If you are thinking of chartering a boat this summer this isn’t an article to be missed. Peter offers brilliant advice, from his years in the industry, on the best brands and sizes of vessel to suit your needs.
The article covers family orientated charter, cruising cats, numerous designs and what to do when you arrive at your boat.
Peter Poland's first Mediterranean Charter was aboard one of our 'venerable' but well-maintained Jaguar 27's. Peter spent a week as part of a two man crew with John Goode meandering around the coast of Corfu and the surrounding islands of Paxos and Anti-Paxos. Peter talks about the variety of experience levels on flotilla - from beginners to experienced crews.
He reflects that, although the Jaguar offered a great holiday, the temptation to indulge in the (now commonplace) luxuries is quite high. Modern furlers, anchor winches, chart plotters and the rest mean that couples (and other crews of two) can enjoy sailing larger yachts far more easily than in the past.
Our Brand New Beneteau 38's even get a mention for their vast amounts of open air space - perfect for sailing where the sun in shining. A mere dream as we sit writing in the London Office!
Barrie Neilson's love of the 'big heads and big bed' design comes up, along with the recent desire for more outdoor living space. A spacious cockpit and swimming platform are the luxuries we now all seek - it is all about easy access to and from the water!
Our delightful bareboat team also get a mention - offering monohulls and catamarans in conjunction with our local partners all over the Mediterranean. The article concludes with a comprehensive list of what to do when you arrive at your boat. All in all a fabulous article from Peter!
In this brief but brilliant article (flotilla sailor and writer) Mike Pickup investigates the growing trend in learning holidays and recommends his favourites...
"All that most of us manage to bring back from our holidays is a camera full of pictures and some errant grains of sand in the suitcase. So, how does bringing back a new skill instead sound?
Holidays spent learning a new skill will give you a lifetime of memories and the chance to meet like-minded people. Cooking holidays have been around for a while so here is a small sample of other ideas you might like to try."
He goes on to explain that learning to sail as part of a flotilla holiday with the assistance of a lead crew really can be "plain sailing"...
At Sailing Holidays we have people with a total mixture of experience levels on the holidays, from those who have sailed around the world to those just starting out. Most start off having had some dinghy sailing, windsurfing, canoeing or other on water experience but we also take a number of people who have never set foot on board a boat.
Our award winning flotilla sailing holidays to Greece allow you to take your time... Meander from port to port, stopping for lunch and swims in beautiful bays along the way, before making the most of the afternoon breeze and sailing to your evening destination. This is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable holidays available to people in the UK looking for something a little different.
Read more about being NEW TO SAILING on flotilla...
Not a sailor? No qualifications? Want a chauffeur? Or just to learn the ropes...No problem! Bareboat Sailing Holidays are easily able to provide a friendly skipper for your sailing holiday so you can get on and relax! Take your time meandering from port to port, stopping for a lazy lunch and swim in beautiful bays along the way, before making the most of the afternoon breeze and sailing to your evening destination.
Skippers allow for non-sailors or sailors without qualifications to charter a yacht and experience what we sailors have been going on about for years. Being invariably local, the skippers are also able to advise you on ports to visit, restaurants to eat and places to swim.
It's very easy... We charter a sailing yacht with a skipper who effectively 'drives' the boat for you wherever you'd like to sail! You, your friends and family can get involved as much or as little as you like - it is a great activity holiday for all the family. Conversely, if sipping a G&T while sunbathing is more your thing then you can leave it totally up to the skipper to do all the work. Simply sit back and enjoy...
What’s it all about? Learning to sail in the sun...essentially! We offer comprehensive non-tidal RYA training and qualifications in conjunction with Corfu Sea School. Whether you’ve never set foot on a boat before or you already have some experience and dream of skippering your own yacht, we can help you take the next step.
Our instructors are excellent and highly regarded for their professional approach. They are chosen for their passion, experience and patience, as well as their ability to make your time in the Greek islands thoroughly enjoyable. All our instructors work as flotilla skippers before training to be an instructor, so they know (and love) the area in which they teach. Sailing Holidays is an independant, family owned business. We use our own yachts and take full advantage of our huge shore based support team to make sure the yachts are in the best condition for your course.
