Worldwide Charter Destination Weather and Yachting Seasons
Understand the Meltemi winds in Greece, the Caribbean hurricane season and other weather systems to help you plan your yacht charter
Understanding Weather | Clouds | Hurricane Season | Useful Weather Websites | Chartering Calander
Greece | Italy | Croatia | Azores | Bahamas | Asia and The Pacific
Why is weather important when chartering?
Weather plays an extremely important role in your yachting vacation. Whether you want the strong Meltemi winds for your bareboat sailing expedition, or you just want pure sunshine and flat seas for your crewed motor yacht charter, mother nature always has the final say! Having knowledge about weather patterns enables you to make an informed decision about your vacation place and more importantly, the time of year.
What is 'weather'?
Common weather phenomena include 4 core types: rain, wind, sun, and snow. Weather is not to be confused with climate as they are two separate identities. Climate is the average course of weather in one particular area e.g "Southern areas of Asia is mild to hot, while far northeastern areas such as Siberia are very cold" this is opposed to weather which is the day-to-day state of the atmosphere eg: wind rain snow. Hurricane season, Meltemi winds, Mistral winds, and other atmospheric phenomena can affect your charter, whether it's the itinerary or the country which you want to visit. The good thing is, these weather states are fairly predictable and avoidable allowing you to have the dream yachting vacation!
Greece
Comprised of 6 mains areas: Ionian, Cyclades, Saronic, Sporades, Dodecanese, and the North-Eastern Aegean. Greece is one, if not the most popular destinations in the world for chartering. If you want island hopping, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, warm and welcoming tavernas and some of the most stunning anchorages in the world - Greece is for you. Before organizing a charter in Greece, take the time to read through the different weather that affects different areas at different times of the year.
The Cyclades, Greece.
Best times to charter: April, May, June, September, October, and early November.
Home to the stunning, famous islands such as Mykonos and Santorini, the Cyclades is one of the most popular areas in Greece to charter. A dry, jagged landscape littered with beaches, beach clubs, protected anchorages and of course the tasty fresh food provided by the welcoming, homely tavernas.
Meltemi Winds
The Cyclades is the host to a strong and predictable wind called the Meltemi. The Meltemi wind is a dry northerly wind that spikes during July and August and affects most of the Cyclades Islands. It's caused by low pressure over Turkey and high pressure over Greece which funnels and pushes air down through the Aegean - see picture diagram below. The average strength of the Meltemi is roughly a strong F5-6 but it can quickly pick up to a Force 7 and occasionally a Force 8, which brings a high swell. The wind coupled with the swell can create dangerous sailing weather, even for the most experienced sailors.
Tips
- Be honest with yourself and the crew. Are you experienced enough to deal with the Meltemi winds? Is your crew knowledgeable enough?
- What type of charter are you wanting, relaxing? Fast-paced?
- If chartering in July/August always check the local weather forecast. This should be done as safe practice anyway, but especially if you are chartering in July/August.
- Have back up alternative anchorages on the south side of islands if the Meltemi picks up.
- In July/August consider starting and finishing your charter in the Saronic as this is far more protected.
Itinerary
- One week sailing bareboat.
- One week crewed charters.
The Ionian, Greece.
Best times to charter: June, July, August and early September
Noticeable places of interest in the Ionian: Fiskardo for the upmarket restaurants and caves on Foki Bay. Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos is a must-see! Papanikolis caves on the jagged island of Meganisi - take your tender in and test your vocal cords! The Ionian provides great sailing, for beginner to intermediate sailors. All line of sight sailing, with a vast array of sheltered anchorages.
Winds
The collection of the Ionian Islands are based on the western coast of Greece opposite Italy. The prevailing winds are NW, between F1-2 in the mornings and F3-4 in the afternoons. As the prevailing winds are North Westerly, the Southern Ionian islands and the east side of Corfu are very sheltered and therefore offer relaxing charters with some absolutely beautiful anchorages. Having said this, the geography of the Ionian means that in the evenings the winds tend to pick up as the cool air hits the warm land. The west coast of the outer islands such as Lefkada and Kefalonia should be avoided (unless in a secure mooring) as the prevailing winds can prick up during the night and offer virtually no shelter.
