Where to sail in 2021: Top sailing destinations this year!

Have the travel jitters already started for 2021? Despite the current situation, we slowly but surely dare to dream of an incredible (sailing or boating) holiday in Europe. Whether it’s island hopping in Greece or kayaking in Slovenia, 2021 is (hopefully!) the year when tourism will get back on track. So set sail for one of these top sailing destinations and start planning your escape! 

Click&Boat have put together a list of our top sailing destinations for this year. You will find a mix of popular holiday destinations and more unique (but equally wonderful) destinations – all of which are perfect for a sailing adventure. Europe has a lot to offer, and this list could have been much longer. Have a read, take your pick, and let us know which sailing destination you dream of visiting in 2021?

1. Discover the magic of the Greek islands.

If you are thinking about an international trip, surely the Greek Islands have already crossed your mind. Who has not dreamed of visiting this country that offers the perfect balance between paradisiacal beaches, history and culture ? And while we often hear about Santorini and Mykonos as must-see destinations, the country offers so much more! Rhodes, the medieval fortified city, for example, is a less popular and undoubtedly special option. 

It is always possible to rent a boat and visit the islands and beaches that seem most interesting, such as the picturesque Castaway Beach in Zakynthos, or the beaches of Crete, among the most beautiful in the country. If you are looking for an original experience in the Greek islands, renting a sailboat in Greece is the best alternative!

Greece is easily accessible from most of Europe with many airports, such as Athens, Mykonos and Santorini, offering direct flights from other major destinations.

2. The Netherlands – a truly unique sailing destination.

Although it is not somewhere that might spring to mind immediately when you think of renting a boat, the Netherlands offers so much, can often be cheaper than some of the more typical summer destinations in Southern Europe and still has so much to offer! Go sailing on the Frisian lakes, surf on Texel or sail in Zeeland. 

Tips for an unforgettable sailing adventure in the Netherlands:

• Rent a boat and enjoy a special and unique overnight stay on board. Sleep in a houseboat or rent a boat on one of Amsterdam’s famous canals.
• Would you like to enjoy a beach holiday? Discover Texel, Zeeland or Terschelling. 
• Go SUP on the Amsterdam canals, canoe in the Biesbosch or learn to sail at a sailing school. 

3. France – The birthplace of Click&Boat.

The Côte d’Azur is considered one of the most beautiful European destinations, bathed by the Mediterranean. How would you like to discover the South of France in a unique and different way? Get on board one of the boats available on the platform and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the area. One of the best options is to make a crossing from Hyères to Marseille, visiting magical places such as Porquerolles, Toulon, Cassis, or the incredible Frioul islands. On the other hand, you can also go to world-renowned cities, such as Nice or Cannes, or even spend a few days touring the beautiful island of Corsica: smooth sailing! 

4. Lofoten Islands, Norway – In Summer or Winter.

Norway can sometimes be an expensive holiday destination, which quickly scares many people. But at some point in your life you have to visit Norway at least once, so why not make 2021 the year? The absolute highlight is a visit to the Lofoten islands. Imagine yourself here, in an impressive mountain area, with deep fjords and extensive wild, sandy beaches. This is a true paradise for true nature lovers. You can take (mountain) walks, sail, climb, ski, fish, dive or even raft at sea. In addition, this is also the most northern surf spot in the world! Plus, in the summer months, between late May and mid-July, the sun doesn’t set. Enjoy the long summer days and the midnight sun. An unforgettable experience!

Another unique experience in Norway is a winter holiday, and you can view the Northern Lights here in the winter months. Between September and February, you can enjoy a unique Norwegian whale safari on board this Fitjar motor yacht in Norway. Sailing between impressive icebergs ticked off the bucket list. From Tromsø to Lofoten, you can admire the large cetaceans and the Northern Lights. 1 or 2 guides/naturalists are present on board. They can tell you everything about the Arctic Circle, flora and fauna, history, economy and culture.

5. Sail among the Italian islands.

Surrounded by high evergreen mountains, the coastal cities and the many Italian bays are always a sure hit. For example, the Amalfi Coast is made up of several beautiful towns that make the trip worthwhile. Rent a boat in Positano or Capri, take a trip to the thermal baths on the island of Ischia and relax in the best way, or visit the magical Blue Grotto in Capri.

What if we approach their islands? The indisputable beauty of Sardinia and Sicily will not leave you indifferent. From the Archipelago of La Maddalena in the first, to the beauty of small towns such as Cefalú or Taormina in the second. Get to know its most charming corners and enjoy them in the best way: on board!

So, where will you sail to in 2021?

Have we inspired you to plan an adventure to one of these top sailing destinations? Let us know in the comments!