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DREAM ESCAPES Holiday Greek Isles Caribbean hot spots Beach clubs THE BIG DEBATE Travel inspiration Flotilla vs charter

SPOTLIGHT WHAT’S NEW FOR 2016 Discover the lastest options

YY_Travel_2016_001_Cover.indd 1 16/02/2016 12:44 SEAFARERUntitled-102 FP 1 ST JUL15.indd 1 01/10/201526/02/2014 13:4111:45 EDITORIAL Editor Georgie Corlett-Pitt Deputy Editor Toby Heppell Art Editors Pete Smith, Claire Wood Senior Sub Editor Henry Giles Contributors Helen Fretter, Sarah Norbury

Digital supplement yachtsandyachting.co.uk

DREAM ESCAPES Holiday Greek Isles Caribbean hot spots Beach clubs THE BIG DEBATE Travel inspiration Flotilla vs charter

SPOTLIGHT WHAT’S NEW FOR 2016 Discover the lastest options

YY_Travel_2016_001_Cover.indd 1 16/02/2016 12:25 Cover Images (l-r) Neilson, Paul Wyeth/Antigua Week, Sunsail

ADVERTISING SUNSAIL C/O Advertising Manager Jodie Green [email protected] +44 (0)207 349 3722 Advertising Sales Executive Sam Spranger [email protected] Summer dreaming +44 (0)207 349 3746 Advertising Sales Executive Harry Warburton [email protected] f you are dreaming of the perfect summer break, then look no further. Our +44 (0)207 349 3739 special guide is packed with inspiration and advice on the latest o erings in the sailing holiday market, together with our picks of the two most popular PUBLISHING charter areas – Greece and the Caribbean – and a special feature packed with Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross all you need to know about beach club holidays. From family friendly Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Ipackages to bucket-list regattas, otillas to charters, classic destinations to Publisher Simon Temlett exciting new hot spots - there’s something for everyone. If it’s sunshine, warm Publishing Consultant Martin Nott Brand Manager Ginny MacLean water and good breezes you are aer, we have all you need to know to help you [email protected] nd your ideal sailing getaway this summer. Don’t forget to send us a post card... Georgie Corlett-Pitt, Editor WEBSITE yachtsandyachting.co.uk

SMALL PRINT Printed in England by William Gibbons. Ad Production: All Points Media www.allpointsmedia.co.uk WHAT’S NEW FOR 2016 Distribution: News Trade (UK and Rest of World), Seymour International Ltd, 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT. FUN IN Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 Email: [email protected] THE SUN Contents With some fabulous new options for summer 2016, whether you choose a dinghy beach club or charter a for island hopping, there is more choice than ever. From foiling to whale shark watching, the SUBSCRIPTIONS AND world really is your oyster, says SARAH NORBURY BACK ISSUE ENQUIRIES What’s new for 2016 & , Subscriptions Department, 800 Guillat Avenue, 4 Discover the very latest beach Kent Science Park, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 8GU Tel: +44 (0)1795 419843 Email: [email protected] club and charter options http://yachts.subscribeonline.co.uk

Yachts & Yachting is published by Caribbean hot spots The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, 10 Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Racing or - we’ve

Tel: +44 (0)20 7349 3700 SEAFARER C/O IMAGE: all you need to know 4 5 © The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2015. All rights reserved. ISSN 0044-000 18 Greek odyssey No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission Which Greek Island will in writing. Every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information CARIBBEAN in Yachts & Yachting, but no responsibility can be accepted for the you choose? consequences of actions based on the advice portrayed herein. The HOT SPOTS SARAH NORBURY picks six top Caribbean sailing experiences for racers, newbie Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd makes every e¦ ort to ensure that the cruisers and seasoned voyagers alike advertising contained in this magazine is derived from responsible Beach club myth busters sources. We cannot, however, accept responsibility for transactions 24 between readers and advertisers. Yachts & Yachting welcomes letters. From beginners’ courses to expert race tuition Also part of the Chelsea Marine Magazines family:

magine broad reaching in the TOP TIP warm trade winds on a deep- , steering towards a palm tree There are so many fantastic islands and on a white, sandy desert island... events that choosing just six is almost Caribbean sailing really does live impossible. To broaden your search, Iup to the hype. You’re likely to see shows are great opportunities Flotilla vs charter dolphins, turtles, pelicans, humming to chat to charter company staff, birds and hibiscus flowers, drink rum many of whom have first-hand punch or Red Stripe to the sound of knowledge of the islands and routes. reggae, and feast on papayas, mangoes, 28 lobsters and flying fish. On a Caribbean charter holiday you can be as away from it all as Robinson Crusoe, or join the Which option wins your vote crowds in famous celebrity haunts. C/O SUNSAIL C/O in the big debate?

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Travel 2016 Yachts & Yachting 3

YY_Travel_2016_003_Contents.indd 3 16/02/2016 12:43 WHAT’S NEW FOR 2016 FUN IN THE SUN With some fabulous new options for summer 2016, whether you choose a dinghy beach club or charter a yacht for island hopping, there is more choice than ever. From foiling to whale shark watching, the world really is your oyster, says SARAH NORBURY

YY_Travel_2016_004-008_Whats new.indd 4 16/02/2016 11:03 WHAT’S FOR NEW 2016

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IMAGE: C/O SEAFARER TRAVEL WHAT’S NEW FOR 2016

