The New Year is quickly approaching, making it the perfect time to plan your escape someplace warm this winter. Charter yacht rentals are an excellent way to leave the cold behind and make the most of the holiday season. While some may have concerns about sailing during the winter, rest assured that chartering a yacht in December, January, or February is safe when you choose the right destination. In fact, winter sailing can be even more enjoyable thanks to the reduced demand for yachting trips. Wondering where the best places are to sail this winter? You’re in the right place! Below, we’ve gone over our list of favourite sailing destinations for the winter months!
But, First: Where Not to Take Charter Yacht Rentals in the Winter
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you know that winter here is no joke. With blustering winds, often snowy conditions and frigid temperatures, winter is undoubtedly a harsh season. While conditions vary depending on how northern you are, the elements can still be somewhat uncomfortable. As you can imagine, these conditions are no exception for the open waters. Wind, rain and waves can make sailing the Northern Hemisphere a dangerous game during the winter. And, who wants to leave freezing temperatures for conditions equal to or worse in quality? It’s not exactly the ideal winter escape.
With these reasons in mind, many popular sailing destinations are regarded as off-limits between December and February. For example, the North Atlantic, parts of the Mediterranean on the European side, Nothern Europe and Scandinavia. While this list is by no means exhaustive, it gives you an idea of some of the locations that experience harsh winter climates. Generally, these are characterized by rough seas, increased storms, and unfavourable yachting weather. After all, nobody wants to lounge in a bikini when it’s pouring rain and the water is churning.
But, don’t let this list dampen your winter yachting dreams! You don’t need to wait until next summer to have the yachting vacation of your lifetime. There are so many excellent destinations to visit during the winter that are perfectly safe and often visited between December and February. Some of the locations are likely closer to home than you realize! So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of our top yachting destinations for winter vacationers.
Our Favourite Winter Yachting Destinations for Calm Waters and a Great Time
There are so many incredible places to visit during the winter with yacht charter rentals. The most obvious place has to be the Caribbean. If you ask any sailor where to go during the winter, they’ll probably list the Caribbean. This is because all the Caribbean islands experience their peak conditions around December. As a traveller in the Caribbean during the winter you get to enjoy the dry season, great sailing, and you’re far from the hurricane season. But, since it’s so popular, you’ll likely experience an influx of tourists.
If you want to do something a little less conventional, we’d recommend venturing to French Polynesia. This remote archipelago is an up-and-coming favourite amongst yachting lovers. The weather is great year-round, the nature is pristine, and it’s relatively easy to get to from the West Coast of the US. This destination is a great place to spend your winter holidays—whether that be Christmas, New Year’s or otherwise.
Another on our list of favourites is Thailand. This Southeast Asian paradise is a must-see destination during the winter. Between December and February, Thailand is amid its dry season and experiencing calm waters. It’s an excellent place to sail for those who love to explore new geography and island-hop. What’s more, is that Thailand is easy to access from wherever you are located on the globe.
Have you ever dreamed of yachting around Australia? If so, you’re in luck! Australia makes a great yachting destination all year round! A common destination in the region is the Whitsundays. The waters here are crystal clear and the white sand beaches are pristine. However, it is worth noting that December through February is considered the rainy season. Despite this, many people still choose to visit during winter, as the rain isn’t heavy and clears up fast.
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Booking charter yacht rentals during the winter is the perfect way to escape the cold in the Northern Hemisphere. By choosing the right destination for your vacation you can enjoy a warm holiday getaway that’s free from snow, cold weather and wet conditions. Start planning your winter or New Year’s yacht adventure today and begin the vacation of a lifetime along the coastlines of the world’s greatest countries. Be sure to check out our social media for posts about past charter vacations and yacht highlights! Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have about chartering one of our yachts in 2025.