Why go on a flotilla sailing holiday?
There are so many reasons to go on flotilla sailing holidays that if you have never been on such a getaway, you will soon be wondering why you left it so long. Indeed, an active break on the water like this is something that is to be cherished. Read on to find out more.
Flotilla sailing is an activity where you take to the seas as part of a group of yachts, typically up to 14 vessels in total. There will also be one lead boat that you can all follow, which makes navigating your way around your destination far easier. Indeed, this type of break is ideal for those who have received some basic training in sailing but who do not yet feel confident enough to go it alone.
Another advantage is that you have the peace of mind that should something go wrong, there is expert help nearby and someone will swiftly be able to come to your assistance.
Together with your fellow skippers, you will make your way from one destination to another, stopping to come on to dry land and socialise, whether over a specially organised beach barbecue, at a punch party or a sit-down meal together at one of the local restaurants. Indeed, socialising is one of the big attractions of going on a getaway like this.
If you are sailing with your partner but are keen to make friends with your fellow travellers, a holiday like this offers the best of both worlds. While you can spend time together as a couple while onboard your yacht, you will be able to mingle with likeminded travellers whenever you stop at a destination. However, should you feel like some more alone time, you are under no obligation to join in the social events.
Yet because some of the occasions organised are so much fun, you may be keen to go to each one. Along with the beach parties there are also regattas, allowing you to race against your fellow sailors. If you're travelling as part of a group of friends as well as other holidaymakers, this could be a particularly thrilling prospect, allowing you to form a team and race to victory.
You and your friends or partner will meet many new people during your time on the water and most of them will share interests with you. Whether you are discussing sailing or your passion for travelling and discovering new locations, you should find you have plenty to talk about and could end up with a new set of acquaintances as a result.
Should you have come away with your kids, they will also love being part of a flotilla. Because the itinerary of your lead crew is so flexible, you will all have ample opportunity to explore the places you want to, or drop anchor and spend a while soaking up the sun and playing in the water. Of course, children like nothing more than a break by the sea and on a sailing adventure they will be able to visit a new beach every day should they wish.
While little ones may be quick to make friends with others their own age, you will also be able to enjoy time together as a family, both onboard and once you reach the day's destination, where you could choose to explore on foot, visit a restaurant or hit the beach. All you have to do is let the crew of the head boat know first. Plus, although your lead crew are on-hand to help you cast off and moor up each day should you need assistance, your family will undoubtedly be impressed by your sailing skills as you skipper them around.
So, where exactly can you take a trip like this? One popular option is to go flotilla sailing in Greece.
You will have a range of options to choose from, such as the islands of Paxos, Kalamos, the Sporades, Kefalonia and the town of Epidavros, each of which provides you with an unbeatable way to discover the many isles and islets that dot the Ionian Sea.
Alternatively, you could head for beach clubs in Greece, such as the one near the village of Vounaki. Here, there is so much to see and do and that's before you've set foot on a yacht.
You can have a go at a selection of water sports, explore your surroundings on foot or mountain bike, or spend some time honing your sailing skills and working towards qualifications including those accredited by the Royal Yachting Association.
With so much to enjoy, it is likely you will be back on another flotilla sailing holiday sooner than you think.
