Best time to visit Jamaica

Sailing in Jamaica

Immerse yourself in Carribean culture and food while sailing from one island to another

Best time: December–April

Sailing
Sailing

The Carribean is worldwide known for its multitude of brilliant sailing destinations as there are plenty of beautiful islands to visit and the water is always warm. Whether you want a simple sailboat or a luxurious cruise, Jamaica boasts some exciting locations with perfect winds and eye-filling harbors to explore. So if you are fearless and looking for unforgettable sailing fun, spring into a boat from January to March and sail into all of those spectacular bunders around Jamaica.

From peaceful calm voyage around Treasure Beach to urbanized waters around Kingston, sailing in Jamaica is quite diverse. And it's about time for you collect the best sailing spots of the island. The Errol Flynn Marina is one of them. Boatyard and marina are located in Port Antonio and offer reasonably calm waters with high-class sailing conditions for a spectacular experience.

West of the touristic Ocho Rios, you can definitely stop at St. Ann’s Bay or Discovery Bay. These locations are bursting with life as cruise ships drop a world of holidaymakers frequently. A good number of luxury hotels is here for you as well.

From Ocho Rios you can easily navigate to Montego Bay. The Montego Bay Yacht Club has some really nice facilities and is agreeably accommodating. There you will enjoy a good anchorage and holding.

Located on the south of Jamaica, Port Morant is a perfect spot, surrounded by majestic mountains. You will be offered free dockage to explore the natural blaze of the area on the water and on the ground.

So if you are fearless and looking for unforgettable sailing fun, spring into a boat and sail into all of those spectacular bunders around Jamaica. The best time for sailing is December to April, while May to November is the season of rains and hurricanes.

Practical info

What time of year is ideal for sailing in Jamaica?

Sailing in Jamaica is best during the dry winter months from December to April due to mild weather conditions. During this time, the seas are calm, and winds are steady, providing a pleasant sailing experience. In contrast, the rainy season runs from May to November with an increased risk of hurricanes, making sailing more unpredictable and hazardous. Show more

What are some unique attractions accessible by boat in Jamaica?

Boating in Jamaica offers unique attractions such as River-Rafting on the Rio Grande, Frenchman Cove in Port Antonio, and the Portland Bight Protected Area. You can explore the Rio Grande by bamboo raft, taking a few hours or an overnight trip. Frenchman Cove offers a serene bay with offshore reefs, while Portland Bight Protected Area has excellent snorkeling spots and opportunities to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat. Show more

Can you suggest any marinas for docking boats or accommodation?

Excellent facilities for docking boats and accommodation are available at Errol Flynn Marina, St. Ann's Bay Marina, and Montego Bay Yacht Club. Montego Bay Yacht Club offers a secure anchorage location with luxurious amenities and stunning views, while Errol Flynn Marina has fuel, water, and electricity services to cater to larger boats. Finally, St. Ann's Bay Marina is a popular choice for sailors seeking a safe destination with excellent facilities. Show more

What is the typical sailing duration between two locations in Jamaica?

There is no standard sailing duration between locations as it depends on the distance and the points of interest that you intend to visit. An average distance can take between eight to twelve hours, including six to eight hours of sailing and exploring the destination for another four hours. For longer distances, exploring the vast regional locations of the island may require several days or even weeks to navigate fully. Show more

What are the rules and regulations governing sailing in Jamaica?

Jamaica has specific rules and conditions for sailing, including remaining 1.5 km offshore and at least 400 meters from public beaches unless docking at a marina. Boats must also have valid travel documents and fulfill the port entry requirements as Jamaica participates in the Advance Notification system for arrival and the ISPS code. Finally, it is crucial to follow the local fishing and diving regulations that vary depending on the location and season. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin