The Best Sailing Experiences for 2021
Whether it’s exploring azure waters of The Mediterranean or seeking out rare marine life during a deep dive off an explorer yacht, these excursions should be top of the list
July 6thGLOBAL
SOUTH PACIFIC
FIND THE BEST SURF BREAKS AND ENJOY SOME OF THE MOST SECLUDED ANCHORAGES ABOARD DARDANELLA – AN EXCLUSIVE EXPLORER YACHT NEW THIS SUMMER
For those looking for a new sense of adventure and the ability to push boundaries in some of world’s most beautiful and remote destinations, Dardanella – a privately owned, 37 metre explorer yacht – offers just that. Available to charter for the first time this summer, Dardanella’s build combined with her illustrious past as an oceanic and conservation vessel and exceptional crew make her the ideal explorer yacht. Dardanella’s extensive travels have taken her to some of the most remote and inaccessible locations the blue planet has to offer. This has enabled the crew to amass incredible knowledge and insight and offers guests the chance to experience the best and largely untouched dive spots, seek out incredible marine life and rare species, find the best surf breaks and enjoy some of the most secluded anchorages. A fantastic range of itineraries awaits, in destinations that are as rich in hiking and diving experiences as they are is in culture, cuisine and natural beauty.
Dardanella has cruised remote Pacific regions of interest including time exploring the Western Pacific regions of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Marshall Islands Dardanella sleeps up to 12 guests in five beautifully appointed suites with en-suite bathrooms. A rarity for the boutique size of this vessel, Dardanella offers a dedicated and bespoke wellness programme. Whether it is Pilates and massages to complement the diving, a pre-surf yoga lesson or developing bespoke wellness programmes, the focus is on an individual’s wellbeing. There are also a host of toys on board including kayaks, paddle boards and jet skis.
HOW: Dardanella is available to charter from USD115,000 per week. The rate is based on up to 12-guests sharing. APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) is not included. www.yachtdardanella.com
UK & EUROPE
UNCOVER THE SECRETS OF GUERNSEY FROM THE SEA, AS THE ISLAND OPENS ITS BORDERS ON 1st JULY
In an exciting move unlocking a new destination for British travellers this summer, Guernsey is set to open its borders on 1st July. The second largest of the Channel Islands, Guernsey is home to stunning beaches, spectacular coastal walks and hidden coves best explored via yacht. Experience ‘island time’ with a cosmopolitan buzz at The Old Government House Hotel & Spa, the only five-star hotel in Guernsey, offering exclusive access to some of Guernsey’s most coveted experiences. Highlights include: remote ‘sea to plate’ beach picnics (featuring Guernsey lobster and crab, local charcuterie and cheeses), experiential tastings of the finest local producers (including Roquette Cider, Blue Bottle Gin and Guernsey Oysters), yachting charters to Sark and Herm, and historical tours with local guide Gill Girard, who helped the film crew research locations for The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Boating highlights include a thrilling adventure with the hotel’s partner, Island Rib Voyages, taking guests along Guernsey’s southeast coastline while learning about pirates and smugglers, seeing the island’s smallest fort, where Victor Hugo walked and swam, and both Napoleonic and German fortifications. There’s also the chance of spotting dolphins, puffins and seals. Back at the hotel, enjoy wine, whisky and gin tastings in the Crown Club, or for those looking for more relaxation, it is the only hotel in central St Peter Port with a fully-equipped in-house gym, fitness studio and spa.
HOW: Rates for the Old Government House Hotel start from £300 per night, with an adventurous sea adventure with Island Rib Voyages starting from £29.50 per adult.
SAIL GREECE’S IONIAN ISLANDS IN COMPLETE PRIVACY ONBOARD ALEXA J – AN EXCLUSIVE ONE-CABIN LUXURY YACHT AVAILABLE THROUGH SCOTT DUNN PRIVATE
The elegant Alexa J offers an exclusive, truly unique sailing experience through the Greek Ionian Islands – available to members of Scott Dunn Private, the recently launched private membership arm of the global tour operator. Designed with just one cabin for guests, Alexa J feels more like a home from home – providing the utmost in privacy and luxury when exploring the beautiful Ionian islands. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, guests will be able to sail at leisure through these calm waters, discovering the likes of Kefalonia, Lefkada and Antipaxos. The master cabin is a light and airy space complete with a walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom. Guests travelling with children can also make use of the playroom, which can be converted into a kids’ bedroom. There are two comfortable decks to enjoy on this 38-metre yacht; the upper deck has a luxurious lounge area as well as space for yoga and meditation, while the main deck boasts a second lounge and open-air dining facilities. Serviced by an expert crew of six, and with a private chef on board, guests are sure to be looked after to their exact preferences. As with all things Scott Dunn Private, the Personal Travel Advisors will tailor the sailing itinerary to guest interests, and the experienced skipper will be able to plan a route stopping to explore larger islands, historical sites or secluded swimming spots. Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and diving equipment are all kept on board to be used at guests’ leisure. After exploring the islands or enjoying an afternoon in the water, guests can unwind with a relaxing spa treatment courtesy of the on-board therapist.
