Sailing used to be an exclusive pastime, but the growth of flotilla holidays in the Mediterranean has made it accessible to everyone. That, coupled with recent Olympic gold medals in sailing and the headline grabbing exploits of Ellen MacArthur, has led to charter companies reporting a twenty-five per cent rise in bookings.
Even if, like me, your only previous sailing experience had been a dash across the Channel to stock up on festive booze, a four day training course at the start of your break would give you enough ability and the necessary qualification to charter your own yacht on a flotilla holiday.
Sailing with a flotilla is a great way to enjoy a yachting holiday alongside other boats, with the freedom to go at your own pace but with the benefit of having expert help always on hand. You can have all the space and independence of your own yacht coupled with a great social side and a chance to mix with new friends. You will soon find yourself coasting along, enjoying the relaxed and friendly atmosphere that sailing by yourself offers, confident that should any problems arise an experienced crew is nearby to help.
Flotilla sailing is an ideal compromise between a bareboat charter (where you sail the boat yourself) and a crewed charter (where you pay a crew to do the sailing for you). With a flotilla you get to be skipper on your own boat, together with a fleet of several other yachts, yet an experienced skipper, the flotilla leader, onboard one of the leading yachts will guide you and the rest of the flotilla fleet from port to port. They are ideal holidays for families with young children who will have the opportunity to play with other kids when the day’s sail is over. Prices also compare favourably with normal holiday prices.
One of the most popular sailing grounds for flotillas is around the Greek Islands. Light winds and short distances between harbours mean sailing for inexperienced crews is leisurely and leaves plenty of time for swimming, lunches and generally relaxing by early afternoon. Once you are moored in the harbour, the afternoon is available for browsing in the local shops and tavernas. Or you can drop anchor in a secluded bay where you can swim and enjoy a barbecue on your own private beach.
The island of Levkas makes a great starting point to explore the south Ionian region. Scorpios, an island owned by Aristotle Onasis and Kephalonia, made famous in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin are just short distances and boast some of the best beaches you’ll find.
If you feel the need for a different type of holiday, which will keep you relaxed and the kids entertained, start learning your knot tying, put the wine in the fridge and get ready to cast off and leave your cares behind.
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