Read the full article in Eaux Luxury Lifestyle Magazine here.
Or to find out more give us a call on 020 8459 8787 or drop us an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
In November 2015, freelance journalist, previous co-owner of Hunter Boats (and of course flotilla sailor) Peter Poland investigated Bavaria's key models...
The article outlines Bavaria's innovations over the years. From the impressive build to the second hand market for this well-known brand of sailing yacht - the Bavaria story is well and truly covered!
Under charterers favourites Amy is quoted, explaining that "‘Our customers’ favourite is the Bavaria 46, launched in 2007. The four-cabin layout – three with doubles, one with twin bunks – plus two heads offers brilliant space for a larger family or two families sharing. This eight-berth Bavaria is popular – no one else currently offers a modern design of this nature."
In 2016 our Bavaria 46's are sailing on the Two Week South Ionian and Two Week Whole Ionian Island Flotilla.
...is the question posed by Theo Stocker in this fabulous article on furling sails in Novembers issue of Yachting Monthly.
Barrie gives some expert tips for easy handling...
Theo reports on the evolution of furlers from the early rotostay system to the new furling methods used on our brand new Beneteau 38's.
"‘I’m not suggesting that furlingsails are the best,’ says Barrie, ‘but for the kind of sailing we are doing they’re excellent. ’His formula obviously works. Some couples have been flotilla sailing with Sailing Holidays every year for more than 20 years."
The article goes on to elaborate on exactly how, when used correctly, furling sails really can take the stress out of sailing. They effectively remove the need to go up on deck meaning all the hard work can be done from the cockpit! Dreamy...
Theo points out the importance of getting the right sails and the key features in doing so. Choosing sails with the correct shape, roach and leech is crucial to their success.
Following this of course is getting the correct set up. Top tips include reducing friction at every stage of the game, from bigger blocks to using the correctly sized rope for your system - it can all help!
The final pages sum up the best technique for both main and genoa furling systems...fool proof furling here we come.
If you have any questions regarding our furling systems get in touch and we'll put them to Barrie himself.
The fantastic photographs in this article were taken in the Northern Ionian Islands by Theo whilst out sailing with Barrie and Heidi in May 2015.
"For all-weather sailors with grit and determination there are a range of UK based sailing companies offering anything from a weekend learning how to sail a Mirror dinghy to a week cruising around the coast on a tall sailing ship. But for a 'soft' entry into sailing, you can't beat joining a flotilla to sail around the Greek islands in the sunshine.
After a thorough induction where we learnt all the different parts of the boat, including which ropes were for which sails, and got a safety briefing - including how to use the ship's radio in an emergency - we cast off, leaving Gouvia for the small port of Petrides, on the southernmost tip of Corfu.
Our pattern for the week is idyllic: After an early breakfast of fresh fruit and Greek yoghurt with honey we attend a briefing about the day ahead and then sail to a succession of beautiful bays for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing on board. As well as patiently giving us all lessons in sailing, Josh teaches the children how to use the dinghy's outboard motor safely and they enjoy the independence of zooming to shore to explore beaches and caves. Being in charge of a powerful engine in such a safe environment is a great opportunity for my teenagers to experience freedom and responsibility at the same time.
Each evening we moor at a different port and have free time to explore the nearest village or beach before a communal evening meal taken in friendly local restaurants with the other families in the flotilla. This allows everyone to mingle and my three teens soon strike up friendships with children of their own age."
Read more about Catherine's trip here!
We were recently featured in Sailing Today as one of the top charter companies from Lefkas.
We have a number of Bareboats available from Lefkas Marina as well as two flotilla bases on the Island!
Sail on our One Week Lefkas Flotilla or Two Week South Ionian from Sivota or Nidri, both on Lefkas Island. The perfect central start to any South Ionian adventure...
If flotilla isn't your thing you can simply grab a bareboat with Bareboat Sailing Holidays, either with a skipper or independantly (if qualified to do so) from Lefkas Town.
All our flotillas are nearly fully booked for this year and so bookings for 2016 have opened! Give our office a ring on 020 8459 8787 to find out more or if you have any questions...
