8 UK Sailing Tours Worth Casting Off For

1.Luxury Sailing Experience Day with Champagne and Lunch or Dinner

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 220 reviews · 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $220Our pick

Spend about five and a half hours aboard a modern Jeanneau yacht from Lymington Yacht Haven. Your skipper and crew handle the sailing, or you can try the helm. Expect champagne on arrival, a freshly cooked two-course meal, views toward the Isle of Wight and the Needles, and room for no more than 10 people.

“If you’re in Southampton before or after a cruise, this experience is a great alternative to touring castles, churches or old towns. Incredible value for a 5+ hour adventure activity which includes fabulous lunch or dinner.”

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2.Private Sailing Experience on Lake Windermere

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 213 reviews · from $242 whole boat, up to 4

Set sail from Storrs Hall Hotel with a private skipper for your group of up to four. Ian, Richard, Alan, or Andrew may guide your session, depending on availability. You can learn the basics, take the helm under supervision, or simply enjoy the views. The yacht returns to the hotel jetty after about two hours.

“Ian made our trip amazing. It started off with loads of rain. We were soaked through but lan made us all laugh and the trip just got better. He gave us loads of information from where to eat and shop.. Thank you”

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3.Windermere Red Cruise: Sail Between Bowness and Ambleside

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 142 reviews · 1h 10m · from $24

Cruise the northern half of Lake Windermere between Bowness, Brockhole, and Ambleside. Your 70-minute return ticket includes English commentary, heated cabins, outdoor decks, toilets, and a café. Hop off at Brockhole or Ambleside for a walk, then catch a later boat back.

“We had fun on the vessel - taking photos, trying out their snacks, and enjoying the views from the lake. It wasn't crowded at that time, so it was very comfortable. Tip to travelers - take the first trip out to avoid the midday crowds. Will do it again next time with family!”

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4.Windermere Yellow Cruise: Sail between Bowness and Lakeside

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 75 reviews · 1.5 hours · from $26

Sail the southern half of Lake Windermere between Bowness Pier and Lakeside Pier aboard a traditional steamer or modern launch. Choose a 90-minute return cruise or break the trip into two 40-minute journeys. You can stop for the Lakes Aquarium, steam railway, or Bowness attractions, then catch a later boat.

“Everything was great even the weather. Lovely quiet boat. Great commentary from the crew. Would definitely recommend it.”

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5.Brighton: Sunset Sailing Cruise with a Glass of Wine

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 12 reviews · 2 hours · from $101

Set out from Pontoon 6 with Brighton Boating for a two-hour sunset sail on a modern performance yacht. An RYA-qualified skipper guides you along the coast, lets you try the helm, and serves sparkling wine during calm moments. Bethany, Simon, and Bill have each led recent sailings. The group is limited to 10 people.

“Gorgeous yacht which sailed for 2 hours on a beautiful summer’s evening. It was idyllic . Our captain was Bethany who just blew us away with her skills, approach to the cruise and her company. She was super impressive. She guided us on how to steer the yacht and provided us with lots of interesting facts about boating and the interesting coast. I honestly will remember this cruise for a long time . Highly recommend.”

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6.Brighton: Sailing Trip with Drinks

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 11 reviews · 2 hours · from $93

Meet the crew at Pontoon 5 in Brighton Marina for a two-hour sailing trip along the Sussex coast. Your RYA-trained skipper may take you into the English Channel or keep close to shore, depending on the wind. You can steer, help with the sails, or relax in the cockpit with a chilled drink. Captain Alex has led some departures.

“Great weather, great skipper. Able to participate in sailing or also just relax depending on what you want to do. Very fun!”

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7.New Forest: Sail with Lunch or Dinner from Lymington

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 7 reviews · 5.5 hours · from $201

Set sail from Lymington Yacht Haven with a professional skipper and crew on a comfortable 45 to 50-foot Jeanneau yacht. Choose a 9am lunch trip or 3pm dinner trip, enjoy sparkling wine on arrival, sail the Solent, anchor off the Isle of Wight for a freshly prepared two-course meal, and swim if conditions allow.

“Absolutely fantastic morning sailing. Great Skipper and crew, excellent food and hubby got to sail the yacht. Just perfect!”

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8.Glasgow: Entry Ticket to the Tall Ship Glenlee

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 3 reviews · 1 day · from $6Best value

Step aboard the 1896 Tall Ship Glenlee in Glasgow for a self-guided look at life at sea, Clydebuilt shipbuilding, and the vessel’s service as a cargo ship and naval trainer. Allow about 40 minutes for the ship, then add the onboard café, gift shop, and nearby Riverside Museum.

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