The 5 Best Sailing Destinations In The World

Paul Stockdale Autor Avatar
Written by Paul Stockdale | February 17, 2023

There are amazing sailing locations around the world to enjoy a sailing trip with friends and family on a vacation.

The 5 best sailing destinations in the world are:

  1. The Bahamas
  2. Bermuda
  3. Costa Rica
  4. Australia
  5. France

These great sailing destinations offer beautiful scenery, great weather, and are rich in culture and history.

1. The Bahamas

Top Sailing Destination The Bahamas

The first top sailing destination in the world is the Bahamas. We rate the Bahamas 9.9/10 as a sailing destination.

The Bahamas is the best sailing destination in the world for white sandy beaches and crystal clear water.

Sailing Locations In The Bahamas

The best sailing locations in the Bahamas are:

  • Nassau: The capital city of the Bahamas is a vibrant and bustling destination with plenty of attractions including historic sites, museums, shopping, and dining. Some of the must-visit places in Nassau include the Straw Market, the Queen's Staircase, and the Junkanoo Festival
  • Paradise Island: Just across the bridge from Nassau, Paradise Island is home to some of the Bahamas' most luxurious resorts as well as stunning beaches and exciting attractions like the Atlantis Resort and Aquaventure Water Park.
  • Andros: Andros is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and abundant wildlife including the Andros iguana and the Bahamian hutia. Visitors can explore the island's many parks and reserves, go fishing or relax on secluded beaches
  • Eleuthera: This island in the Bahamas is home to some of the Bahamas' most stunning beaches including the pink sand beach at Harbor Island. Visitors can also explore historic towns like Governor's Harbor and enjoy water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding

Activities In The Bahamas

The Bahamas offers a wide range of activities to suit different interests and preferences.

The best activities to do when on a sailing trip in the Bahamas are:

  • Watersports: Sailors can enjoy watersports in the Bahamas including swimming, kayaking, fishing, parasailing, water skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, etc.
  • Explore Beautiful Beaches: The Bahamas has many wonderful white sandy and clear water beaches to explore including Pink Sand Beach, Cable Beach, Treasure Cay Beach, and Exuma Cays Land And Sea Park
  • Island-Hopping: The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands and cays, each with its own unique character and attractions. Sailors can explore the different islands, sample local cuisine, and experience the culture and customs of the Bahamian people
  • Heritage Tours: Sailors can tour the Bahamas top historical landmarks including The Hermitage, St. Augustine's Monastery, Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation, and The Queen's Staircase

Weather For Sailing In The Bahamas

The Bahamas has a subtropical climate with air temperatures ranging from 90°F (32°C) to 68°F (20°C) year-round.

The Bahamas seawater temperatures range from 88°F (31°C ) and 72°F (22°C) which means the seawater is great for snorkeling and swimming in.

The hottest month for sailing in the Bahamas is in August with an average air temperature of 84°F.

The coldest month for sailing in the Bahamas is in January with an average air temperature of 73°F (22.7°C).

The wettest month for sailing in the Bahamas is in August with 6.25 inches (158.75mm) of rainfall. The driest month for sailing in the Bahamas is in December with 0.40 inches (10.16mm) of rainfall.

The best time to visit the Bahamas on a sailing trip is between December and June before the hurricane season. The high season for sailing in the Bahamas is December.

One disadvantage of visiting the Bahamas is there is a risk of hurricanes. Hurricane season is between June and November with the highest risk of a hurricane occurring between August and the end of October.

Popular Marinas In The Bahamas

The most popular marinas to dock a sailboat at in the Bahamas are:

