Experience the open seas with a family sailing holiday

If you want a truly memorable family holiday, then take a sailing trip around some of the most stunning parts of Europe. Even with young children, it is possible to combine sailing and some relaxation. Whether you’re an experienced yachtsman or a complete novice, here are some great holiday ideas.

If you’re considering sailing holidays, then you need to plan carefully and make sure you choose the right experience for your skills and family group. There’s no point becoming too adventurous and the holiday turning into a disaster. If you’re all new to sailing then why not look at combining a few days on board with a traditional beach holiday.

Port in Baska, Krk, Croatia / Photo by admin

Settle down with a crewed yacht

Family holidays abroad are the perfect opportunity to introduce your children to the world of boating. If you’ve never sailed before, or you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, then consider a crewed yacht. On this type of holiday you have the opportunity of simply sitting back and enjoying some quality family time as you cruise from place to place. Alternatively, if you want to try your hand at steering or rigging, then there are experienced hands on board to show you the ropes. The Greek Islands, including the Ionian and Saronic, offer excellent conditions for inexperienced sailors, with light winds and short distances between them. Once you’ve moored up there are plenty of quaint villages and towns to visit, offering excellent local cuisines.

Meet new friends on a flotilla holiday

Flotilla holidays are great for all levels of sailing experience. If you’re relatively new to the sport then there are enough people around to help you get to grips with it. However, even if you know exactly what you’re doing having other families around will provide both you and your children with an instant social circle. At the start of the holiday you set off at a leisurely pace, allowing everyone the opportunity to become familiar with their surroundings. You might find that you want to explore further and there will be chances for you to separate from the rest of the flotilla if you’re happy to do so. Sailing around the coast of Turkey is perfect for more confident sailors, with excellent locations to stop and swim or snorkel, or simply moor up at a secluded beach and enjoy the peace.

Go it alone with a chartered yacht

If you want to set your own itinerary and travel at your own pace, then chartering a yacht is an excellent family holiday. The whole family can become involved and if you fancy a rest day to visit the local town, pick up some souvenirs or take advantage of a great snorkelling spot then you can. Why not take in the cosmopolitan marinas, traditional ports and great food, with a cruise around the Italian islands of Sardinia, Elba or Sicily. Or head for the family friendly island of Mallorca, with excellent beaches, clear blue seas and great restaurants.

Whatever type of sailing holiday you choose and wherever you decide to visit, it really will be an experience to remember for the whole family. Make sure you pick a trip that suits your sailing experience and the needs of your children. Once you’ve set sail there’ll be no turning back.

AUTHOR BIO

Andrew Long writes regularly on holidays for a range of lifestyle and family websites and blogs. He regularly enjoys taking family holidays abroad and has a particular interest in sailing holidays.

Tags: beach holiday, crewed yacht, family group, family holiday, family holidays, flotilla holiday, flotilla holidays, greek islands, holiday flotilla, holiday ideas, inexperienced sailors, ionian, leisurely pace, light winds, quaint villages, quality family time, sailing experience, sailing holidays, sailing trip, yachtsman

Category: Travel Tips