As the seasons shift from winter into spring in the Southern hemisphere, many of the world’s top yachting destinations get ready to start kicking back into action. While the weather is still a little bit unpredictable toward the start of the season in parts of Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, many other destinations are already reaching thei r peak season.
Throughout the year, countries along the equator provide perfect yachting conditions, with year-round warm weather. March is the ideal month to explore the beauty of the African continent, visit the Canary Islands, or make your way along the coast of South and Central America.
To provide you with a little bit of inspiration, here are some of the best destinations to consider for the March yacht season.
Morocco
Located in North Africa, Morocco straddles the Atlantic ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, blending European, Arabian and African culture in a melting pot of natural beauty, entertainment, and rich history. Officially the first month of Spring in Morocco, March has an average high of 22.3°C, making it one of the best times to visit. During the summer, temperatures can exceed 37°C, while winters can be bitter and filled with snow.
Just 15km off the tip of Morocco is Spain, while Portugal is approximately 214km away. Tangier is by far one of the most popular destinations in Morocco, a hub of culture, history, and trade in the Gibraltar Straits. An exotic city that’s popular with those looking for unspoiled beaches, stunning vistas, and romantic mystery – it’s the perfect destination for exploring the best of two continents in one.
The Canary Islands
While Spanish at heart, the beautiful volcanic archipelago of the Canary Islands is actually nestled off the northwest coast of Africa. Consistin g of seven islands, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, beauty is at every turn in these gems in the Atlantic. With an average temperature of 21°C in March, discover black, white, and pink sand beaches, active volcanoes, breathtaking national parks, and vibrant culture.
Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, and La Palma are the four largest islands, famous for their buzzing nightlife, watersports and shopping. The smaller islands are often overlooked but provide some of the most beautiful beaches in both Europe and Africa. The tiny isla nd of El Hierro is a magical world of towering cliffs, turquoise lagoons, pastel-coloured villages, and ancient churches. Regardless of which islands you visit, a cool Atlantic breeze keeps things pleasant, both on land and off.
Madagascar
Nestled in the Indian Ocean of the East coast of Africa, Madagascar is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes and wilderness in th e world. Home to a large variety of wildlife found nowhere else on Earth, get up close and personal with lemurs, chameleons, birds, and tortoises surrounded by lush forests and warm, clear waters.
Lokobe Special Reserve on the small island of Nosy Be is home to one of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, Andilana Beach. Here, snow-white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and emerald green palms create a slice of paradise off Madagascar – ideal for dropping anchor and soaking up the warm sun, local culture, and stunning views. On the island of Nosy Taniky, lush rainforests, rare wildlife, and the stunning reefs of the National Marine Reserve create endless opportunities to explore, relax and unwind at your own pace.
Costa Rica
As one of the most popular destinations in Central America, Costa Rica is awash with emerald green rainforests stretching from the Pacific to the Caribbean, a dizzying array of tropical beaches, and some of the most breathtaking views on Earth. Wake up to views of the cloud forests of Monte Verde before setting off toward Arenal, Costa Rica’s most famous volcano. If you’re looking to explore as much as possible, why not make your way to Nicaragua from C osta Rica, stopping off at San Juan del Sur, popular for its beautiful beaches, vibrant communities, and towering Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia statue overlooking the bay.
March and April average between 30-37 °C, making them the hottest months here. However, the cool ocean breeze, mountainous regions, and dense forests ensure the air is comfortably warm without being too hot. Definitely, a destination for beach lovers searching for idy llic jungle-fringed coves, private bays, majestic marine life, and tropical cocktails overlooking mind-blowing vistas, Costa Rica delivers both on land and off.
Chile
Chile, the southernmost country in the world, is home to over 6,000km of rugged coastline, fjords, and volcanic landscapes. Make your way through the Strait of Magellan, where penguins group together on glistening glaciers or drop anchor at the city of Valparaiso, a bustling hub of art galleries, museums, cultural architecture, and fine dining.
Punta de Lobos in Pichilemu is a popular spot for surfing, watersports, and paddleboarding if you enjoy riding the waves. Chile is definitely worth exploring from the ocean with an endless coastline, rich Latin American culture, a dazzling array of natural beauty hots pots, and fascinating attractions.
Galapagos Islands
Nestled 1000km off the coast of mainland Ecuador; the Galapagos Islands are well known for the best natural beauty and wildlife. Start your charter on Santa Cruz, ho me to the Charles Darwin Breeding Station, sandy beaches, and lava tunnels. From here, make your way to flamingo-filled lagoons at Punta Cormorant on Isla Floreana before stopping off at Punta Moreno on Isabela Island.
On the southern side of Isabela Island is Urbina Bay, home to iguanas, mockingbirds, giant tortoises, and hawks. On Fernandina Island, Punta Espinosa is a lunar landscape of lava rocks, while Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela is ideal for a spot of snorkelling. Finish you r adventure by stopping off at North Seymour Island, home to huge colonies of nesting seabirds and seals.
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