- Picture from WINDY apTips
- Charter in July and August for more predictable sunshine.
- Be careful of Vasiliki (Lefkada) after midday.
- Avoid early June and late September as electrical storms tend to brew either side of the summer peak seasons.
- Stay away from sailing on the exposed western coast as the winds can be unpredictable, and doesn't offer many sheltered anchorages.
Itinerary
- One week south Ionian sailing itinerary.- One week Ionian Crewed motor yacht itinerary.
The Azores
Winds
The winds are fairly predictable in the Azores, with the prevailing winds being either WSW or SW and averaging 10-17 knots of wind on either side of July and August. Winds in the outer season have known to blow a steady 30 knots. During the July and August months, it tends to stay around the 8-10 knots, with the highs of 20 knots.
- If you are planning to sail with children, it would be our advice to charter in the Summer months of July and August. This will ensure they come back with you the next time you go!
- If you are looking to do mile building, the Azores are for you.
- Get your VHF license.
- If you want tougher sailing March/April is a great time to go.
Italy and Sardinia
Winds
There are 5 types of regular winds that affect Italy throughout the year. Mistral, Tramontane, Scirocco, Libeccio, and the Bora. However, between these all, it is the Mistral wind that you have to be most aware of, along with the Tramontane which blows further west. These winds happen throughout the year. From cold northerly winds to warm, humid southerly that blow in the Sahara sand, Italy experiences it all.
Mistral
The Mistral and the Tramontane winds run almost parallel to each other, however, the Mistral travels down between the famous Rhone Valley, squeezing between the Alps and Massif Central where it gains speed and eventually hits the northwestern side of Corsica and Sardinia. The winds are strong and cold, normally these winds are in the region of a Force 7-9 and shockingly it has been known for wind gusts to reach a mind-blowing 155mph (185kph) although this is rare.
These winds should be at the forefront of all sailors/charterers when planning a charter in the Sardinian/Corsica region. The Mistral winds tend to be more prevalent in the winter and spring, however, the Mistral phenomena can occur at any time of the year. Areas like La Madelena on the northern tip of Sardinia are particularly exposed by the northwesterly winds. These winds tend to last more than one day and can sometimes last a week.
Tramontane
The winds are most noticeable on the west coast of Italy and Northern Corsica. The Tramontane winds funnel down the mountain rangers and increases in speed as it passes between the Pyrenees and the Massif Central. It is caused by a high pressure on the north of France that subsequently pushes air in a southeasterly direction across the Meditteranean. It is strongest before sunrise when it can reach speeds of 70 km/h (45 mph) - don't use it as an excuse to spend a few more minutes in bed! These winds do not tend to affect charters, but always good to bear in mind if you want to start early.
Scirocco
Scirocco (or Jugo winds) are characterized as a humid southeasterly or westerly that travels north from the coast of Africa...taking half the Sahara sands with it! This starts off as a dry warm wind and then condenses as it travels up towards the Mediterranean. Sirocco winds tend to occur throughout the year, in the rare event that these winds pick up to a gale it would predominantly be in the Springtime.
Tips
- Check the forecast the evening before and the morning before you depart
- Check for alternative anchorages on the eastern side of the islands if the Mistral picks up.
- Be prepared to moor for a couple of days in one spot if the winds are forecasted for a prolonged amount of time
- Have a backup itinerary
Itinerary
- Ponza and the Amalfi Coast Motor yacht itinerary
- Amalfi Catamaran sailing itinerary
- Sardinia Motor yacht itinerary
- Sardinia bareboat itinerary
Croatia
Croatia is fast becoming a hot spot for yacht lovers, and it`s easy to understand why. The Croatian coastline holds some of the most beautiful scenes in the Adriatic, pathing way to picturesque sunsets, culturally rich towns and beach parties alike. Croatia is famously known as `The Country Of A Thousand Islands` - a sailors paradise, but as will all places in the world, there are certain winds to watch out for on your charter.
