While the sailing season in the Mediterranean typically ends in autumn, optimal conditions begin in other parts of the world. For European sailors, the period from November to March is an ideal time to explore new waters. This article provides a brief overview of four key destinations, comparing their sailing conditions and suitable boat types.
1. The Canary Islands
As part of Spain, the Canaries offer a familiar European setting in the Atlantic, with winter air temperatures between 20-25°C. However, these are challenging Atlantic waters, not the Mediterranean, making them suitable for experienced sailors. Expect steady northeast trade winds (17-25 knots), ocean swells, and acceleration zones between the high volcanic islands. A popular 7-day route starts from Boataround's bases in Tenerife, such as Marina San Miguel, and involves a sail to the island of La Gomera.
Boataround TIP: Be aware of the "acceleration zones" (Venturi effect) created by the high mountains, where wind speeds can instantly jump by 10-15 knots. Always reef early when sailing between islands like Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Also, if you are sailing in February, don't miss the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the second most popular carnival in the world after Rio!
Boat Recommendation: The conditions are ideal for a monohull (sailing yacht). A monohull provides better performance when sailing upwind and handles ocean swells more efficiently than a catamaran, making it the preferred choice for "pure" sailing. Boataround offers a range of Beneteau and Bavaria monohulls from bases like Las Galletas and San Miguel de Abona.
2. The Caribbean
The Caribbean's dry season (November to May) is a classic winter escape, defined by steady trade winds and warm, turquoise water.
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Ideal for families and less experienced crews, the BVI offers calm, protected waters and "line-of-sight" sailing. Winds are steady at 15-25 knots. A typical 7-day itinerary from Tortola includes visiting The Baths on Virgin Gorda, the flat coral island of Anegada, and the famous bars of Jost Van Dyke.
Boataround TIP: The BVI is renowned for its vibrant beach bar culture. Make sure to try the "Painkiller" cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke—legend says this is where it was invented. Since the area is popular, consider using the BoatyBall app to reserve mooring balls in advance during peak season.
Read more: Itinerary for sailing around BVI - 7 days
Martinique
For a more "sporty" sail, Martinique offers longer, open-water passages to nearby islands like St. Lucia. Crews will experience more Atlantic swell. A common route from the main base at Le Marin heads south to St. Lucia to anchor in Rodney Bay or beneath the iconic Pitons.
Boataround TIP: As a French overseas territory, Martinique offers the best provisioning in the Caribbean. You can find fresh baguettes, French cheeses, and wine at local markets. Don't forget to visit a local rhumerie to taste the island's famous Agricole Rhum.
Boat Recommendation: The catamaran is the top choice for the Caribbean. Its two main advantages are comfort (it sails flat, reducing seasickness) and access (its shallow draft allows anchoring close to beaches and reefs). Boataround's fleet includes many Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot models in both the BVI and Martinique.
Read more: Captivating Martinique - sailing in the tropical Caribbean with French flair
3. Thailand (Andaman Sea)
The Andaman Sea, with bases in Phuket, is famous for its dramatic limestone karsts. The winter dry season (November-April) brings stable weather. Conditions are very calm, with light winds (5-20 knots). The experience is less about performance sailing and more about navigating (often by motor) between stunning anchorages. A 7-day trip from Yacht Haven Marina or Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket typically explores Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) and the Phi Phi Islands.
Boataround TIP: Keep an eye on the tides! The Andaman Sea has a significant tidal range (up to 2-3 meters). Some stunning anchorages are only accessible at high tide, so consulting your tide tables daily is essential for a smooth trip. Also, look out for "longtail boats" selling fresh coconuts and seafood directly to your yacht.
Boat Recommendation: Catamaran. It provides stability, space, and a 360-degree view for enjoying the scenery. Its shallow draft is also essential for navigating the many reefs and beaches. Due to the light winds, power catamarans are also a convenient choice. Boataround offers both sail and power catamarans from its Phuket bases.
4. Seychelles
The Seychelles offers a unique landscape of granite boulders and exceptional nature reserves. The period from December to March corresponds with the northwest monsoon, which brings calmer seas and milder winds (8-20 knots). While this period is wetter, rain usually comes in short, passing showers. A 10-day itinerary is recommended, starting from the main Eden Island Marina on Mahé. From there, you can sail to Praslin (to see the Vallée de Mai) and La Digue (for Anse Source d’Argent), with a stop at Curieuse island to see giant tortoises.
Boataround TIP: The Seychelles takes marine conservation seriously. Many areas, like the Curieuse Marine National Park, have strict anchoring bans to protect the coral reefs. Be prepared to use designated mooring buoys and pay a small landing fee, which goes directly towards preserving this unique ecosystem.
Boat Recommendation: A catamaran is considered essential for the Seychelles. The waters are full of shallow reefs and granite rocks that are not always perfectly charted. The shallow draft of a catamaran (1.2-1.5m) is a key safety feature, allowing access to the best anchorages that monohulls cannot reach. Boataround's large fleet at Eden Island Marina consists mainly of catamarans from Lagoon, Bali, and Fountaine Pajot.
Custom Built 21 | Knot Easea
Lagoon 380 S2 | Modjo
Lagoon 380 S2 | Felicite
