Where are the best places to sail in October?

17 February 2025 6 min

With warm sun, calm seas, and fewer crowds, October is the perfect time to set sail. Whether you’re island-hopping in Greece or snorkeling in the Seychelles, this guide will help you find your ideal sailing destination.

At a Glance: Why October Is a Great Month to Set Sail

Enjoy milder, pleasant temperatures that make sailing comfortable.
Ideal conditions for snorkelling, sunbathing, and island-hopping.
Reduced crowds, allowing you to experience the tranquillity of popular destinations.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the top destinations to sail in October, each chosen for its stunning views, vibrant culture, and excellent sailing conditions, including:

Lefkas
Seychelles
Agana
The Whitsundays
French Polynesia

Destination #1 – Lefkas

Perfect for: Families, couples, and anyone seeking a relaxed retreat.

Why sail in Lefkas in October?

In October, Lefkas transforms into a peaceful retreat. Picture yourself wandering along secluded beaches, savoring traditional Greek cuisine, and enjoying the Ionian Sea’s gentle breezes without the summer crowds.

Tranquil shoulder season: October is the last month of Greece’s main sailing season, so it’s ideal for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. You’ll find lower prices, fewer crowds, and idyllic conditions for unwinding on Lefkas’s picturesque beaches. Learn more about when to sail in Greece.
Unspoiled beaches: Lefkas is famous for its striking coastline, with pristine Greek beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni. October gives you a more private experience at these renowned spots, where you can soak up the serene surroundings.
Perfect sailing weather: With average temperatures of around 17°C, October is ideal for both sailing and exploring. It’s warm enough to enjoy the sea but cool enough for any of your planned activities on land. Our Lefkas sailing itineraries have the perfect blend of water-based adventures and on-shore explorations, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

How to Get the Best out of Lefkas in October

Take the chance to explore beyond Lefkas and sail to nearby islands like Paxos or Ithaca, each with its own unique charm. Spend a leisurely afternoon on Kathisma Beach, enjoy traditional Greek meals in local tavernas, and take in Lefkas’s stunning coastal views.

Start your adventure from Lefkas, and discover the Ionian Islands’ tranquil beauty in a way only October can provide.

Destination #2 – Seychelles

Perfect for: Adventure-seekers, snorkellers, and sun-lovers.

Why sail in the Seychelles in October?

October in the Seychelles offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Dive into vibrant coral reefs, bask on sun-drenched beaches, and join the lively Creole Festival for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Prime snorkelling and diving: With crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life, October is one of the best times for snorkelling and diving. Spots like Anse Lazio and Anse Major offer exceptional underwater views and colourful reefs.
Cultural highlights: October in the Seychelles isn’t just about natural beauty; it’s also the month of the Creole Festival, a lively event celebrating Seychellois culture. Expect music, dance, local crafts, and authentic Creole dishes, making it a unique experience for visitors, so you’ll never be short of things to do.
Warm, calm conditions: With temperatures ranging between 24-30°C, the weather is ideal for sunbathing, relaxing on the beaches, or exploring the islands by sea.

How to get the best out of the Seychelles in October:

Dive into the festive spirit at the Creole Festival, sail to secluded Indian Ocean beaches like Petite Anse, and snorkel in the vibrant waters around Anse Lazio to get up close with the rich marine life.

Start your Seychelles itinerary from our base on Mahé, and build your quote to include your preferred number of nights sailing, and which type of sailing holiday you prefer.

Destination #3 – Agana

Perfect for: Seasoned sailors, nature lovers, and tranquillity-seekers.

Why sail in Agana in October?

October in Agana offers the perfect blend of calm and thrill. Sail past Croatia’s rugged cliffs, explore charming coastal towns, and embrace the region’s legendary sailing routes with just the right touch of adventure.

