Keeping track of when to go sailing can be daunting. Each area has its own off, high or peak season, some are dependant on Monsoons or annual wind cycles and you have to watch out for the mid-summer heat. So, we've got you covered... 

(Hint: if you’re looking for value, shoulder season may be your best option.)

The Mediterannean & European barging: 

Spain | France | Italy | Greece | Croatia | Turkey | Malta | Netherlands | Germany | U.K | 

Following the European Summer is actually quite easy, the Mediterranean areas tend to have very similar conditions to those in Cape Town, while the northern areas (& Greece) will have dryer, colder winters with Snow.

Remember their summer falls in June/July and most places are shut completely in winter because of the snow. So: 

October until March: CLOSE FOR WINTER
Peak Season: Late May—early October
Shoulder Season: May—early June; late September—October

The Exception: Malta does not close for Winter! 

Weather to keep in mind:

Greece -  Meltemi winds blow in the eastern regions around Athens between June & August. These strong prevailing winds can be unfavourable for anyone looking for a calm cruise through the islands. We suggest aiming to charter in either May or September to miss this. Prices & activities will also be cheaper as these months are closer to the shoulder season. 

Malta is the exception and has a much warmer winter than most places in the med and does not close over winter. However this is still not ideal as the winds can be unpredictable and the air temperature can drop.  If you're looking to avoid the crowds and the wind, chartering in March/ earlyApril or October is the way to go. 

U.K, Germany, Netherlands & Northern France (Barging): These countries have proper winter seasons. Snow, Ice & strong winds. So the closer you get to the shoulder season, the chillier it will be. This also means that Peak season is much more expensive & busy as tourists flock to the short-lived warmth. Ideally one should aim to Barge in May/early June or September. 

Canada - Although not in Europe, Canada has the same winter season as Europe. Snow & ice is also a big factor and the Barging is most favourable from end of May until end of September.

The Caribbean & Bahamas: 

The British Virgin Islands | The Caribbean | The Bahamas

Warm throughout the year, the Caribbean area is the ideal beachcomber paradise. However, they do experience Hurricanes in most areas that can be devastating. Hurricanes are most prevalent between July and November throughout the area. Some Islands can be more sheltered than others and Hurricanes do not necessarily hit every area each time. 

To avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time it is best to chat to us directly so we can make sure the exact time for the year you want to go. 

End November until End February: Peak season

March until  beginning June: High Season

Because of the warm climate over the American winter, the area becomes very busy over the Christmas & new year period. The Caribbean has a very short shoulder season that is very dependent on school holidays. When the holidays end most people head home, but the weather does not change much.

NB: American school holidays are much shorter than ours in December.so if possible aim to go in late Jan early Feb

Thailand

June until August: Monsoon season

December until March: Mid-February: Peak season

Much like the Caribbean, Thailand has favourable weather all year round. With easy temperatures between 25℃ to 30℃ and water as warm as a bath. However in the Monsoon season wind & rain squalls can be unpredictable, often meaning you would have to move mooring/anchorage at a moments notice. We suggest that unless you are experienced and comfortable enough to handle these conditions, you aim for anther time of year. 

Seychelles

Keeping you closer to home, sailing in the Seychelles is not only east going, but perfect almost all year. 

The archipelago, which rarely experiences really strong winds, is under the influence of a highly distinctive system consisting of two monsoons separated by a month of variable weather.

From May to October, almost constant winds blow south-easterly with clear skies.

The winds drop in November and gives way to north-westerly’s bringing heavy rains clouds. Heaviest rainfall is in January and can reach 370mm/4.5 in.

The south-easterly wind pattern returns in April.  April and May are the sunniest months; however, the cloudiest months still manage a daily average of 5.30 hours of sun.
The NW monsoon gives rise to a current to the East from December to April. Its average speed is 1.5 Knots, though speeds of 4 knots have been recorded locally. In April the current reverses. From June to September, currents flow westwards at a regular rate of 1.2 Knots but passages through flats can increase the speed to approximately 4 Knots. The return to currents flowing east takes place in December.

Please note: all weather predictions above  are based off of annual averages. Weather can change from year to year. 

So now you know the basics, pick you time, pick your place and we'll help you find the boat. Contact our specialists if you have any questions.