Why pick Greece for a family sailing holiday?
Sun, sea, sand and sailing - what more could you ask for on a family break? For the chance to enjoy all this and much more besides, consider booking a stay at beach clubs in Greece. Here you can learn to sail, charter a yacht and get stuck into a range of activities.
Indeed, the Mediterranean country is the birthplace of flotilla sailing holidays, where the first flotillas cast off during the 1970s. Boasting golden sandy beaches, warm water, plenty of sunshine and great food, it is no wonder that Greece has became one of the most popular destinations on the continent.
You and your family will find so much to love when you book a stay here. There are islands to be explored, ancient ruins to be uncovered and water sports to be learnt. Every one of you will be kept busy during your getaway, no matter what your personal interests.
However, if you have never taken the ropes of a luxury yacht before, you may already have dismissed a trip like this as the one for you. Worry not though, as by basing yourself in Vounaki, you will be able to choose from a selection of courses. Among those on offer are the Vounaki 5 Day Island Cruising Club, One Day Rusty Skipper, International Certificate of Training, as well as Royal Yachting Association-accredited Competent Crew and Day Skipper qualifications.
Your crewmates will be far from bored on one of these learn to sail holidays in Greece while they wait for you to get the hang of the ropes, as at this beach club they will be able to indulge in a range of activities, such as exploring their surroundings on foot or by mountain bike, taking each other on over a game of tennis or relaxing in a health spa.
Once you are feeling more confident, you have the choice of arranging your yacht charter or taking advantage of flotilla sailing in Greece. As mentioned before, the country is the place where the pastime originated from, so this is a great way to really experience sailing like this.
Onboard your boat, you will be part of a group of around 14 other vessels, all embarking on your adventure together. The flotilla will be led by a lead vessel crewed by experienced and highly-qualified yachtsmen, so in the unlikely event that you get into trouble you will not have far to look for assistance. Indeed, these sailors will even help you to set sail at the start of the day and moor up when you reach your destination. Your children are sure to love watching them at work.
A great thing about flotilla sailing is that you get to meet so many other people just like you, who love taking to the water to explore their holiday destination. You can expect holidaymakers of all ages to book a break like this, including many kids, so don't be surprised if your little ones end up making firm friends while they are here.
The tour operator will organise a range of fun social events for you all, giving you ample opportunity to get to know one another. You could even end up getting on so well you arrange to cast off on a sailing adventure again next year. Just some of the events that may be organised as part of your tour are beach barbecues and punch parties.
However, family time is precious and it is likely that you will also want to spend some days alone with each other. You will be able to do this while you are sailing and your kids are sure to love acting as first mate to your captain. When you do come ashore at the Greek destinations you pass, if you fancy exploring with just your partner and kids, you are more than able to do so - just let the lead crew know before you set off.
So, where exactly can you expect to visit once you embark on your flotilla sailing adventure? Abelike Bay is one of the most picturesque anchorages you are ever likely to come across, so make sure someone onboard has got their camera at the ready as they approach it. Meanwhile, Cephalonia is the setting for Captain Corelli's Mandolin, which could make the island the perfect place to explore if there are any fans of the romantic novel in your family.
Another stop will see you spending time in Vassiliki Bay, where you can try your hand at a host of thrilling activities, including windsurfing and snorkelling. With so much to enjoy, you should be prepared for your family to ask you to book a return trip to Greece next year.
