10 UNIQUE PLACES TO SAIL IN THE MEDITERRANEAN THIS SUMMER
Crystal clear sea, vibrant colours, summery atmosphere and a changing and surprising landscape. When it comes to the countless beauties of the Mediterranean, there is plenty to choose from. Whether it’s well-known places like Capri and its Faraglioni rocks, or lesser-known places like the Aegean islands, dropping anchor in any of these places is pure excitement. Whether you’re cruising the coast with a Pardo or a Grand Soleil, the Mediterranean Sea has the perfect conditions for sailing all year round and has endless options for all tastes.
Whether you’ve already been to paradise destinations such as the Greek islands and the French Riviera or not, these great places to sail in the Mediterranean will fascinate you and make you want to come back time and time again.
So why not take the opportunity to discover hidden natural gems, new dishes, traditions and people? In this article we leave you with some recommendations to help you plan your holiday.
Sailing along the north coast of Mallorca in the sea breeze is a thrilling experience. Its spectacular mountains, cliffs, crystal clear water and goats sharing the beach with bathers are a unique and perfect combination. Sail from West to East around Cape Formentor, the northernmost point of Mallorca, about 5 nautical miles to the SW and you will find a really nice and quiet mooring.
Menorca, probably the least known of the Balearic Islands, is a picture postcard island with some of the most spectacular beaches in the Mediterranean. Some of the famous coves are Cala Mitjaneta, Cala Pregonda, Cala Macarella, Cala Macarelleta… Its characteristic undulating landscape is mixed with secluded coves and beaches that enjoy an ideal climate for sailing. This is a true nautical paradise.
Port Cros is the smallest of the three islands that make up the “îles d’Or” in the Golf of Hyères. It is a natural marine reserve 4 km long and 3 km wide, covering an area of 690 hectares. The island is rather uninhabited except for a small harbour with two B&Bs, a few restaurants, bars and a small grocery shop. Walk one of the trails that lead to desolate beaches where you can snorkel all day.
The Aegadian Islands are a group of three small rocky islands; Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo, located about 6-10 miles from the port of Trapani, on the northwestern tip of Sicily. This place reflects the imaginary of the Mediterranean islands: crystal clear sea, white houses, paradise beaches, good food and good prices.
Combining the best of both worlds, Italy boasts both the beautiful cypress-lined countryside of Tuscany as well as a stunning coastline known as the Amalfi Coast. As you cruise along the coast, you can see large mountains that line the coast itself and are home to small villages along its entire length. Stopping in any of them is a good idea to enjoy the delicious and genuine Italian cuisine, wine and hospitality.
In the western part of the Aegean Sea, close to Skiatos and Skopelos, lies Alonnisos, a lesser known island with a special charm. It is an island full of pine and olive trees that invite you to unwind and relax. The atmosphere is typical of the Greek islands, but undisturbed by the influx of tourists, so you can enjoy an authentic experience. The southern part of the island is full of beaches and crystal clear bays. Kokkinokastro is one of the most beautiful and is surrounded by an impressive red stone wall.
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This secluded, crescent-shaped beach is located in the Gulf of Orosei, Italy. If you love being in the water swimming in the depths and watching the marine life, don’t forget to bring your snorkelling or diving gear – you won’t regret it!
The shipwreck that occurred in the 5th century BC and can still be seen at the bottom of the sea is just one of the many treasures of this beautiful and lonely island. Despite being very close to Milos and Kimolos, this island is uninhabited. Fortunately, its habitat has been well preserved and it is one of the breeding grounds for monk seals.
This completely secluded beach is located in Corsica, and is still intact without any man-made constructions. Thanks to its white sand and clear waters, it has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
We couldn’t end the list without including Montenegro. Montenegro’s popularity is booming, especially in the southwestern part of the country, where the beautiful UNESCO-protected Boka Bay invites you to explore it with your boat. Europe’s most dramatic and probably most beautiful sunken canyon with surreal views and pretty villages. This place has the best facilities, several luxury waterfront hotels and marinas with very competitive mooring prices compared to destinations such as Monaco or Porto Cervo.
The big question is… what is the best time to sail in the Mediterranean?
Summer is the best time to visit the Mediterranean, and is undoubtedly the peak travel season in this part of Europe. Millions of people from all over the world flock to the beaches of the Mediterranean during the summer months to enjoy a well-deserved summer break thanks to the region’s pleasant climate. Summers in the Mediterranean are sunny, hot and the sea is warm. However, the best time to yacht in the Mediterranean is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October), as both the temperatures and the sea are pleasant and warm, and you won’t encounter the typical summer crowds.
If you do not yet have a boat to explore all the destinations on the list and you are thinking of buying one, do not hesitate to contact us. Our sales team will find the right boat, both sail and motor, to suit your needs and budget.
These fabulous gems in the Mediterranean are waiting for you to discover. What are your favourite places to sail in the Mediterranean?
