A New Era of Elegance: The Dufour Monohull Revolution at Sunsail
Sailing Into the Sunset: The 10 Best Romantic Sailing Destinations for Couples
Love is in the air—and on the water—this Valentine’s Day! There is nothing quite as romantic as sailing into the sunset with the one you love and leaving the noise of the world in your wake. Whether it’s a leisurely cruise through Greece’s Ionian Islands, a candlelit dinner on the shores of the Sardinian Coast, or a beachside escape in the Seychelles, a sailing adventure is the perfect way to celebrate love.
To inspire your next couples’ getaway, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 most romantic Sunsail sailing destinations for love on the water. Whether you’re exploring the hidden coves of the Dalmatian Coast, lounging on the pink shores of Barbuda, taking in the dramatic landscapes of the Whitsundays, sailing through Tahiti’s crystal-clear lagoons, or sipping wine in a charming Amalfi Coast village, these destinations offer the ideal blend of adventure, tranquility, romance and, of course, perfect sailing.
Ready to set sail on a journey made for two? Discover the most breathtaking destinations for your next romantic getaway.
1. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Sailing the Amalfi Coast: A Romantic Voyage From Procida
Few places in the world capture romance quite like the Amalfi Coast, where pastel-hued villages cling to dramatic cliffs and the scent of lemon groves lingers in the air. Setting sail from Sunsail’s base in Procida, you can embark on an enchanting journey through the Gulf of Naples, discovering secluded coves, breathtaking vistas, memorable dining and, of course, excellent sailing conditions.
Whether your idea of romance on the water involves short island hops or longer passages, the dreamy Amalfi Coast offers it all. A short sail from Procida brings you to Ischia, an island known for its natural hot springs and lush landscapes – perfect for a rejuvenating spa day before anchoring off Sant’Angelo for a peaceful evening.
From there, cruise to the legendary island of Capri, where you can explore the enchanting Blue Grotto, hike to Villa Jovis for sweeping views, or sip cocktails at a chic cliffside bar. As the coastline unfolds, Positano’s cliffside charm awaits, with boutique shops, romantic terrace dining and vibrant Mediterranean colours. Continue to Amalfi, where historic piazzas and hidden coves invite exploration, and a short trip up to Ravello rewards you with panoramic views and stunning villa gardens. Finally, sail to Sorrento, a lively town perched above the sea, where you can toast your love with a glass of limoncello at sunset.
For those seeking hidden gems, the fishing village of Cetara offers an authentic and intimate experience, with tranquil beaches and renowned anchovy-based cuisine. From the glamour of Capri to the charming coves of Amalfi and the romantic allure of Ravello and Positano, sailing along this legendary coastline is the very definition of romance.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing The Amalfi Coast
Exploring Ravello’s Cliffside Gardens
The hilltop town of Ravello offers lush gardens and magnificent views. Arriving by yacht lets you soak up the atmosphere before wandering through Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, where panoramic terraces look out across the coast – a wonderfully romantic day ashore for two.
Wake Up on a Quiet Beach
Sail to Furore, a hidden fjord-like cove where a tiny beach lies tucked beneath soaring cliffs. The stillness here makes it feel like your own private hideaway – the perfect spot to wake up, go for a morning swim and enjoy a slow breakfast together away from the crowds.
Kiss Under The Faraglioni Rocks
Capri’s iconic Faraglioni rock formations rise dramatically from the sea just off the southern coastline. Local legend says couples who share a kiss beneath the arch of the central rock are blessed with eternal love – the ideal excuse to take the dinghy through this natural gateway and put the story to the test.
2. Seychelles, Indian Ocean
Secluded Seychelles: The Ultimate Romantic Sailing Escape
If your idea of true romance is getting away from it all, sailing into the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles is hard to beat. This remote Indian Ocean paradise offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, an incredible array of marine life and an overwhelming sense of tranquillity – perfect for couples looking to switch off from the world.
