Top 11 Places to Go Sailing in October

October is the Perfect Month to Go Sailing, With Many Crowds Disappearing After the High Season but the Weather is Warm Enough to Enjoy It

Top 11 Places to Go Sailing in October

October is the perfect month to go sailing, with many crowds disappearing after the high season but the weather is warm enough to enjoy it. The best destinations to go sailing in October vary with temperature and crowds depending on what type of yacht charter you desire.

A great month to go sailing in European destinations as the weather is still warm and the crowds of the summer have departed and the areas are quieting down. Further afield in the Indian Ocean and Australia is also a great place to go sailing in October.

Best Places to Go Sailing in October

Some of the best destinations to go sailing in October are Italy, Spain, Greece, Seychelles, Malta, Australia, Turkey, and further afield. October is a great time to go sailing as conditions are favourable, prices are often cheaper out of the summer season for yacht charters and flights.

In October you can often find the last minute or bargain trip with fewer people opting to go to sailing in October.

Depending on where you decide to take a sailing trip too, October still has superb weather may be even more favourable than during July and August as it is cooler. The water temperatures are still ideal for swimming when you go sailing in October.

Top 11 Places to Go Sailing in October

1. Thailand

Weather. Thailand is an excellent year-round sailing destination with the year split into two seasons – wet and dry season or SW and NE monsoon seasons.

When sailing in October in Thailand it is the end of the south-west monsoon season (May to October), with winds typically between 10 and 20 knots in a southwest direction. While it is rainier during this period the rain typically only lasts between one or two hours with average temperatures remaining between 31 – 24c (87-75f).

Thailand. Thailand is a great place to go sailing in October with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, on islands waiting to be explored with tropical rainforests, world-class marinas, famous bays, and thriving resort towns.

2. Greece

Popular Destination. Greece is one of the popular destinations to go sailing in October with less crowded islands and marinas, as well as favourable conditions with small towns still open for business but less crowded.

Weather. The weather when sailing in October in Greece is great with the average high for the month being 73f (23c) and the average low being 57F (14c).

This weather is a lot cooler than July and August when it is often too hot to walk around and explore the villages, hike or participate in strenuous activities on the islands or mainland.

Places In Greece. Greece has over 6,000 islands, many of which are both inhabited and uninhabited. The islands are split into main areas and groups, which each have their own individual climates, winds, and sea conditions.

These collections are the Dodecanese, Ionian, Saronic, Sporades, Aegean Islands, the Cyclades, and Cretan islands.

3. Italy

Weather. Italy is a popular destination for sailing in October with the Amalfi Coast and its surrounding islands, Sicily, and Sardinia. These are popular sailing destinations in October with comfortable temperatures, uncrowded sites, and beautiful sunny days.

The average temperature is a high of 73f (22c) and an average low of 64f  (17c). During October the sailing conditions are slightly windier than other locations or during the summer season with winds reaching 10 knots.

Popular Destinations. The Amalfi Coast has lots of places to visit and things to see, making it a popular destination to go sailing in October, the landmark places are uncrowded during this month and many offer low season prices.

Sicily and Sardinia offer some of Europe’s best beaches, with white sand and crystal clear emerald waters. As well as both being culinary paradises with varieties of pasta, bread, and wines.

Italy can become busy in the summer months, especially on the Amalfi Coast, which means everything from restaurants, anchorages, and marinas are quieter than during the summer months.

4. Australia

Weather. Australia’s Whitsundays Islands are the ideal destination for sailing in October with an average daily high of 27c (81f) and a low of 22c (71f). During October the Whitsundays wind blows in an east southeast direction with an average wind speed of 15 knots. The Whitsundays also offer easy line-of-sight sailing for everyone no matter what ability.

The Whitsundays. The Whitsundays are a collection of 74 islands located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. Famous for having white sandy beaches, lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef.

