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With summer over, the winter months are just around the corner and the festive season is fast approaching. Sailing at Christmas is the perfect way to spend your winter holidays. It’s also a great reason to travel to sunnier destinations. Here is our guide to the top 5 five sailing destinations to spend Christmas, and maybe even the New Year.
1. Thailand
The southern regions of Thailand around Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands are great for sailing, especially around December. The weather is dry, and the temperatures vary between 23°C and 31°C. Plus, the stable Southeast winds make it a perfect boating destination.
Chartering a boat allows you to move around Phuket and the islands at your own pace. For a relaxed Christmas day in the Phi Phi Islands, go to Maya Bay, considered one of the world’s best beaches.
You might even want to extend your stay to New Year’s Eve to watch the spectacular firework shows at midnight in Phuket. Count down to the New Year in the old town, or make the most of the nightlife along Patong beach.
You can find more information about sailing in Thailand on the Nautal blog.
2. Tenerife
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, mild weather and stable trade winds. It’s safe to say that Tenerife is an incredible sailing destination.
The lively streets of Santa Cruz are decorated with Christmas lights, and every year the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra holds a Christmas day concert.
It’s the warmest region in Europe at Christmas, so renting a boat in Tenerife is a great way to spend your holiday. You can better enjoy the spectacular coastline and visit the many beaches and bays.
3. Seychelles
Seychelles is another top spot to spend Christmas. A tropical paradise, it’s easy to hop between the main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.
Stock up on the lively island of Mahé, before sailing around the other islands. They provide many sheltered anchorages, and beautiful pristine beaches. If you are a diving enthusiast, there are lots of coral reefs and turtles. Thanks to the many protected areas, you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of this part of the world.
Stop at Anse Source D’Argent to discover stunning rock formations, or at Anse Cocos for a beautiful view of the sunset.
4. French Polynesia
Far off in the South Pacific, French Polynesia is a captivating place with a rich culture and diverse wildlife. It’s composed of many atolls that are best seen from the sea.
Sailing conditions are brilliant around Christmas, and the off-season means you’ll benefit from quieter islands.
Beach-hop your way through the Christmas holidays, sailing around Tahiti, for example. You can stop at Teahupo’o village, famous for the large and consistent surf, where the surfing competitions of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games took place.
5. The Bahamas
The Bahamas are at their driest in December, January and February. It’s also the season of gentle Northeast trade winds: the perfect conditions for peaceful sailing.
Starting from Nassau, head to Exuma for everything from fishing to snorkelling and exploration.
Considered cruising paradise by many sailors, you will also see iguanas, mangrove creeks, and the famous swimming pigs.
If you’re still in the Bahamas for the New Year, the Junkanoo Parade on New Year’s Day is a unique Bahamian experience. Imagine a big street parade, with traditional costumes, dancing and music.
→ for more inspiration, you can find a 7-day sailing itinerary in the Bahamas on our blog.
Getting away from cold Northern winters has never been easier, and there are many options as to your tropical destination. The Christmas break is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quiet sailing and celebrate in the sun.