If it is a Bareboat you are after give us a call on 020 8438 1133 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we'll be able to help you find some brilliant boats at unbeatable prices.
We were recently featured by the lovely chaps at Yachts & Yachting in the June 2015 Issue.
Our 'new kit' was featured, which this year includes our brand new Beneteau 38's & Beneteau 45 as well our our new SUP's (stand up paddleboards) which are going down a storm!
Our pioneering new routes in the Saronic Islands also made the news: from our easy island hopping flotilla in the Saronic Gulf to our 'tougher' exploration into the Argolic Gulf.
Both these flotillas are nearly fully booked for this year and so bookings for 2016 have opened! Give our office a ring on 020 8459 8787 to find out more or if you have any questions...
You can read more and find other articles at: www.yachtsandyachting.co.uk
Eating out in local Greek tavernas in the evening is the norm. Tzatziki, delicious grilled seafood, fresh Greek salads are some of our favourite dishes, along with a number of traditional main course options - all washed down with a cold beer or local wine.
From national favourites like Moussaka (an aubergine based lasagne-style dish) - a firm favourite amongst our team, to local Ionian Island specialities that vary from port to port. Fish or lobster are delicious but are often served by the kilo so it is always a good idea to check the prices. Meat dishes with local herbs and garlic are delicious and tend to be the easiest on the pocket.
Check out our typical Greek Taverna Menu below...just a small sample of some of the terrific dishes you'll have the opportunity to try whilst on holiday. If we are missing your favourites let us know. Simply click the menu to enlarge!
The most popular drinks are ice cold beer (lager) and local Greek wine. NOTE: Retsina (wine flavoured with resin) is definitely an 'acquired taste'! Don't say we didn't warn you...
Most people adapt to the local beverages quite easily! If you like specific brands of drinks to enjoy on the boat, it is a good idea to bring a supply with you (or take advantage of the duty free!) as certain spirits can be expensive. We personally recommend picking up a bottle or two of your favourite gin for onboard sundowners. This sailing can be thirsty work!
In Greece it is best to use bottled water for cleaning your teeth and for all drinks, including tea and coffee. To avoid dehydration, whilst it is hot, make sure you drink plenty throughout the day.
All the tavernas in Greece are very child friendly! They understand that children can be a little less adventurous when it comes to the local specialities and are usually more than happy to acommodate any special requests (translation permitting). That said the traditional greek menu offers a number of child friendly options we have found popular for even the fussiest of customers...
For children who may not be keen to try Greek dishes (particularly when they are tentacles involved)! All tavernas offer chicken souvlaki (kebabs) or roast chicken with chips, lamb/pork chops, spaghetti bolognese and often pizza.
Most of the harbours we visit have mini markets, which are a bit like old fashioned grocery shops. Your hostie will let you know if you are going to a place where there is no shop.
Most harbours will also have a special bakery - a popular choice with flotilla sailors! You'll be addicted to the local Spanicopita (spinach and feta pie) before you know it...
If you require a certain product and are unsure as to whether or not it will be available in Greece e.g. soya milk, wheat free bread, please contact us. Gluten free options are appearing but are not as readily available as in the UK. Your hostess will be able to advise you further on which shops and tavernas offer the best options.
Your skipper will give you a daily weather forecast every morning. Most days will be shorts and T-shirt weather. Generally, summer days are hot and sunny, the wind pattern predictable. The normal day starts off with a light southerly wind, which fades away in the early morning to be replaced in mid afternoon by the prevailing North West wind.
There are variations in the strength and direction and the nearby islands can also effect the wind patterns that day.During the summer the Greek Islands are very hot and this can occasionally lead to short evening thunderstorms (half hour or so), so we suggest you take a rain jacket, but it is unlikely that you will need full wet weather gear of the type that is used around the UK. If you have a waterproof jacket, take it and hopefully you won't need to use it.
We know there is no better feeling than the warmth of the sun on your skin...especially after a long cold winter In the UK! We do however suggest you try not to overdose on good old Vitamin D, especially in the first few days of your holiday.