With your yacht as a floating sanctuary, you can explore entirely at your own pace – dropping anchor in hidden coves, stepping onto untouched shores and watching the sun melt into the horizon each evening. Sail to La Digue’s famous Anse Source d’Argent for a picnic among dramatic granite boulders, or swim in the turquoise waters of Anse Lazio on Praslin. Nature lovers can wander through the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai, home to towering coco de mer palms, while Curieuse Island offers encounters with giant tortoises and scenic mangrove trails.
Snorkellers and divers will find Seychelles a dream, with coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles and, at certain times of year, even whale sharks. For couples who enjoy fishing, the region’s rich waters provide fresh catches such as tuna and sailfish and, with no fishing licence required, it’s an ideal place to enjoy a romantic ocean-to-table dinner aboard.
Whether you’re island-hopping between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue or venturing out to more remote atolls, the Seychelles offers a rare mix of serenity and adventure – one of the world’s most enchanting sailing destinations for couples.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing In the Seychelles
Cook Your Catch
With abundant species including tuna, snapper and giant trevally, there’s every chance of catching your supper. With no licence required, you can grill your fresh catch on board and enjoy an intimate dinner under the stars.
Private Anchorages And Secluded Beaches
With more than 100 islands to explore, the Seychelles is a dream for privacy seekers. Drop anchor in a deserted cove or step ashore onto the powder-soft sands of hidden gems such as Anse Georgette or Petite Anse for a day that feels a world away from everyday life.
Exploring Vallée de Mai, Praslin
Often described as a Garden of Eden, this UNESCO-listed reserve is a magical place for a hand-in-hand stroll beneath rare coco de mer palms, accompanied by birdsong and the rustle of the forest canopy.
3. Grenada and The Grenadines – Caribbean
Spice Up Your Romance: Sailing The Spice Islands
Sailing through the Caribbean paradise of Grenada and the Grenadines combines seclusion, adventure and spectacular natural beauty, making it an outstanding choice for couples seeking perfect sailing conditions and classic Caribbean charm.
The uninhabited islets of the Tobago Cays are a particular highlight, offering a dreamy, remote sanctuary where you can snorkel with sea turtles, bask on pristine beaches or enjoy a private dinner beneath a canopy of stars. Mayreau’s palm-fringed Salt Whistle Bay provides a wonderfully romantic hideaway, where the soundtrack is simply the gentle lap of the waves and the soft rustle of the trade winds in the palms. For added exclusivity, Petit St Vincent offers barefoot luxury, privacy and attentive service in an intimate island setting.
Union Island enchants with its dramatic peaks and characterful harbours, perfect for sunset sails and quiet evenings on deck. Back on Grenada, the “Spice Island” lives up to its name: hike rainforest trails in Grand Etang National Park, cool off at Annandale Falls or explore the spice-scented streets and markets of St George’s.
From candlelit beach dinners and lazy days on secluded shores to world-class snorkelling and diving, plus sunset toasts on deck, Grenada and the Grenadines deliver romance at every turn. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary or simply the joy of being together, this Caribbean gem is made for couples.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing In Grenada and The Grenadines
Snorkel at the Tobago Cays Marine Park
Drift over shallow sandbars and colourful coral gardens hand in hand, watching sea turtles, tropical fish and spotted eagle rays glide through the clear lagoon.
Chasing Waterfalls In Grenada
Venture into Grenada’s lush interior to cool off beneath cascades such as Annandale Falls or the more remote Seven Sisters Falls. Hire a scooter or driver to make a day of it and discover the island at your own pace.
Spice-Scented Strolls And Cultural Charms
Wander through the lively, spice-laden alleys of St George’s market, picking up souvenirs and fresh produce for your time on board. Look out for local specialities such as nutmeg and mace – often touted as Caribbean aphrodisiacs.