  • Compass Cay Marina: The Compass Cay Marina is located in the Exumas. The marina can accommodate boats up to 180 feet in length. The monthly dockage fees at this marina are between $4 to $5 per foot of sailboat length depending on the time of year. The marina provides electricity access, internet access, and laundry and store facilities for boaters
  • Nassau Yacht Haven Marina: Nassau Yacht Haven Marina is located in Nassau. The marina can accommodate boats up to 200 feet+. The monthly dockage fees at this marina are between $1.50 and $3 per foot depending on the time of year. The marina provides high-speed internet, electricity, water, a restaurant, laundry facilities, security, garbage disposal and a pump-out service
  • Bay Street Marina: Bay Street Marina is located in Nassau. The marina can accommodate boats from 40 feet up to 500 feet. The monthly dockage fees at this marina are between $4 and $6 per foot depending on the time of year. The marina provides amenities like fast internet, electrical supply, water supply, boat refueling, pump out service, swimming pool access, grilling station, a lounge area, laundry facilities, showers, and a business center. Paradise Beach is 2.2 miles (3.6km) from this marina
  • Atlantis Marina: Atlantis Marina is located in Paradise Island. The marina can accommodate boats up to 500 feet. The monthly dockage fees at this marina are between $3 and $10 per foot depending on the time of year. The marina provides amenities like internet, electrical supply, full laundry, staffed security, crew lounge, dockside concierge services, water supply, and mooring assistance
  • Browns Marina: Browns Marina is located in Bimini. The marina can accommodate boats up to 145 feet. The monthly dockage fees at this marina are between $1 and $2 per foot depending on the time of year. The amenities at this marina include WiFi access, a tiki hut bar, air-conditioned shower & bathroom facilities, picnic and lounge areas, volley ball area, water supply, and 24-hour security

Sailboat operators should spend approximately 3 to 4 weeks sailing around and the islands in the Bahamas. This timeframe will give everyone onboard the sailboat a chance to explore multiple islands, enjoy the local cuisine, visit heritage sites, and enjoy multiple activities.

Sailing In The Bahamas Budget

The budget needed for exploring the Bahamas on a sailing vacation is approximately $1,200 a week. This budget includes mooring fees, sailboat refueling, marina services, eating in restaurants, going on tours, and doing various watersport activities.

Sailing In The Bahamas Laws

When sailing in the Bahamas, sailors need to comply with the local Bahamas boating laws.

To comply with the Bahamas boating laws, sailboat operators will need an internationally recognized boaters education card, one copy of the Bahamas Customs Clearance Form filled out for customs, passports for everyone onboard the sailboat, sailboat registration documents (vessel title/ proof of ownership), and a cruising permit is required for all foreign, private, non-commercial pleasure boats (and occupants) to sail in Bahamian waters. Sailors entering the Bahamas will also need to pay an entry fee ranging from $150 for sailboats under 34 feet to $1,000 for boats over 200 feet.

2. Bermuda

Top Sailing Destination Bermuda

The second best sailing destination in the world is Bermuda. We rate Bermuda 9.8/10 as a sailing destination.

Bermuda is the best sailing destination in the world for shipwreck exploring. Bermuda is dubbed the "shipwreck capital of the world".

Sailing Locations In Bermuda

The best sailing locations in Bermuda are:

  • Horseshoe Bay Beach: This stunning pink sand beach is one of the most popular attractions in Bermuda with crystal clear waters and rocky coves to explore
  • Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: This lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the island as well as a museum and gift shop
  • Bermuda's Southern Reef: Sailors can explore the shipwreck of the Mary Celestia ship on the southeast coast of Bermuda. The Mary Celestia was a paddle steamer that was built in 1864 and served as a blockade runner for the Confederacy
  • Bermuda's Northern Coast: Sailors can explore the shipwreck of the Cristobal Colon ship 8 miles off the northern coast of Bermuda. The Cristobal Colon was a luxury cruise liner that sank in 1936

Activities In Bermuda

Bermuda is a beautiful island in the Atlantic with plenty of activities and attractions to keep sailing visitors entertained.

The best activities to do when on a sailing trip in Bermuda are:

  • Watersports: With crystal-clear waters and a mild climate, Bermuda is a great destination for water activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling
  • Shipwreck Exploration: Bermuda is home to over 300 shipwrecks. Sailors can explore the shipwrecks off the coast of Bermuda. Some example shipwrecks include the Cristobal Colon shipwreck, the Mary Celestia shipwreck, the Montana shipwreck and the Constellation shipwreck, etc.
  • Historical Sites Exploring: Bermuda has a rich history dating back to the 17th century and visitors can explore historic sites like St. George's Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or the Royal Naval Dockyard which was built in the early 19th century
  • Walk The Nature Trails: Bermuda has a number of nature trails that offer scenic hikes through the island's lush vegetation and rocky coastline. Some popular trails include the Railway Trail, Tom Moore's Jungle and Spittal Pond Nature Reserve

Weather For Sailing In Bermuda

Bermuda has a humid subtropical climate with average high air temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C) in winter to 85°F (29°C) in summer. The average low temperatures range from 60°F (16°C) in winter to 75°F (24°C) in summer.

