Category: Family Sailing

Our Top Five Family Friendly Sailing Holidays for 2023

June 1, 2023

Tired of the usual go-to choices for your next family trip? Then why not join us for a stress-free skippered family sailing holiday?

Our unique fleet sail in stunning locations around the globe offering a range fully skippered and catered sailing adventures. Best of all, no experience is needed to climb aboard and guests have the option of doing as little or as much as they like. From individual berths to whole boat charters, set sail on a skippered family sailing holiday with us in 2023!

Why choose a family sailing holiday?

Our family sailing holidays provide an ideal opportunity for families to connect and create lasting memories. With no distractions you can focus on spending quality time together, engaging and forming strong family bonds. Sailing holidays also encourage self-reliance, problem-solving, and teamwork. Children will also have the chance to actively participate in sailing tasks. These could include helping hoist the sails, steer the ship, and learning the ropes of seamanship under the guidance of experienced crew members. Of course there are benefits for parents too, as you relax, unwind and indulge with no cooking, cleaning or washing up to do!

Whether you’re dreaming of traditional sailing in Denmark, luxurious escapades in Sardinia, embarking on a thrilling pirate ship adventure in the Caribbean, discovering the wonders of the Faroe Islands, or sailing the crystal-clear waters of the Saronic Islands in Greece, we have curated an array of remarkable experiences to cater to every family’s desires. Keep reading to discover five of the best family sailing holidays for 2023, handpicked by VentureSail.

1. Greek Island Sailing on Zorba
A short flight to Athens and you can be on board Zorba within a couple of hours of landing for your family sailing holiday in Greece. Teenagers will love the Instagram-worthy turquoise waters and out-of-this world scenery. There is also the chance for the whole family to swim, snorkel and explore ancient historic sites all whilst soaking up the Grecian sun. Each island is completely different so no two days are the same – boredom is not an option!

Warm evenings are spent in local taverna’s feasting on delicious traditional Greek cuisine. It’s the perfect way to switch off, relax and get back to simple family pleasures while enjoying good food, fabulous weather and comfortable accommodation. Owners Aga and Greg are the perfect hosts, making a stress-free sailing experience. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere aboard Zorba encourages quality family time. Spend evenings stargazing from the deck, sharing stories and laughter, and forging bonds that will last a lifetime.
View Zorba‘s 2023 Summer Schedule >

2. Sustainable Family Adventure Holiday in Denmark

A sustainable family sailing holiday in Denmark’s South Funen will certainly capture the imaginations of parents and children alike. Step aboard magnificent schooner Aron, a beautifully preserved historic tall ship. A family sailing holiday with Aron is a journey where time seems to slow down, and the cares of the world fade away. This traditional sailing holiday also presents a unique blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Children will undoubtedly delight in helping hoist the sails and steer the ship, fostering a sense of adventure, teamwork, and independence.

The islands of South Funen reveal a world of enchantment, with each possessing its own distinct personality and landscape. From the charming island of Skaaro, renowned for its delectable ice cream and idyllic thatched cottages, to the fairy-tale town of Ærøskøbing on the island of Ærø, where 18th-century architecture transports you to a bygone era. Embracing the power of the Baltic winds, this journey emphasises ecological consciousness, sustainability, and local experiences.While you indulge in delicious home-cooked meals using locally sourced produce, you can also relish the tranquility of the sea, the sound of wind-filled sails, and the gentle creaking of the wooden ship. Children of all ages are welcome aboard Aron, while it is advisable for younger children to have some prior experience at sea. The ship provides a safe and comfortable environment for families to create lasting memories together.

View Aron of Svendborg’s 2023 Schedule >

3. Swashbuckling Caribbean Family Holiday
Ahoy, pirates! Prepare to set sail on a thrilling Caribbean holiday aboard the historic tall ship Florette. Here families, children, and teenagers will experience the adventure of a lifetime, just like in the Pirates of the Caribbean. Florette even has a voyage tailor-made for the Christmas holidays! Her Caribbean family sailing holidays offer a perfect blend of island hopping, exhilarating sailing, and endless opportunities for tropical exploration and relaxation. The experience of sailing on this magnificent vessel is certainly integral part of the adventure, allowing children and teenagers to witness the power of the wind as they hoist the sails and steer the ship.

Island hopping through the Windward Islands will unveil a world of natural wonders and thrilling activities. Discover secluded bays with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. Meanwhile, paddle along the coastline, marvelling at natural rock formations, or relax on pristine sandy beaches that stretch for miles. Captain Ron, who grew up on the ship himself, and now sails with his two daughters, shares the ship’s fascinating history with guests, captivating young minds with tales of adventure and exploration.