4. Tahiti – South Pacific
Tropical Tranquility: Tahiti Sailing for Two
Long regarded as one of the world’s great honeymoon destinations, Tahiti and her sister islands of Bora Bora and Tahaa are synonymous with romance. Explore Bora Bora’s protected lagoon and swim with manta rays, turtles and shoals of tropical fish, then head to Huahine’s lush landscapes and quiet bays for some truly secluded time together, before following the sweet scent of vanilla towards Tahaa.
Sailing through the Society Islands offers a unique romantic adventure, with each island bringing its own character. Sunsail’s charter base in Raiatea places you at the heart of this paradise, where crystal-clear waters and dramatic volcanic peaks are paired with near year-round trade winds, warm temperatures and extensive reef systems that create calm, protected waters.
Set sail from Raiatea to vanilla-scented Tahaa to explore coral gardens and tranquil bays, ideal for snorkelling or kayaking, before stepping ashore to tour vanilla plantations, visit pearl farms and enjoy French-Polynesian fusion cuisine. Further on, Bora Bora’s shimmering lagoon and the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Otemanu make an unforgettable first impression. Once you’ve had your fill of swimming and snorkelling in its impossibly blue waters, head into Vaitape, the island’s main town, for markets, cafés and relaxed waterfront dining.
For ultimate seclusion, sail to Maupiti, where unspoilt beaches, glassy lagoons and a slower pace of life create a sanctuary for couples looking to unwind together. Tahiti’s blend of gentle breezes, dramatic scenery and welcoming culture makes it a natural haven for romance, whether you’re diving into Bora Bora’s lagoon or sharing a quiet moment in a secluded bay.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing In Tahiti
Huahine’s Quiet Bays
Huahine is ideal if you’re seeking peace and privacy. Anchor in a calm bay, take the kayak out across still waters or simply relax on deck, surrounded by jungle-clad hills and turquoise reef.
Vanilla Plantation Tours
On Tahaa, known as the “Vanilla Island”, stroll through fragrant plantations together and learn how this prized spice is cultivated and cured – a wonderfully sensory experience to share.
Take Your Dingy On A River Cruise
For something a little different, take the dinghy up the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia. Enveloped by lush jungle, towering peaks and vibrant flora, this peaceful journey offers a different perspective on the islands’ natural beauty.
5. Corfu – Greece
Laid Back Love: Sailing The Ionian Sea
Corfu is an ideal base for exploring the sheltered coves and livelier open waters of the northern Ionian Sea. Sailing around Corfu, you’ll find a satisfying mix of calm coastal stretches and more adventurous blue-water passages, suited to both first-time charterers and seasoned skippers.
Just 15 minutes from Sunsail’s base in Gouvia Marina lies Corfu Town, known for its rich history and vibrant culture – an atmospheric starting point if you like to blend romance with relaxed exploration ashore. Beyond Corfu itself, the Ionian is dotted with lush islands and tranquil bays made for gentle island-hopping. The main island’s laid-back vibe continues across the nearby Heptanese islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, known for sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, excellent local wines and superb snorkelling and diving.
Head towards the mainland for a touch of blue-water sailing and far-reaching views across the Ionian. Whether you’re stretched out on a quiet beach, exploring ancient ruins or lingering over a long dinner at a seaside taverna, Corfu has everything you need for a romantic sailing escape – with forgiving conditions that flatter skippers of all experience levels.
Curious where a romantic Corfu itinerary might lead? Take a look at our suggested 7-day sailing itinerary.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing In Corfu
Sunset at Canal d’Amour
Sail up to the Canal d’Amour in northern Corfu to experience one of the island’s most famously romantic spots. Local legend says couples who swim through its narrow channels together are destined for a lifetime of love – visit at sunset or early in the morning for a quieter experience.
Exploring Paxos and Antipaxos
These two small islands are all about unspoilt beauty and unhurried days. Swim or snorkel in the clear waters off Paxos, then head to Antipaxos for postcard-perfect beaches and that blissful feeling of being far from the crowds.
Corfu Town’s Romantic Streets
Just a short taxi ride from Gouvia Marina, Corfu Town’s Venetian-style architecture, cobbled lanes and pavement cafés set the scene for a romantic stroll before or after your time afloat.