HOW: Scott Dunn Private offers bespoke sailing itineraries through the Greek Ionian Islands on board Alexa J. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/scott-dunn-privateor call 020 8682 5066.
DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF CROATIA THIS SUMMER WITH LOPUD 1483 AS IT PARTNERS WITH DESTINATION SPECIALIST R.W. WAKELEY YACHTS
Croatian specialist R.W. Wakeley Yachts has partnered with LOPUD 1483 to curate a new and exclusive 10 night itinerary, exploring Croatia’s magnificent coastline before ending with a private take over at LOPUD 1483, a 15th Century monastery steeped in history and home to a fine selection of Renaissance and contemporary artwork from the Thyssen-Bornemisza collection. Clients are invited to choose from a selection of Gulets, Catamarans and Motor sailors – available at a range of price points navigated by a minimum four-man crew, who will sail the turquoise waters safely with a wealth of expertise to arrange local on the ground experiences, restaurant bookings, wine tastings and cultural tours. The final port of call is Lopud Island in the heart of Elaphiti islands, where the yacht will drop anchor right in front of LOPUD 1483. Guests will have the chance to spend four nights on terra firma enjoying the sprawling grounds of this 5,000 square foot fortified medieval monastery. Once home to Franciscan monks LOPUD 1483 now features five suites, which have been sensitively restored in order to retain its integrity and authentic feeling. The team at LOPUD 1483 will curate bespoke daily activities to explore Lopud Island – the car free destination is ideal for hiking, horse riding or cycling through orange, lemon and olive groves, snorkelling in the Blue Caves of Kolcep, enjoying the glorious Sunj beach and kayaking in the clear waters.
HOW: Price for a ten night itinerary, including six nights charter onboard a gulet and four nights at LOPUD 1483, start from €6,370 (£5,800 approx.) per person based on 10 people sharing, full board accommodation and internal transfers. Direct flights from London to Split / Dubrovnik to London start from £155 in total and are available to book on www.ba.com.
EXPERIENCE THE HEIGHT OF GLAMOUR ABOARD AQUARIVA SUPER, A RIVIERA ICON AT HOTEL DU CAP-EDEN-ROC
The glamour of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc continues out at sea as visitors can experience a magical and unforgettable day trip on the hotel’s chic and über-exclusive Aquariva Super, named ‘Eden-Roc’. Crafted using signature detailing and entirely bespoke Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc materials and fabrics and made for the hotel in the historical Riva shipyard on Iseo Lake in Italy, the ‘Eden-Roc’ is based at the hotel for the exclusive use of its guests only. Up to four thalassophiles can take to the seas and visit some of the most picturesque locations along the Riviera including Saint Tropez, Cannes and the Lérins islands or, go on a shopping trip to Monaco. Hidden away at the Southern-most tip of Cap d’Antibes, secluded on a rocky aerie above the sea, the award-winning Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful properties in the world and with a glittering 150-year history and illustrious past guestlist. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc has played host to celebrities from the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, F Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Picasso, Marc Chagall, Cary Grant and Elizabeth Taylor and more.
HOW: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is scheduled to reopen for the season on 21 May 2021. Rates at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc start from €650 (currently approx. £565) per night. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/hotel-du-cap-eden-roc/leisure/on-water
EXPLORE THE CLEAR WATERS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN IN THE UTMOST LUXURY ABOARD SATORI PRIVATE YACHT – AVAILABLE THROUGH SCOTT DUNN PRIVATE
Boasting five guest rooms, Michelin-starred dining and a wide selection of water toys, a stay on the elegant 136-foot Satori offers the ultimate sailing experience in the Mediterranean – available through Scott Dunn Private. With options to sail around the Italian coastline, along the French Riviera or through the Greek islands, Satori transports guests through the Mediterranean in the utmost style. Lovingly designed by the owners, the same couple who are behind Borgo Santo Pietro in Tuscany, Satori combines the traditional schooner experience with the style of a boutique hotel. Wood detailing creates an intimate atmosphere in the comfortable living area while marble en-suite bathrooms add a touch of luxury, alongside a range of high-tech facilities. Depending on the number of guests on board, one of the rooms can even be converted into a spa treatment room, complete with steam bath and an on-board private therapist. There are eight crew members on board to look after each guest’s every need, from the expert captain to the experienced stewards. Alongside the resident Head Chef, one of the sous chefs or executive chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants, Meo Modo and La Bottega del Buon Caffe, will join the on-board team to serve up mouth-watering meals out on the deck. The menu is centred around the freshest catch of the day and guests can make full use of Satori’s wine cellar, which houses up to 250 bottles of wine. While on board, guests can stop to swim in secluded coves and hidden bays. From snorkelling and kayaking to water-skiing and wakeboarding, there is ample equipment on board, ensuring fun for all the family. After a day spent exploring or playing in the water, guests can unwind with a movie under the stars on Satori’s outdoor cinema screen.