C/O SEAFARER C/O PRO-VELA

hat could be Above be relatively stable and easy to . in groups of a maximum of 10 Dropping anchor more absorbing in a quiet bay has Pro-Vela takes a ‘design your own sailors – a great way to hone your than sailing a a timeless appeal holiday’ approach: rock up at the racing skills in time for summer. dinghy from Above, right Mar Menor, stay in a nearby hotel Foiling and intensive race training dawn till dusk on Pro-Vela is and book dinghy time by the hour isn’t everyone’s idea of a holiday, and if expanding its Wblue water with guaranteed breeze, or day, while non-sailing partners you’re looking to chill out with a cool foiling options or navigating your own yacht from or family do their own thing. drink as much as taking a spin round island to island indulging in secluded Or how about trying a foiling ? the buoys, then the family friendly beaches and tucked-away tavernas? There will be two of these mind-boggling dinghy beach clubs run by the likes of The options used to be fairly standard versions of the ever-popular singlehander Neilson, Ocean Elements and Seafarer but, within the last few years, the available at Wildwind for the 2016 are offering their usual mix of sailing holiday companies have raised their season, on the waters of Vassiliki Bay, and relaxation in 2016. With plenty on game to offer ever more specialised Greece, where afternoon blasting offer for all ages, abilities and budgets, and experiences. If you want breezes are practically guaranteed. they remain as popular as ever. to try cutting-edge foiling, stand-up Known for its laid-back beach , wildlife watching or ambience combined with serious NEW MOVES IN YACHTING -style luxury, you’ll find sailing for those who want it, the The main innovations are coming from it in the new offerings for 2016. Wildwind beach club has big fleets the yacht charter companies, many of of Lasers and high performance which are going the extra mile to entice FOILING FOR ALL . In May 2016 the centre will new interest. It’s often said that dinghy Below Surely the wettest any sailor is likely to Laser clinics run by be running two intensive racers make the best yacht skippers and get is when learning to launch, sail and Wildwind - foiling and Laser training weeks for those crew – anyone who knows how to sail Lasers will soon recover a foiling . On a holiday with be on offer too with at least a year’s racing experience a small boat has a head start when they Pro-Vela these rite of passage dunkings step aboard a bigger one – but naturally can at least be warm, as the company’s there are different skills and elements base in the Mar Menor is on a mini of knowledge it’s advisable to aquire inland sea in southern Spain. Clients before casting off completely under your include people thinking of buying their own steam. Increasingly, you need to first Moth as well as one-time adrenalin produce qualifications before you can seekers looking to tick foiling off their charter a yacht for a sunshine sailing bucket list. Heading up their hall of holiday, and companies are finding fame is Sir Ben Ainslie, who foiled for that although many of their would-be the very first time with Pro-Vela. clients are experienced sailors, they ‘Live coaching’ is how best to describe don’t have the paperwork to prove it. the way they teach Moth skills, with What’s needed as a minimum is the instructor in close pursuit in a RIB either the RYA Dayskipper or the talking to the sailor via a radio helmet. more widely-accepted International While Moth sailing is Pro-Vela’s Certificate of Competence (ICC), speciality, there’s also a fleet of Lasers, specially designed as an internationally Laser Radials, Laser Bahias, RS Qubas recognised qualification for and, very excitingly, a Solent Whisper, holidaymakers and voyagers. set to arrive in time for the 2016 season. The traditional way to gain the As hardcore holiday sailing goes, essential yachting skills is a few days it would be hard to beat the Solent with a sailing school on the Solent Whisper, the 5.9m foiling cat that’s been or your nearest piece of coastline,

clocked at over 25 knots yet claims to WILDWIND C/O manoeuvring under engine in and out

6 Yachts & Yachting Travel 2016 yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_004-008_Whats new.indd 6 16/02/2016 11:05 C/O PRO-VELA C/O SUNSAIL

of marinas, dropping anchor, reefing Above is based on the RYA Essential Navigation two special flotillas in April and May Beautiful Belize , tying knots and learning the where you can and Seamanship and ICC courses. offer the chance to follow the annual basics of navigation and pilotage. spot whale sharks migration of whale sharks, the biggest A newer alternative is to learn as Below GET CLOSER TO NATURE fish in the ocean. The expeditions are you go while you’re on holiday in the Learning big Wonderful wildlife is often an timed to coincide with the full moon, boats skills as sun. With an instructor on board to you go; Beach unexpected bonus on a sailing holiday. which is the optimum period in which show you the ropes you can enjoy club family fun It’s not unusual to be sipping a rum to see these majestic creatures on their a yachting holiday while gaining punch at anchor off a white sandy beach journey to Belize’s Gladden Spit. yourself an ICC certificate at the in the Caribbean as dolphins lazily Other activities on the trip include end of the week that entitles you to circle your boat, and if you charter and snorkelling the unspoilt charter your own boat next time. with The Moorings you could have the reefs of the Cays of Belize with a pro Neilson’s approach to turning newbies opportunity to spot some rare birds in dive master and learning about the into qualified yachties is a new Skippered the Seychelles, such as the black parrot. whale sharks and marine life of the Flotilla offering on which you cruise the Or, head inland and meet one of the region from Dr Demian Chapman, blue waters of Greece or Turkey with an world’s largest tortoises, the Aldabra. shark expert and lead scientist of instructor on board during the day. (At In 2016 there’s a new experience on the Global FinPrint Project. night he or she gives you some space offer for nature-lovers following the “There is no better way to appreciate by decamping to the flotilla’s lead boat whale shark migration in Belize. Run and protect the environment than by to sleep.) Both the ICC as well as RYA by Sunsail from its base in Placencia, facilitating this unique and exciting Dayskipper certificates are available, flotilla for our customers while helping depending on your existing skill level progress the research of the Global and the intensity of tuition you’re after. FinPrint,” says Scott Farquharson, A major advantage identified by Sunsail’s general manager. Neilson is that on their flotilla not just you but your partner or family or TWISTS ON TRADITION group and friends can learn and get For a sailing holiday with a twist, try the qualified too. This could help eliminate ‘foodie and cultural’ cruise offered by the problems often encountered later Essential Sailing. You can book either a by newbie skippers who have to show cabin on its Beneteau Oceanis 50-footer novice crew the ropes at the same or charter the whole boat, complete time as navigating out of one harbour with skipper. Plying the French Riviera and into the next; if your crew knows and Italian coasts, the boat sleeps up what they’re doing it takes a whole to six guests. The sailing part of the C/O NEILSON NEILSON C/O lot of stress off the skipper. Children experience is in the mornings, stopping are encouraged to take a full part in in the afternoons for , beach the learning but are not eligible for visits and as many or few cultural a certificate if they are under 16. excursions as you like, then ending the Sticking with roughly the same theme, day with a gourmet dinner aboard and there are a number of other companies relaxing under the stars, or for party offering alternative destinations and animals, casinos and nightclubs. slightly different packages. Sunsail is Novices can learn to sail as you go launching two new holidays in beautiful with the Essential Start to Yachting short Croatia: Flotilla Zero and Flotilla Hero. course, but Y&Y readers who already On Flotilla Zero complete beginners know the ropes might consider this can end the week with an RYA Start superyacht-style holiday simply as an

Yachting certificate, while Flotilla Hero OCEAN ELEMENTS C/O alternative to a special luxury hotel stay.

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YY_Travel_2016_004-008_Whats new.indd 7 16/02/2016 13:05 WHAT’S NEW FOR 2016 TRAVEL C/O NAUTILUS C/O C/O NEILSON C/O SUNSAIL C/O

Some people charter a boat in the in 2016, after 40 seasons, all the Jaguars Above left and a fantastic way to introduce Leisurely sailing same location every year, and why will be gone. Instead, there’s a new fleet in the sun children to the joys of sailing. But not? It’s hard to tire of the Greek of Beneteau 35s, 38s and 45s, and still for those who prefer a holiday with Above right, islands’ beautiful beaches, buzzy bars including the smaller boats that Sailing from top just adults as company at the evening and laid-back tavernas, or the baking Holidays have always offered but in the Dubrovnik, get-togethers, Sunsail is launching Croatia is gaining sun and balmy breezes of the West more modern form of Beneteau 311s. popularity; A Just for Adults weeks in June and Indies. But to keep the attention of For dinghy sailors making a first swimming turtle July 2016 in the Ionian Islands. sailors who constantly seek something step into yachts, the Beneteau 311 new, the charter companies never is ideal as it has a tiller and slab BEST OF ALL WORLDS stop searching for new routes or new reefing, both more familiar than the There have been crossover options holiday packages to tempt them. wheel steering and in- reefing between dinghy and yachting Dubrovnik and Palma de Mallorca are typical on bigger charter boats. holidays for years, with companies new locations for flotillas sold through such as Seafarer and Neilson Nautilus Yachting (operated by Seafarer), POP-UPS AND NEW TRENDS running beach clubs as well as fleets both exciting cities in which to start With their sheltered bays and generally of yachts, and tempting holiday and end a week of relaxing and sociable light breezes, the Ionian islands makers with a week at each. sailing. If you want to stay for a second are a brilliant place for stand-up Ocean Elements is the latest operator week and go off on your own to discover paddleboarding. Sailing Holidays trialled to join this party. This relatively new the Balearic or Dalmatian Islands, the two-up SUPs on their charter boats last company is already gaining loyal Nautilus lead crew will advise you on year and found them so popular that customers who return again and again the best places to anchor and explore. they have ordered lots more for 2016. to its Greek dinghy and The company that claims to have With pop up restaurants and bases. Now, building on the stay and sail brought more people into than shops becoming ubiquitous at home, concept that was introduced on trial last any other, Sailing Holidays, was famous it was only a matter of time before summer, in 2016 Ocean Elements will for offering not just shiny new French the concept of a pop up flotilla, err, be running flotillas starting from Levkas and German cruising boats, but an popped up! After a trial run last year, Town and exploring the Ionian Islands. ageing fleet of Jaguars. For every client Sailing Holidays have more planned The company’s Vassiliki beach club is that found these compact cruisers too for 2016. We’re told where they’ll pop only a few miles away, which would small and superannuated, others loved up in the Croatian cities of Split and make a combined dinghy and yachting them for their cosiness. But gradually the Dubrovnik – but not when; keep your holiday an easy option. The package ‘Jags’ have been sold, (mainly to people eyes on the Sailing Holidays website. includes free access to kids clubs during who’ll keep them in the Ionian Sea, Flotillas have rightfully won a your stay at the beach club, making this where Sailing Holidays is based), and reputation for being family friendly an appealing, family friendly offering.

8 Yachts & Yachting Travel 2016 yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_004-008_Whats new.indd 8 16/02/2016 11:05 *

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YACHTING & BEACH CLUB HOLIDAYS IN GREECE 4 Ionian flotillas and skippered charter yachts 4 FREE , windsurfing, SUPs & more 4 FREE Mountain bike hire & guiding 4 2 Week Stay & Sail: beach front hotel & yacht 4 FREE Kids Clubs (4-12yr) at Beach Clubs 4 FREE RYA water sports training**

OCEANELEMENTS.COM OR CALL 020 3432 7743 *Cannot be combined with other offers **Programme varies by resort, please contact us for details CARIBBEAN HOT SPOTS SARAH NORBURY picks six top Caribbean sailing experiences for racers, newbie cruisers and seasoned voyagers alike

YY_Travel_2016_010-014,016_Caribbean.indd 10 16/02/2016 11:07 magine broad reaching in the TOP TIP warm trade winds on a deep-blue sea, steering towards a palm tree There are so many fantastic islands and on a white, sandy desert island... events that choosing just six is almost Caribbean sailing really does live impossible. To broaden your search, Iup to the hype. You’re likely to see boat shows are great opportunities dolphins, turtles, pelicans, humming to chat to charter company staff, birds and hibiscus flowers, drink rum many of whom have first-hand punch or Red Stripe to the sound of knowledge of the islands and routes. reggae, and feast on papayas, mangoes, lobsters and flying fish. On a Caribbean charter holiday you can be as away from it all as Robinson Crusoe, or join the crowds in famous celebrity haunts. C/O SUNSAIL C/O

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1 The ultimate Caribbean regatta Antigua Sailing Week

The number one regatta on many sailors’ both free and paid for – check out the Inter Challenge, perhaps Above Antigua Sailing bucket lists, Antigua Sailing Week has crew forum on the regatta website. Many hiring something racier than a normal Week offers action everything a race crew could dream of. people charter standard bareboats from bareboat? Last year’s challenge was won on the water and many UK sailors Clear a week in your diary next April companies such as Sunsail, sleeping by Scarlet Oyster chartered by Guernsey participate and you could be there too, sailing in aboard to keep the cost down. Crews Yacht Club, and the Royal Southern YC Below hot sunshine and strong breeze on big are incredibly varied, from groups of itself came fourth in a Beneteau 47.7 Raceboats can white-capped waves. Yachting glitterati sailing club friends, to families and chartered from Global . be chartered for similar regattas and ordinary club sailors – a high all-female teams; last year there was Hurry and get organised if you want to across the region proportion from Britain – mix and chat even a boat full of airline pilots! go; lots of those who chartered boats last at the famous après-race parties, all held A brilliant way to experience Antigua year have already re-booked for 2016. in the balmy open air, mostly with great Sailing Week is to buy an individual berth music, a beer tent and a barbecue. aboard one of the big racing yachts run It’s far from exclusive and anyone by companies such as Sailing Logic and can enter. At 2015’s Sailing Week there Performance Yacht Charter. The latter were 121 boats and over 1,000 sailors. offers berths on several boats including I met Michael Wilson’s crew from the the Swan 51 Northern Child; I chatted Isle of Man who’d chartered the smallest to the crew after racing in Antigua, all boat in the regatta, a 1720. “We’re looking tanned and fit after an exciting having a great time,” they said, “the day on the water, and buzzing with racing is fantastic, and Antigua Yacht enthusiasm and camaraderie. Some Club is so friendly and laid back.” had taken the week off work, others Their boat was one of several chartered were on gap years or sabbaticals. All by Antigua’s National Sailing Academy. were full of praise for the professional “It’s an economical way to do Sailing skipper and mate who got the team Week,” said Michael, “we’re hoping working like a well-oiled machine more people will race 1720s next year.” while having the time of their lives. There are lots of opportunities for Or how about persuading your club

PHOTOS THIS PAGE: PAUL WYETH/ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK SAILING WYETH/ANTIGUA PAUL THIS PAGE: PHOTOS individuals to find a place on a boat, to enter a team in the Royal Southern

12 Yachts & Yachting Travel 2016 yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_010-014,016_Caribbean.indd 12 16/02/2016 11:08 2 Flotilla holiday chart- British Virgin Islands

Island-hopping doesn’t get better than Right The BVI Spring in the British Virgin Islands. One of the Regatta offers most popular yacht charter destinations plenty of action on the planet, and perfect for first-time Below cruisers, the BVI (as they’re usually Sheltered bays make for a relaxed called) are a group of more than 50 overall experience

beautiful islands. Most of the sailing Bottom INGRID ABERY area is sheltered from the might of The idyllic White Bay, Jost Van the trade winds by the big island of Dyke, in the BVIs Virgin Gorda, making sailing easy for novice yacht crews. Navigation is undemanding too: the islands are so close together that you need never sail for more than a couple of hours a day. Flotillas are popular here, the lead crew taking the strain out of your first attempts at navigation and anchoring, and recommending the best bar or restaurant for the night ahead. Having been sworn bareboaters for years, we decided to try a flotilla in the BVI and realised what

we’d been missing – fun, friendly people THE MOORINGS to chat with over drinks or a barbecue, comparing notes on the day’s adventures, making the experience more of a party. as being lots of fun. It’s hosted by one the bar and restaurant and lovely beach. We could still enjoy peaceful times on of the BVI’s most enticing harbours, The BVI thrive on their reputation pristine beaches during the day before Nanny Cay, a marina and boatyard as the Caribbean’s ‘nursery slopes’ but meeting up with the group in the evening. that’s expanding to meet demand for experienced sailors can stretch their Highlights include the Soggy Dollar berths without losing its Caribbean sealegs by making the 13-mile open- Bar on the island of Jost Van Dyke. charm. It’s a great place to stop over water passage from Virgin Gorda to Sip their signature Painkiller cocktail if you’re feeling the need for comforts outlying Anegada, a low coral island (Pusser’s rum, fruit juice and coconut) like showers, launderette and shops, famous for its snorkelling. In the full lying in a hammock slung between two including a big new chandlery. We ended force of the trade winds and big Atlantic palm trees gazing out on a turquoise sea. up staying for two nights, tempted by rollers, it’s an exhilarating ride. There’s fantastic diving around The Indians rocks; even just snorkelling you’ll see lots of brightly coloured tropical fish and other-worldly coral formations. If you cruise slowly past Richard Branson’s Necker Island you might see the man himself. By this time it might be several days since you stocked up at the supermarket at the charter base on the main island of Tortola. The BVIs are still – just – free from major building development so marinas and waterside shops are few and far between. However, past Necker inside Virgin Gorda’s North Sound you can get provisions in Leverick Bay: anchor off the upmarket Bitter End Yacht Club – maybe going ashore for a drink if you’re feeling bold – and have dinner at Fat Virgin’s Cafe in Biras Creek, a fun, laid-back place that’s only accessible by water. The annual BVI Spring Regatta and

Sailing Festival is fiercely fought as well INGRID ABERY

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3 Jewel of the Caribbean The Tobago Cays

These five, tiny uninhabited islands are Once inside the entrance to the lagoon, launches visit from other islands in the Above Explore by tender dotted in a tranquil lagoon, protected all is calm. Drop your anchor or pick up a chain selling bread and fish. At night (left); boat boys from the Atlantic swell by an enormous mooring buoy and watch the surf crashing we barbecued tuna steaks on board Below coral reef. Don’t be confused by the on the reef while your boat floats in then lay on deck gazing at the stars Saint Jean is a name, this spectacular and unforgettable undisturbed crystal clear water. Then swim not just above us but right down to the popular St Barths’ beach; J-Class place is not part of Tobago; it’s in or take the tender to explore, and don’t miss horizon. Many miles from the nearest yacht Ranger the Grenadines chain, reached from the chance to swim with turtles off Baradel civilisation, there’s no light pollution sails in the St Barths Bucket charter bases in either Grenada to the Island. I still have a huge pink conch shell – it felt like being in a planetarium. south or St Vincent to the north. I found on a Tobago Cays beach, and if At some stage you need to tear yourself You’ll sail here in northeasterly trade you venture inland on the islands you away and explore at least a couple of winds of 15-25 knots in rolling – classic might spot tame tortoises and iguanas. other islands in the Grenadines chain, Caribbean conditions and Champagne There are no shops or restaurants like gorgeous, swanky Mustique, tiny sailing for more experienced crews. here, but ‘boat boys’ in high speed Petit St Vincent and vibrant Bequia.

4 Best for celeb-spotting St Barths

This chic French island, which hosts We stayed for two days in beautiful races like the St Barths Bucket regatta for Gustavia Harbour, going ashore in the world’s biggest sailing the dinghy to the town where one is best known as a favourite destination minute you are walking on a dirt for celebrities. The likes of Beyoncé, track, the next you are standing in a Harrison Ford, Leonardo di Caprio tropical Bond Street, bursting with and Rihanna into the tiny airport on designer shops providing the super-

even tinier planes. Prime time for celeb rich with essential jewels, watches, INGRID ABERY spotting is New Year’s Eve when Roman clothes and handbags by Hermes, Abramovich and other billionaires rock Bulgari, Cartier and Louis Vuitton. up to host -studded parties. While It’s a gorgeous island, small enough some stay at eye-wateringly expensive to explore on foot. Sipping a beer in a hotels, most seclude themselves in barefoot-chic beach bar that probably private villas slipping out at night cost a fortune in interior design fees, to reservation-only restaurants. you never know who might walk in. But any sailor can arrive in a boat Our two-week bareboat chartered from nearby St Martin and charter took us from St Barths on anchor for free. One yacht agent told me, to St Kitts and Nevis, then back to “Americans charter huge and the St Martin charter base via don’t even unfurl the sails, they motor to Anguilla, a round trip of about 150 St Barths, drop anchor, and use the boat miles and another unforgettable

as a floating apartment for the week.” Caribbean experience. INGRID ABERY

14 Yachts & Yachting Travel 2016 yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_010-014,016_Caribbean.indd 14 16/02/2016 11:09 The perfect family Sailing Holiday

BAREBOAT  SKIPPERED  ASSISTED  TRAINING

WWW.SAILIONIAN.COM [email protected] +44(0)800 3213800

A fantastic Sailing adventure

UNION ISLAND MAYREAU

TOBAGO CAYS

BAREBOAT  SKIPPERED  ASSISTED  TRAINING

WWW.SAILGRENADINES.COM [email protected] +44(0)800 3213801 CARIBBEAN TRAVEL

5 Summer beach-hopping The Bahamas

There are around 700 islands in the why most charter boats are catamarans. Bahamas, best known for their seemingly Even though the Abaco Islands, limitless sandy beaches and incredible where most charters begin, are only an wrecks and reefs for snorkelling and hour’s flight from Miami, there are still diving. Luckily you won’t need to puzzle uncrowded places where you can swim over which islands to choose in your and snorkel in the lagoon-like shallows. week or two, as the charter companies The advantage of their proximity to will advise on the best places to see, with the USA is that the Bahamas offer just a few hours’ sailing between them. easy living with plenty of convenient

Unlike our other hot picks, summer is harbours where you can moor up THE MOORINGS the best time to visit the Bahamas if you and walk ashore to bars, restaurants want balmy temperatures. Winds and shops, great for those who are trench, and see several species of are lighter than in the rest of the not so keen on remote places like the turtle in Great Guana Cay. Other Caribbean making this an ideal place Grenadines where it’s simply you, your highlights include Treasure Cay with its for first-time cruisers, though you need anchor, a lonely beach and the stars. immense, almost deserted white sand to keep an eye on where you are as the You can dive with sharks in the beaches, and the olde-worlde villages waters are shallow – which is one reason Tongue of the Ocean 20-mile undersea of Man-O-War Cay and Hopetown.