Sunset Views from the Old Fortress
Climb up to the Old Fortress in Corfu Town for one of the best views on the island. Watching the sun set over the Ionian Sea from these ancient ramparts is a moment you’re unlikely to forget.
6. Exumas – Bahamas
Deep Love In Shallow Waters: Romantic Sailing in the Exumas
The Exumas deliver everything you might want from a romantic tropical escape: sandbars in the middle of luminous turquoise shallows, abundant marine life, easy island-hopping and exhilarating open-ocean stretches, all wrapped up with rum cocktails, laid-back Bahamian villages and fresh local seafood.
Easily reached on direct flights from both the UK and mainland Europe, the Bahamas are a tempting option for a last-minute romantic break. Navigating the Exumas does demand care – shallow banks, narrow cuts with strong currents, shifting sands and coral heads keep even experienced skippers on their toes – but the rewards are more than worth it.
Depart from Sunsail’s base at Palm Cay Marina in Nassau for an open-water sail of around 30 nm to Highbourne Cay, gateway to the Exumas. From there, short, satisfying hops link an almost endless chain of islands and cays, each with its own character and quiet corners.
Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay, hike the trails of Warderick Wells, stretch out on exposed sandbanks at low tide, visit the famous swimming pigs at Big Major Cay or snorkel Thunderball Grotto and a sunken plane off Norman’s Cay – rumoured to date back to the island’s more notorious days. When you’re ready for a bit more buzz, drop into Staniel Cay Yacht Club for dinner and drinks, then slip back to the peaceful anchorage and the soft glow of the cockpit lights.
Beyond the natural drama, the Exumas move at a wonderfully slow pace, perfectly suited to long, lazy days together. With your own yacht, you’re free to piece together the route that feels right for you, discovering tranquil creeks, coral gardens and easy-going island life at your own pace.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing in The Exumas
Endless Secluded Beaches
With so many cays and stretches of sand, it’s easy to find a beach you can call your own for the day. Drop the hook, launch the dinghy and enjoy hours of sun, sea and snorkelling with barely another soul in sight.
Explore the Mangroves of Shroud Cay
Pack a picnic and some bubbles, then take the dinghy through Shroud Cay’s shallow, mangrove-lined channels. Time your visit carefully around the tides and you’ll be rewarded with calm, clear water and a pristine ocean-facing beach at the far side.
Swim With Pigs At Big Major Cay
The Exumas’ famous pigs are a fun, light-hearted addition to any romantic trip. Visit early in the day to avoid the crowds – and bring plenty of suitable snacks so you can keep your new four-legged friends happy.
7. Dalmatian Coast – Croatia
Culture, Cuisine, and Cruising: Exploring Croatia From Marina Agana Offers It All
Often overshadowed by Dubrovnik to the south or the glitz of the Amalfi Coast to the west, Croatia’s northern Dalmatian islands offer an equally enchanting Mediterranean escape – just with fewer crowds. From storybook harbour towns and excellent local wines to clear waters and reliably good sailing, a voyage from Sunsail’s base in Marina Agana is a superb choice for couples.
A short sail takes you to Brač, home to Zlatni Rat, one of Croatia’s most celebrated beaches. Drop anchor in a nearby bay for a swim, or head ashore to visit sights such as the Dragon’s Cave and the 15th-century Blaca Monastery. Next, set a course for Hvar, where historic architecture and modern glamour sit side by side. Amble along cobbled streets, climb to the 16th-century fortress for sweeping views and round off the day with fresh seafood and Croatian wine at a waterfront restaurant.
For more seclusion, moor among the Pakleni Islands, where tucked-away bays offer peaceful anchorages and crystal-clear water. Further afield, Vis charms with its slower pace, unspoilt nature and the enchanting Blue Cave – a wonderfully romantic spot if you time your visit for early morning.