Islands To Visit. The Whitsundays Islands are one of the best places to go sailing in October thanks to its variety of islands to explore and discover. The main islands in the collection worth visiting are:

  • Hamilton Islands – The location for the Hamilton Island Race Week yachting festival, beautiful sunsets, and the bustling resort island.
  • Hook Island – Nara Inlet is a green and peaceful island, fishing spot, and snorkel to see tropical fish. Stonehaven is a great location to watch the sunset.
  • Whitsunday Island – Coral Sea, largest chain, Tongue Bay with beautiful scenery, turtles, and a beautiful lookout. Whitehaven Beach a beautiful beach in the area.
  • Long Island – Long Island has a large number of plant species, animal species, and a great place to enjoy cycling, and hiking.
  • Bali Hai (Black Island) – Great place to snorkel and enjoy the calm waters and marine life.
  • Lindeman Island – 19km of walking trails, 90 species of birds, humpback whales, and dolphins.
  • Daydream Island – Man-made lagoon and aquarium, marine life in natural habitat.

5. Spain

Weather. Spain has more than 300 days of sunshine a year, with great sailing conditions all year round. Spain is a great destination for sailing in October with warm winds and fewer crowds than during the peak seasons.

Spain. The Spanish Mediterranean coastline is unique with wonderful historic cities as well as a large number of islands. The Spanish islands of Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, the Balearic Islands – Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera.

The rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, and light winds make this area a great place to sail for everyone, with partying, beautiful landscapes, and historical wonders to explore.

6. Seychelles

Seychelles. Proclaimed “the most beautiful islands on earth”, Seychelles take you to an entirely different unique world. Immerse yourself in nature and take in the special landscape of this archipelago. Home to 275 species of birds, 2,200 giant Aldabra tortoises, and many endemic species, Seychelles claims a unique ecosystem. Located 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a collection of 115 islands, many of which are coral islands.

Wind and Weather Conditions. When sailing in October in Seychelles the average high is 82f (28c) and an average low of 75f (24c) during the month. The winds blow frequently in a southeast direction at approximately 10 knots and there is a tidal system which varies by 4.5ft or 5.9ft (1.4m or 1.8m).

7. Turkey

Turkish Riviera. The Turkish Riviera is a 1,000 mile stretch of coastline, with green mountains, crystal clear waters, historic sites, and superb beaches, making it a great place to go sailing in October. From diving in Antalya, the archaeological site of Ephesus, the vibrant city of Fethiye, Ölüdeniz lagoon, the medieval castle, and underwater museum in Bodrum.

Weather. Turkey is a great place to go sailing in October, thanks to its warm weather with an average temperature of 78f (26c), during this time each day has an average of 11 hours of daylight. The sailing conditions in Turkey in October are an average of 15-20 knots northwest wind.

8. Malta

Malta. Malta is a beautiful island located in a group of islands located between Sicily and northern Africa. The archipelagoes are made up of three islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Each island has beautiful bays to anchor in to discover the lush greenery of Gozo or the beautiful architecture or history of Malta and its old town Valetta. The islands have beautiful coves, bays, and beaches to explore, with turquoise waters and golden sand.

Weather. The weather in Malta makes it a great destination to go sailing in October, with milder temperatures than during the summer months and fewer crowds. The average temperature when sailing in October is 25c (77f) and an evening low of 20c (68f).

The water temperature during October is still 24c (75f) meaning cooler but refreshing waters to cool off in or snorkel when sailing in October. In October Malta still has over 11 hours of daylight and 7 hours of sunshine.

9. St Lucia

St Lucia. With a beautiful blend of culture, in St. Lucia, you’ll find cricket tournaments, Caribbean style curry dishes, as well as Calypso, Socal, Reggae, Compas, Zouk, and Salsa music. The islands deep and interesting history makes for a great island with beautiful traditions in which you can partake. In St Lucia, you can find amazing hiking trails, luxurious boutique resorts, exhilarating adventure activities, and delectable seafood.

Weather. St Lucia has over 12 hours of daylight. The average temperatures range from 23c (73f) to 31c (87f). And the sea temperature is an average of 29c (84f). St Lucia is a great place to go sailing in October as its wind is steady trade winds with an average speed of 8 knots from an ESE direction.