6 If you’re feeling adventurous Cuba

When Christopher Columbus discovered Cuba in 1492, he said, “This is the most beautiful land one has ever seen.” Cuba is definitely on my bucket list. Howard Richardson of Nautilus Yachting, one of the few major charter companies to offer Cuban holidays, says it’s a wonderful place for sailing, but not the easiest, and only experienced skippers with navigation and night sailing experience are encouraged to try it. This is because the charter areas are two groups of offshore islands and itineraries either start or finish with a 60-70 mile overnight passage between the base at Cienfuegos on the south side of Cuba to your chosen cruising area. (The other leg, either there or back, is a mere 15 miles.) Constant 15-25 knot northeasterly tradewinds should ensure

that the journey is at a reasonable speed. LTD YACHTING NAUTILUS A week’s trip to the Canarreos Archipelago offers hundreds of Reina (‘Queen’s Gardens’), a stunningly and soak up the atmosphere. anchorages, and stopovers varying beautiful nature reserve that’s home to Cienfuegos, too, is a lively city with from deserted tiny islands to tourist flamingoes, iguanas and turtles. When plenty of restaurants and nightlife. resorts. There are exquisite beaches, snorkelling you might even find the With the USA re-establishing relations coral reefs for snorkelling, a nature reputed long-lost pirates’ treasure. with Cuba, it’s likely that tourism will reserve famous for its monkeys, and Before or after your trip to the grow rapidly over the next few years. the occasional restaurant. Don’t miss islands, make sure to add time in The advice is, if you want to experience the turtle and crocodile farms. Havana to see the historic buildings, sailing in Cuba as it is now – an off the Alternatively head for Jardines de la listen to intoxicating Cuban music beaten track adventure – do it soon.

16 Yachts & Yachting Travel 2016 yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_010-014,016_Caribbean.indd 16 16/02/2016 11:09 TAILOR-MADE YACHTING HOLIDAYS... Click here THE SUNSCAPE WAY to view our website FLOTILLA & BAREBOAT CHARTER

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Toll Free UK: 07024 083332 T: +1 284 494 4289 [email protected] www.bviyachtcharters.com here are more charter boats to get to grips with handling a yacht. you want a gentle cruise or an exciting in Greece and its 6,000 Days on a Greek yachting holiday in adventure. One young couple I know, islands than in any other the ‘best for beginners’ Ionian islands both good sailors, regretted spending country in the world. This take on a familiar rhythm: breakfast, their romantic getaway bashing north is the place where countless gentle cruise to a white powder beach for against the Meltemi in the Dodecanese. sailors have taken their first a picnic lunch, a faster sail in the stronger A larger crew might have enjoyed Tsteps from to big boats and it’s afternoon wind to a picturesque harbour, the challenge but my friends would not hard to understand why. All-day practising your stern-to mooring. have been better off with a one-way sunshine is pretty much guaranteed After that, settle on deck or at a downwind charter, a more sheltered from May to September, giving you waterside bar to watch later incomers’ area, or a trip earlier or later in the the option of a mid-summer scorcher antics, before dinner of kebabs, year when winds are lighter. or a money-saving shoulder season moussaka or fresh fish at a friendly Most charter companies have bases cruise in gorgeous, warm weather. taverna, with carafes of the local wine. in a number of parts of Greece and Parts of Greece with closely-spaced More experienced sailors will will help you pick the best location islands tucked away from the notorious probably prefer windier areas with for your level and experience and Meltemi wind make perfect exploration longer distances between islands. size of crew. They rely heavily on grounds for beginners, where those with If you’re confident on a yacht you’ll repeat bookings and word-of-mouth no navigation experience can easily get be able to sail from Athens to some recommendation so it’s in their around using ‘eyeball’ pilotage, sailing of the Mediterranean’s hottest party interests that you have a good time. to a different place every day, always in islands in the breezy Cyclades. Whichever Odyssey you choose, sight of land. With negligible tides and The trick, if you’re thinking about a you’ll hardly scratch the surface of deep entrances, harbours are relatively sailing holiday in Greece, is to choose the the hundreds of beautiful islands simple to motor in and out of (unless area and time of year carefully, according on the charter itineraries, which is there’s a strong cross-wind), and many to your level of experience and the why so many sailors go back again places in the Ionian and Saronic Gulf are crew’s idea of what a sunshine holiday and again, and there are those who ideal for short-handed or novice crews should be like. Ask yourselves whether would never go anywhere else.

GREEK ODYSSEY SARAH NORBURY tours the Greek Isles to pick out the popular stop offs and uncover hidden gems

YY_Travel_2016_018_022_Greece.indd 18 16/02/2016 11:11 YY_Travel_2016_018_022_Greece.indd 19 16/02/2016 11:11

