Do you dream of crystal-clear waters, a warm breeze, and tropical islands on the horizon?
Then sailing in the Caribbean is surely high on your bucket list. But when is actually the best time to set sail for this paradise on earth? In this blog, we’ll tell you all about the best time to go sailing in the Caribbean and share practical tips to help you plan your perfect sailing holiday.
The Seasons in the Caribbean: What Do You Need to Know?
Unlike Europe, the Caribbean doesn’t have four distinct seasons.
The climate is tropical, with a dry season and a rainy season. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year, typically ranging between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. However, wind and weather conditions vary greatly depending on the season — and so do the ideal sailing conditions.
The High Season: December to April
The months from December to April mark the high season for sailing in the Caribbean.
This is the most popular time to be out on the water — and with good reason:
- The Hurricane Season Is Over
- The Humidity Is Lower
- There Is Less Rain
- The Trade Winds Are Reliable and Moderate to Strong
This season guarantees stable weather conditions, ideal for both beginners and experienced sailors.
The constant northeast trade winds make navigating between the islands pleasant and predictable. This reliable weather provides a smooth sailing experience, whether you’re new to sailing or an experienced navigator.
However, it’s important to note that this is also the most expensive time to sail in the Caribbean. Marinas are busier, rental prices are higher, and popular destinations can fill up quickly. It’s advisable to book early, as our ships tend to fill up fast during this peak season!
The Shoulder Season: May and June
The months of May and June form the shoulder season.
This period offers a perfect compromise for those who want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy good weather. There are very few storms at this time, and it’s a bit warmer, making it ideal for beautiful sailing trips. Additionally, nature is at its best. Everything is in bloom, the water is crystal clear, and the beaches are peaceful. Sounds like a dream, right? But it can become a reality when you book a sailing holiday with Rederij van Linschoten!
The Hurricane Season: July to November
The hurricane season runs from July to November. During this period, tropical storms and hurricanes can occur, especially between August and October. However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid these months entirely — it just requires a bit of extra preparation.
Especially at the beginning and end of this period, there are still plenty of beautiful sailing days. Of course, as a sailing company, we only sail when it is safe, so you don’t need to worry about that with us. We hope this blog has answered your question: what is the best time to go sailing in the Caribbean?
Enjoying the Caribbean with Rederij van Linschoten
The Caribbean is a dream destination for sailors. The blue waters, pearly white beaches, and the welcoming culture. We at Rederij van Linschoten agree, which is why we organize sailing holidays to the Caribbean. We offer sailing trips and group sailing tours to many destinations. A fully organized trip to the Caribbean – who wouldn’t want that?
Curious about the possibilities? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help!