Top winter sailing spots for the perfect family holiday with Sunsail

On a winter sun sailing holiday you’ll leave the memory of dark winter nights in your wake as you sail between island paradises and sip your favourite tipple from the deck of your very own yacht.

Top up your dose of vitamin D and feel the warm breeze in your hair as you cruise some of the world’s most exotic sailing destinations.

Where to sail in the Caribbean this winter

British Virgin Islands

Throughout this cruising playground compromising of around 60 islands, you will be blessed with warm weather, steady trade winds, calm, sapphire-blue waters and Bougainvillea-clad hillsides. Discover small food shacks serving all kinds of Caribbean delights, from home-cooked chicken and rice to roti and salt fish. Relax with family and friends at Savannah Bay beach, the shallowest on Virgin Gorda, or take a hike in Gorda Peak National Park and soak up the panoramic views. Visit Cane Garden Bay at sunset and enjoy one of the island’s famous painkiller cocktails.

St. Lucia

If you love being active on holiday, St. Lucia is the destination for you this winter. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning hiking trails all offering unique unmissable views. Explore Pitons Bay by foot and visit the cascading waterfall. You can bathe in the thermal pool heated by volcanic action, or enjoy a rejuvenating mud bath to give your skin a welcome pampering. The area is also brimming with fascinating wildlife from wild iguanas to sea turtles and tropical fish. You’ll find open water passages which are ideal for exploring St. Vincent, the Grenadines and Martinique.

Grenada

With exciting blue water sailing and warm, yearlong trade winds, on a winter sailing holiday in Grenada you’ll have the opportunity to discover tropical rainforests, colourful corals, natural parks, and some of the world’s best black and white sand beaches. Offering a laid-back vibe, Grenada is a true treat for the senses, explore the natural beauty of the island with the sweet smell of spice in the air (there’s a reason it was nicknamed the “Spice Island”!). Said spices make their way into the traditional cuisine, we would recommend a goat curry if you would like to try a local dish. Divers will be delighted with the excellent snorkelling on offer, including Dragon Bay’s – a colourful reef with an underwater sculpture park.

Tropical destinations to sail in this winter

Seychelles

Escape modern life to the paradise islands of the Seychelles. Largely untouched, this destination rewards intrepid sailors with a true taste for adventure and tropical climate. Both onshore and offshore, the islands are home to some rare and beautiful wildlife, and you can listen to the sounds of tropical birds as you explore countless white, sandy beaches. Popular activities include snorkelling in the coral reefs and warm waters, and diving with sea turtles and whale sharks. Spot huge coconut crabs and giant tortoises along the serene shores and explore the thick forests of Mahé Island. Sail to the north-western coast of Mahé, Beau Vallon, for clear waters and coral reefs, and its stunning sunset.

Thailand

Take the plunge and journey to Southeast Asia. A Thailand yacht charter is the ultimate family holiday as there truly is something for everyone. Phuket itself offers a fantastic range of nightlife, vibrant harbours and fragrant cuisine, in addition to its dramatic scenery, stunning beaches and abundance of diverse wildlife. There really is no better way to see this destination than by boat. Glide through emerald waters as you gaze at spectacular mountain peaks. Anchor at quiet bays, hidden beaches and sleepy fishing villages. Popular activities include touring one of the many famous street food markets, visiting the elephant sanctuary, rock climbing, hiking, kayaking and enjoying world-class diving and snorkelling.