First, it was the impact of Covid travel restrictions. Now, the cost-of-living crisis is making Brits more likely to explore local holiday options closer to home. And some of the awesome experiences on offer are going a long way towards changing people’s opinion of Britain as a travel destination. One type of experience you simply won’t want to miss during your domestic holiday is a sailing adventure – as it will show you the UK from an entirely different perspective.
A sailing holiday is more than just the freedom of the open water. It’s the chance to sample the rich scenery and diverse wildlife of the UK. So, what is there to think about before setting sail?
First, you need to choose your destination; a decision that isn’t the easiest. Be sure to check the weather (and shipping) forecast, which may help to inform your choice. Pack clothes for all forms of weather, too. Using a vessel of your own? It may bring you peace of mind to investigate relevant boat insurance cover options suited to the type of journey you will be embarking on. Once the preparations are in place, you will be ready to set sail on a truly memorable voyage to one of these epic British sailing holiday destinations.
Falmouth, Cornwall
The Cornish coast is one of the UK’s stand-out natural landscapes. So, it’s almost inevitable that it ranks as one of the top sailing destinations on these isles. Falmouth provides an abundance of sailing opportunities. From here, you can learn yachting in the harbour – or head out further afield to discover pristine beaches, observe dolphins in their natural habitat, or unearth smugglers’ coves. Paddle-boarding is popular here, too.
Hebrides, Scotland
The geography of the Hebrides archipelago off Scotland’s west coast is as dramatic as it comes in Britain. Rugged landscapes include towering peaks that give way to beaches to rival the best of the Caribbean. In-between, find rustic fishing villages and enduring Gàidhealtachd – areas of Gaelic-speaking communities steeped in tradition.
It also offers the ideal combination of island hopping and ocean-going adventures. Of course, it goes without saying that you can’t afford to take the Atlantic Ocean lightly here.
Norfolk Broads
For a more sedate sailing holiday, the Norfolk Broads is a unique patchwork of rivers and lakes that cover 303 square kilometres. It’s a popular place for calming cruises, nature spotting, and photography – not to mention angling, open water swimming, and even jet-skiing. Don’t worry about your tranquillity being interrupted either. It’s easy to go undisturbed for days here.
North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire is home to some of England’s most popular seaside destinations. Scarborough, Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes, and more – all enjoyed by hundreds of thousands each year. But that’s from the land. What about on the water? Well, it’s your gateway to sandy beaches and rugged cliffscapes – dotted with historic ruins, quaint fishing villages, and delightful seafood.
Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire
With its huge natural harbour, Milford Haven is an exquisite sailing destination. It’s also just on the outskirts of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. If you want to stay on the water, there are yachting and cruising opportunities aplenty – not to mention swimming in the protected bays and coves. On land, there are park hikes and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail.
The five options here are prime examples of the sailing destinations available in Britain. There’s no shortage of alternatives either – from the lochs of Scotland, across to the spectacular Antrim coast in Northern Ireland, and down through Wales to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. So, if you want a staycation less ordinary, it’s hard to go wrong with a British sailing holiday.