HOW: Scott Dunn Private offers bespoke sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean on board Satori. For more information, please visit www.scottdunn.com/scott-dunn-privateor call 020 8682 5066.
INDONESIA
EXPLORE KOMODO NATIONAL PARK AND SUMBA ISLAND WITH AQUA EXPEDITIONS’ EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH NIHI SUMBA IN 2022
Iconic hospitality brands Aqua Expeditions and NIHI Sumba have teamed up to create a new adventure exploring the remote and breathtaking islands and seas of East Indonesia. Departing from Bali aboard Aqua Expeditions’ super yacht Aqua Blu, this singular experience combines a four-night private charter navigating the famed Komodo National Park, culminating in three nights at NIHI Sumba, a remote hideaway offering a socially distant, wildly connected experience like never before. Throughout seven nights, guests will embark upon a once-in-a-lifetime journey sure to stamp indelible memories. Adventures en route from Bali to Sumba aboard ocean explorer Aqua Blu include discovering Moyo Island’s secret waterfall, diving among manta rays in the world-famous Gili Lawah, hiking Padar Island’s rugged landscape for iconic views over Flores, and observing the legendary Komodo dragon in its natural habitat at Horseshoe Bay. A perfect blend of nautical and land-based explorations, the synergy between the Aqua and NIHI brands is reflected in their focus on authentic, tailor-made experiences, merging off-the-beaten track adventures with unmatched levels of service, locally inspired five-star cuisine, and the finest comforts. Both brands share a commitment to protect the natural environments and support local communities which they operate in, offering guests the opportunity to immerse in traditional culture and learn about wildlife and marine conservation, while discovering the astounding biodiversity of the region.
HOW: Rates for the seven-night Aqua Blu x NIHI Sumba charter start from US$280,552, valid for international guests to travel between February and September 2022. Terms and conditions apply. (www.aquaexpeditions.com / www.nihi.com)
THE CARIBBEAN
WORLD-FAMOUS FOR ITS SAILING, JUMBY BAY ISLAND HAS JUST RELAUNCHED THE JUMBY BAY SAILING ACADEMY, INVITING GUESTS OF ALL AGES TO LEARN A BRAND-NEW SKILL OR HONE THEIR EXISTING CRAFT
Meaning ‘Playful Spirit’ in Antiguan, Jumby Bay Island is a secluded, yet accessible private isle of white-powdered beaches and winding bicycle paths. Easy to reach from the UK, a direct flight, followed by just a five-minute drive and a seven-minute boat ride from Antigua Airport brings families to the one-of-a-kind hideaway. The 300-acre enclave is home to 28 newly refurbished suites, 22 Private Residences and 14 Villas, offering families endless space and freedom to explore to their heart’s content. Guests of all ages can now experience the recently relaunched Jumby Bay Island Sailing Academy. Designed to teach the fundamentals of sailing, there are various courses available tailored to all ages – from beginners looking to learn a new skill, to experienced sailors honing their craft on Antigua’s famed waters. Guests are able to venture out into the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea with the Sailing Academy’s RYA certified instructors on one of Jumby Bay’s fleet of 12 sailboats, including RS Zests, Lasers or RS Elites. The resort team can assist with customised courses and training plans that fit seamlessly into their stay. Custom Sailing Adventures are also available for those looking to take the sailing experience to the next level. Through Jumby Bay’s esteemed sailing partners, guests can embrace the unique opportunity to sail a state-of-the-art yacht right from the resort’s dock. This private charter is entirely tailored to personal participant preferences and comes complete with accomplished crews to assist during this adventure. Experienced sailors may even participate in a yacht race around Antigua, or for those looking to simply soak up the sunshine and enjoy the surroundings, a day or sunset excursion can be arranged, complete with chilled Champagne for grown-ups.
HOW: Rates at Jumby Bay Island start from $2,100 per night (currently approx. £1,511) in a new Beachside Suite, inclusive of all meals, beverages, cocktails and house wine by the glass, as well as all watersports activities and kids club. Rates are subject to an additional 14% ABST government tax and 10% service charge. www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/jumby-bay-island