View Florette’s Sailing Schedule >

4. Luxury family holiday in Indonesia

Set sail on an extraordinary family sailing holiday with traditional Indonesian vessels Katharina and Ombak Putih for a once in a lifetime family adventure to the furthest corners of this island nation. Both vessels offer a range of experiences, from encountering the Orangutans of Borneo to witnessing the mighty dragons of Komodo and swimming alongside the legendary whale sharks. Indonesia’s endemic species, protected coral reefs, and ancient rainforests provide a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. As you watch the sunrise over the stunning volcanic landscapes, you’ll breathe in the fresh ocean air and immerse yourself in the wonders of Indonesia.

On board both vessels, your family will experience the warmth of Indonesian culture and hospitality. Each ship offers kayaks, snorkeling gear, and SUPs for guests to enjoy, while the attentive crew can organize additional activities ashore. Indonesia’s pristine coral reefs, teeming with a rich variety of marine species, offer unparalleled snorkeling opportunities. Escape the tourist crowds and discover the untouched beauty of these remote areas, where the reefs have flourished undisturbed. Our family sailing holidays in Indonesia provide the perfect chance to explore these remarkable underwater worlds, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience for families, children, and teenagers alike.

View all our family sailing holidays to Indonesia >

5. Family sailing holiday to the breathtaking Faroe Islands

Join adventure yacht Cherokee to explore the Faroe Islands, nestled in the depths of the North Atlantic Ocean. This unique sailing area boasts fantasy-like landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking waterfalls. The Faroe Islands is a truly otherworldly setting that will leave families in awe. Exploring these enchanting isles by boat unveils otherwise inaccessible beauty spots. This ensures an extraordinary experience for families seeking to connect with nature and discover the wonders of this isolated paradise.

Faroe islands sailing holiday on Cherokee

Families are warmly encouraged to actively participate in all aspects of sailing, guided by skipper Jouke’s relaxed expertise. Take the helm, lend a hand with winching the sails, anchor the yacht, and even learn basic chart navigation. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through this magical corner of the world aboard Cherokee, where family sailing and extraordinary natural beauty intertwine to create lifelong memories.
View this voyage here >

If you have any questions about a skippered family sailing holiday or would like to find out more please contact [email protected] or call one of our friendly team on 01872 487288.

Your guide to a Sailing Holiday in the Aeolian Islands

January 14, 2023

White washed harbour towns, ancient UNESCO sites and volcanic wonders abound in the Aeolian islands. If you’re looking for an authentic Mediterranean travel experience, a sailing holiday in the Aeolian islands certainly ticks a lot of boxes! The crowded hotspots of Italy’s Amalfi coast or even Sicily seem a world away in this idyllic archipelago. Delight in the natural wonders of this UNESCO world heritage site, hike to your hearts content and indulge in the local Italian cuisine. Keep reading to discover our guide to the very best of the Aeolian islands.

Why Choose a Sailing Holiday in the Aeolian islands?

A sailing holiday in the Aeolian islands is the best way to explore and admire the breathtaking natural beauty of each individual island, waking up to a new view each day. For the active traveller, find adventure and hands on sailing on traditional brigantine Florette. Or, for some classic Mediterranean relaxation, unwind in luxury on yacht Chronos and schooner Kairós.

Our Guide to the Aeolian Islands

Seven islands make up the Aeolian archipelago: Alicudi, Filicudi, Lipari, Panarea, Salina, Stromboli and Vulcano. The archipelago derives its name from Greek mythology, as the god of the wind, Aeolus, once lived here, making it the perfect destination for a sailing holiday powered by the wind! These fascinating islands are distinguished by their distinctive volcanic landscape. Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of Sicily, they are sometimes also referred to as the Sicilian islands.

Lipari

Dreaming of a picture perfect Italian summer? There’s nowhere better than Lipari. Although it may be the largest of the Aeolian islands, Lipari still retains its authentic Sicilian character. Often called the best Aeolian island, once you’ve arrived into port you’ll soon discover why! Start your exploration with a stroll through the old town. The main street of Corso Vittorio Emmanuele is home to an abundance of colourful shops and cafes, waiting to tempt you with fresh gelato and espresso.

