hen we were in the Southern Ocean in
freezing conditions on the Volvo Ocean
Race, the crew started having some
discussions about our favourite sailing
destinations (mainly warm, as I recall).
As professional sailors we are fortunate to sail in some
incredible places and since it is the time of year that
people start to think about their summer holidays, I
thought I’d give a summary of my choices.
First up is Porto Cervo in Sardinia, set in an inlet at the
base of beautiful hills with easy access to the hinterland.
The vibe here is luxurious, the people beautiful, the
sailing windy and the gelato is to die for.
If you are after something a little more remote then
Broughton Island may suit. It is 10 miles north-east of Port
Stephens in New South Wales, Australia, which was
originally inhabited by the Worimi people. It is a fabulous
wilderness cruising destination and the more
adventurous can try their hand at shark diving as
it is a breeding
ground for these
amazing creatures.
For something more
bold and brazen
nearby, Sydney has to
be an option. There is
no mistaking where
you are as the
landmark bridge and opera house come into sight as you
sail into the harbour. In keeping with Australia being an
outdoor country, the harbour is active and lively, full of
people who love being out on the water and the winds
are great.
Cascais in Portugal has a special place in my heart as it
was my training ground for the Vendée Globe and again
for the Turn the Tide on Plastic Volvo Ocean Race team.
Our reason for being based there was the direct access to
open ocean, but it is a great destination for any sailor.
The climate, food and people are wonderful and it is
surrounded by beaches, gardens and historic places.
Going back to Italy, this time the mainland, I heartily
recommend dipping a toe in Lake Garda. Due to the Ora,
the wind that blows from south to north from late in the
morning to late in the afternoon, and the Pelèr, whichblows from north to south from early in the morning to
noon, it has perfect conditions pretty much all the time.
You are sailing right next to a mountain, so the scenery is
stunning. They also do a mean hot chocolate there.
For something a bit more tropical and balmy, check out
the British Virgin Islands. It is easy to charter yachts of all
shapes and sizes and you can enjoy gentle cruising around
a picture perfect setting.
Some areas are uninhabited, which means you can
enjoy undisturbed white sand beaches and palm trees.
Easy island-hops and consistent tradewinds make this a
sailors’ paradise. With the devastation wreaked last year by
hurricanes Irma and Maria, there is no better time to
support an area that needs all the help it can get.
If you are looking for something a little closer to home,
then perhaps the Channel Islands will appeal. Tucked
away alongside the French coast lies the sunshine garden
of the UK. The stunning scenery and coastline hide a
treasure of bays, beaches and harbours to explore. On
land, there is a fantastic mix of English and French cuisine
and all the cruising facilities you need.
However, strong tides and rocky outcrops require
careful planning in some areas and a close check of the
charts is essential.
The ever-present sunshine, constant sea breeze and
easy access make Palma, the capital of Mallorca, a great
destination. You could sail around the whole coastline of
this Balearic island in just a week, stopping off to visit old
towns and villages along the way.
For a relatively unspoilt European destination, consider
the Dalmatian coastline of Croatia. With over 1,200 miles
of stunning shoreline, it is a gem of the Adriatic. It is easy
to access, with charter yachts readily available and, even in
traditionally busy summer months, there are still plenty
of quiet coves and little visited islands to explore. If you
want to step back in time and visit unspoilt Europe, this
would be my recommendation.
If you are planning a staycation in 2018, my sailing
hotspots closer to home to consider would be the River
Yealm in Devon, Brancaster Staithe in Norfolk, Crosshaven
near Cork, anywhere on the west coast of Scotland, and my
own stamping ground, the Solent.
Wherever you decide to conduct your R&R this year,
sail safely and enjoy yourself.DEE CAFFARI
WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO SAIL IN THE WORLD? DEE TAKES A WELCOME
BREAK FROM THE VOLVO OCEAN RACE TO COME UP WITH SOME SUGGESTIONS‘Cascais has a special
place in my heart and
is great for sailors’
W