What is the best time of year to go boating?

Boot of jetski huren in Santorini

Not sure when is the best time to rent a boat or jet ski for your holiday? The answer depends on your destination, but with these guidelines you’ll easily pick the perfect moment.

Mediterranean boating season: April to October

At most European beach destinations – think of the Spanish and Greek coasts, Croatia or the French Riviera – the boating season runs roughly from April to October. July and August are the most popular and the warmest, but also busier and more expensive. Choose May, June or September and you’ll enjoy calmer waters, great weather and often a slightly lower price.

Year-round boating in warmer destinations

In destinations such as Dubai, the Maldives, the Caribbean or Southeast Asia you can often go boating all year round thanks to the warmer climate. Ideal if you want to book a boat trip outside the European peak season.

Mind the local climate

Before you book, always check the local climate and any rainy or storm seasons at your destination. Our local rental partners know the best times to go out on their own waters better than anyone and are happy to advise you.

Per destination: when is it ideal?

  • Spain and the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, Costa Brava): June and September are top months. The sea is warmest in August and September.
  • Greece (Mykonos, Zakynthos, Crete): from May to October. Keep in mind that in July and August the meltemi, a strong northerly wind, can blow hard, especially in the Cyclades.
  • Croatia (Split): June to September, with the calmest and most pleasant periods in June and September.
  • Caribbean: the dry season runs roughly from December to April. June to November is hurricane season. Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire are largely outside the hurricane belt and a good choice all year round.
  • Dubai and Abu Dhabi (Dubai): October to April is wonderful on the water. In summer it gets very hot.
  • Thailand: around Phuket the best period is November to April. On Koh Samui the rainy season comes later in the year, around October to December.
  • Maldives (Maldives): the dry season runs roughly from December to April.

What is the best time of day?

In many places on the Mediterranean the morning is the best time to go out: the water is often calm and the wind usually picks up in the course of the afternoon. That is ideal for beginners and for those boating with children. Prefer atmosphere? A sunset trip is an unforgettable end to your holiday day.

Peak season? Book early

In juli en augustus is de vraag naar boten en jetski’s op populaire badplaatsen groot. Weet je al wanneer je gaat, reserveer dan ruim van tevoren. Kijk bij het boeken ook naar de annuleringsvoorwaarden van de verhuurpartner, zodat je weet wat er gebeurt als je plannen veranderen.

Frequently asked questions

Can I also go boating in spring or autumn?

Yes. On the Mediterranean you can often go boating perfectly well in April, May and October. The water is cooler then, so bring an extra layer.

What if the weather is bad?

In strong winds or thunderstorms the rental partner may reschedule or cancel a trip, for your own safety. What happens to your booking then depends on the rental partner’s terms.

Curious which destinations are available now? View the overview of all our beach destinations.

Ready to get out on the water? Explore boat and jet ski rental in Ibiza, Mallorca, the Costa Brava, Zakynthos or in Split, or explore all destinations.

Zin om het water op te gaan?

Boek eenvoudig een boot, jetski of wateractiviteit bij gecontroleerde lokale partners, met Nederlandse service.

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