It’s not just the picture perfect scenery that’s to love in Lipari. Culture lovers will be in paradise with the opportunities to discover ancient history up close. Explore the fortified headland and the former citadel where the heart of the town used to lay. Strolling through the castle walls, you’ll soon find yourself immersed in life from centuries past. Whilst passing through an excavated area of the citadel you’ll get a first hand view of the history of our civilisation, with remnants of neolithic times and the Greek and Roman civilisations that once inhabited this island. Unsurprisingly, Lipari is home to one of Europe’s best archaeological museums, well worth a visit on your Mediterranean adventure.

Stromboli

The active volcano of Stromboli is a fascinating sight to see while on holiday in the Aeolian islands – a true natural spectacle. With regular “minor” volcanic eruptions, the island holds the nickname ‘Lighthouse of the Mediterranean’. The sparks of glowing lava mean Stromboli has been an orientation point for seafarers at night since ancient times, although our fleet now uses slightly more sophisticated orientation methods. Still, it’s a marvel to sit on deck, watching in wonder as the volcano sparks and spews lava, illuminating the sky with a fiery glow, just as sailors have done for centuries before you.

Before you’ve even arrived at the dock of Stromboli you may sail past the small islet of Strombolicchio. ‘Small Stromboli’, is home to the remains of the original ancient volcano that has since collapsed into the sea. Arriving into the port, you’ll get an incredible view of the volcano that awaits your exploration. If you’re in need of some old fashioned relaxation, visit one of the best hidden beaches in the Aeolian islands, Grotta di Eolo. Notable for its secret cave formed by the volcanic landscape of Stromboli, with fine black sand, the beach is a favourite of the locals.

Salina

Known as the Green island, Salina has become a hub of agriculture, with an amazing array of local Italian produce. It also makes the cut in the debate over which is the best Aeolian island, having won the title of most beautiful island in Italy. Olive groves and vineyards stretch for miles, making it any gourmet lover’s dream destination. Indulge in the famous local dessert wine, ‘Malvasia delle Lipari’, for a true Italian taste for the senses, and sample some local nibbles, including the region’s world famous capers.

You do not need to be a culinary connoisseur to enjoy all that the island of Salina has to offer. A holiday in the Aeolian islands is a top choice for all active travellers wanting to get their hiking boots out. Salina is home to the highest peak in the entire archipelago. Take a meandering hike immersed in the pine and chestnut forests, and before long you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the entire island chain, perhaps even spotting your own boat anchored in the bay.

Vulcano

Although it is home to an active volcano, wellness takes centre stage in Vulcano. The island is best known for it’s sulphur deposits, lauded for their healing powers for centuries. Wallow in purifying mud and enjoy a healing sulphur bath, leaving with glowing skin and an inner sense of calm.

If a mud bath doesn’t quite entice you on your holiday in the Aeolian islands, why not try a relaxing bathe in the sea close to shore? Here, fumaroles, sulphurous gases that rise from the sea bed, create nature’s very own version of a hot tub with added healing properties!

Panarea

The smallest of the seven islands, don’t discount Panarea as a contender for the best Aeolian island. Elegant and chic, it provides a lovely balance to the wild and untamed nature found on other Aeolian islands. As one of the most expensive destinations to visit in the Mediterranean, a sailing holiday is the best way to stay in close proximity without breaking the bank. Admire the views from the boat and hop ashore to explore.

Step off the boat at the port of San Pietro, where you can find the iconic Mediterranean picture perfect architecture. The labyrinth of streets are lined with white washed houses with dazzling blue roofs, enveloped in sweet smelling bougainvillaea plants. Whilst exploring Panarea, make sure to pay a visit to the church of San Pietro. Dedicated to the patron saint of the island and fishermen, the church has a fascinating history and an incredible view of the sea where your vessel will be docked.

Ready for a sailing holiday in the Aeolian Islands?

If you’re ready to experience a picture perfect Italian getaway, jump on board a sailing holiday in the Aeolian Islands with us. Anchor in secluded bays, explore quintessential Italian harbour towns, hike volcanic trails and wonder at the many UNESCO hotspots.

With breakfast freshly prepared for you on all our voyages (and included in the price!), spend each morning relaxing on deck whilst planning your adventure for the day. All our sailing holidays in the Aeolian islands have on-board water toys, allowing you to swim, snorkel or paddle-board in the crystal clear waters whilst admiring the dark beaches made of fine, black lava sand. Choose from hands-on traditional sailing with historic brigantine Florette, or 5* luxury sailing with classic yachts Kairos and Chronos. No matter which you choose, a sailing holiday in the Aeolian islands is guaranteed to be a magical adventure you won’t soon forget!

