6 Jul 2020A Sailing Holiday like No Other: Boating Destinations
Boating is not only a great way to self-distance, but sailing down the Mediterranean offers a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. Apart from gorgeous views, piercing blue water, great food, and the odd dolphin sighting here and there, a sailing holiday offers much more than your usual vacation.
In light of this, we’ve mapped out some of the best places to stop for a visit or just capture on camera for your Instafeed on our suggested route from the South of France all the way to this little island of Malta.
Port Grimaud
Port Grimaud in the Côte d’Azur is just a stone’s throw away from the luxurious Saint–Tropez. Whilst Saint-Tropez is a celebrity-filled gem that many dream of visiting, including it on our list of top sailing holiday destinations would be an obvious choice, and not mentioning it at all would be down-right wrong. Port Grimaud, on the other hand, is a lesser-known spot that takes you away from the Saint-Tropez crowds. The main thing you will notice, and a detail that will make you want to visit again, is the way the port imitates the Venetian channels.
Calvi
Calvi, at the northwest of Corsica, is a great spot to visit as you advance towards the island. As you approach Calvi, one of the main things to notice is the city’s citadel as it protrudes onto the sea offering great views of the town with mountains behind it. The old town offers a quaint experience amongst terracotta-coloured roofs and cafés. Calvi is also famous for its beautiful white sandy beach and stunning blue waters.
Ajaccio
Sailing down just past mid-way Corsica’s western coast, you will find Ajaccio, Corsica’s capital city. With wide squares, swaying palm trees, popular street cafés, and mountains around the bay, the area is quite pretty to look at. Besides being the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte, the city offers another look into history at Musée Fesch which homes some beautiful renaissance paintings.
Bonifacio
The bottom-most point of the island of Corsica, Bonifacio is also one of its prettiest. The town itself is positioned atop of a white limestone cliff, offering beautiful views of the sea that reach all the way to Sardinia. The town is famous for its fort overlooking the water, its beautiful white sand beaches, as well as sea caves and grottos. Positioned on a peninsula and being the closest point to Sardinia, Bonifacio has its own dialect and offers a sheltered harbour.
Cervo
With typical Mediterranean buildings surrounding its marina, Cervo is known for its glamour, luxury restaurants, hip nightclubs and designer stores. Its position at the base of Sardinia’s hills means that it has access to some of the most gorgeous beaches and clearest waters.
Portisco
Should you need to stop for fuel, water, or any other supplies, Portisco is a sheltered port where you can get everything done before heading out again.
Cala Gonone
If turquoise waters, sea grottos and limestone hills are your idea of paradise, then Cala Gonone is a great stop to make, almost halfway down the eastern coast of Sardinia. Whether you’re interested in hiking, kayaking, scuba diving or just lounging around the crystal clear waters, Cala Gonone and its surrounding beaches make a tropical getaway in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.
Ragusa
Before heading back down to Malta from your sailing holiday, visit the picturesque city of Ragusa known for its baroque style and beautiful views of Ragusa Ibla.
Always contact the marinas beforehand to check availability and requirements, and make sure to check the weather conditions before you go.
Treat your boat well and your boat will reward you with the experiences of a lifetime. Safeguard your vessel with a Boat Insurance policy from Laferla, or get a quote here.