Sailing worldwide is a dream journey, with countless breath-taking places to explore. Here are some must-see destinations for yachties, categorised by region:

1. The Caribbean – Crystal-clear waters, trade winds, and vibrant island culture

• The Bahamas – Shallow waters, endless cays, and the famous Exumas.
• St. Vincent & the Grenadines – Perfect for island-hopping and secluded anchorages.
• BVI (British Virgin Islands) – Sailing paradise with easy line-of-sight navigation.
• Antigua – Historic harbors and world-class regattas.
• San Blas Islands, Panama – Unspoiled islands with indigenous Kuna culture.

2. The Pacific Ocean – Remote beauty and long crossings

• Galápagos Islands (Ecuador) – Unique wildlife and strict environmental protections.
• French Polynesia – Stunning lagoons in Bora Bora, Moorea, and the Tuamotus.
• Whitsundays – Australia – Hamilton Island, Whitehaven Beach, the Great Barrier Reef… The best time to visit the Whitsundays is in early spring.
• Tonga – Swim with humpback whales and experience true island hospitality.
• Fiji – Excellent diving, coral reefs, and friendly locals.
• Vanuatu – Volcano trekking, traditional villages, and untouched bays.

3. Southeast Asia – Exotic cultures and budget-friendly cruising

• Palawan (Philippines) – Limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters in El Nido.
• Komodo National Park (Indonesia) – See the famous Komodo dragons and vibrant coral reefs.
• Thailand (Phang Nga Bay, Koh Phi Phi) – Dramatic limestone islands and bustling nightlife.
• Malaysia (Langkawi) – Duty-free paradise and leisurely cruising.

4. The Indian Ocean – Secluded anchorages and unique wildlife

• Maldives – Turquoise atolls and world-class diving.
• Seychelles – Giant tortoises, granite islands, and pristine beaches.
• West Coast of Australia – You can explore West Australia’s coastline natural beauty for months, from Rottnest Island to the Coral Coast, Ningaloo Reef, and the Kimberley.
• Chagos Archipelago – Remote, uninhabited atolls for true off-grid sailing (permit required).
• Madagascar – Biodiversity, baobabs, and untouched cruising grounds.

5. The Mediterranean – Historic ports and perfect summer sailing

• Greek Islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Ionian Sea) – Ancient history and stunning anchorages.
• Amalfi Coast (Italy) – Picturesque villages and incredible cuisine.
• Croatia (Dalmatian Coast) – Crystal-clear waters and medieval towns.
• Balearic Islands (Spain) – Ibiza’s party scene, Mallorca’s hidden coves.
• Turkey (Turquoise Coast) – Ruins, warm waters, and welcoming culture.

6. The Atlantic & Europe – Classic sailing routes and rugged beauty

• Azores (Portugal) – A mid-Atlantic oasis for long-haul sailors.
• Canary Islands (Spain) – A key stop for Atlantic crossings.
• Scotland (Hebrides & Orkneys) – Remote beauty and rich history.
• Norway’s Fjords – Dramatic landscapes and breathtaking anchorages.
• Brittany, France – Picturesque harbours and world-famous tides.

7. The Americas – Remote adventures and dramatic coastlines

• Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) – Majestic glaciers and rugged sailing.
• Panama Canal – Essential for crossing between the Atlantic and Pacific.
• Alaska – Wildlife-rich fjords and remote cruising.
• Point Nemo – Nothing to see whatsoever but a destination for the hardcore sailor. It is known as the most remote spot on Earth. It is just another “tick in the box” for the sailor who achieved everything. Read more…
• Nova Scotia & Newfoundland (Canada) – Icebergs, whales, and a unique maritime culture.

8. The Southern Ocean & Extreme Destinations

• Cape Horn (Chile/Argentina) – Legendary passage for hardcore sailors.
• South Georgia & the Falklands – Remote, wildlife-rich islands.
• Antarctica – Ultimate high-latitude challenge with stunning icebergs and penguins.

Also, see some of the places to avoid.