Summer months open such vast sailing opportunities and destinations that it can be difficult to decide where to go! If you’re planning to stay in the U.S., we have several locations in mind that are staples for sailors and provide a little something for everyone.
For the sake of adventure and warm seas, we showcase five recommended locations for your next sailing voyage.
Chesapeake Bay, Maryland
The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure and one of our personal favorites! It’s impossible to see everything Chesapeake Bay has to offer in one trip, but we also don’t recommend making it your mission to try. Definitely, take your time and enjoy your adventure, though there are a couple spots to keep in mind when you go. Havre de Grace in Maryland, home of the Concord Point Lighthouse, is a town with plenty of Revolutionary history and certainly a perfect way to embrace the beauty of the steep cliffs along the shore. If a quaint Revolutionary town isn’t your vibe, you can always sail straight to Washington DC! Whatever your route, there is beauty to be found anywhere you go.
Key West, Florida
Key West has always been a legendary sailing spot for novices and veterans alike. There’s nothing like sailing around the gorgeous Florida reefs and then taking in the sunset at the end of a long day of navigation. If you love to snorkel or kayak there are many picturesque islands in the area, all of them are within easy access of a well-piloted sailboat. This area is certainly warm in the summer months, but exceptionally beautiful and always wonderful for sailing.
Newport, Rhode Island
New England has its fair share of summer sailing options, which is when they are really prime for sailing anyways (the cold winters aren’t for everyone). Like Chesapeake Bay, there are plenty of historical sites that dot the coast and the sightseeing is nothing short of sublime. While you’re out and about, you might see a few throwback schooners, such as Madeleine, a vessel modeled after a 19th century sailboat style. While some of the other locations are open for longer periods of the year, take advantage of this place in the summer if you can.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is one of the most popular ports and the starting point for many voyages for a reason — it’s easier to access than some of the gems of the tropics. If a tropical setting is more your vibe, then Freeport in the Bahamas, a prime destination, is quite close and a highly recommended visit. There are plenty of places to dock your sailboat (or yacht) as you take in the pristine beaches, delicious food, and explore a wide array of shops.
Seattle, Washington
A bit of anomaly on the list, Seattle is a change of pace but no less beautiful than other locations on this list. Especially if your intention is to escape the heat that you might find in Florida or in Chesapeake Bay. There is excellent sailing to be had in the main American hub of the Pacific Northwest. The Cascade mountains offer a unique view you won’t find in most sailing spots and while the weather isn’t always sunny (it’s usually not), the mystique of the nature that surrounds you more than makes up for it. Unless you’re into the overcast thing, in which case more power to you!
Always Dock with the Highest Quality Fenders
No matter your preference for where you sail in the summer, you always want to protect your vessel. The weather can be unpredictable, as can docks and the locations of other ships. AERÉ inflatable fenders come in all ranges of sizes (for boats of less than 25 feet to more than 100 feet) and can withstand incredible force. As importantly, they are easy to transport and stow away when not in use, making them highly useful for voyages into new, unexplored territory!
