I Want to Go Sailing!
Top Sailing Experiences for Solo Female Travelers (U.S. + Abroad)
There’s something wildly freeing about sailing. It’s likely the wind in your hair, the horizon ahead, and nothing but open water and possibility around you. Whether you’re brand new to boats or dreaming of that sunset sail in Greece, sailing is an incredible way to travel solo… but not feel alone.
So if you’ve ever thought, “I want to go sailing, but can I do that solo?”…the answer is a big, breezy YES. These U.S. and international sailing destinations are not only bucket list-worthy, but also welcoming, safe, and filled with options for solo female travelers to join group tours, book a cabin on a crewed boat, or even learn to sail themselves.
Let’s set sail, shall we?
Top Sailing Spots in the U.S.
Newport, Rhode Island
Classic East Coast sailing charm with epic harbor views.
Newport is sailing royalty, think grand regattas, historic yachts, and stunning sunset cruises. It’s also full of solo-friendly day sails and harbor tours, so you can enjoy the wind and waves without needing a crew.
Best Time to Go: June–September
Solo Tip: Try a sunset schooner cruise with others, casual, scenic, and always social.
Solo Selfie It! Against the sails with the Newport Bridge in the background.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Peaceful, Pacific, and full of wildlife.
These emerald islands near Seattle are perfect for a more serene sailing escape. You’ll see orcas, bald eagles, and breathtaking coastlines, all from the deck of a cozy catamaran or a women-only sailing retreat.
Best Time to Go: July–September
Solo Tip: Look for multi-day sailing trips with small group vibes or glamping add-ons.
Solo Selfie It! On deck with a pod of whales (or just the misty mountains).
Key West, Florida
Caribbean vibes without leaving the country.
If you’re into barefoot sailing, colorful sunsets, and laid-back energy, Key West has you covered. Hop on a catamaran cruise or a day sail that includes snorkeling and sips.
Best Time to Go: November–May
Solo Tip: Join a group sail with Fury or Danger Charters for a fun and easy solo experience.
Solo Selfie It! Drink in hand, sunset behind you, wind in your hair.
Santa Barbara, California
Wine, waves, and dolphin sightings? Yes, please.
This dreamy coastal town is perfect for first-time solo sailors. You can book a lesson, a casual sail, or a luxe wine-and-sail combo that’s all about the California glow.
Best Time to Go: May–October
Solo Tip: Great for solo travelers looking to unwind, not race.
Solo Selfie It! With the mountains and Pacific coast as your backdrop.
Top Sailing Spots Abroad
Greece (Cyclades or Ionian Islands)
Island-hopping like a Mediterranean goddess.
Sailing in Greece is pure magic with whitewashed villages, turquoise water, and those sun-kissed cliffs. Tons of solo-friendly group trips make it super easy (and fun!) to join others.
Best Time to Go: May–October
Solo Tip: Check out all-female or solo-friendly cabin charters like Girls Love Travel or Sail Week.
Solo Selfie It! Posing on deck with Santorini in the distance.
Croatia (Dalmatian Coast)
Crystal clear water, historic towns, and dreamy coves.
Croatia is one of the most popular sailing destinations for solo travelers and for good reason. It’s scenic, affordable, and full of small group options where you can sail, swim, and make fast friends.
Best Time to Go: June–September
Solo Tip: Try MedSailors or a cabin charter for a low-pressure group vibe.
Solo Selfie It! Anchored near a stone village with your toes in the water.
French Polynesia (Tahiti + Bora Bora)
Luxury meets serenity in the South Pacific.
Yes, you can go to Bora Bora solo and it’s incredible. Join a group catamaran charter or a sailing-focused wellness retreat. It’s peaceful, rejuvenating, and endlessly photogenic.
Best Time to Go: May–October
Solo Tip: Consider an “adventure-meets-luxury” charter with other travelers.
Solo Selfie It! Floating in that impossibly blue water with your boat nearby.
Thailand (Phuket + Andaman Sea)
Limestone cliffs, warm water, and unforgettable island vibes.
Thailand offers fun, low-cost sailing trips that are great for solo women. Whether you’re lounging on deck or snorkeling in emerald lagoons, it’s an adventure that balances chill and thrill.
Best Time to Go: November–April
Solo Tip: Join a tour through G Adventures or Intrepid for group structure with solo flexibility.
Solo Selfie It! On deck with Phang Nga Bay’s cliffs behind you.
Italy (Amalfi Coast or Sicily)
Sail, sip wine, and live your most Italian coastal dream.
From pastel villages to seaside vineyards, sailing in Italy is romantic even solo. You’ll find plenty of short charters, cooking + sailing combos, and group trips along the Amalfi Coast or the Aeolian Islands.
Best Time to Go: May–September
Solo Tip: Pair a sailing trip with a food-focused group tour for extra flavor.
Solo Selfie It! On a boat in front of Positano’s iconic cliffs.