PHOTO: STUART PEARCE/SUNSAIL Set up to charter

To charter a boat in Greece, whether bareboat or flotilla, the skipper will need an ICC (International Certificate of Competence), RYA Day Skipper or higher qualification (unless you go with Sailing Holidays, which has dispensation to accept complete beginners on flotillas). Don’t worry if you don’t already have a certificate, because Greece, more than another other charter destination, is set up to cater for first-time yachties. Options range from a one-day ICC course to three or more days with an instructor on board. Or use a weekend in spring to get your ICC before you go at sailing school closer to home. If you can’t decide between a dinghy beach club holiday and yacht cruising, why not do both? Companies such as Neilson, Ocean Elements and Seafarer offer combined PHOTO: NICK POWELL/NAUTILUS YACHTING YACHTING NICK POWELL/NAUTILUS PHOTO: holidays consisting of a week 1 Above at a dinghy club and a week’s A charter boat cruising, or dinghy holidays The Ionian gives you total independence that include the chance to BEST FOR makes a tempting choice. But it’s Below take one of the club yachts þ Beginners great for groups of friends, too. One Easing into the out on a day by day basis. day - mornings þ Relaxed sailing of my favourite sailing holidays was a are usually calm þ Families brilliantly varied week in the Ionian, from a quiet village taverna one night to For gentle sailing and easy island- the clubs and bars of Fiskardo the next. hopping, the Ionian Sea on the west From busy ports like Nidri we found coast of Greece is perfect. Most charter ourselves alone in a bay on the Onassis itineraries consist of short hops island of Skorpios, swimming from between the mainland and the string the bathing platform in a shimmering of beautiful, mountainous islands, turquoise lagoon. We spent as much sheltered from the open sea at all times. time sunbathing as we motored along More experienced sailors can head on windless mornings as we did for Corfu in the north of the chain for trimming sails in the afternoons – more exposed, stronger wind sailing. just the kind of holiday we wanted. The entire Ionian area lies outside the And who could resist visiting Ithaca, path of the Meltemi, and the prevailing the island in Homer’s Odyssey that north-westerly breezes are usually light hero, Odysseus yearned for on his in the mornings, building to Force 2 long journey home from the Trojan to 5 in the afternoons, ideal for getting wars? Or Kephalonia, the setting used to skills, including anchoring for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin? and berthing side- and stern-to. You can fly direct to Corfu and In July and August the winds in the Preveza airports so transfer times to Cyclades, Dodecanese and Sporades your charter base are under an hour; are especially strong, so for families much easier than those charter bases that

with young children the gentler Ionian involve a flight to Athens then a ferry. PEARCE/SUNSAIL STUART PHOTO:

20 Travel 2016 Yachts & Yachting yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_018_022_Greece.indd 20 16/02/2016 11:11 GREECE TRAVEL

PHOTO: NAUTILUS YACHTING

2 The Cyclades

BEST FOR holiday here in Meltemi season (mid- Above charter holiday. Highlights include þ Strong winds The allure of a June till late August) too challenging traditional Greek the windmills of Mykonos, the þ Bareboat adventures for the less experienced yacht sailor. island harbour incredible volcanic crater of Santorini þ Experienced sailors On the other hand, if you’re looking Below and the ancient ruins on Delos. þ Partying for exhilarating passage-making, go Kos is a highlight Mykonos, Paros and Naxos are party to the Cyclades in high summer and of the Dodecanese central, packed with holidaymakers The Cyclades are the islands that get your charter boat belting along in from Athens and around the world, but visitors expect all of Greece to look the Meltemi which can blow for days when you need to get away from the like – whitewashed houses, tiny at a time at to 6, sometimes 7 crowds simply raise your anchor and chapels with blue-painted domes, to 8. The breezes are lighter, at around head for quieter Kithnos, Sifnos, Milos, quaint tavernas, arid mountains, deep Force 3 to 4 in spring and autumn, and Kea, and the unspoilt lesser-known little blue water and beaches so white you tend to be gentler at all times of year islands like Iraklia and Dhounoussa. scrunch up your eyes from the glare. down in the southwestern Cyclades. The majority of Cyclades charters However, these 50 islands – scattered Each island is unique with a start from Athens at one of the in a circle in the central Aegean – are charm of its own and it’s impossible marinas a short taxi ride from the windiest in Greece, making a to visit them all on a two-week the airport, but flying direct to

3 The Dodecanese

BEST FOR island just for the stunning view from þ Strong wind the water of the Palace of the Grand þ Variety – from tourist resorts Master and a wander in the pebbled to historic cosmopolitan towns streets of the medieval Old Town, a þ Unspolit gems UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kos is built-up with resorts, but its capital There are direct flights from the UK to is equally brimming with history, charter bases on Rhodes and Kos, the including the ancient Agora ruins. two major islands in the Dodecanese For a sophisticated atmosphere, head area in the eastern corner of the Aegean for Symi whose Gialos harbour is one of close to the Turkish coast. In high the finest in Greece, graced by elegant summer the Meltemi blows from the sea captains’ houses and smart bars. north as strongly as in the Cyclades, ‘Dodeca’ means 12 but there are but at a more comfortable average actually 14 islands in the chain and, Force 2 to 4 in spring and autumn. in complete contrast to Rhodes and Around a million tourists descend Kos, escaping the crowds is easy; on Rhodes each year, many heading just head for the smaller islands to for resorts like the infamous Faliraki find exquisite, tranquil anchorages

as seen on TV. It’s worth visiting the and your own private beach. YACHTING NAUTILUS PHOTO:

Travel 2016 Yachts & Yachting 21

YY_Travel_2016_018_022_Greece.indd 21 16/02/2016 13:06 4 Saronic Gulf and Peloponnese

BEST FOR but interesting! Once ashore it was þ Moderate winds all forgotten with the first Mythos þ Towns steeped in history beer and plate of crisp fried squid. þ Greek sophistication Sophisticates will enjoy the island þ Sail directly from Athens of Hydra, traditional favourite of film stars and a lovely town to stroll in The area between Athens – down the due to cars being banned: transport western Greek mainland and up between being by four legs, not four wheels, the first two fingers of the Peloponnese in the form of photogenic donkeys. – is ‘real’ Greece, busy in summer with My favourite stop is Poros, once PHOTO: STUART PEARCE/SUNSAIL STUART PHOTO: visitors from Athens but relatively you’ve hustled for a gap on the harbour undiscovered by foreign tourists. wall, which is all part of the fun. It’s Being on the eastern edge of the busy, pretty and being in the lee of the Above left Taking the plunge Meltemi’s path, the winds here tend to be mainland, sheltered, and it’s fun to on a Saronic Gulf less strong in July and August than in the navigate the channel out and around charter Cyclades; the prevailing, southerly breeze to Spetses (setting for John Fowles’ Flotilla or averaging Force 3. If the Meltemi arrives The Magus), where I’m convinced we Above right When the Meltemi Charter from the north it blows on average 4 once saw two whales in the distance. abates, there’s to 5 – but beware of sudden stronger Highlights for history lovers can plenty of Which wins opportunity for gusts on the eastern Peloponnese coast. be found on the mainland, including other activities your vote? The first stop from Athens is Aegina, the ancient Greek amphitheatre at which gets so full of motorboats from Epidavros, the Venetian castle of Join the debate and read the capital that when we visited they Nafplion, the captivating former more on page 28 filled the harbour three boats out capital of Greece, and the Byzantine from the wall. Mooring was stressful, gem, Monemvasia; simply stunning.

