One thing is certain, whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice sailing enthusiast; that you have numerous sailing destinations to choose from. If this is your first time sailing, it’s normal to have a lot of questions. Which destinations are the easiest to sail but also offer breathtaking scenery? What are the most relaxing environments that offer memorable experiences at sea? Which harbors are the safest and best equipped? Which season is the best to sail? There’s no need to worry because this article will provide you with the necessary information. So, you’re eager to find the appropriate place as a beginner sailor? Then, continue reading this article to get some tips as well as information about the best places to sail for beginners.

First Things First

Beginner sailors should practice their sailing skills in calm waters; naturally, if you’re just learning to sail, you should do so in favorable weather conditions. In other words, in low-traffic areas with gentle winds. In addition, it’s important to select a small sailboat, to begin with, because they are easier to sail and control, more responsive, and frequently just have one sail, all of which will help you learn faster. Moreover, you should always be aware of the wind, weather, and tide conditions. Remember to check the weather forecast regularly no matter if the area you’re sailing to has calm waters and temperate weather.

When sailing, you have to begin to familiarize yourself with sail control. Meaning that you should constantly be prepared to respond to various wind situations. Often, the sail tends to be flat when the wind is very light or very strong, and full when there’s moderate wind.

As you already know, the wind is the most important source of power for sailboats. And, that’s why it’s crucial to learn how to read the wind. For example, what direction is it come from? How quick is it? One way is to look at the ripples on the sea’s surface to identify where they come from and thus where the wind is blowing from. Experienced sailors are able to identify different weather conditions by just observing the clouds. However, as a beginner sailor the most important things you have to do before setting sail are:

• Download a reliable weather, wind, and tide forecast app.
• Follow carefully all safety guidelines and familiarize yourself with sailing terminology as well as the parts of your boat.
• Follow all preparations such as rigging the boat and check if everything works properly.
• Choose waters that are quiet and uncrowded. If you’re just learning how to sail and mastering the basics, one of the most crucial beginner sailing tips is to practice in optimum circumstances with mild winds and little traffic.
• If you’re about to finish your sailing lessons and still don’t feel ready to set sail then consider practicing around a bay or a lake. Like this you will feel more confident and will have less things to worry about.
• Now, choose the appropriate sailing destination for beginners!

>>Also Read: Is Sailing a Dying Sport?

Greece – Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands, located on the west coast of Greece, are a popular destination for beginner sailors. There you will enjoy golden sand beaches, delectable Greek cuisine, and breathtaking views of blue and white-washed hillside villages. Greece is the ideal sailing destination for beginners, with wonderful sailing weather and plenty of coves and beaches for safe mooring. For inexperienced sailors, the Southern Ionian Islands, like Kefalonia, Zakinthos, and Ithaca, offer better sailing conditions that are reliable and consistent. Meaning that winds that are consistent and stable will propel you onward. So, won’t be concerned about unexpected fluctuations in the tides or the breeze, allowing you to relax and enjoy sailing.

If you have the time, then Lefkada Island is also a must destination for sailing. This island, off the coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea, is ideal for beginners who want to learn to sail. From April through November, the sea is calm and serene, with a moderate northwestern breeze. Furthermore, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius. So, you can benefit from island hopping in the Ionian Sea, drop anchor in secluded coves, and explore the islands by renting a motorcycle or a car. Keep in mind that you will need at least 10 days to sail in the Ionian Sea and also relax and enjoy the overall sailing experience.

Croatia – Adriatic Sea

Croatia is the Adriatic Sea’s principal sailing hub and a must-see sailing destination. Considered to be among the easy sailing destinations and with remarkable sailing spots, natural and cultural sites. Vineyards, local farms, woodlands, and the long shoreline are all part of the abundant natural beauty. Croatia boasts pleasant mild winds that are far calmer than those found on other sailing itineraries across the world. Because all of the islands are near together, crossings between them are substantially shorter when island hopping. You can dock your boat in a number of places, including huge marinas, small ports, and natural anchorages.

This gorgeous spot, which is one of the most popular sailing areas, provides ideal conditions for any beginner. Croatia is the place to go if you want to enjoy consistent sunlight, temperate temperatures, and gently northerly winds. Consider sailing between May and September as these months offer the most favorable conditions. Over 1000 beautiful islands may be found along the Dalmatian Coast. Furthermore, they have a fascinating history, a wonderful culture, and traditional Croatian cuisine. There is so much to see and do, and sailing is the best way to accomplish it. Traditional fishing communities, secluded islands, and hidden coves can all be discovered by sailing. Don’t omit sailing around the Kornati Archipelago and visit the Kornati Natural Park.

Slovenia and Northern Italy

Slovenia, a green country, has a rightful place on this list. This is the only country with the word “love” in its name, and it is quick to enchant many seafarers with its beauty. But it’s not just the breathtaking historic cities and spectacular scenery that make this a desired vacation spot. Slovenia is a green country situated on the Adriatic Sea. Furthermore, the winters are mild, and the summers are not oppressively hot, thanks to the Mediterranean environment. Because of the small tidal range, the sea currents are not overly strong, and the water is quite shallow. This makes it easier to cruise around in smaller boats in a more relaxed manner.

This is just another chance to try something new and discover all the diverse adventures that sailing has to offer. While you’re in Slovenia, consider visiting Izola and Portoroz, two of the best ports the country has to offer. Izola’s seaport has a capacity of 700 boats and is secure 24 hours a day, whereas Portoroz is Slovenia’s first modern harbor. If you have time then you can combine your vacation in Slovenia with a trip to the Northern Italian shore. Trieste, after all, is only 5 sea miles away and brimming with magnificent landscapes!