Bora
Jugo is a southerly moist wind, that travels over the islands and onto the shore. Jugo can appear in all seasons, however, the North of the Adriatic is mostly affected by this wind in the springtime, and the southern Adriatic in the autumn time. Jugo has more of a presence as this wind tends to blow from the southeasterly direction hitting the southern parts of Croatia first.
- Apri - June and September - October offer mild weather and calm seas.
- July and August, perfect for swimming but very, very busy.
- If chartering in high season, reserve your buoy/slip at least three days before!
Caribbean
Best times to charter: December - the beginning of May.
The Caribbean, characterized by its laid back lifestyle and crystalline waters, the Caribbean offers memorable charters around the unique relaxed islands. The shallow waters, illuminated by the bright white sands create seas of colour so intensely turquoise that you just cannot help but jump in!
Climate
Scroll down for Hurricane information
Bahamas
Best times to charter: December - May.
Home to some of the most incredible sandy cays and natural beauty this world had to offer. This is a sailor's paradise when it comes to sailing and exploring. Not only can you enjoy the geography, but also wildlife. Swimming with nurse sharks, spying on the aloof iguanas or feeding the swimming pigs, this area as an abundance of wildlife for you to observe.
Climate
Geographically speaking, the main differences between the Caribbean and the Bahamas is that the majority of the Bahamian islands are in the Atlantic sea while the Caribbean islands are, of course, in the Caribbean Sea. Climate is similar, but due to the geographic location of the Bahamas, the winters are milder compared to the Caribbean. Just like the Caribbean, the trade winds tend to keep the Bahamas fairly cool reaching 33°C but rarely falling under 18°C.
Tips
- Do not charter in hurricane season
- Be careful on your depth
- Storms can come on as quickly as they can dissipate, check the forecast!
Hurricane season
Hurricane season
Hurricane season spikes from June to mid-October worldwide, but the seasonal change can be noticeable from May through to December. Hurricanes and tropical storms are created by warm water and humid air. The faster the water evaporates the more swell is created, which forms large tropical waves that can devastate sea-level or low lying land. Unfortunately due to the Geography of islands in the Bahamas, the Caribbean and some parts of Asia, flooding and hurricanes are susceptible to these particular areas.The Bahamas and Caribbean Hurricane season
Hurricane season is at its strongest during the June > October time, understandably, at these times the islands are at their quietest. Here at Boatbookings, we would never recommend chartering during these months, it's simply not worth it. You might as well go, and have a relaxing stress free vacation, after all that is what sailing is all about! Our advice is to not be worried about chartering in hurricane/tropical storm-prone areas.Hurricane Dorian, below, is the most recent Hurricane to make landfall. Dorian hovered over the Abacos, destroying almost everything beneath her. Due to her path, and the low and high pressures that stalled the hurricane, she thankfully didn't move south which would have completely battered Nassau and the Exumas. This is a prime example of a Category 5 hurricane destroying only one area - leaving the rest of the Bahamas and Caribbean untouched and still available for sailors and holiday markets to plan their vacations.
Asia and the Pacific
Best times to charter: December - May
There are three main seasons in Asia and southwest Asia, the cool season, hot season, and rainy season. Often translated to the hot season (December / May), the really hot season (May / August), and the really really hot and wet season (September and October)! Typically around Thailand/Phuket regions, the climate is considered a tropical monsoon climate, thus meaning it is warm all year around.
Monsoon Winds
The Monsson Winds, often referred to as the South West Monsoon blows warm, equatorial weather and warm water from the south and deposits over most of Asia. The Southwest monsoon begins in May and June with the peak being in August and October.
Countries close to the equator such as Indonesia, Malaysia, southern Philippines, and Singapore have an equatorial climate which means the seasons remain warm and wet, and rarely have variation between the months. The Monsoon winds hit some of the most loved attractions in Asia such as Phuket. In the Koh Chang region especially, dangerous rip currents happen during the rainy season.