Continue north and sail inland along the Krka River to discover Krka National Park, where emerald pools and tumbling waterfalls create a lush natural playground. Deep, clear waters, predictable winds and easy line-of-sight navigation mean the region suits most experience levels, while well-equipped marinas and friendly harbours keep things stress-free.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing The Dalmatian Coast
Visit the Lavender Fields On Hvar
In early summer, the lavender fields near Velo Grablje and Brusje burst into colour, creating a fragrant purple patchwork across the hills. Hire bikes or a local driver and weave your way through the fields for a leisurely, romantic day ashore.
Ancient Olive Groves and Vineyards
Islands such as Korčula and Brač are dotted with centuries-old olive groves and family-run wineries. Book a tasting and spend an afternoon sampling local olive oil and wine, often paired with simple but delicious Dalmatian dishes.
Sailing Up the Krka River to Skradin
The gentle trip up the Krka River to Skradin feels a world away from the open sea. Moor up, wander the town’s narrow streets, then make your way into Krka National Park for wooden walkways, waterfalls and refreshing swims.
8. Antigua and Barbuda – Caribbean
Escape to Antigua: A Beach Lovers Paradise
Antigua is a natural choice for couples who love both beaches and sailing. Famous for having 365 beaches – one for every day of the year – the island offers endless options for secluded coves and long, dreamy stretches of sand. Begin your journey from Sunsail’s base at historic Nelson’s Dockyard, soaking up the local atmosphere before slipping lines and heading out into calm, clear waters.
For a relaxed start, anchor in Deep Bay for a snorkel around the Andes shipwreck, then continue to the golden sands and sheltered water of Jolly Beach for the night. For a more off-grid feel, sail to Green Island and drop anchor off its quiet beaches, where the focus is simple: sea, sand and each other.
Along Antigua’s west coast, you’ll find Turner’s Beach, known for peaceful days and inviting waterfront restaurants, and Pigeon Point Beach, a favourite with locals and visitors alike for picnics and lazy swims. If you fancy a livelier scene, head for Dickenson Bay, where watersports and beach bars keep the energy up.
When you’re ready to step even further away from it all, set a course for Barbuda, Antigua’s quieter sister island. With pink-tinged sands, vibrant reefs and very few people, it’s an easy place to switch off, tune in to nature and enjoy each other’s company in near-total privacy.
Back on Antigua, evenings can be as low-key or as lively as you like. Enjoy a sunset stroll around Nelson’s Dockyard, book dinner in a harbourfront restaurant or time your visit for one of the island’s famous “jump-ups”, where steel bands and local rhythms provide the soundtrack to a night of dancing under the stars.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing In Antigua
Snorkeling at the Andes Shipwreck
Deep Bay’s resident wreck sits in calm, clear water, making it an atmospheric but accessible snorkel for two, with shoals of fish weaving through the structure.
Barbuda’s Pink Sand Beaches
A short sail from Antigua, Barbuda’s long, quiet beaches and coral gardens feel wonderfully untouched. It’s the ideal setting for long shoreline walks, snorkelling and sunbathing with hardly another footprint in sight.
Explore Nelson’s Dockyard
This UNESCO-listed naval dockyard blends history and modern-day cruising life. Wander the restored buildings, enjoy a rum cocktail and soak up the unique mix of heritage and sailing culture.
Hike to Shirley Heights for a Romantic Sunset
Round off a day under sail with a hike or drive up to Shirley Heights. The views over English Harbour and beyond are spectacular at any time, but especially as the sun sinks into the Caribbean Sea.
9. Whitsundays, Australia
Alluring Australia: Perfect Sailing, Stunning Beaches And Heart Shaped Reefs
Set in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays’ 74 islands offer gleaming white beaches, turquoise water and lush rainforest – a dream backdrop for romance. Gentle trade winds and well-sheltered anchorages make for enjoyable sailing, even if you’re relatively new to skippering.