Sailing in the furthest north-eastern corner of Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime sailing experience. Long expanses of golden sand may be found in the seaside towns of Lignano and Grado, as well as white cliffs plunging into the Adriatic Sea towards Trieste, a picturesque Central-European city encircled by the Adriatic Sea. Also, there are 23 marinas and various mooring spots in Friuli Venezia Giulia, including 22 sailing clubs, making it Italy’s leading region for the number of facilities and moorings. Along 130 kilometers of coastline, a variety of cultural sites, Natural Parks, rich flora and fauna, and ideal sailing conditions make the Friuli Venezia Giulia region one of the best in Italy.

You may moor your boat in Triest at Scala Reale and Molo Audace, both of which have stunning views of Piazza Unità d’Italia and the Gulf. The various restaurants with mooring facilities in Trieste, Grado, Lignano, and along the Stella river offer a wide range of food and wine options to enjoy. From Trieste, you can sail to Muggia and the Miramare Castle, and then a short sail from Trieste can take you to Grado. Furthermore, you can visit the lagoons of Grado and Marano with a motorboat, if you want to see the “casoni” (traditional fishermen’s houses), as well as the exceptional local flora and fauna.

>>Also Read: Is Sailing Hard?

Turkey

In Turkey, the sailing season runs from April until October. The Mediterranean climate’s forgiving weather is the first factor that makes this one of the easiest places for first-time sailors. The Aegean Sea and Turkey are a wonderful choice for novices because of the good visibility, long and hot summers, and little rain. Just remember that sailing in the Aegean Sea can also be challenging so you have to choose the right season for sailing.

Turkey is not only worth visiting for sailing purposes but also for exploring its magnificent sights. Furthermore, as compared to other well-known sailing destinations for beginners, Turkey is not as popular. And, that’s why it offers tranquil anchorages and secluded areas to relax. Also, the superb infrastructure, abundant anchor places, and sheltered harbors ensure a safe and pleasant vacation.

The best sailing areas include Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Antalya, and Mersin. In Fethiye, the 2,300-year-old tombs that cut into the sheer cliff face are among the town’s many historical gems. Aside from culture, delicious food, and breathtaking vistas, these areas have protected harbors that offer all basic amenities and provisions. Beginners will enjoy the abundance of anchor sites and the 12 meter deep waters. Begin your sailing experience as a new sailor but also enjoy the overall sailing experience in Turkey’s coast!

The Bahamas

The Bahamas Islands could be the tropical paradise of one’s dreams, offering both adventure and serenity. Some of the islands in this vicinity have unusual names, such as Crooked Island, Conception Island, Big Farmer’s Cay, Ragged Island, Rum Cay, Exuma, and Great Sayle Cay. It’s the 100,000-square-mile archipelago, which begins 50 miles off the Florida coast and stretches for over 700 miles. Near Haiti, the Bahamas are renowned for their exceptional feel of first-class sailing.

The Bahamas are a top sailing destination for beginners in the Caribbean. You’ll be able to spend your vacation snorkeling and swimming all day because it’s home to one of the world’s largest protected marine parks!
This is a paradise for a beginner sailor! The Bahamas combine ideal sailing conditions (specific season throughout the year), tropical and exotic sites, and can please all sailors’ demands. It just doesn’t get any better than that! The Bahamas have consistent trade winds of roughly 15 knots and slightly more open ocean sailing, making them excellent for a beginner or expert sailor looking to rest and unwind. Green Turtle Cay’s superb lobster, Man-O-War Cay’s wreckage of the USS Adirondack, and Winding Bay’s dazzling white sand are all worth a visit.

The British Virgin Islands

Another remarkable destination in the Caribbean is the British Virgin Islands. All of these spots are distinctive and gorgeous in their own unique way, even if they’re part of the Caribbean sea. As a matter of fact, we must acknowledge that the British Virgin Islands is the first spot that comes to mind when the words “beginning” and “sailing” are mentioned together. The BVI is one of the top sailing destinations for novices as well as expert sailors.

The Virgin Islands are a group of islands in the northern Leeward Islands. The British Virgin Islands are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. It consists of more than 50 islands, just 16 of which are inhabited. The major islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost van Dyke; all but Anegada are volcanic. Smaller islands include Peter Island, Beef Island, Salt Island, Cooper Island, and Norman Island. On Tortola, the archipelago’s capital, Road Town, is located. The islands are known as the Caribbean Sea’s sailing capital for a reason; because it’s one of the most popular sailing sites, where anyone, regardless of their sailing experience, may choose their favorite route.

The British Virgin Islands are synonymous with tranquil, sheltered turquoise waters. These islands, located in the northeast Caribbean, provide ideal sailing conditions for both novices and expert sailors. From regular winds and shallow anchoring depths to close proximity of islands and hundreds of anchorages, everything is within sight. And if you thought things couldn’t get much better, you were wrong! The BVI is also culturally and aesthetically diverse. Not to mention the well-known beach bars, white-sand beaches, and the numerous small islets to visit. The British Virgin Islands offer an adventure as well as a pleasant vacation! When all that comes together, you get the perfect place for a sailing holiday.

Best Sailing Locations for Beginners – The Bottom Line

Obviously, there are many ideal sailing destinations appropriate for novice sailors. In order to choose which one you prefer, consider the season in which you want to sail and then make your plans. For example, it’s better to sail in the Caribbean is from late December to early May so as to avoid the hurricane season. But, in some parts of Greece and Turkey, it’s better to sail from late May to early September. So, if your sailing courses are over, you have a reliable weather app, a sturdy vessel, and the appropriate crew, then set sail for your first sailing adventure. It will certainly be an unforgettable experience! I wish that you will get some ideas from this article and wish you all good luck and safe voyages!