or Marseille. Stock up on champagne and caviar, and channel Riviera fantasy aboard your vessel.
Plan a stylish visit to Monaco, the world's second-smallest country at just 1.95 sq km (after Vatican City).
7. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Explore Darwin's evolutionary wonders on a week-long cruise around this volcanic archipelago. Fly in from Quito via Guayaquil, then snorkel, dive, or observe extraordinary wildlife—sea lions, iguanas, giant tortoises, and birds—while sailing (motors often assist). Tread lightly in this fragile ecosystem; visit www.galapagos.org for preparation tips.
8. Tahiti & French Polynesia
Tahiti and French Polynesia embody paradise: lush high islands, palm-fringed atolls, and vivid lagoons across 118 islands spanning over 2,000 sq km in the Pacific. Serious sailors start at Ra'iatea, the yacht charter hub. Avoid November-to-March for rainy tropical depressions.
Sailing in the Whitsundays by Tamsin Slater. Creative Commons ShareAlike Licence
9. Greek Islands
Greece's 1,400+ islands in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, bathed in over 300 sunny days yearly, beckon with history and siren calls. Set your own itinerary via sailboat, pausing for local flavors or secluded swims. Favorites: Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos) or Ionians (Corfu, Lefkada, Onassis's Skorpios). Watch for summer's northeasterly meltemi winds.
10. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Off Queensland, the Whitsundays feature postcard-perfect skies, azure seas, and 74 islands within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Enjoy kaleidoscopic corals, turtles, and fish via yacht-based diving or snorkeling. Options suit all levels. Visit Airlie Beach for services; see www.sailingwhitsundays.com.
Craving more nautical thrills? Dive into Lonely Planet's 1000 Ultimate Experiences.