Ideal season end: October is the final month of Croatia’s main sailing season, offering calm seas and a slower pace that’s ideal for a more relaxing, crowd-free experience. Learn more about when to sail around Croatia.
Slightly stronger winds: For those who enjoy a bit of a challenge, October brings slightly stronger winds than summer months, adding an extra thrill to your voyage along Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian coast.
Cool and pleasant: With average temperatures around 17°C, it’s comfortable for onshore exploration and ideal for those who prefer to avoid the high heat of the summer months. It’s also the perfect temperature to relax and unwind on some of Croatia’s best beaches.

How to get the best out of Agana in October

Plan your Agana itinerary to include sailing to nearby islands like Vis, and make time to visit Stiniva Beach for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters. When island hopping in Croatia, dive into the local underwater scene with a snorkelling stop at Dubovica Beach on Hvar Island. Check out more of our recommendations for things to do on your trip.

Start from Agana to discover Croatia’s coastal gems in a peaceful, off-peak setting.

Destination #4 – The Whitsundays

Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and beach lovers.

Why sail in the Whitsundays in October?

October is a prime time to experience the Whitsundays, with warm seas, gentle winds, and exciting opportunities for adventure. Here’s what makes it an unforgettable choice:

Mild, sunny days: October is the time of some of the best weather in the Whitsundays, with minimal rain and lots of sun. The 26°C water temperature is perfect for all kinds of water activities, from swimming to diving.
Spectacular marine life: October is your last chance to see migrating humpback whales in the Whitsundays. These gentle giants make for an awe-inspiring sight, and the calm waters of the region make spotting them a joy. Want to protect marine life throughout your sailing charter? Take a look at our eco-friendly sailing tips and sustainability policies.
Stunning beaches: With fewer tourists in October, you can experience Whitehaven Beach’s pristine sands in a quieter, more serene setting, perfect for a romantic trip. It’s an ideal spot to relax and take in one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

How to get the best out of the Whitsundays in October:

A Whitsundays’ itinerary can include sailing between some of its 74 South Pacific islands. Other great things to do include snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, and soaking up the sun on Whitehaven Beach.

The Whitsundays are a great introduction to sailing for novice sailors or those who are after a more gentle tide. To charter a yacht in The Whitsundays with Sunsail, you’ll need to meet our level 1 experience.

Destination #5 – French Polynesia

Perfect for: Island hoppers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking tropical bliss.

Why sail in French Polynesia in October?

Experience the magic of French Polynesia in October, where turquoise lagoons, lush islands, and the thrilling Hawaiki Nui Va’a canoe race combine to create a tropical paradise unlike any other.

Perfect for island hopping: Families will love the calm seas and mild temperatures which make it a fantastic time to explore some of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, each with its own unique landscape and culture.
Stunningly warm climate: With temperatures between 22°C and 28°C, the climate is ideal for beach days, water activities, and leisurely sailing. October gives you the best of the dry season without the high humidity that follows.
Hawaiki Nui Va’a Canoe Race: Every October, the islands celebrate the Hawaiki Nui Va’a, a thrilling three-day canoe race that draws crowds and showcases Polynesian sporting prowess. It’s an exciting cultural experience to witness as you sail through the islands.

How to get the best out of French Polynesia in October:

The best things to do in French Polynesia in October include catching the excitement of the Hawaiki Nui Va’a, unwinding on the white sands of Temae Beach, and diving into vibrant reefs near Tahiti for some unforgettable snorkelling.

Explore our Tahiti itinerary which starts from our base in Raiatea, the perfect place to begin before you discover the magic of French Polynesia’s turquoise lagoons and lush landscapes.

Ready to Book Your October Adventure?

October is your chance to explore the world’s most stunning sailing destinations. From Lefkas’s quiet beaches to the vibrant seas of French Polynesia, Sunsail can help you plan the ultimate autumn adventure. Start your journey today!

From Lefkas’ quiet beaches to the rich marine life of the Whitsundays, each location has something extraordinary waiting for you.

Plan your October escape with Sunsail and let our team help you design a sailing holiday that brings your dream destinations to life. Dive into our itineraries, yacht options, and adventure-filled charters to find the perfect fit. If you have any questions about sailing in October, please contact us today.