Set Sail and Chase the Winter Sun

Set Sail and Chase the Winter Sun

Borrow A Boat on-the-water expert James Foot shares 5 of his favourite holiday locations to soak up the winter sun

As the season changes and brings forth autumn colours, cosy pub lunches, warm clothing and the prospect of snow and dark nights, many of us dream of sunnier climates.

James Foot, on-the-water expert at Borrow A Boat  – one of the world’s leading yacht charter marketplaces – says: “The winter blues are all too common among Brits, making this the ideal time to pack up and head to those far-flung places that enjoy warm weather all year round. Or, at the very least, where they are currently enjoying summer sunshine.

“For me, the European winter provides so many opportunities to get on the water, with the best time to enjoy sailing in places like the Caribbean and Australia, December to April.

“And when it comes to my winter holiday, being on or close to the water is a non-negotiable! There is nothing quite like the calm of being at sea to truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The switch from land to sea on a sailing holiday gives you the opportunity to really switch off and get some well-deserved rest and relaxation – something we all could use more of these days!”  

Here, James shares his top five favourite spots to escape the chill and cheat a second summer holiday…

Seychelles

This island state off the coast of East Africa has a climate that stays constant year-round.  Seychelles commonly reaches highs of 30°C even in December, so this is a popular destination to get some much-needed winter sun.

Seychelles is perfect for water-based activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling, and the calm seas provide excellent conditions for smooth sailing.

Agadir

Morocco’s largest seaside resort, Agadir also enjoys a mild year-round climate, with the temperature in December and January typically being in the low twenties – much more pleasurable than the UK’s temperatures during the winter months.  

Agadir Beach is the main attraction; here you can hire jet skis and surf. You don’t have to be an expert – beginners can take a surf class with trained instructors.

Sydney

Temperatures soar during the next few months so unless you’re a devoted sun seeker we suggest now is the perfect time to plan ahead for a trip in February – March as the weather is still comfortably warm and tourist numbers would have dwindled.

The most famed of beaches is Bondi Beach and a tourist hotspot, however we suggest taking a 10–15-minute drive or bus ride to Kutti Beach, Bronte Beach, or Coogee Beach – all of which are far quieter and extraordinarily beautiful. You can get involved in a variety of water-based activities such as stand up paddleboarding and surfing, or cruise between the beaches in your own private boat, dipping in and out of the waters when you choose.

St Lucia

January is the ideal time to head to St Lucia, which is situated in the Eastern Caribbean. Rainfall is much lower, and temperatures can reach as high as 29°C. Plus, the cooling breeze, the salty tang of the ocean air and the hospitable local community are the perfect cures for January blues.

Book yourself onto a private charter for a tour along the island, or try out helmet diving, an underwater experience designed to closely emulate the experience of walking on the moon! While helmet diving, you can walk across the seabed as sea turtles, seahorses and other forms of marine life pass you by.

Cape Verde

Despite being one of Cape Verde’s coolest seasons, you can still expect balmy temperatures between 21-26°C during the winter months.

This group of islands is located off the westernmost tip of continental Africa in the central Atlantic Ocean and, due to being a former Portuguese colony, is home to a rich, syncretic culture characterised by a mix of African and European elements. You can fish for your supper straight from the source on the Santa Maria pier or try your hand at kitesurfing on the island of Boa Vista.

For more information on where in the world you can charter your own boat, visit www.borrowaboat.com