Sailing Holidays Abroad
Sailing holidays abroad offer the chance to explore remarkable coastlines while travelling by yacht. From the dramatic fjords of Norway to Atlantic Ocean crossings and Caribbean sailing adventures, these trips combine exploration, offshore sailing experience and unforgettable destinations.
Channel Triangle Mile Building Sail
Build miles and confidence with on a mile builder sail in the English Channel
Learn MoreChannel Triangle Mile Building SailSail across the Bay of Biscay from Portsmouth to the Canaries
Sail across the Bay of Biscay from Portsmouth to the Canaries on an ocean going Challenger 72 yacht. October/November 2026.
Learn MoreSail across the Bay of Biscay from Portsmouth to the CanariesThe Atlantic Ocean: Sail from Antigua to Portsmouth
Sail across the Atlantic Ocean from Antigua to the UK. January/February 2027.
Learn MoreThe Atlantic Ocean: Sail from Antigua to PortsmouthCaribbean Sailing Holidays
Peak Caribbean season sailing trips in the Caribbean, variable durations, great locations, the perfect winter holiday for sailors & those looking for something a little different.
Learn MoreCaribbean Sailing HolidaysNorway Sailing Adventures
Join a Challenger 72 Norway sailing adventure. Offshore passage plus fjord exploration. Two voyages: UK to Norway or return.
Learn MoreNorway Sailing AdventuresSailing to France and the Channel Islands
Sail to France and the Channel Islands, build miles and explore
Learn MoreSailing to France and the Channel IslandsSailing Holidays Abroad: Offshore Adventures and New Destinations
Set sail on an unforgettable sailing adventure beyond the UK. Sailing holidays abroad open up a world of new coastlines, cultures and sailing challenges.
One voyage might take you across the English Channel to Brittany or the Channel Islands, where historic harbours and exceptional seafood await. Another could see you sailing deep into Norway’s spectacular fjords, surrounded by towering cliffs and snow-capped mountains.
Some trips venture much further offshore. Atlantic passages and longer voyages such as the route from Portsmouth to the Canary Islands or crossings between the Caribbean and the UK provide the opportunity to experience real offshore sailing and ocean passage-making.
These trips are not passive yacht charters. They are hands-on sailing adventures where participants can take part in navigation, sail handling and watch systems while sailing with a professional skipper or instructor.
Return home with new experience, greater confidence at sea and memories of remarkable places visited under sail.
First Class Sailing offers adventurous voyages where participants gain real offshore sailing experience while exploring remarkable destinations beyond the UK.
Rewarding and Incredibly Beautiful
I had the pleasure of sailing with First Class Sailing from Portsmouth to Stavanger and then around the Norwegian Fjords. The boat, the organisation, and the crew exceeded my expectations. It was a fun trip with a great group of people. The journey across the North Sea was rewarding and once in Norway it was incredibly beautiful. I'd recommend this trip and First Class Sailing in a heartbeat.
Simon A
Verified Customer
Where Our Sailing Holidays Abroad Can Take You
Sailing adventures abroad vary from coastal cruising to major offshore passages. Each destination offers a different style of sailing experience.
Norway sailing adventures explore some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, navigating deep fjords and visiting historic Scandinavian ports.
Channel and Biscay passages provide valuable offshore sailing experience while connecting the UK with destinations further south.
Caribbean sailing holidays combine warm trade winds, turquoise waters and vibrant island cultures.
Some of the most ambitious voyages include Atlantic crossings between the Caribbean and Europe. These longer passages provide a true ocean sailing experience while still offering time to relax, watch the stars and enjoy life at sea.
If you are also interested in sailing closer to home, explore our UK sailing holidays, which include coastal adventures around the Solent, the West Country and the Channel Islands.
For a wider overview of destinations and trip types, explore all our sailing holidays.
For shorter trips designed to build experience before longer voyages, see our weekend sailing UK trips.
Many people gain experience on these voyages before or after progressing to advanced RYA sailing courses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sailing Holidays Abroad
What makes sailing holidays abroad different from UK sailing trips?
Sailing holidays abroad often involve longer passages and different sailing conditions. Destinations such as Norway, the Caribbean or the Canary Islands provide new scenery, cultures and offshore sailing experiences.
Do I need offshore sailing experience?
Not necessarily. Many people join these trips to gain offshore experience. Professional skippers and instructors guide the crew and help everyone develop their skills during the voyage.
Are sailing holidays abroad hands-on?
Yes. These are active sailing adventures where participants can take part in sailing the yacht, including navigation, sail handling and watch systems depending on the voyage.
Can I join a sailing holiday abroad on my own?
Yes. Many people join individually and quickly become part of the crew. Sailing trips are sociable experiences that often bring together people who share an interest in travel and sailing.
Where Our Sailing Holidays Abroad Can Take You
