What Sailboat is Best in the Mediterranean Sea?

November 20, 2023 3 min

The Mediterranean Sea spans across three different continents and covers around 1 million square miles with endless routes to explore, so it’s easy to see why the Med is extremely popular with sailors. The Ionian, Dalmatian and Amalfi Coasts bring a mix of calm conditions with occasional mistral winds that provide excitement and speed. Sailors can indulge in the delicious local cuisine as well as immerse themselves in ancient history, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery.

To prepare you for sailing in the Mediterranean, we have put together the types of sailboats available, itineraries and what weather you can expect.

What type of sailboat can I hire in the Med?

There are three types of sailboats that you can hire in the Med: Monohull, Catamaran, and Powered Catamaran.

The monohull is the classic original single-hulled sailboat. It represents performance in all conditions and is perfect for catching those mistral winds in the Med. Sunsail has a varied fleet of monohulls designed by Jeanneau, ranging from the smaller 32 footers to the more spacious 53 footers.

Catamarans are designed with space and comfort in mind, balancing performance and maneuverability. With on-deck lounging areas, wide outdoor living spaces and large wraparound windows, sailors can enjoy the spacious onboard lifestyle whilst exploring the Med. Sunsail has a range of catamarans from 38 to 48 footers and are designed by the world-class visionaries Robertson and Caine’s, Leopard Catamarans, and Lagoon Catamarans.

Power catamarans deliver speed and comfort. They are fast, stable, and fuel-efficient with a spacious, modern interior and exterior. The Moorings offer the power charter experience with a fleet ranging from 37 to 51 feet, designed by Robertson & Caine. Maneuverability is a huge benefit of a Moorings power catamarans due to the two engines and this is extremely useful in a Mediterranean port where you will often need to squeeze into tighter spaces.

How is the weather around the Med?

The Mediterranean climate is very pleasant with warm, dry summers and cooler winters. The Mediterranean gets around 300 hours of sunshine per year, which is best enjoyed by sailors between the summer months of June- September. Outside peak months (Mid July to late August), temperatures are comfortable, from 22C to 30C. During the peak months, you can expect temperatures of 38C or above.

What are the best sailing itineraries around the Med?

To help you get the best out of each destination, Sunsail have put together sailing itineraries for Croatia, Greece and Italy. There is the option of one-week bareboat itineraries, or you can follow the two-week flotilla itineraries. The routes have been designed to ensure you get the sailing miles in and you have the opportunity to discover the famous sights and hidden gems.

Croatia sailing vacations: Dubrovnik and Marina Agana

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast offers more than 1,000 islands to explore with plenty of history, stunning waterfalls and mouthwatering seafood. You could set sail from the Dubrovnik base and stop off at the picturesque islands of Hvar, Korcula, Ston, Mijet and Brac. Or head off from Sunsail’s Marina Agana base to the famous Krka Falls.

Greece sailing vacations: Corfu, Lefkas and Athens

Sailing in Greece is perfect for all sailing abilities with the combination of island hopping and open water passages. With 8,000 miles of coastline and over 2,000 islands, sailors have endless choices. You could start in Corfu and meander through islands packed full of history, or set sail from Athens and explore the Saronic Gulf.

Italy sailing vacations: Portorosa, Procida and Sardinia

Head on an Italian sailing vacation to experience the glamorous port towns, pristine coastlines and indulge in the delicious wine and seafood. Each base offers the chance to experience true adventure, whether that’s sailing the entire Amalfi Coast or heading to Costa Smeralda where the rich and famous hang out.

Once you have picked your sailing destination, you can choose the perfect sailboat for you and begin planning your itinerary. If you would like further advice on sailing in the Mediterranean Sea, Sunsail vacation planners have the knowledge and experience to share with you.