5 The Sporades

BEST FOR islands have retained their traditional little trouble finding a spot to stay. þ Fresh breeze, beyond beginner level charm – despite Skopelos being the For relaxing days just swimming and þ Off the beaten track, unspoilt setting for the film Mamma Mia. You can lazing, seek out the bays of Agnonda þ Forested islands climb those famous, vertiginous curving or Panormos with their beaches and þ Stunning beaches steps up to the little chapel and sing your tavernas. Koukounaries beach on heart out like Pierce Brosnan and Meryl Skiathos is often listed as one of the The Sporades islands offer longer open- Streep, (but don’t expect the interior great beaches of the world – busy, but water passages for more experienced to be as it was in the film, it’s not). breathtaking. It’s worth anchoring sailors. The northerly Meltemi hits Lively Skiathos town has nightlife to for lunch in turquoise water within Force 6 in July and August but winds please teenagers but is a million miles the wide-gold arc of sand but not tend to be moderate outside those away in spirit from the likes of Faliraki. recommended for overnight shelter. months. Even at the height of the Also, visit the capitals of Alonysoss Getting there involves a ferry ride Meltemi there’s shelter on the southern and Skopelos if you like classic Greek but as someone who’s been to Skiathos sides of the islands, which have harbour-towns and lots of places to and fallen in love with the place, I’d remained free of tourist development. eat and drink. With fewer charter say if you’re looking for the next step Amazingly, these green, pine-forested yachts than in most places, you’ll have up from the Ionian, this is it.

22 Travel 2016 Yachts & Yachting yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_018_022_Greece.indd 22 16/02/2016 11:12 yachts and yachting wildwind 20151218.indd 1 19/12/2015 14:23:35 BEACH CLUB MYTHS BUSTED If you’ve ever thought a sailing centre holiday isn’t for you, it’s time to think again. HELEN FRETTER dispells some common preconceptions

YY_Travel_2016_024-027_Myth Buster.indd 24 16/02/2016 11:13 TRAVEL DINGHY BEACH CLUBS

YTH #1 – THEY’RE At the Neilson Messini base we found present enough of a challenge, there MOSTLY FOR the timetabled activities included was always the option to pop back NOVICE SAILORS plenty of RYA courses for those just ashore and swap to a windsurfer – It’s true that beach clubs starting out, but daily Laser races were many of the most experienced racers are a brilliant place to split by ability, giving experienced joined the beach team for some high Mlearn to sail, or build your skills, but club racers decent competition speed blasting around on a board they are definitely not just holidays for throughout the week. There was also at the end of the windiest days. newbies. There were some seriously the chance to try catamaran sailing, Elsewhere, there are several experienced sailors out on the water and racing from the wire on a cat independent sailing centres that place when we headed to Greece to visit proved a fairly steep learning curve for a big emphasis on instruction catered Neilson’s biggest beach club as a family, even well practiced dinghy sailors. towards experienced helms and crews. for a late summer break in September. As with many Mediterranean Minorca Sailing offers advanced sailors Amongst them were several who beach centres, while conditions in the instruction in techniques, work in the sport enjoying a relaxing mornings were generally very light, boat tuning clinics, and competitive week after a busy domestic season, and a the afternoon breeze built steadily, racing in many classes, with special multiple European and world champion peaking at a Force 4-5 on some days, coaching weeks held in classes such who pretty much demolished the with a nice rolling swell to add to the as the and RS fleets.

IMAGE: C/O NEILSON NEILSON C/O IMAGE: competition every time he went sailing. fun. And if the dinghy sailing didn’t Wildwind Sailing is based at the big

YY_Travel_2016_024-027_Myth Buster.indd 25 16/02/2016 11:13 C/O GLOBAL SHOTS/WILDWIND

winds venue of Vassiliki, with punchy Above briefing at Messini the staff made it family and friends that you should also Performance cats catamarans such as the and like Wildwind’s F18 very clear that if something breaks, you go on a sailing based holiday. But at F18 , and a wide range Hobie Tigers offer should simply hand it over to the beach Messini there were hardly any husbands an extra challenge of dinghies that includes the Laser team to deal with, and then jump into or wives hanging around waiting for 4000 and RS500. And if you want the next ready-rigged boat, with the their other half to come in off the water. to take on a new challenge, the Pro minimum of sailing time lost. If weather In fact, most of the couples and groups Vela sailing centre on Mar Menor conditions change, you can switch to of friends did their own thing for most specialises in teaching experienced something else. Or if the wind dies of the week, and only joined up for meal sailors to fly a foiling Moth, with Spanish completely, you could grab a SUP or times. The packed Neilson programme sunshine and warm water to make the and go for a paddle. There was meant you could quite easily spend experience even more enjoyable. definitely no such thing as boring. a whole week out on guided road or mountain bike rides, improving your Below MYTH #2 Minorca Sailing is MYTH #3 game on the tennis courts, or mixing it THE KIT IS BORING tailored to racers; THERE’S NOTHING ELSE TO DO up with some fitness classes, spa time, Most clubs include This is far from true! Neilson Messini, other activities If you spend all your free weekends , … There is like many beach clubs, had a large fleet such as bike clinics sailing, it might be a hard sell to convince an endless list of options, which probably of Picos and a handful of family friendly explains why so many people we met designs (such as the Bahia) on the were taking a fortnight’s holiday. There beach, because they are great teaching is simply no way you would manage boats. But there was also the chance to to do everything on offer in a week. try the RS500, and a fleet of catamarans The other factor that allows you to including the fun single-wire RS Cat 16. cram so much in, is the inclusive wrap- As mentioned above, other centres around childcare. With a combination offer a wide range of designs from the of full days, half days and even evening RS200 to , recent launches such as ‘sleep clubs’, there is no dashing from the RS100 or RS Aero, skiffs including one activity to crèche to pick up the , Musto Skiff or RS800, fast stranded kids. The childcare fits around cats, and foiling Moths. When you book, the activity times, so everyone in each it’s worth checking the equipment list family can enjoy time to do what they

to see what’s available. For 2016, Ocean MINORCA SAILING C/O want. Of course, if that’s lying on a Elements is offering a performance boat sunlounger, or making sandcastles upgrade package, giving experienced as a family, that’s just fine too. sailors exclusive access to boats such Other beach clubs offer different as the RS Aero, RS100, RS200, RS500 options – Vassiliki is a world-renowned and RS800 for a weekly charge. windsurfing destination and many For some more high performance centres there offer higher performance designs, life on a sandy beach is less boards as well as dinghies, while the than ideal and you may occasionally Wildwind centre there also offers find your dinghy of choice in the pit a healthy options programme that lane for part of your holiday. But that’s includes yoga, snorkelling, fitness part of the joy of a beach centre – all classes, and guided walks. Ocean the boat maintenance is somebody Elements centres not only include RYA

else’s responsibility. At the first day OCEAN ELEMENTS C/O courses in their holiday cost, but other

