When you think of sailing, the United States of America may not immediately come to mind. But let yourself be surprised, the USA has some interesting and varied sailing destinations to offer.
Annapolis on the east coast in Maryland offers you with its location in the Chesapeake Bay a protected and at the same time diverse sailing destination around Baltimore.
From Warwick, northeast of New York City, you'll launch into Narragansett Bay, considered one of the most beautiful sailing areas in the United States. Experienced sailors can discover many traditional coastal towns, lighthouses, long beaches and islands in this tidal and foggy area. The trip can be combined with a city trip to New York City.
In the north in the state of Vermont, located at the border to Canada, you have the possibility to sail an inland area with the sailing yacht on Lake Champlain. Charming shore towns, culinary delights featuring fresh produce from the Green Mountain State's many farms, and the chance to experience the breathtaking Indian Summer await you.
Closer to the U.S. south, you can set sail from La Paz, Mexico. The Gulf of California is a popular vacation spot and offers sailors a true Eldorado.
Popular Yachts | United States of America
Cabins: | 4+2 | Berths: | 8+2+2 |
---|---|---|---|
Year: | 2022 | Sail | Battened |
Yacht-ID | 34838 | L/D: | 12.58 / 1.25 |
Cabins: | 3 | Berths: | 6+2 |
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Year: | 2022 | Sail | Standard |
Yacht-ID | 33462 | L/D: | 13.24 / 2.00 |
Cabins: | 3 | Berths: | 6 |
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Year: | 2022 | Sail | Furling |
Yacht-ID | 29465 | L/D: | 14.85 / 2.25 |
Cabins: | 5+1 | Berths: | 10+1 |
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Year: | 2022 | Sail | Battened |
Yacht-ID | 34751 | L/D: | 14.28 / 1.22 |
Cabins: | 4+1 | Berths: | 8+1 |
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Year: | 2020 | Sail | Battened |
Yacht-ID | 32564 | L/D: | 12.12 / 1.12 |
Cabins: | 3 | Berths: | 6+1 |
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Year: | 2015 | Sail | Furling |
Yacht-ID | 29889 | L/D: | 15.38 / 1.73 |
Cabins: | 3 | Berths: | 6+1 |
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Year: | 2017 | Sail | Battened |
Yacht-ID | 31898 | L/D: | 14.15 / 1.95 |
Cabins: | 6 | Berths: | 12 |
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Year: | 2019 | Sail | Battened |
Yacht-ID | 34842 | L/D: | 14.76 / 1.40 |
Yacht charter United States
Arrival: Travelers from DACH countries do not need a visa for a stay in the USA, but a so-called ESTA permit. Children also need this permit. This requires prior registration for a fee. The maximum length of stay is 90 days. In addition, travelers need a passport that must be valid for 6 months before entering the country.
The USA has a very well developed airport network. In general, the country is extremely extensive in its distances, but central points can be reached easily from Europe. The railroad network is solidly developed, it can sometimes be a bit difficult to get information about the continuity of individual routes between the individual states. The European driver's license is usually accepted by the American rental car companies and driving with a European driver's license is allowed. With an international driver's license you are still on the safe side.
Sailing in the Chesapeake Bay around Baltimore
Annapolis is located in the Chesapeake Bay, the second largest estuary in the entire United States. In total, more than 150 rivers and creeks flow here as a branched system into a bay that is more than 300 kilometers long. The area is therefore also suitable for sailing novices and families, because the winds are moderate and the area is sheltered. The tides are not strong and strong currents are not to be expected. Summers can be very hot, so spring and autumn are particularly suitable.
A yacht charter Annapolis can easily be combined with a city trip to the cities of Baltimore and Washington D.C.. Washington is also home to the international airport, which can be easily reached from Europe.
Annapolis is the oldest city in Maryland and offers a lot to discover before you start your sailing adventure in the Chesapeake Bay. In addition, the city is commonly referred to as America's sailing capital. The sport of sailing has a long tradition here. History is palpable in this city; in the large historic district, you walk through the 18th century. On guided tours and in various museums, you can learn more about the exciting stories behind the city. Since shipping plays an important role for the city, the Maritime Museum is also worth visiting.
Climate: temperate with temperatures between 10 and 30 degrees
Sailing season: April to November
The beauty of North America on Lake Champlain
Sail on one of America's largest lakes and discover the beauty of North America on 800 kilometers of shoreline.
If today it separates the states of New York and Vermont, in the past it was the dividing line between the territories of the Iroquois and the Algonquin Indians, which subsequently fell first to the French and then to the British. All of these disputes left their mark along the lakeshore, and so Lake Champlain attractions take you on a journey into earlier American history, such as the restored Ticonderoga Fort or the Crown Point Historic Site.
Not for nothing is Vermont called the Green Mountain State. Nature lovers can discover the local fauna in the parks along the shore and experience the legendary Indian Summer in its colorful splendor around the end of September, beginning of October. Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, climbing or kayaking are offered.
In the meantime, Vermont is also known for its culinary side, as many products can be produced regionally through the farms here. Popular products include cheese, bison meat, cider doughnuts or maple ice cream. You can get these at the Farmer's Markets in the towns around the lake. If you like craft beer, you can visit small breweries and also distilleries, for example in Burlington.
Being an inland body of water, you sail here in calm conditions, which makes the lake popular with families and novice sailors as well.
Climate: continental with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25 degrees
Sailing season: May to October
From Warwick to one of the most beautiful sailing areas in the USA
Rhode Island is the smallest state in the USA. But it offers 650 kilometers of coastline, along which rugged rock formations alternate with fine sandy beaches and quiet bays. Narragansett Bay, a bay stretching far inland, is considered one of the most beautiful sailing areas in the USA. The area is not undemanding. The tidal range must be considered and included in daily planning. In addition, the region along the east coast is known for its rising fog banks. Therefore, this area is not suitable for beginners. Those with sailing experience will have a great sailing vacation here. The rugged and forested shores of the Bay, islands like Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket and with some time, or as a one-way, a trip to New York City or Boston offer a varied program.
Climate: continental with temperatures from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius
Sailing season: May to October
Winds: mainly southwest winds, in summer strong winds can build up
Sailing in the Gulf of California
Close to the USA, though not in the States, the Baja California peninsula, over 100 kilometers long, stretches parallel to the mainland into the South Pacific Ocean in western Mexico, forming the Gulf of California. Almost at the very southern tip of this headland lies the Mexican city of La Paz. The city has an international airport, making it a transportation hub on Baja California. An advantage if you want to charter here!
Before starting a sailing adventure from here, a stroll along the beach promenade is worthwhile. Small cafes and restaurants cater for your physical well-being and along the 5 kilometer long promenade local artists have set up sculptures. You can sail from here along the Pacific coast. Protected by the peninsula, the area is also suitable for less experienced sailors and families. Mild temperatures and steady winds provide good and calm sailing conditions and the numerous picturesque bays offer pure relaxation. Underwater, you will encounter a unique biodiverse world that makes the Gulf one of the best diving destinations in the world.
Climate: temperate to tropical with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius
Sailing season: December to May
For those who choose to charter in the United States of America, there is a wide range of cruising grounds. There is something for every level of experience and desire. The neighboring countries and islands are also enticing, such as island hopping around the British Virgin Islands or you can explore the biodiverse Gulf of California near the U.S. in Mexico.