The seawater temperature in Bermuda varies depending on the season but it ranges from around 65°F (18°C) in winter to 85°F (29°C) in summer.

The hottest month for sailing in Bermuda is August with an average air temperature of 83°F (28.3°C).

The coldest month for sailing in Bermuda is February with an average air temperature of 65°F (18.3°C).

The wettest month for sailing in Bermuda is in October with 7.87 inches (200 mm) of rainfall. The driest month for sailing in Bermuda is May with 3.4 inches (86.34mm) of rainfall.

The most popular time of year to visit Bermuda on a sailing trip is in June and July.

Popular Marinas In Bermuda

The most popular marinas to dock a sailboat at in Bermuda are:

  • Pier 41 Marina: Pier 41 Marina is located in Freeport Drive, Bermuda. This marina can accommodate boats up to 120ft. in length. The monthly dockage fees at this marina range from $20 to $40 per foot. The amenities offered at this marina include a dock shop, restrooms, showers, line crew services, WiFi connection, electrical supply and a water supply
  • Caroline Bay Marina: Caroline Bay Marina is located in Sandys Parish, Bermuda. This marina can accommodate boats over 100ft. in length. The monthly dockage fees range from $5 to $8 per foot depending on the time of year. The amenities offered at this marina include pump-out service, security, electricity supply, water supply, and refueling

Sailboat operators should spend approximately 2 weeks sailing around and This timeframe will give sailors enough time to explore the island and check out the various shipwrecks and heritage sites.

Sailing In Bermuda Budget

The budget needed for exploring on a sailing vacation is approximately $2,000 a week. This budget includes dockage fees, eating at cafes and restaurants, joining heritage tours, and doing fun activities.

One disadvantage of visiting Bermuda on a sailboat is the costs in Bermuda are high and thus it is quite expensive for many sailing tourists. The cost of living in Bermuda is three times more expensive than in the U.S.A.

Sailing In Bermuda Laws

When sailing into Bermuda, sailors need to comply with the local Bermuda boating laws. To comply with the Bermuda boating laws, sailboat operators need to have a boater education card on them, everyone onboard needs their passport, the boat title/registration information of the sailboat needs to be available for inspection, everyone onboard needs to obtain immigration, customs and health clearance from HM Customs which is located at the eastern end of Ordnance Island and everyone onboard the vessel will need to pay a $35 passenger tax to customs.

3. Costa Rica

Top Sailing Destination Costa Rica

The third best sailing destination in the world is Costa Rica. We rate Costa Rica 9.7/10 as a sailing destination.

Costa Rica is the best sailing destination in the world for fishing.

Sailing Locations In Costa Rica

The best sailing locations in Costa Rica are:

  • Manuel Antonio: Located on the Pacific Coast, Manuel Antonio is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and great wildlife
  • Tamarindo: A popular surf town on the Pacific Coast, Tamarindo offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops
  • Jaco: Known for its beautiful beach and great surf, Jaco is a popular destination for both locals and tourists
  • Puerto Viejo: Located on the Caribbean Coast, Puerto Viejo is a laid-back town with beautiful beaches, great snorkeling and diving, and a vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture
  • Montezuma: A small town on the Nicoya Peninsula, Montezuma is known for its beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and bohemian vibe
  • Santa Teresa: A popular surf town on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa offers some of the best surf breaks in the country and a laid-back atmosphere
  • Papagayo Peninsula: An upscale resort area on the Pacific Coast, the Papagayo Peninsula offers luxury accommodations, beautiful beaches, and great water activities
  • Drake Bay: Located on the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay is a remote destination known for its pristine beaches, great snorkeling and diving, and abundant wildlife

Activities In Costa Rica

The best activities to do when on a sailing trip in Costa Rica are:

  • Fishing: Sailors can enjoy fishing on the waters of Costa Rica. Costa Rica has approximately 1,112 species of fish with the most popular fish to catch being the Mahi-Mahi, Marlin, Roosterfish, Sailfish, Snapper, and Tarpon
  • Watersports: Sailors can enjoy multiple watersport activities in Costa Rica including swimming, kayaking, parasailing, surfing, water skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, white water rafting, etc.
  • Zip Lining: Costa Rica is known for its thrilling zip-lining tours where you can fly through the canopy of the rainforest and enjoy spectacular views
  • Hiking & Wildlife Watching: Costa Rica's national parks and nature reserves offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching with a chance to see exotic birds, monkeys, sloths, and other animals
  • Volcano Exploration: Costa Rica is home to several active volcanoes including Arenal and Rincon de la Vieja which offer great opportunities for hiking, hot springs, and exploring the unique landscape
  • Cultural Experiences: Costa Rica has a rich culture and history, with plenty of opportunities to explore traditional villages, learn about local cuisine, and experience traditional music and dance

Weather For Sailing In Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two main seasons. The dry season runs from December to April with air temperatures ranging from 75.2°F (24°C) to 95°F (35°C). The wet season runs from May to November with air temperatures ranging from 64.4°F (18°C) to 86°F (30°C).

The Costa Rica seawater temperatures range from 75°F (23.8°C) to 85°F (29°C) during the dry season and 70°F (21°C ) to 80°F (26.6°C) during the wet season.

The hottest month for sailing in Costa Rica is April with an average air temperature of 85°F (29°C).

The coldest month for sailing in Costa Rica is November with an average air temperature of 75°F (24°C).

The wettest month for sailing in Costa Rica is in October. The driest month for sailing in Costa Rica is in March.

The most popular time of year to visit Costa Rica on a sailing trip is in December when the dry season begins and sailing tourists start to visit the location.

One disadvantage of visiting Costa Rica is there are hurricanes and tropical cyclones so sailors will need to choose a time of year when this bad weather is unlikely.

Popular Marinas In Costa Rica

The most popular marinas to dock a sailboat at in Costa Rica are:

  • Marina Papagayo: Marina Papagayo is located in north Costa Rica. The marina can accommodate boats up to 180 feet. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from $2.50 to $4 per foot. The amenities offered at this marina include mooring assistance, dockside concierge service, shuttle service, fuel station and 24 hours security
  • Los Suenos Marina: Los Suenos marina is located in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. The marina can accommodate boats from 30 feet to 180 feet. The dockage fees at this marina range from $5 to $8 per foot daily. The amenities offered at this marina include security, a fuel station, water & electrical supply and garbage disposal
  • Marina Pez Vela: Marina Pez Vela is located in Quepos, Costa Rica. The marina can accommodate boats up to 200 feet. The dockage fees at this marina range from $3 to $5 per foot daily. The amenities offered at this marina include a fuel station, electrical & water supply, pump-out service, fiber optic internet, garbage disposal and 24/7 security
  • Bahia Golfito Marina: The Bahia Golfito Marina is located in Golfo Duce, Costa Rica. The marina can accommodate boats up to 350 feet. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from $4 to $6. The amenities offered at this marina include a fuel station, high-speed internet, pump out service, hull cleaning service, water and electrical supply, tourist information center, 24/7 security, and on-site car rentals

Sailboat operators should spend approximately 3 weeks sailing around Costa Rica and exploring the destination. This timeframe will give everyone onboard a chance to explore the great historical sites, explore the parks, fish on the coast, and sample the local cuisines.

Sailing In Costa Rica Budget

The budget needed for exploring on a sailing vacation is approximately $1,400 a week. This budget includes docking fees at a marina, paying for tours and restaurants, and refueling the sailboat.

Sailing In Costa Rica Laws

When sailing in Costa Rica, sailors need to comply with the local Costa Rican boating laws. To comply with Costa Rican boating laws, sailboat operators need to provide a certificate of documentation/boat registration certificate, boat liability insurance, and passports for everyone onboard. Sailors will need to make a customs and immigration request at least 48 hours before entering Costa Rica by sailboat. Upon arrival to Costa Rica, you should receive a temporary cruising permit from customs that is valid for 90 days.

4. Australia

Top Sailing Destination Australia

The fourth top sailing destination in the world is Australia. We rate Australia 9.5/10 as a sailing destination.

Australia is the best sailing destination in the world for coral reefs.

