Lifestyle I
TIDE's Top Ten Sailing Destinations
WORDS: GEMMA HARRIS
The world offers incredible opportunities for those who want to explore beyond well-sailed waters and into otherwise unreachable spots. Looking back over the
last two years since our launch, TIDE has visited some of the most breathtaking locations on the planet, so for our first double-digit issue, we’ve looked back to choose a few of the very finest.
Whether you’re drawn to secluded anchorages, the challenge of navigating channels, fjords and passes, or the charm of archipelagos steeped in history and nature, we have your next sail sorted. From the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean to the unspoiled atolls of the Pacific, our curated selection presents something for all itineraries.
1. Procida, Italy: Authentic Italian charm
A patchwork of pastel-hued houses and fishing heritage set away from the crowds of the Amalfi Coast, Procida is just off the southwest shores of the mainland and only a short sail from Naples. The island has long been a muse to artists and has featured as a backdrop for many films, such as The Talented Mr. Ripley and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. You feel like you have returned to a simpler era here as you take in the Mediterranean architecture and watch boats drift in and out with their daily hauls, ready for you to taste in a local trattoria.
2. San Blas Islands, Panama: Year-round bliss
An island for each day of the year, the San Blas archipelago off Panama’s northern coast offers 365-day favourable sailing conditions. The few isles that are inhabited are home to the indigenous Guna people. This idyllic Caribbean oasis has remained relatively untouched and is the ultimate location for slow travel. There is little to do aside from sitting at anchor - likely by yourself – in front of the palm-dotted sandy beaches, and nothing to distract you other than the cracking of coconuts and occasional tradespeople selling handwoven mola tapestries. Though scuba diving is off-limits, the gin-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, especially around the uninhabited Cayos Holandes.
3. The Cyclades, Greece: Greek island-hopping
Southeast of the mainland, the Cyclades are scattered across the Aegean Sea. From ancient mythology and stunning vistas to whitewashed villages and an ancient gastronomic tradition, these islands embody the quintessential Greek summer. Set the course for the iconic yachting hotspots of Mykonos and Santorini, the unspoiled Paros and Naxos fringed by beautiful beaches, or the birthplace of Greek cuisine, Sifnos. The short sailing distances coupled with the northerly Meltemi winds invite plenty of island-hopping, with each stop boasting excellent food, fascinating history and dreamy landscapes.
4. Cocos Islands, Costa Rica: Untamed Beauty
Mountainous and jungle-covered islands with waterfalls tumbling into the craggy shoreline and flocks of birds circling above – it is easy to see how Cocos, tiny islands flung 350 miles off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, are said to have inspired Jurassic Park. While free from dinosaurs and official inhabitants, these UNESCO-protected and nutrient-rich waters are home to plenty of sharks, manta rays, coral reefs and tropical fish, making for world-class diving and snorkelling. Dirty Rock is considered one of the top sites to share the waters with hammerheads. Above the surface, sandy beaches and adventurous hiking in this rugged paradise
await sailors.
5. Geiranger Fjord, Norway: Majestic fjordscapes
In the heart of Western Norway’s fjord region, the UNESCO-protected and renowned Geiranger offers visitors jaw-dropping scenery. Its tranquil waters provide the best vantage points to take in the surrounding dramatic rock faces, a vision that will render any thoughtful viewer humble. From June to August, sailors drift into the extended daylight hours that stretch on endlessly. As you navigate, look out for the famous Seven Sisters, Bridal Veil and The Suitor waterfalls, all cascading down into the deep fjords. To experience Geiranger from all angles, step ashore to see the historical farms that sit perched on hilltops, and take a walk around the quaint villages that add to the fairytale ambience.
6. British Columbia, Canada: Wild, Wild West
Raw beauty, quiet anchorages and exciting navigation all combine to make British Columbia that extra bit special. Spanning part of the world’s longest coastline, the West Pacific coast of Canada runs from Vancouver Island and its Gulf Islands in the south to Desolation Sound and Fiordland right up to the Inside Passage in the north. Epic cruising grounds comprise fjords and islands with narrow passages, and nature rears its head at every turn. While you may be the only yacht for miles upon miles in the sailing spots, wildlife will always keep you and your crew company, from orcas breaching to grizzly bears snatching at salmon.
7. St Vincent and The Grenadines, Caribbean: The True Caribbean
The Caribbean’s consistent easterly trade winds funnel through the gaps in its islands, making for exciting sailing from December through April. Tucked between St Lucia and Grenada, the prevailing currents also make sailing southward from the volcanic St Vincent to The Grenadines ideal. These under-the-radar isles harbour pristine beaches, leafy terrain and a whole bunch of water-based fun. One of the 32 islands in this chain is Bequia, a spot with authentic character where its former boat-building days shine through. Further south, the privately owned Mustique is peppered with gorgeous sandy coves and beautifully kept houses. Continue down to the uninhabited Tobago Cays and you’ll find reefs upon reefs; keep your eyes peeled for the turtles that reside here.
8. Tuamotus, French Polynesia: Pelagic Paradise
A cluster of approximately 80 islands just above sea level northeast of Tahiti make up the Tuamotus Archipelago. With careful navigation and timely arrivals using slack tides to enter the reef passes, yachts can access a haven of sheltered lagoons – this barely touched region offers miles of secluded anchorages. The largest atoll is Rangiroa, famous for its dolphins that ride the fast-flowing ebb tide, as well as the barefoot lifestyle to be found ashore and plentiful pearl farms. Another hotspot is Fakarava, fringed with unforgettable pink sands. This UNESCO reserve is revered for its biodiverse underwater world; jump in, and you can experience the island’s trademark drift snorkelling and diving.
9. Porquerolles, French Riviera: Cote d’Azur’s secret
Arguably the very finest part of the French Riviera is located within the quieter Îles d’Hyères, three rocky isles tucked between Toulon and St Tropez, hailed as the ‘Golden Islands’ thanks to the shades of their coastline. Among them, and the largest, is Porquerolles, which is part of a national park commended for its spectacular and clean beaches, namely Plage Notre Dame among many. Exploration is best done under sail, stopping in clear waters full of coves backed by pine forests. Free from any vehicles on land, it is the ideal landscape for hiking and cycling – or perhaps a spot of wine tasting in the organic vineyards.
10. Maine, US: Sailing, scenery, seafood
The allure of Maine’s coastline combines a blend of New England historic charm, adventure, scenic beauty and fish fare. Light winds blow year-round, but setting sail in the US summer is when you can appreciate the region’s greatest signature lobster rolls – especially at Rockland – and enjoy front-row seats at the bow for whale watching. Iconic lighthouses dot the horizon, bordered by mountains. From the inviting fishing harbours and secluded beach spots on Deer Isle to photogenic diving spots at Nubble Lighthouse, you won’t be short of activities when sailing the best of the East Coast.