10. Tahiti

Tahiti. With a rich history incorporating many different countries, Tahiti’s culture is a beautiful blend of indigenous customs, with influences from the long-standing French presence on the islands. Here you can take part in the incredible oral histories and the Tahitian tradition of music and dance. Observe the wonderful craftsmanship, in the weaving, quilting, sculpture, and carving that artists incorporate into their work.

Weather. The weather in Tahiti makes it a great place to go sailing in October with steady trade winds averaging 13 knots coming from an easterly direction. The average temperature ranges from 23c (73f) to 29c (84f).

11. Antigua

Antigua. This quiet paradise has over 54 miles of coastline to enjoy, with over 365 beaches, all with white sand and natural beauty.

Antigua not only has beautiful beaches there are ample opportunities and places to snorkel in the coral reefs (if you’re lucky you may even spot a Hawksbill sea turtle), take a hike up to Fort Barrington, and you can even zip line through the rainforests. 

Weather. During October the weather ranges between 24c (75f) and 31c (87f). Antigua is a great place to go sailing in October with winds coming from an easterly direction at an average of 10 knots.

Amazing Sailing Experiences

Our Amazing Customers


  • Great family vacation.

    I didn't think sailing with my family would be so much fun...

    Sailing for the first time.

    Alex
    Alex USA

  • I recommendate them !

    Everything went smooth, the paper processing, special requests and the specs of tht check-in procedure. Boat was also in good shape, so no complaints and a worry free holiday...

    We had a great experience with booking through sailchecker.

    <read more>

    Dick USA

  • Great service from Kate.

    Informative and looked for the best value for our family. Very good customer service on this side and in Greece. Great boat and skipper...

    Fantastic holiday from start to finish.

    <read more>

    Angela United Kingdom

  • Very professional outfit!

    They were very responsive and very quick to answer questions via email and instant chat. They had extensive knowledge of the area...

    We will most definitely use their services for our next bareboat sailing vacation.

    <read more>

    Kirsten W.
    Kirsten W. USA

  • Sail checker were professional from start to finish - we wouldn’t book through anyone else!

    Sailchecker were professional from start to finish - and were awesome dealing with a problem! Our first Yacht had serious issues and sail checker helped us to resolve it...

    They are easy to deal with, straightforward and honest and I would recommend them to anyone planning a charter holiday.

    <read more>

    Kat, H.
    Kat, H. UK

  • Coronavirus pandemic support has been brilliant!

    During the Coronavirus pandemic, Kate and her colleagues at Sailchecker have performed brilliantly. They have been considerate and highly efficient in re-organising our Turkey charter and also provided lots of assistance in getting our Yacht Security Deposit insurance policy transferred to match our revised charter dates.

    Truly worthy of a 5 star rating!

    <read more>

    Alan, R.
    Alan, R. UK

  • Sailing is the perfect family holiday.

    Would I go sailing again? OMG yes! Sailing is the perfect family holiday. Boys loved the activities, I enjoy relaxing as well...

    Sailchecker.com arranged a sailing cruise her family of 2 sons, daughter & hubby in the BVI with their own.

    Anne
    Anne USA

  •  Thank you sooo much! It was sail in the day… party at night. We couldn't have wanted a better skipper or a Spring Break!  Good times...

    Arranged for 6 friends to sail Spring Break in the British Virgin Islands for under $500 each.

    Tim
    Tim USA

  • We had an absolute blast !!

    All bookings and confirmations was always accurate with no delays. Our boat was also fabulously maintained and the Skipper new the area extremely well...

    Everything was down to the tee.

    <read more>

    Pieter Van R.
    Pieter Van R. Netherlands
SailChecker Yacht Charter and Sailing Worldwide Logo TrustPilot 4.9/5 Stars

Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 215 reviews on Trustpilot

Got a Burning Question About Sailing in October?

We’re Happy to Answer Any Yacht Charter & Sailing Question

Leave us a quick question here, or call your local office, the numbers are located in the footer below. When not arrange a call back?

girl at desk at yacht charter show

Recommended Posts

Leave a Comment

Start typing and press Enter to search

The Fastest Way to Our Award Winning Charter Service Starts Here >>>
Get Started
close-image
beach scene on sailing in September charterSeychelles Beach View