A Guide to Sailing in the Algarve

September 15, 2022

Searching for an all inclusive holiday to Portugal? Why not try something new with a fully skippered sailing holiday in the Algarve. With around 200 kilometers of breathtakingly beautiful coastline, azure blue waters and warm winds, a skippered sailing holiday in the Algarve allows you to experience true, authentic Portugal. For those who have yet to be tempted, read on to find out more;

The natural beauty of the Algarve
From gentle golden cliffs sheltering sea caves to striking red rock formations and sand dunes, the coastline is ever-changing here and is best absorbed under sail. A tall ship sailing holiday in this region means you can soak in the natural beauty of the Portuguese coastline at all times, from dining alfresco, sunbathing on deck, or even using onboard kayaks to explore the coast.

The sheltered coastline and warm sailing winds create the perfect sailing area for beginners or old hands, and if you’ve been wanting to learn to sail on a traditional boat in warmer climates, Portugal may be the place for you. Historic tall ship Maybe offers taster sailing trips, perfect for a short break getaway from Portimão. Adventure travellers will love joining tall ship Blue Clipper for a longer open sea voyage around the Spanish and Portuguese coast.

Beautiful Algarve Beaches
With miles of secluded coastline it’s little wonder that the beaches here are renowned for being some of the most beautiful in the world, with the region regularly voted the best beach destination in Europe. With gentle, secluded coves hugged by whitewashed pretty fishing villages, vast stretches of golden sands and white soft shores along the islands, variety is guaranteed. And the best way to discover as many as possible? By boat of course! Offering an adventurous twist on a typical Portuguese beach holiday, a sailing holiday in Portugal means you’re sure to find the best hidden beaches in the Algarve (and after a morning learning to sail a traditional tall ship, there’s no better way to relax!)

Ancient History

The history of the Algarve is extensive to say the least. The Algarve was once occupied by the Arabs and the name ‘Algarve’ actually arose from the Arab word ‘Al-Gharb’, which means ‘The West’. The Romans then settled here until their fall in the 5th Century which saw the region occupied by roman Visigoths. In 1755 Portugal experienced a huge earthquake which destroyed much of the Algarve’s then-infrastructure as the epicenter was close to Lagos. There is still plenty to see, including the Castelo de Tavira which dates back to the neolithic period, the Faro archaeological museum and Roman ruins in Vilamoura. A skippered sailing holiday with traditionally rigged tall ship Blue Clipper or historic ketch Maybe offers you the opportunity to experience Portugal as explorers would have done hundreds of years ago. Make the most of the warm winds at sea and ancient history on shore.

The beauty of the sailing winds in this area means there’s plenty of time to explore ashore, with new destinations ready to be explored nearly every day. Get a taste for authentic Portuguese culture, splitting your time between cultural highlights and hidden gems away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

Fabulous Food

After a busy day at sea learning the ropes under the watch of the professional crew, you’ll be sure to work up an appetite. It would be impossible to talk about the Algarve without mentioning the incredible cuisine. An eclectic mix of seafood and meat dishes, both influenced by the Arabian and Portuguese ruling throughout the years, the local delicacies are a real highlight of this area. Although both Blue Clipper and Maybe offer all inclusive holidays in the Algarve, with an onboard chef ready to prepare delicious meals, there is still plenty of opportunity to experience the local delicacies ashore!

Whales and Dolphins

Over 26 species of cetaceans pass through the Algarve waters with 5 calling the area home. Sailing in the Algarve provides an incredible opportunity to observe common, bottlenose, risso dolphins and even minke whales. It’s no secret that marine wildlife is best spotted from the water, and there’s no better place to watch than the deck of a tall ship. Channel your inner explorer with a sailing holiday and be ready to spot killer whales, pilot whales, humpback whales and schools of tuna.

Explore Gibraltar and North Africa

The Algarve is a great starting point for those wanting to sail the Southern coast of Spain, or even venture down to Gibraltar. Sail with us down to the ancient port of Cadiz in Southern Spain to soak up over 3000 years of maritime history. Head to Gibraltar to experience the melting pot of English, North African, and Spanish cultures, before crossing the Gibraltar strait to visit Ceuta. Sailing holidays from the Algarve are able to reach some interesting destinations, with some breathtaking landscapes along the way.

With all this and so much more, sailing in the Algarve is the best way to experience this phenomenal region. Why not try it for yourself on board tall ship Blue Clipper. Take a break from the grey skies, soak up some winter sun and fall in love with a new destination!?

