Smooth Sailing Autumn Getaway: Extend your Summer

As cold weather approaches, it can be tempting to shy away from an autumn getaway. At Click&Boat, we are ready to help you plan your most exciting adventure yet. Autumn is a season when colder days creep up on us. The weather can start to take more unexpected turns. Often it can be the perfect time of year for the more experienced sailor to explore new destinations! Or, if you’re a newer sailor, why not experience locations without the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds?

Sailing holidays are not just for summer 

Many of your favourite summer sailing locations are just as beautiful as the autumn months creep in. Exploring more northern destinations in the autumn can transform these familiar summer holiday spots into more endearing, quiet locations.  

What type of trip will suit you best? 

Autumn can also be the time to switch your sailing focus. Swap from sun-soaked islands and beach days, to guided fishing and archipelago tours. There are so many locations that transform as autumnal changes take over. Autumn temperatures can often offer ideal conditions for novice sailors, without the summer sailing rush.  

Here are some tips on how to adapt to the autumn sailing season: 

• Choosing your destination: You may be surprised to know that many of your favourite summer spots are just as inviting in the autumn. You also have the benefit of fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. We recommend destinations in the Seychelles or the Mediterranean, where the weather continues to be great into the autumn months. 
• Keep an eye on weather conditions: The weather in Europe during autumn can sometimes be unpredictable, but keeping a close eye on the forecast will allow you to confidently pick your location.   
• Packing and preparing: Autumn yachting can mean that you may need to pack an extra layer or two, or your waterproofs. By following weather reports and sea condition forecasts, you will have information to pack all the sailing gear you need. Here we have a helpful list of marine navigation tools for you to brush up on. 
• Local culture and festivals: Make sure to research what’s happening in the area you plan to visit on your next autumn getaway. The autumn calendar of events can be very different to summer festivals, with harvest celebrations and feast being just one exciting event to look out for.  
• Price: By October, sailing boat hire prices will be lower than the high summer season, and it is the ideal time for newcomers to the sailing world to try a skippered or crewed trip, without the summer price tag. 

Where do you start? 

One of the best destinations for variety and comfort while sailing in the Autumn is the Seychelles. This West African paradise is a great sailing destination in October and November. The summer southeast trade winds have subdued to reveal clear, calm waters for water sport activities or swimming. We’ve put together a list of some of the best beaches, villages and activities to do in the Seychelles: 

• Your trip will most likely start in the capital city of Victoria. Here you can visit craft markets, eat local food and see attractions such as the Clock Tower. 
•  Island hopping is the best way to see all that the Seychelles have to offer. Make sure to add Praslin, La Digue and Mahé to your itinerary. 
• The beaches of the Seychelles are breathtaking, and on a yacht charter, you can anchor each day on a new cove. The most popular beaches are Anse Intendance and Beau Vallon on Mahé. Although, we also recommend Anse Georgette and Anse Cocos! 
• When you need a break from the water, head to the ports of the Seychelles islands picturesque villages. Rent bikes in La Passe or learn about the coral reefs in Anse Royale. 

These tips and tricks mean that the sailing holiday you may have had to wait until next summer for is much closer than you think. To plan your next autumn getaway, check out our site for the best offers on boat rentals and skippered sailings.