01
Azores, Portugal
A mid-Atlantic archipelago serving as a refuelling stop on transatlantic passages and a spectacular cruising ground in its own right. Dramatic volcanic islands, whale watching, and Portuguese culture await.
▲ Steady·Score +18
Sailing
Best Sailing Destinations and Cruising Routes
The world's most celebrated sailing grounds — from idyllic island-hopping routes to offshore blue-water passages. These destinations offer the best combination of wind, anchorages, scenery, and sailing culture.
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02
Croatia, Dalmatian Coast
1,200+ islands dotting a crystal-clear Adriatic coast, with charming stone towns, historic marinas, and predictable seasonal winds. Croatia's island-hopping route from Dubrovnik to Split is a summer classic.
▲ Steady·Score +16
03
Sardinia and Corsica, Mediterranean
Two of the Mediterranean's finest sailing islands — rugged granite coastlines, turquoise water, and excellent anchorages in the Strait of Bonifacio between France and Italy.
▲ Steady·Score +16
04
Pacific Crossing (Hawaii to Fiji)
The classic offshore passage from Hawaii to Fiji via the South Pacific trades — a 2,800nm voyage crossing the equator and visiting some of the world's most remote islands. A milestone for bluewater sailors.
▲ Steady·Score +10
05
Whitsunday Islands, Australia
74 tropical islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The Whitsundays offer protected sailing, white silica beaches, and excellent anchorages in one of Australia's most iconic cruising grounds.
▲ Steady·Score +9
06
Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand
A complex of submerged valleys and inlets in the northeast of New Zealand's South Island. The Marlborough Sounds' sheltered waters, native bush, and pristine anchorages make it exceptional cruising.
▲ Steady·Score +5
07
San Juan Islands, Washington, USA
A picturesque archipelago in Puget Sound offering superb Pacific Northwest sailing amid tidal currents, wildlife, and charming island towns. Friday Harbor is the region's main port and cruising hub.
▲ Steady·Score +5
08
Greek Islands, Aegean Sea
The Cyclades and Dodecanese offer some of Europe's finest sailing — consistent Meltemi winds, ancient port towns, and hundreds of islands within easy reach. Athens to Santorini via the Cyclades is a classic route.
▲ Steady·Score +5
09
BVI (British Virgin Islands)
The Caribbean's premier sailing destination — sheltered channels, reliable trade winds, and a string of pristine islands accessible from Tortola. The BVI is the world's most popular bareboat charter region.
▲ Steady·Score +5
10
Transatlantic Passage (Canaries to Caribbean)
The classic ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers) route from Las Palmas to Barbados — 2,700nm downwind in the northeast trades. One of sailing's most celebrated passages, completed by thousands annually.
▲ Steady·Score +5
11
Turkish Coast (Turquoise Coast)
The Gulf of Fethiye and Gulf of Gökova offer spectacular ruins, hidden coves, and excellent summer sailing with consistent thermal winds. Gulet charters make the Turkish coast accessible for group sailing.
▲ Steady·Score +3
12
Chesapeake Bay, USA
America's largest estuary offers 200 miles of protected sailing between Maryland and Virginia, with historic ports, abundant anchorages, and excellent seafood. A favourite cruising ground on the East Coast.
▲ Steady·Score +1
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“Azores, Portugal”
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