Sailing Locations In Australia

The best sailing locations in Australia are:

  • Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system located in he Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is home to a vast array of marine life including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and numerous other invertebrates such as sea turtles, sharks, and mollusks. It is also a critical habitat for numerous endangered species such as the dugong and the large green turtle
  • Gold Coast: The Gold Coast is a coastal city in the state of Queensland. The Gold Coast is known for its long sandy beaches, surfing spots, theme parks, nightlife, and inland canals and waterways
  • Broome: A coastal town with stunning turquoise waters, stunning sunsets and a rich history of pearling
  • Sydney, New South Wales: Sydney is a popular coastal destination with iconic beaches like Bondi and Coogee. It is known for its city and beach lifestyle
  • Byron Bay: A relaxed town with some of Australia's most beautiful beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and a relaxed hippie vibe

Activities In Australia

The best activities to do when on a sailing trip in Australia are:

  • Explore Coral Reefs: Australia is home to some beautiful coral reefs including the Great Barrier Reef which is worth checking out as a tourist
  • Surfing: With approximately 21,126 miles (34,000 miles) of coastline, Australia is a world-renowned surfing destination with plenty of surf schools and surf spots for beginners and experienced surfers alike
  • Snorkeling & Diving: Australia is home to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and a host of other incredible marine environments, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in the world
  • Wildlife Encounters: From cuddling koalas and hand-feeding kangaroos to swimming with dolphins and whale watching, Australia offers a wealth of opportunities to get up close and personal with its unique wildlife
  • Hiking & Outdoor Adventures: Australia has a stunning natural landscape, with a wide range of hiking trails, national parks, and outdoor adventures including rock climbing, white-water rafting, and bungee jumping
  • Cultural Experiences: From Aboriginal art and culture to contemporary music and arts festivals, Australia has a rich cultural landscape offering a wide range of unique and immersive experiences

Weather For Sailing In Australia

The weather conditions for sailing in Australia will vary depending on the region of the country. Australia has a wide range of daily temperatures with summer air temperatures ranging from 66°F (19°C) to 95°F (35°C) and winter air temperatures ranging from 43°F (6°C) to 71°F (21.1°C).

The Australian seawater temperatures range from 75°F (24°C) in the winter, peaking at 86°F (30°C) in the summer.

The hottest month for sailing in Australia is in January with temperatures reaching a high of 95°F (35°C) in some parts of the country.

The coldest month for sailing in Australia is in July with air temperatures reaching a low of 43°F (6°C) in some parts of the country.

The wettest month for sailing in Australia is in July with rainfall of 27.5 inches (700mm) in some parts of the country. The driest month for sailing in Australia is in December with rainfall of 0.33 inches (7.7mm) in some parts of Australia like Perth.

The most popular time of year to visit Australia on a sailing trip is in December and January during Australia's summer season.

Popular Marinas In Australia

The most popular marinas to dock a sailboat at in Australia are:

  • Keppel Bay Marina: Keppel Bay Marina is located in Yeppoon Queensland. The marina can accommodate boats up to 115 feet. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from $10 to $15 per foot. The amenities offered at this marina include a power supply, waste disposal, water supply, WiFi, showers, laundry service and a fuel facilities
  • Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina: Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina is located in Port Douglas, Australia. The marina can accommodate boats up to 165 feet. The daily dockage fees at this marina range $6 to $8 per foot. The amenities offered at this marina include an ATM, 24-hour CCTV, bar & restaurant facilities, berthing assistance, electrical supply, and high-speed internet
  • Empire Marina Bobbin Head: Empire Marina Bobbin Head is located in Sydney, Australia. The marina can accommodate boats up to 100 feet. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from $5 to $8. The amenities offered at this marina include antifoul services, a waterside bistro, internet, water and electrical supply

Sailboat operators should spend approximately 4 to 6 weeks sailing around parts of Australia. This timeframe will give everyone onboard enough time to properly explore parts of Australia without rushing.

One disadvantage of visiting Australia is the distance between attractions. Australia is a large country and many of its most popular attractions are located far apart from each other. This can make it difficult to see everything you want to see in one sailing trip.

Sailing In Australia Budget

The budget needed for exploring on a sailing vacation is approximately $1,800 a week. This budget includes dockage fees, paying for food, exploring heritage sites, and participating in fun activities.

Sailing In Australia Laws

When sailing in Australia, sailors need to comply with the local Australian boating laws. To comply with Australian boating laws, sailboat operators need to travel directly to an appointed boarding station (port of entry) and Australian Border Force and Department of Agriculture and Water Resources clearance must be completed before you go ashore.