Make time for Whitehaven Beach, often listed among the world’s best, with its seven kilometres of powder-fine sand and unbelievably clear water. For a truly unforgettable shared experience, book a seaplane or helicopter flight over Heart Reef, an iconic heart-shaped coral formation that has become a symbol of romance in the region.
Beneath the surface, the Whitsundays are a snorkeller’s and diver’s playground, with coral gardens, turtles and a kaleidoscope of reef fish. Mix days at anchor with nights in marinas or resort islands, or head ashore for rainforest walks and lookouts that serve up sweeping views over the archipelago.
By blending calm sailing, spectacular scenery, luxurious island resorts and access to one of the planet’s great natural wonders, a Whitsundays charter offers that elusive mix of adventure and comfort that many couples look for.
Take a look at where sailing the Whitsundays can take you: 7-day sailing itinerary.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing The Whitsundays
Fly Over Heart Reef
Located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Heart Reef is best admired from the air. A scenic flight is a once-in-a-lifetime way to mark a special occasion.
Dive Into A Natural Wonder
Share the experience of exploring the Great Barrier Reef together – whether you choose to snorkel from your yacht or join a guided dive trip.
Hamilton Island
For a dose of luxury, call into Hamilton Island for spa treatments, fine dining and sunset drinks with sweeping views, before retreating to the peace of your yacht.
Breathtaking Sunsets
End each day watching the sky turn gold, pink and violet from the comfort of the cockpit, glass in hand and the boat gently swinging at anchor.
10. Sardinia – Italy
Wine, Wind, And Wanderlust: The Romantic Allure of Sailing Sardinia
If you’re keen to combine romance with a touch of glamour, Sardinia’s coastline is the place to see and be seen. Dramatic rockscapes, sheltered bays and chic harbours make this one of the Mediterranean’s most enticing sailing grounds for couples.
The island’s many secluded beaches, stylish coastal towns and sweeping views create a natural stage for a romantic escape. The La Maddalena Archipelago – a cluster of islands and islets just off the north coast – is particularly special, with quiet anchorages, clear water and a laid-back feel that invites you to slow right down.
For a more high-profile experience, set sail for the Costa Smeralda. Known for glamorous marinas and designer boutiques, this stretch of coastline also hides a number of more discreet spots where you can drop anchor for a swim and some peaceful time together.
Warm hospitality, excellent local food and world-class wines round out the appeal. Whether you’re clinking glasses of chilled Vermentino at sunset, discovering tucked-away coves by dinghy or simply lying back on deck counting the stars, Sardinia is made for couples.
Romantic Highlights Of Sailing In Sardinia
La Maddalena Archipelago
Anchor at Cala Coticcio on Caprera, often nicknamed “Little Tahiti” for its turquoise water and pale sand. It’s the kind of place where time seems to stand still.
Costa Smeralda
Call into Porto Cervo to browse luxury boutiques, people-watch along the waterfront and enjoy an elegant dinner overlooking the marina lights.
Chia Beach
Head south for wide, dune-backed beaches and shallow, turquoise water that’s perfect for long swims and lazy afternoons together.
Indulge In A Wine Tasting At A Coastal Vineyard
Sail towards the Gallura region and arrange a visit to a nearby vineyard for a tasting of Vermentino di Gallura, often paired with local pecorino and honey – a delicious way to toast your time afloat.
Let Romance Set Sail: Plan Your Perfect Sailing Escape Today
From the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast and Sardinia to the exotic beauty of the Seychelles and Tahiti, these 10 romantic sailing destinations offer an unforgettable mix of culture, scenery and wonderfully intimate time on the water. Whether your idea of the perfect couples’ escape is gliding over the clear shallows of the Exumas, exploring the coves of the Dalmatian Coast, soaking up the lush landscapes of the Whitsundays or stretching out on Antigua and Barbuda’s endless beaches, you’ll find plenty of places to fall in love with – and in.
Ready to start planning your dream romantic getaway? Book your next Sunsail adventure and begin exploring these incredible destinations from the comfort and privacy of your own yacht.
