Best Places in Europe for a Sailing Holiday

With the January blues in full swing, there’s no better time to start planning your next sailing holiday. Setting sail from Plymouth, the gateway to the English Channel, offers endless possibilities for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re drawn to historic harbours, sun-kissed beaches, or vibrant coastal towns, Europe offers an array of destinations to explore. Here are some of the best options for a two-to-three-week adventure:

1. The Channel Islands

Distance: ~100 nautical miles from Plymouth to Guernsey

The Channel Islands, nestled in the English Channel, are a sailor’s paradise. The journey to the islands takes around 15-20 hours, depending on conditions, and offers a unique blend of French and British influences.

Highlights:

• Guernsey: The capital, St Peter Port, is a charming harbour with cobbled streets, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants.
• Herm Island: Just a short sail from Guernsey, Herm is known for its stunning beaches and tranquil atmosphere.
• Jersey: The largest island boasts St Helier’s vibrant culture and gorgeous coastal walks.

Tips:

• The tidal range here is significant, so plan your entry into harbours carefully.
• Don’t miss exploring WWII fortifications and indulging in fresh seafood.

2. The Isles of Scilly

Distance: ~95 nautical miles from Plymouth to St Mary’s

The Isles of Scilly offer a slice of paradise just off the Cornish coast. This short journey of about 12-15 hours brings you to an archipelago of pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Highlights:

• St Mary’s: The main island features Hugh Town, with its quaint harbour and local shops.
• Tresco: Famous for the stunning Tresco Abbey Garden, a subtropical haven.
• Bryher: Perfect for peace and tranquility, with picturesque views and sheltered anchorages.

Tips:

• Navigation can be challenging due to submerged rocks, so careful chart work is essential.
• Enjoy the unspoiled beauty and relaxed pace of life.

3. Brittany, France

Distance: ~120 nautical miles from Plymouth to Brest

A hop across the Channel takes you to Brittany, a region steeped in maritime history and rich culture. This leg typically takes about 24 hours but can be broken up with stops in Roscoff or Morlaix.

Highlights:

• Brest: A major maritime hub, Brest offers a mix of modern amenities and nautical charm.
• Camaret-sur-Mer: Known for its colourful boats and dramatic coastline, this fishing village is a favourite among sailors.
• Gulf of Morbihan: A little further along the coast, this inland sea is dotted with picturesque islands.

Tips:

• Sample local delicacies like galettes and Breton cider.
• Be prepared for strong tides and currents, especially near the Raz de Sein.

4. Northern Spain: Galicia’s Rías Baixas

Distance: ~400 nautical miles from Plymouth to Vigo, with a stop in A Coruña

For a longer, more adventurous route, sail to the stunning Rías Baixas region in Galicia, Spain. This journey takes 5-7 days of solid sailing, with A Coruña as a perfect stopover to break up the passage.

Highlights:

• A Coruña: This vibrant city boasts a rich history, including the famous Tower of Hercules, and a bustling marina.
• Ría de Vigo: Vigo’s harbour is a vibrant starting point to explore this region.
• Cíe Islands: These unspoiled islands, part of a national park, are perfect for secluded anchorages and crystal-clear waters.
• Ría de Pontevedra: Dotted with fishing villages and sandy beaches, this ría offers a taste of authentic Spain.

Tips:

• Watch for Biscay’s infamous swells and unpredictable weather.
• Enjoy fresh Galician seafood, especially pulpo á feira (octopus).

5. South Coast of England

Distance: ~200 nautical miles round-trip

If you prefer to stay closer to home, the South Coast of England offers diverse harbours and idyllic anchorages. A leisurely pace allows you to explore highlights like Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset.

Highlights:

• Salcombe: A bustling harbour town with golden beaches and excellent sailing facilities.
• Dartmouth: Known for its naval history and vibrant arts scene.
• Isle of Wight: Sail around the island, stopping at Cowes and Bembridge.

Tips:

• Anchorages like Studland Bay provide sheltered overnight stays.
• The Jurassic Coast offers stunning views and geological wonders.

Planning Your Route

• Preparation: Ensure your yacht is well-maintained, and carry detailed charts and tide tables for your chosen route.
• Weather: Always check forecasts before departing and be prepared for sudden changes, especially when crossing the Bay of Biscay or navigating Brittany’s coastline.
• Documentation: Carry valid passports, insurance, and any required permits, especially if heading to France or Spain.

Whether you’re craving tranquil anchorages or bustling harbours, Europe offers a sailing experience for every taste. Starting from Plymouth, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the best of the Channel Islands, the Isles of Scilly, Brittany, Northern Spain, and England’s South Coast. Whichever route you choose, you’re guaranteed a memorable adventure on the open seas.