Everyone onboard will need a valid passport, a visa, and the captain will need a small craft arrival report and boat title/registration documentation.

The captain of the sailboat will be issued with a control permit by customs which is valid for up to 12 months.

5. France

Top Sailing Destination France

The fifth top sailing destination in the world is France. We rate France 9.2/10 as a sailing destination.

France is the best sailing destination in the world for coastal scenery.

Sailing Locations In France

The best sailing locations in France are:

  • Normandy Coast: The Normandy Coast is located in the northwest of France. The Normandy coast is known for its beaches, cliffs, and historic sites such as the D-Day landing beaches and the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
  • The French Riviera: The French Riviera is a stunning coastal region in the south of France, known for its glamorous resorts, beaches, and luxurious yachts. The French Riviera has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe such as Plage de la Garoupe, Plage de Pampelonne, and Plage de la Croisette. It is home to Cannes where the famous film festival occurs every year. It is a gateway to Monaco too
  • Saint-Malo: Saint-Malo is a coastal city in Brittany, northwestern France. It is known for its old walled city, stunning beaches, and historic architecture. Saint-Malo's old town is surrounded by 18th-century granite walls and is a great place to explore. Stroll along the narrow streets, see the historic buildings and visit the Saint-Malo Cathedral. Sailing tourists can also visit the Fort National. The Fort National is a 17th-century fort located on a small island at the entrance of the port of Saint-Malo
  • Ault: Ault is a small coastal town located in the Picardy region of northern France. It is known for its stunning cliffs, beaches, and coastal landscapes. Sailing tourists should explore the 90-meter-high cliffs, visit the Bois de Cise which is a forested area located near Ault that is known for its stunning coastal views

Activities In France

France is a diverse and fascinating country with many activities and attractions to offer.

The best activities to do when on a sailing trip in France are:

  • Watersports: Sailors can enjoy watersports in France including swimming, kayaking, fishing, parasailing, water skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. A popular watersport location in France is the French Riviera
  • Enjoy French Cuisine: France is renowned for its cuisine from its croissants and baguettes to its cheeses and wines. Visit local restaurants, bakeries, and markets to sample the best of French cuisine
  • Take A Wine Tour: France is renowned for its wine and there are many regions to explore such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne. Take a wine tour and sample the local wines, learn about the winemaking process and visit vineyards
  • Explore Cannes: Cannes is famous for its film festival but it's also a great place to stroll along the waterfront and visit the beach. Don't miss the picturesque Old Town of Le Suquet
  • Enjoy The Nightlife: The French Riviera is famous for its vibrant nightlife with clubs and bars in cities like Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez staying open late into the night
  • Go Hiking: The French Riviera has many scenic hiking trails such as the Sentier du Littoral and the Parc National du Mercantour

Weather For Sailing In France

France has a temperate climate for sailing which means it generally has mild winters and warm summers. However, the climate can vary depending on the region of the country.

The winter months in France are between December and February with air temperatures ranging from 32°F (0°C) to 50°F (10°C). The summer months in France are between June and August with air temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) and 90°F (32°C).

The French seawater temperatures range from a low of 41°F(5°C) on the English Channel in the winter to a high of 77°F (25°C) along the Mediterranean coast in the summer.

The most popular time of year to visit France on a sailing trip is in the summer months of June to August when the air is warmer and the seawater temperatures are higher.

The hottest month for sailing in France is with air temperatures reaching a high of 90°F (32°C).

The coldest month for sailing in France is in January with air temperatures reaching a low of 32°F (0°C).

The wettest month for sailing in France is in October. The driest month for sailing in France is in June.

Popular Marinas In France

The most popular marinas to dock a sailboat at in France are:

  • Nice Marina: Nice Marina is located in the port of Nice in the south of France. This marina can accommodate boats up to 623 feet (190m) in length. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from €3 to €5 per foot depending on the time of year. The amenities offered at this marina include a Wi-Fi connection, pump-out services, 24/7 security, water & electrical supply, garbage disposal, restrooms, shops & restaurants
  • Villefranche Marina: The Villefranche Marina is located near the French Riveria in the south of France. This marina can accommodate boats up to 200 feet in length. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from €4 to €6 per foot. The amenities offered at this marina include a Wi-Fi connection, water and electrical supply, convenience store, pump-out service, and garbage disposal
  • Camargue Marina: Camarague Marina is located near Espiguette Grau du Roi, east of the Gulf of Aigues-Mortes, France. This marina can accommodate boats up to 165 feet in length. The daily dockage fees at this marina range from €3 to €5 per foot. The amenities offered at this marina include a WiFi connection, electrical and water supply, 24/7 security, sewage removal facility, restrooms, refueling service and a laundromat