Why are clouds important for sailors?
Clouds and understanding cloud formations are essential to sailors' knowledge. They can indicate oncoming weather, flukey winds or whether you're in for a peaceful lovely evening! There are four main cloud formations, but many variations that sailors need to watch out for!
- Cumulus clouds - puffy, sometimes flat-based clouds.
- Stratus clouds - low level horizontal 'blanket' looking clouds.
- Cirrus clouds - thin wispy high altitude clouds.
- Nimbus clouds - dark in colour and will bring rain.
Cirrus clouds (mares tails)
Cirrus clouds are high altitude clouds that lay between 16,500 ft and 45,000 ft. They are short, whispy looking clouds that derive from the Latin word for curly locks. Though these clouds aren't initially a potential threat, they can indicate a wet warm front. Take note of their speed and direction, if the clouds are traveling in an easterly direction fair weather is on its way. If not, you could be in for some rain and stuff winds until the front passes. Cirrocumulus Clouds
Cirrostratus
Altocumulus / Altostratus
Cumulus
Cumulus
Useful Weather Websites
- Windy
- Canary Islands (Lanzarote)
April
September
- 5 + 2 Cabins Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 16.8 m
- Year: 2020
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From $20000 to $35000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"No better way to explore the stunning Bahamian waters than by chartering this impressive Bali 5.4!"
- 6 + 1 Cabins Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 14.75 m
- Year: 2022
- Cabins: 6
- Berths: 12
- From $10410 to $21735 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The Lagoon 50 is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious bareboat catamarans, perfect for cruising around the breathtaking Bahamian waters."
- Sunseeker 115 Sports Yacht Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 34.53 m
- Year: 2014
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From €110000 to €115000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"LADY VOLANTIS is a stunning luxury yacht for an exceptional cruising experience on the French Riviera, with an enthusiastic crew that fits the job!"
- Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 12 m
- Year: 2018
- Cabins: 2
- Berths: 4
- From $14500 to $15500 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Memorable charters for small groups and families!"
- 3+2 Cabins Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 12.5 m
- Year: 2018
- Cabins: 6
- Berths: 8
- From €6646 to €8553 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The brand new Lagoon 42 available in the Balearics!"
- Sunseeker 86 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 26.3 m
- Year: 2020
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From €51000 to €61000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"One of the finest Sunseeker yachts on the charter market, sleek and stylish lines define SEAWATER II."
- Sunseeker 40m Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 40.05 m
- Year: 2014 (2021 Refit)
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 12
- From €160000 to €180000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"THUMPER will take you on a luxury yachting adventure on the French Riviera, led by an experienced captain and his wonderful crew!"
- Sunseeker 131 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 40.05 m
- Year: 2018
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From €150000 to €180000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"This artistically furnished Sunseeker, complete with a jacuzzi and wet bar is the most luxurious way to experience the stunning French Riviera."
- Sunseeker 116 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 35.6 m
- Year: 2016
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From €135000 to €142500 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The newest Sunseeker 116 yacht with the finest deck spaces in her class cruising the French Riviera with an outstanding crew."
- Lagoon 560 Luxury Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 17.07 m
- Year: 2016
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From $22000 to $26000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The gentle waves of the Bahamas are calling you on the Lagoon catamaran WHISPERS II."
- Riva Opera 80 Luxury Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 23.96 m
- Year: 2001 (Refit 2019)
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 9
- From €26000 to €37000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"ZIA CANAIA is led by one of the most experienced captain and crew in southern Italy. Enjoy the delights of the Amalfi Coast on this stylish Riva!"
- Pearl 78 Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 23.93 m
- Year: 2018
- Cabins: 3
- Berths: 6
- From $45000 to $50000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The OMNIA crew is always ready to serve the best of the best in your French Riviera cruise!"
- 2023 Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 0 m
- Year:
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 10
- From €5500 to €14500 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Step onboard the Lagoon 46 on your luxury charter in Croatia."
