What Makes Bermuda the Best Destination for Sailors?

From October 16-18, 2015, Hamilton, Bermuda hosted the prestigious Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series, a racing circuit featuring sailors from around the world who compete on foiling, wingsailed catamarans – a newer version of the AC45 raced in the last series. The Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series is the first phase of the competition in 2017. Overall collective ranking determines the starting points score of teams in the America’s Cup Qualifiers 2017. Sailing enthusiasts and novices won’t want to miss the chance to get a glimpse of the sailors. But why wait until 2017? Sailors travel to Bermuda because it’s one of the best travel destinations for sailing. Read on to find out why. Who knows? You may fall in love with the sport and start taking lessons. This way you can sail around Bermuda while on vacation.

What Makes Bermuda the Best Destination for Sailing

Bermudians have deep sailing roots ever since the island’s founding four centuries ago. In fact, it’s where the Bermuda sloop and rig was invented. The latter is still used today on 95 percent of sailing yachts.

Bermuda’s coral reefs, various marine life, blue water, wildlife, and over 300 known shipwrecks make it the ideal location for sailors. Of course, the beautiful weather makes it an ideal location for sailing.

Sailors who compete in the America’s Cup presented by Louis Vuitton have the privilege of racing on Bermuda’s Great Sound, an excellent backdrop with crystal clear waters and pink sand beaches. Since Bermuda is centrally located, teams and fans from all around the world travel to the island to participate in this international event. But the America’s Cup isn’t the only competition. The Digicel Dinghy Regatta (April 8-10, 2016), the Argo Gold Cup (October 2016) and the Viper North America Race (November 14-19, 2016) will take place on Bermuda.

There’s no escaping the British charm as Bermuda is a British Commonwealth Overseas Territory (first settlers were from England). You’ll find quintessential London, red telephone booths, powdered wigs worn by members of Parliament, cricket, pubs, and more.

Sailors who love learning about the past can peek inside Bermuda’s naval history. Begin by visiting the Royal Naval Dockyard where stone building, wharves and fortifications from the Royal Naval’s past still stand. Located within the dockyard is the Bermuda Maritime Museum where you’ll find a large collection of artifacts, exhibits of early shipwrecks and underwater archaeological objects. To pay your respects to those who perished on the seas, visit the Royal Naval Cemetery. You’ll get a glimpse into a person’s life and death and Bermuda’s history.

Whether you’re a competitive sailor or novice, you can travel to Bermuda and explore the many coral reefs, islets, marine life and shipwrecks. Keep in mind that hurricane season is from June to November with September and October having a record number of hurricane impacts in Bermuda. Plan your sailing excursions accordingly.

How to Sail Around Bermuda

How you sail around Bermuda is up to you. Many cruise operators offer you the choice of a yacht or catamaran (has two hulls). Sizes vary and some can accommodate 30 to 300 people. Skilled sailors who can handle a larger vessel will be able to sail beyond the protected harbors and into the ocean. For a more intimate experience, rent a small boat.

Of course, you may choose to book a sailing tour and leave the steering to someone else. Tours may include sightseeing with glass bottom views. You’ll see famous homes and hideaways. You may also enjoy water and shore excursions like diving, fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling, and others.

Travel to Bermuda and Sail into a Great Vacation

Mark Twain once said, “You go to heaven if you want – I’d rather stay her in Bermuda.” He was right. Not only is Bermuda a sailor’s paradise but it’s a dream vacation. From the beaches to the countless outdoor activities, the island is one of the most welcoming places in the world. Once you arrive you may discover that you don’t want to leave.

If you’re looking for a travel destination that offers the best sailing in the world, peace and quiet, romance, or the chance to go off the beaten path, contact your Travel Planners International agent and start planning your Bermuda vacation. Soothing your soul is closer to possible than you think.

by Amandah T. Blackwell, Savvy-Writer