For many South Africans, the idea of a sailing holiday may seem out of reach and reserved only for experienced sailors or luxury travellers. That perception is changing, though, as more South Africans seek flexible, experience-led holidays that combine adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Sunsail, the global charter company with over 50 years of experience, is seeing increasing interest from South Africans looking to explore the world by yacht – whether as first-time sailors, couples, families, or groups of friends.
Unlike traditional holidays, sailing offers the freedom to explore multiple destinations in a single journey, with each day bringing a new island, bay, or coastline. Modern charter options also make the experience far more accessible and affordable, with skippered and fully crewed yachts available for those without sailing experience.
Guests can choose from Sunsail’s award-winning fleet of more than 300 yachts, including spacious catamarans and performance monohulls from leading manufacturers, all designed to deliver comfort, reliability and unforgettable experiences.
Popular destinations
Sailing destinations such as Seychelles and Thailand are particularly popular with South Africans due to their ease of access and favourable visa requirements. Seychelles is visa-free for South African passport holders, while Thailand allows visa-free stays of up to 30 days for tourism, making both destinations convenient long-haul options.
Seychelles offers a tranquil natural setting and rewarding sailing grounds, with popular routes linking islands such as Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Sailing times vary depending on weather conditions and the chosen itinerary, while the destination’s sheltered anchorages and island-hopping opportunities make it an appealing option for both first-time and experienced sailors.
Thailand delivers a contrasting experience, with vibrant culture, dramatic island scenery around Phuket and Koh Phi Phi, and a mix of food, nightlife, and adventure that makes it ideal for travellers wanting variety as well as a rewarding sailing experience.
Adventure, relaxation, meaningful connection
“More South Africans are looking for travel experiences that combine adventure, relaxation, and meaningful connection, and sailing offers exactly that,” says Nicci Welgemoed of Sunsail South Africa. “Destinations like Seychelles and Thailand are especially appealing as they are both accessible, incredibly diverse and comparatively affordable for the return you get. For those new to sailing, our skippered holidays are the perfect introduction, allowing complete novices to enjoy the experience with the confidence and support of an experienced skipper on board. We offer both novice and experienced sailors the chance to explore and enjoy destinations in a fully immersive and memorable way.”
From secluded anchorages in Seychelles to dramatic limestone coastlines in Thailand, sailing offers holidaymakers a great way to disconnect from the humdrum of a daily routine while feeling the joy of discovering new places at their own pace.
Supporting guests every step of the way
Beyond the destinations themselves, Sunsail’s experienced teams support guests every step of the way, from booking and trip planning to base briefings and on-the-water guidance, ensuring a seamless sailing experience from embarkation through to the end of the charter.
Fleets are maintained its fleet to the highest standards and backs this with a 4-Hour Commitment, meaning that any breakdown affecting essential operating equipment, such as the engine, sails or rigging, will be attended to within four working hours during base operating hours, provided the yacht is within 20 miles of the base and inside the designated sailing area. Non-essential equipment issues will also be addressed as quickly as possible, although response times may vary and certain exclusions apply.
In a nutshell
Sunsail sailing holidays
Yachts in over 20 global locations
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