Pros and cons: A boating holiday – is the peak season really the only option?

Leonie Meyer enjoys going on boating holidays during the peak season

For many people, boating in the peak season sounds off-putting. But for me, that’s precisely when you realise just how vibrant water sports can be. Things really get going in the marinas, there’s a great atmosphere in the harbours, and you meet other crews. What’s more, it’s easy to strike up a conversation and you often pick up a tip for the next bay or the best restaurant whilst you’re at it. Everything feels more open and less complicated. On top of that, the infrastructure is at its most reliable during the peak season. This applies to harbours, restaurants, supermarkets and petrol stations. Anyone who likes to make spontaneous decisions whilst out and about benefits enormously from this. The summery temperatures also play a part. What’s more, the days are longer: it gets dark late, so you get more out of your holiday. Of course, there’s more going on out on the water. But even that is part of the experience for me. Boating in the peak season simply offers more opportunities and brings us boating enthusiasts together. When I’m out on the water – preferably in Croatia – I look forward to opening up the throttle, discovering new places and meeting lots of like-minded people there.

Jill Grigoleit prefers the off-season

​For me, being out on the water is at its best once the peak season is over. The biggest advantage is obvious: the off-season is easier on the wallet, with cheaper moorings and charter rates. But what’s even more important to me is that it’s less busy. Anyone who’s ever been out on the Mecklenburg Lake District in summer will be familiar with the long queues at the locks. You sometimes have to factor in an extra hour or two. The worry of not finding a free mooring at the end of the day is also less of a concern in the off-season. You don’t need to head for the next harbour as early as the afternoon just to snap up a berth. And when you finally moor, the harbours and restaurants are much quieter. And that’s what I’m looking for on the water: peace and quiet. Of course, in summer there’s a greater chance of swimmable weather. But a clear spring day or a cosy autumn afternoon have their own special charm too. For me, this is the more relaxed way to travel – a little less of everything: less to pay, less hustle and bustle, less waiting and less planning.

Survey

​​*** Vote/click to see the result! ***

Further pros and cons:

• ​Heading south despite the summer heat?
• ​Has the paper nautical chart finally had its day?
• ​Are electric outboard motors the better choice?
• ​Are outboard motors a good option for large boats as well?