10 Reasons to sail in the Caribbean

May 21, 2019

The Caribbean is regarded by many as the Best Place in the World to holiday. Home to thousands of islands and perfect sailing winds (out of hurricane season of course!) we would have to agree with this… Forget the all inclusive Caribbean resorts and head for an authentic Caribbean adventure on an all inclusive sailing holiday! Sailing trips to the Caribbean should be on everyone’s bucket list, and if you’re still not convinced then here are our top ten reasons for choosing a sailing holiday in the Caribbean!

1. Warm Weather
Temperatures in the Caribbean sit between 23ºC to 30ºC all year long both day and night – so you can ditch those woolly jumpers but don’t forget the suncream! Whilst there’s plenty of time to be spent ashore sunbathing on the beach, one of the best things about yachting in the Caribbean is the gentle ocean breeze as you relax on the deck of the boat.

2. Perfect Sailing Winds
We obviously make sure that our holidays occur outside of the hurricane season! The Caribbean has constant trade winds, averagely blowing at about 15 – 25 knots from the East, most of the year. Dream sailing conditions making island hopping a dream to navigate for our skippers on Eye of the Wind, Chronos, Rhea, Blue Clipper and Skyelark. So whether you’re joining us on a 5* luxury yacht, or on a traditional tall ship, the warm winds make sailing a breeze..

3. Beautiful Beaches
We have all seen the photos of the pure white beaches hugging the islands providing the perfect holiday backdrop. Whilst typical Caribbean beach resorts are brimming with tourist hustle and bustle, our boats can take you to so many “off the beaten track” beaches you won’t know where to look! So whether it’s beaches overlooked by the volcanic mountains of St Lucia, or tropical beach destinations hidden along the shores of Antigua, find your favourite hidden gem beach in the Caribbean (and be sure to let us know!).

4. Wonderful Wildlife
From flamingoes to Sea Turtles, Marmut Monkeys to rare butterflies, the Caribbean is home to a rich and diverse abundance of fascinating wildlife and rare species. One of the benefits of a sailing holiday in the Caribbean is the proximity to marine wildlife. From our boats, you can swim with dolphins and sea turtles, snorkel with tropical fish in beautiful coral bays or even rent a diving suit at a local village and explore the shipwrecks. Whatever island you visit, rest assured you won’t be short of wildlife spotting opportunities.

5. Crystal Clear Waters
Low water density and lack of industry make for fantastically clear waters so swimming and snorkelling are top of the list for activities! And not only are they crystal clear but the average water temperature is also 27ºC – it’s like swimming in a lovely bath! Many of our voyages are able to take in the world class snorkelling destinations in the Caribbean, including the reef-lined Bequia Island or the under-water world of Tobago Cays.

6. Thousands of Islands
The Caribbean is made up of thousands of islands and with so much to explore, you’ll be longing to return for more from the moment you arrive. A skippered sailing holiday is the best way to experience as many islands as possible, with each mainland wonderfully culturally different from the next.

7. Fabulous Food
Traditional Caribbean food is a fabulous fusion between African, European, East Indian and Chinese cuisine. Your all inclusive Caribbean vacation starts with our on board chefs, who will certainly make sure that they are hopping ashore to grab the local delicacies to cook up a feast for your dinner. The seafood is especially fresh and the spices available will be like nothing you have tasted before. And of course, you must try the Caribbean rum!

8. Colourful Caribbean Culture
From the beautiful timber buildings to the local festivals to the wildlife, there are so many ways in which the Caribbean is full of colour. It would be impossible to choose the best Caribbean islands to visit, with each having its own unique community and culture. A sailing holiday in the Caribbean allows you to soak in as much culture as possible on your tropical vacation! The festivals reflect the rich and cultural diversity of the islands and if you catch one, you will be in for a once in a lifetime experience!

Tobago Cays Caribbean unsplash — Sea turtle

underwater sculpture Caribbean — Sea turtle

9. Interesting History
The Caribbean is steeped in colonial history with each island seemingly worlds apart from the next. The BVI is home to many pirate stories and shipwrecks while the Dominican Republic, Antigua and Barbuda are full of historical and archaeological places of interest for those who love to sniff out a bit of history. A skippered sailing holiday to the Caribbean means you have built in tour guides in the form of our experienced crew who will be more than happy to make recommendations on all the top sights and hidden gems.

10. The Caribbean People
Whatever island you visit, you will find the (majority!) of locals to be friendly, happy-go-lucky and amazingly laid back. As you anchor from one port to the next be sure to befriend the locals, as they know all the best hidden gems of the area. They really do make your Caribbean sailing holiday experience a relaxed one!

Take a look at our sailing holidays in the beautiful Caribbean.

Caribbean Sailing Holidays