European sailors reveal their preferred hidden gem destinations for boat voyages
Exploring Europe's Hidden Gems: A Summer Sailing Guide
For those seeking a less crowded and more authentic sailing experience in the summer of 2025, Northern Europe and the Baltic region offer a wealth of hidden treasures.
In the Baltic Sea, the Estonian islands of Saaremaa and the capital city Tallinn are must-visit destinations. Saaremaa is known for its pristine beaches and traditional villages, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling Mediterranean hotspots. Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a charming Old Town with fewer crowds and a rich medieval history.
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, blends tradition and modern culture with less congestion than its southern European counterparts, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely sail.
Norway's fjords and coastal villages offer serene, less crowded cruising routes, allowing for deep cultural engagement and tranquil exploration. The Helgeland archipelago, located just south of the Arctic circle, is a lesser-known gem on the Norwegian coast, recommended by Norwegian skipper Steinar Willassen. Each island in the archipelago has a story to tell, such as the famous whiskey island Myken and the puffin island Lovund.
The Harstad archipelago, also in Norway, is another cruising spot recommended by Norwegian cruiser Halvard Eneberg. The crystal clear water of the archipelago reveals sandy patches where anchors will hold perfectly.
For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Pelagie islands, located between Sicily and the African coast, are too out of the way for most leisure cruisers, resulting in uncrowded waters and a uniquely close-knit marine community. Dutch cruiser Wietze van der Laan considers the Pelagie islands as one of his favorite places to sail to. The islands' main islands, Linosa and Lampedusa, are beautiful and unlike each other.
Linosa's sharp coastline offers few friendly anchorages, but the Pozzolana anchorage is safe and striking, located under an active crater. Visitors by yacht must obtain a permit before anchoring or mooring in Linosa, as the island is part of the Chinijo National Park.
La Graciosa, just north of Lanzarote in the Canary islands, is a beautiful little island with stunning beaches against a volcanic backdrop. Caleta de Sebo, the only settlement on La Graciosa, feels as if time has stood still, with no tarmac roads, just sandy streets and whitewashed houses. After 10 days, a permit expires in La Graciosa, and visitors must make room for other yachts to enjoy the island.
The rocky, uninhabited islet of Lampione is a renowned dive spot and makes for an ideal day-time circumnavigation. Cruising yachts can stay overnight in the harbour or anchor off the beach in the Pelagie islands, with no power or water available.
Marker Wadden, a group of islands in the western part of the Markermeer in the Netherlands, is a development designed to upgrade the water quality in the Markermeer. The islands offer lovely cruising opportunities with quaint historic fishing villages, walking trails, bird watching hides, and a natural harbour.
Lastly, Lake Vättern in Sweden, found right in the middle of the country, is another cruising spot that Anders Lindblom recommends. Lake Vättern is fully accessible from both the Baltic and the North Sea via the Göta Canal.
For those seeking a unique sailing experience, the Guadiana river, forming part of the natural border between Spain and Portugal, offers the option of taking a yacht 30 miles upstream and sitting between two time zones.
These destinations combine natural beauty with authentic cultural experiences away from mass tourism, making them ideal for secret sailing getaways.
[1] Baltic Sea Sailing [2] Sailing in Finland [3] Sailing in Corsica [4] Sailing in Sardinia
[1] To unwind in a less touristy setting, consider a lifestyle change for a sailing trip in the Baltic Sea, where historic cities like Tallinn and the idyllic islands of Saaremaa await, offering tranquil escapes without the Mediterranean crowds.
[2] For travelers yearning for a blend of tradition and modern culture, a home-and-garden escape could be spending the summer sailing in Helsinki, Finland's capital, known for its compact size and fewer congestions compared to southern European counterparts.
[3] For sports enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet rewarding sailing adventure, Sardinia in the Mediterranean could be an exciting destination, with its rugged coastline and strong currents catering to advanced sailors.
[4] Lastly, for those seeking a one-of-a-kind travel experience, travel to Corsica for its scenic landscapes and scenic sailing routes, featuring the Bonifacio Cliffs and mountains that meet the sea, providing an invigorating sports sailing challenge.
