Where to visit on an active sailing break
Choosing a holiday that involves sailing courses is one of the most rewarding trips you can go on, as not only will you be able to discover a new destination, but you will also pick up skills that you can put to use on future getaways. So, where can you learn this craft?
If you want to combine your classes with a proper holiday, you could make your way to Greece and the beach club that lies near the village of Vounaki, based at the foot of the Arkanika mountains on the shores of the Southern Ionian sea. This is an absolutely stunning spot where you will be able to soak up the sun and explore the beautiful surrounding scenery.
However, it is also perfect if you like your breaks to be active, as there is plenty on offer to have a go at here. You can try your hand at waterskiing or wakeboarding, or learn to windsail. There is also much to do on dry land, from mountain biking around the foothills to indulging in a game of tennis with your partner, family members or fellow holidaymakers.
One of the best things about this beach club is that you will be provided with a comprehensive kit that may include a variety of vessels that allow you to take to the water independently and explore. There is even a package designed especially for kids that includes a fun boat. If you have reached an advanced standard of sailing you can expect the vessels you are provided with to reflect this, but beginners don't have to miss out on the excitement, as you could hit the waves in a Wayfarer Dinghy or a Hobie 15.
Of course, the main activity you are likely to be interested in is learning to sail and you will find a comprehensive list of options on this particular watersports holiday in Greece. You can take Royal Yachting Association-accredited classes like the Competent Crew or Day Skipper course, or those designed by the Island Cruising Club. If you know how to sail but it has been a while since you indulged in the pastime, you might want to take advantage of the One Day Rusty Skipper Course, which is sure to refresh your memory.
While you get the hang of sailing, there will be plenty to do for those in your party who are not taking part. Your friends could visit the nearby spa, while your children are certain to love the kids' club, where a range of activities will be organised for them.
As you can see, this resort has so much to offer people planning an activity break and, once you have learnt how to sail, you can take part in a flotilla adventure, where you will put your skills to the test by navigating the waters along with a team of other yachtsmen. However, you may be keen to explore further afield as soon as you have become familiar with the craft - and you'll discover there are plenty of places where you can do so.
Should you wish to stick to Greece, you will certainly not be disappointed. This is a beautiful part of the world and you will be able to sail around the many islands that dot the coast. Sticking with yacht charters in the Mediterranean, Croatia is another good choice - particularly for beginners - thanks to its calm winds and good line-of-sight navigation.
However, the world is your oyster and you could travel even further to board your yacht, such as the Caribbean. There are so many paradise isles to be explored in this part of the world, you are certain to be glad your picked a sailing and dinghy holiday for your active break. You can drop anchor in the calm azure waters and dive off the vessel to go snorkelling in the waters surrounding it, or make use of the outboard dinghy you have onboard and race across the waves to the nearby island. Having such a vessel will also mean you can journey around the entire coast of the isle at your leisure, looking for an especially-beautiful spot at which to come ashore.
Yet the list of possible destinations does not end there, with other choices including the South Pacific, south-east Asia, the Indian Ocean and even the south coast of the UK.
Set sail on your next active break - you're certain to find it is the trip of a lifetime.