- 4 + 2 Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 0 m
- Year:
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 10
- From $5500 to $14500 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Step onboard the Lagoon 46 on your luxury charter in BVI."
- 4 cabins (4 double) Bareboat Sailing Yacht
- Length: 13.94 m
- Year: 2019
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 4
- From €3698 to €5691 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"This family-friendly Oceanis 45 is suitable for adventurous charters around the breathtaking Aeolian islands."
- 6 Cabins (5 Double + 1 Single) Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 13.94 m
- Year: 2023
- Cabins: 6
- Berths: 12
- From €5500 to €14900 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The Fountaine Pajot Tanna 47 has an incredible flybridge, creating the perfect environment for large group and family charters."
- 6 Cabins (4 Double + 2 Single) Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 13.99 m
- Year: 2023
- Cabins: 6
- Berths: 12
- From €5250 to €15500 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The Lagoon 46 bareboat catamaran is great for luxurious sailing in the Adriatic Sea."
- Bali 4.8 Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 14 m
- Year: 2022
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From $22500 to $28000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Listen to the melodic orchestra of the gentle Caribbean waves and the warm sea breeze, giving you a relaxing comfort on HARMONY!"
- Lagoon 51 Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 14.75 m
- Year: 2024
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From €9090 to €18090 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"FICHETTO will establish a new benchmark for catamaran sailing in Sicily."
- Bali 4.8 Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 14.88 m
- Year: 2023
- Cabins: 6
- Berths: 12
- From €9090 to €22540 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"BASMA offers spacious indoor facilities and extensive outdoor spaces, making her an ideal choice for sun-seeking activities while cruising Greece."
- 5 Cabins Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 14.88 m
- Year: 2023
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From 9090 to 22540 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The Bali 4.8's extensive outdoor spaces and spacious indoor facilities are perfect for on-the-water living and sun-seeking activities while cruising the Amalfi Coast."
- 5 Cabins (4 Double + 1 Twin Bunks) Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 14.88 m
- Year: 2020
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From $9090 to $22540 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The large outdoor spaces and rigid front cockpit make this catamaran perfect for relaxing on deck and soaking up the Bahamian sun."
- 5 Cabins Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 14.88 m
- Year: 2023
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From €9090 to €22540 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The Bali 4.8's extensive outdoor spaces and spacious indoor facilities are perfect for on-the-water living and sun-seeking activities while cruising the Amalfi Coast."
- 5 Cabins Bareboat Catamaran
- Length: 14.88 m
- Year: 2022
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 10
- From 9090 to 22540 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"The large outdoor spaces and rigid front cockpit make this catamaran perfect for relaxing on deck and soaking up the Bahamian sun."
- Sunreef 50 Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 15 m
- Year: 2023
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From €17500 to €34000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Ignite your passion for sailing through the Croatian waters on ZARA!"
- Lagoon 51 Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 15 m
- Year: 2024
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From €16000 to €21000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Scenic views and delectable local recipes await in Greece onboard BABALU 51!"
- 2018 Bareboat Sailing Yacht
- Length: 15.2 m
- Year: 2018
- Cabins: 5
- Berths: 12
- From €3500 to €6250 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Get the best out of the Tuscan Archipelago!"
- Bali 5.4 Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 16 m
- Year: 2022
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From $33000 to $38000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Nik and Lily bring you the best of the Bahamas, extraordinary cuisine, and a great sense of fun on the elegant LOCATION Bali 5.4 catamaran!"
- Fountaine Pajot Ipanema 58 Crewed Catamaran
- Length: 17 m
- Year: 2017
- Cabins: 4
- Berths: 8
- From €24000 to €27000 per week
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"VIDA BOA II is a great catamaran for exploring Italy this summer season!"
- Day Charter Crewed Motor Yacht
- Length: 17.04 m
- Year: 2005
- Cabins: 3
- Berths: 6
- From €2300 to €2500 per day
BOATBOOKINGS SAYS:
"Elegant Princess V55 available to explore the unrivalled coastline of the French Riviera."
