Sailing vacations provide great getaways for families in the open seas with nothing except the blue sky and the shimmering water. These vacations are conducted on boats, yachts, catamarans or trimarans and may last up to a week. People can go sailing either with their families or friends or with a whole group of other similar sailing vacationers.

Planning for a sailing vacation involves the selection of a suitable destination. Ideal destinations are those which have scenic beaches which can provide a grand view from the sea. Destinations should be selected with care because different destinations have different climates and ocean currents according to seasons.

Then the mode of water transport must be hired. It could either be a small boat, yacht or a catamaran. For a small number of people, perhaps less than four, a boat up to 25 feet long is enough. For a larger group it is ideal to have a yacht with three or four cabins for the couples or families. For a yet larger group, like a school or an office cruise, it is better to have a catamaran. Things of personal need like water, fruits, mariner's compass, maps, etc. must be taken aboard the transport.

Small groups can rent a bareboat, i.e. a boat without any crew. If a bareboat is rented, then the vacationers have to do their rowing and navigation themselves. In case a group lacks the confidence to navigate their own boats, they can either hire a skipper. A skipper is an expert who knows the intricacies of the place along with navigational tactics. Sometimes a bareboat with a skipper is a good, money-saving idea rather than hiring an entire crew. Water transport renters also provide sailing instructions.

There are many flotillas which can prove beneficial to sailing vacationers. Flotillas are like sea caravans - they are groups of sail boats or yachts that follow a leading boat, which is steered by pros. Following a flotilla reduces the worry of having to navigate and get lost in the open sea. There is also the advantage of having spare parts within reach if needed.

People going on sailing vacations usually sail during the day and enjoy the beauty of the maritime landscape. During nights they may stay on beaches, resorts or in hotels. Some people who sail in catamarans or in big yachts with their own rooms also undertake the adventure of sailing during the night.

There are many hotspots where sailing vacations are concerned. The Caribbean islands are one of the hottest destinations. With their tiny islands so close to each other, they are a sailing vacationer's haven. The Bahamas are also highly preferred destinations. Other destinations like Maine, the Hawaiian Islands, the Australian and New Zealand islands are scattered around the globe.