One disadvantage of visiting France on a sailing trip is it can be hard to find a vacant boat slip at a marina in the summer months, especially in the French Riviera, as the summer months are peak tourism season in France.

operators should spend approximately 3 weeks sailing around France. This timeframe will give everyone onboard a chance to fully explore popular coastal regions in France, enjoy local tours, sample the French cuisines, and explore the breathtaking coastal scenery and beaches.

Sailing In France Budget

The budget needed for exploring on a sailing vacation is approximately $1,200 a week. This budget includes dockage fees, paying for sailboat refueling, enjoying various tours, doing fun activities, and eating out every day at local cafes and restaurants.

Sailing In France Laws

When sailing in France, sailors need to comply with the local French boating laws. To comply with French boating laws, sailboat operators arriving in France will need to complete a declaration of arrival form, have the boat title/registration documentation onboard, everyone onboard will need a passport, register with French customs, and the captain will need a boater education card onboard. There will be a customs fee that will need to be paid which is usually under €50.

Best Sailing Destinations In The World Summary

Rating Destination Best For
9.9/10 The Bahamas Great for white sandy beaches and crystal clear water
9.8/10 Bermuda Great for shipwreck exploration
9.7/10 Costa Rica Great for fishing
9.5/10 Australia Great for exploring coral reefs
9.2/10 France Great for coastal scenery

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the most commonly asked questions about the top sailing destinations in the world.

Where Are The Best Winter Sailing Destinations In The World?

The best winter sailing destinations in the world are:

  • British Virgin Islands: Sail to the British Virgin Islands (B.V.I.) in the winter and enjoy hotter weather in the winter. The winter air temperatures in B.V.I. range from 82.4°F (28°C) to 71.6°F (22°C)
  • Maldives: Sail to the Maldives in the winter and enjoy hot, sunny weather. The winter air temperatures in the Maldives range from 87.8°F (31ºC) to 73.4°F (23ºC)

These top winter sailing destinations help sailors to escape the cold weather and enjoy hotter climates during the wet, rainy and cold winter months.

Where Are The Best Summer Sailing Destinations In The World?

The best summer sailing destinations in the world are:

  • The Bahamas: Sailing in the Bahamas is great in the summer months with a subtropical climate ranging from 90°F (32°C) to 68°F (20°C)
  • Tanzania: Sailing in Tanzania is fun in the summer with a hot tropical climate ranging from around 86°F (30°C) to 77°F (25°C)

Where Is The Best Cheap Sailing Destination In The World?

The best cheap sailing destination in the world is Thailand. The cost of living in Thailand is over 45% cheaper than in America, Canada or the U.K. Sail to places like Phuket or Koh Samui to explore these cheap areas.

Where Is The Best Expensive Sailing Destination In The World?

The best expensive sailing destination in the world is Bermuda. The cost of living in Bermuda is three times more expensive than in the U.S.A. and 250% more expensive than in the U.K. and Canada.

Where Is The Best Beginner Friendly Sailing Destination In The World?

The best beginner-friendly sailing destination in the world is in Newport Beach, California because the climate there is perfect for sailing with plenty of sunshine and predictable wind patterns and the sea is calm.

Where Is The Best Cold Weather Sailing Destination In The World?

The best cold-weather sailing destination in the world is Alaska, United States due to its beautiful scenery and rich marine wildlife.

Where Is The Best Hot Weather Sailing Destination In The World?

The best hot-weather sailing destination in the world is the Bahamas due to its crystal clear waters, sunny weather, and white sandy beaches. The weather is hot year-round with the air temperature ranging from 90°F (32°C) to 68°F (20°C).

Where Is The Best Family Friendly Sailing Destination In The World?

The best family-friendly sailing destination in the world is the French Riviera in France. There are plenty of beaches in this area for kids to enjoy and snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming activities along the coast for children to enjoy.