26 Yachts & Yachting Travel 2016 yachtsandyachting.co.uk

YY_Travel_2016_024-027_Myth Buster.indd 26 16/02/2016 11:14 DINGHY BEACH CLUBS TRAVEL C/O WARNER C/O C/O MARK WARNER C/O

activities such as bike skills clinics The poolside bar made a smart cocktail, Above to make polite conversation over dinner, Mark Warner and beach yoga, as well as childcare. but also had a very laid-back vibe. offers luxury or pressured to join in with ‘fun’ socials Mark Warner clubs offer childcare Mark Warner’s purpose-built hotels and family that involve public singing – fear not. from 4 months to 17 years (free from 2 Levante base on the Greek island of focused facilities We found plenty of opportunities to years), with evening babysitting options Rhodes is another modern five-star get to know our fellow holidaymakers, for little ones, and optional ‘Indy Club’ hotel, but also offers a pan-Asian and some great friendships formed, sessions and socials for older teens. and a la carte restaurant alongside with cocktail making masterclasses, Several of its beach bases also specialise buffet and taverna-style dining. ‘booze ’n’ balls’ (alcohol-fuelled tennis) in tennis – the Lakitera base boasts Meanwhile, some beach bases have a and daily volleyball championships at nine courts, with intensive coaching range of accommodation to suit different Messini. But it’s all voluntary. If you available (£250 per week) – and activity budgets – Minorca Sailing’s self-catering want to get lost in your book, enjoy a programmes that include mountain options range from simple apartments quiet dinner for two, or explore by bike biking, scuba diving, and wakeboarding to the stylish ‘premier’ villas, with alone, that is absolutely fine too. And if or waterskiing are widely available. sleek kitchens and seafront terraces. you really want peace and quiet, going Offering a taste of the local culture, for a gentle sail or paddle in the light MYTH #4 Seafarer’s Nikiana beach club on the morning breeze was hard to beat. THE HOTELS ARE A BIT BASIC Greek island of Lefkas prides itself on Read around carefully as many I first went on a beach club holiday over a the local family-run taverna on site - its clubs have a different atmosphere – for decade ago, and the standard of hotels on small hotel (25 rooms) is on a B&B example, Neilson’s smaller Seaside offer has come a long way since. Messini basis only to allow guests to make the Beachclub in Turkey has special ‘adults is one of Neilson’s newest five-star most of the authentic local cuisine. only’ weeks throughout the season. purpose built resorts, and as such is very Mark Warner’s Helona Beach Resort is high spec, with modernist design, ensuite MYTH #5 a modernist hotel dotted with infinity rooms with huge beds, and all mod-cons. THEY’RE NOT VERY RELAXING pools (some attached to private villas), It’s not all for show either – air-con so If holidays are about getting away from and an à la carte restaurant, spa and you can get a decent night’s sleep even it all, then a beach club holiday might Below hamman on site. It is sited near the Foiling Moths in high summer, large balconies with make you nervous. If you dread being are the highlight activity and family-focused Lakitira drying rack for swimsuits and sports herded from activity to activity, forced at Pro-Vela beach club, so visitors can enjoy kit, flatscreen televisions and Wi-Fi. Lakitira’s sailing or sports programmes, However, if you want formal dining but come back to a relaxing hotel. then Messini is probably not for you. The You don’t have to limit yourself to open-air restaurant served buffet meals the Mediterranean either. Wildwind’s for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The new Mauritius base offers tropical choice, quality and quantity of food was beaches to relax on, whilst Antigua’s of a very high standard – lots of grilled Nonsuch Bay offers an idyllic and meats and fish, a huge range of salads luxurious Caribbean option, boasting a featuring local ingredients, and more 30-strong fleet, including the RS Aero. olives than you could shake a stick at (we Ultimately, the great thing about were near Kalamata after all). There are beach club holidays is that everything is family and adults-only zones, but expect taken care of, with little more required kids crowding round the chocolate of you than a bit of leisurely hiking. fountain, with flipflops and boardshorts For me, that makes them one of the

very much the dress code for the week. PRO VELA C/O most relaxing holidays around.

Travel 2016 Yachts & Yachting 27

YY_Travel_2016_024-027_Myth Buster.indd 27 16/02/2016 11:14 TRAVEL CHARTER OPTIONS C/O SUNSAIL SUNSAIL C/O FLOTILLAVBAREBOAT Are you a firm believer in flotilla sailing or are bareboat charters the only option for you? SARAH NORBURY uncovers some pros and cons that might make you re-think

lotillas – sailing in company My first few charter holidays were Above friends than stuck with mum and dad. Can the fun and with a group of other bareboat. I figured we knew how to friendliness of a Charter companies will advise on which boats – offer a fun and sail and navigate, and we wanted our flotilla beat the flotillas are most popular with families. freedom of a friendly introduction to own adventures. We had a brilliant bareboat charter? The opposite of sailing gently just yachting. Every morning time just the two of us, but when we a few miles a day in company is a Fthe lead skipper holds a briefing, often eventually tried a flotilla we loved the Mediterranean bareboat adventure, in a waterside cafe, showing how to sociable evenings ashore (pontoon covering distance, exploring far and plot the day’s route on the chart with parties, barbeques, taverna suppers wide. For experienced sailors, spending optional places to stop for lunch. He and the like) the inside advice on the a week or two in the sun, especially or she will often throw in some gentle best places to anchor, and it turned in windier regions, is an exhilarating navigation advice, or advise what to do out we didn’t know everything and experience – driving along on blue when your anchor doesn’t hold, or an took tips from the lead skipper that we water with sparkling spray, heading advanced technique for cross-winds now use when sailing at home. On one for the next island on the horizon, in that evening’s harbour. Then the flotilla with Sunsail we congregated testing your nav skills, anticipating day’s your own, you can stick with a in an uninhabited bay and 10 boats Flotilla or the challenge of an unknown harbour group or go off to a deserted beach, all anchored as a raft, in a perfect line all charter and the satisfaction of a safe arrival meeting up again in late afternoon. tied together, quite a complex operation, Which wins in another stunningly beautiful place. One great thing about flotillas is then dinghied ashore and photographed your vote? With a bareboat, you’re free to sail that the lead boat arrives in harbour the impressive result before a moonlit Share your where you like, within the limits first each evening, so when your barbeque - a magical experience. views at of the charter company’s area. approach to the harbour wall goes If you’re parents to teenagers, consider Facebook.com/ In either case, why not put pear-shaped the friendly lead-crew a flotilla as your youngsters might have SailingMagazine any preconceptions aside and try are there to catch your lines. a far better time hanging out with new something new this summer?

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The leading magazine for competitive, racing sailors

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CHELSEA CHELSEA MARINE MARINE Another top sailing magazine from M A G A Z I N E S M A G A Z I N E S

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