Flotilla sailing in Greece: the perfect relaxing holiday
If the idea of lounging in the Greek sunshine on your very own yacht appeals to you, but you are concerned about sailing on your own, booking a flotilla break will suit you down to the ground. Here are just a few reasons why it's the perfect relaxing holiday.
Excellent sailing facilities
Due to its vast stretches of coastline, Greece is well set up to cater for sailors of all abilities, with countless anchorages you can moor up at dotted along the mainland and around the islands. From peaceful fishing villages to bustling resorts, the country really does have it all.
What's more, if you're new to yachting, you can take advantage of the expert tuition available at the numerous sailing schools in Greece, where you can learn the basics before setting out with the rest of your flotilla. You'll be able to take internationally-recognised qualifications, which means you can go sailing all over the world once you've completed your initial courses.
Plenty of onshore activities
Although spending your entire trip on your yacht might sound appealing, it is likely you'll want to step ashore to experience Greek culture and maybe try some other activities during your time away. As well as being able to wander around quaint villages and explore historical sites, you can also spend some time at one of the beach clubs in Greece, where you can do as much or as little as you please.
Families on sailing holidays will no doubt appreciate the kids' clubs that will keep the children occupied from dusk 'til dawn! Activities are organised for little ones between the ages of four months and 17 years, so no matter how old your brood are, there will be something they can get involved with. If you and your partner want to try something new, windsurfing, water skiing and mountain biking are just a few of the pastimes you can have a go at.
Alternatively, for the ultimate pampering experience, spend a few hours making use of the wonderful spa facilities. Indulge in a treatment to make you feel radiant before you board your yacht and set off on an adventure with the rest of the flotilla.
Hone your sailing skills
One of the major reasons to book a flotilla sailing holiday in Greece - or anywhere else around the world - is that it presents the ideal opportunity for you to improve your yacht-handling skills. This type of break is particularly suitable if you have only recently learned to sail, as you will have plenty of freedom to put yourself to the test, while also having experts on hand should you require any assistance.
A flotilla will be comprised of no more than 14 boats, with a lead yacht manned by an experienced crew to head up your group. They will share their knowledge with you as you travel, while also being able to hop aboard your vessel and help out if you run into any difficulties, giving you complete peace of mind throughout your break.
Simple navigation
Another common worry for new sailors is navigation, but this will not be an issue if you choose to join a flotilla for your holiday. The lead yacht will have a route planned out for your entire group and all you need to do is follow them. The itinerary will be tailored to suit the abilities of all the sailors in the flotilla, so you won't be expected to cast off in overly challenging conditions.
This means you can truly sit back and relax as you sail, allowing you to admire the stunning scenery of whichever part of Greece you are exploring. Whether you've opted to discover the Sporades Islands, cruise around the Saronic Gulf or enjoy the charms of the Ionian Islands, there will be plenty for you to see as you drift along. Your lead crew will also be able to take you to some secluded anchorages where you and the rest of your group can make the most of the country's stunning beaches.
Meet new friends
As you'll be sailing as part of a group, you'll have the opportunity to meet likeminded people during your holiday. While there's no obligation to get involved with the group activities organised, you'll have a lot of fun if you take part in the beach barbeques and parties arranged by the lead yacht.
They will also take you to some of the best local restaurants for meals as a group, allowing you to sample all the wonderful flavours of Greek cuisine, while getting to know your fellow flotilla members. So, if you are keen to be a part of sociable water sports holidays, flotilla sailing is the right option for you.
