Sailing in Off-season – Charter a Yacht During Winter in the Mediterranean

We’re all used to sailing in summer, aren’t we? It’s the time of the year when the weather conditions are ideal for leisure sailors. You can relax on the boat while cruising the calm waters, refresh yourself with a swim in a secret bay, and dine in waterfront restaurants packed with tourists.

But not everyone is looking for this type of sailing vacation. Some experienced sailors are unbothered by the sun and restaurants and are looking for challenging sailing experiences during which their sails can harness the power of the chilly wind. Therefore, they aim for off‑season sailing.

What Is Off-season Sailing and How Long Does It Last?

Off-season sailing refers to all charter weeks from mid-October of the current year to April of the next year. In Mediterranean terms, this means sailing in late autumn, winter, or early spring. Sailing in the off-season may not be as popular as sailing in the high season, but it does offer some benefits that often go overlooked.

Why You Should Consider Sailing in Off-season?

Your sailing vacation is usually based on the weather factor. When the weather is nice, you casually sail the sea. But weather during colder months poses certain challenges some seasoned sailors enjoy.

While there are no weather extremes in Croatia, Italy, Greece, and other Mediterranean countries, the seas can get a bit rough, the temperatures are lower, there are strong gusts of wind, and there is more precipitation. The swells in the Med do exist but are infrequent and relatively small.

This may sound unappealing to some – like, what would anyone book a sailing vacation without the sun? – but professional sailors relish what Mother Nature has prepared for them during off-season months. It’s time to practice their sailing skills.

And while days are longer in summer, there is plenty of sunny hours to take part in outdoor activities. You won’t miss anything summer sailors already experienced. Sure, some restaurants may be closed until the next season, but the picturesque islands, bays, and landmarks will still stand in the same place.

Even better – there will be fewer or no crowds, so your off-season sailing vacation will go quieter and less stressful. You’ll have a chance to hear nature sounds that are usually muffled by the murmur of tourists.

No crowds also mean no waiting in line for mooring and fuel. Talk about time-saving!

You won’t be saving time only but money too. Charter yachts and mooring fees are cheaper during the off-season. This means you pay less for the same services. And since the demand for boats is not high, you’ll probably secure your first pick.

How to Prepare for an Off-Sailing Charter?

This time you won’t be packing flip-flops. Off-season sailing means a lot of warm layers that can handle temperature variations. Bring windbreakers, wool sweaters, warm socks, and comfortable footwear with you.

It’s good to stay active and warm up with exercise, so some sportswear will also come in handy. You can also warm up with a hot drink that you will bottle in a flask (thermally insulated bottle). And if you’re worried about being cold while sleeping – don’t, as boats come with warm blankets.

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses (or even ski goggles) are recommended for sun protection. Don’t get fooled by the clouds and lower temperatures, you can still get sunburn! Strong winds mixed with salty sea droplets may cause

your skin to go dry, so bring a moisturizing face and body cream or lotion.

How to Find a Charter Boat for the Off-season Sailing Trip?

If you’re looking for an off-season sailing vacation, you’ll be happy to know Sebastus offers a range of available off-season charter boats. Please note that boats are going through a wintering maintenance process, so the selection may be limited in your desired sailing destination. Feel free to use our yacht search to find yourself a boat for sailing in the off-season.

In addition, sailing in the off-season requires professional sailing skills. If you’re not an experienced sailor but would like to book a boat in off-season weeks, we highly recommend hiring a local skipper. Our skippers are acquainted with the weather conditions in the sailing area of your choice and have many sailing years under their belt to tackle unexpected weather changes.

Now that you know everything about off-season sailing, it’s time for you to book one for yourself. Contact our sailing agents via email, phone call, or WhatsApp/Viber, and they will arrange your one-of-a-kind off-season sailing vacation.