The sun reflecting off the water means you pick up a fantastic tan on a sailing holiday - the downside is that you are more likely to get burnt if you are not careful, especially with the cool sea breeze that can make the sun feel far less strong.
The most common type of cancer within the UK is now skin cancer. We encourage you to pack a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen of SPF 15+!
The majority of local people you will meet understand and speak some English, but they still appreciate your attempts to communicate in their language, even if purely for the amusement!
When you arrive on your boat you will be given the contact telephone number for your lead boat (and all lead boats in the area) just in case you are unable to get hold of them via the VHF. You shouldn't need any more than this, however, in case you do:
The London number to contact is: 020 8459 8787
Our representative in Corfu is Janine Smith, her Greek mobile number is: 00 30 6 944 630 134
What to pack when you're going on a flotilla sailing holiday? Hmmm...good question!
Read on for top tips on what to bring, what not to bring and what to bring along if you have little sailors on board!
• Your Passport (check it hasn't expired!)
• Flight tickets and itinerary (check your names are spelt correctly!)
• Holiday Insurance Certificate
• European Health Insurance Card
• Driving Licence for 'Shore to Sail' hiring a bike or car (minimum age is 21 for car hire)
• Euros, debit/credit card, travellers' cheques
• Hat
• Sunglasses (with string/ sunglasses strap available to buy in Greece)
• Swimwear (at least a couple of changes)
• Casual summer wear
• Flip flops/deck shoes (non-marking soles)
• Sweatshirt (especially in May & October)
• Beach towel (one bath size towel is provided per person)
• Mask and flippers (can be bought in Greece)
• Books (and toys for children)
• Your favourite tea bags & biscuits etc.
• RYA Log book (if you're recording sea miles)
• Yacht Manual & Harbour Guide (that we post out to you)
• Waterproof sailing jacket (just in case!)
• Important: 12 volt (car charger) for charging devices on board
• Camera or Waterproof Camera (+ memory card & charger)
• Waterproof case (iPhone cases available to buy in Greece)
• iPod or iPhone & jack to jack lead (to play music on board)
• Mobile phone & charger (solar chargers are great in the sun)
• 2 pin adaptor to charge batteries in port in the evening
• Wash bag (unless you are embracing the 'old sea dog' look, of course)
• Sun cream & After sun
• Sea/travel sickness pills (not often necessary)
• Insect repellent (we recommend Avon 'Skin So Soft' available to buy in Greece)
• Anti-histamine (in case of insect bites/stings)
• Any regular medication (keep in hand luggage)
• We recommend natural shampoos, conditioners and shower gels that won't hurt the marine life but this is by no means compulsory
No question is a silly question, but in case you were wondering but were too afraid to ask these are a few things we don't recommend bringing on a sailing holiday.
• A hairdryer or straighteners - there is no plug socket on the boat suitable (yep... even travel hairdryers don't work). We advocate the natural blow dry we like to call the sea breeze!
• Heeled shoes - they damage the deck and also make getting on and off the boat considerably more difficult! (Best left at home...)
• Dark soled shoes - these mark the deck of the boat
• Anything of huge value – we tend to leave the boats open in the evening as it is very safe but 'just in case' anything happenes, we don't recommend bringing any irreplaceable family heirlooms!
• Too many clothes...you will be in swim gear/ simple clothes whilst out sailing and most people say they wear much less than they bring.
We asked all our sailors who have sailed with small children and in particular infants (0-2 years old), what they recommended packing for a flotilla sailing trip with a little sailor on board...
• Strong sun cream with a high SPF
• A good hat & sunglasses
• Clothing that covers skin from the sun
• Something warm for the evenings
• Entertainment in the evenings i.e. colouring book
• Snorkel & Mask (can be bought locally)
• A sun suit/ suitable swimwear
• Spray water bottle to keep cool
• Harness
• Changing mat & Scented nappy bags
• Cot sheets
• Folding buggy
• Nappies
• Milk / Baby food is available in Greece
• You should bring any specific nutritional milk etc.
• Child netting around the boat
• Car seat to strap to the cockpit (infants only)
• Childrens Harness
• Childrens Life Jacket
• John Lewis travel cot (you bring your own linen)
