Where to Sail in November – Best Destinations for Autumn Sailing

Begin your November voyage in Basseterre, St. Kitts, where sheltered coves and turquoise waters welcome crews of all levels. The shores along Frigate Bay and South Friars Bay mark easy anchorages, and steady trade winds of 15–20 knots keep passages predictable throughout the day. November nights hover around 23–26°C, making the transition from sun to stars comfortable. This starting point brings everything you need: a famous market, simple provisioning, and such anchorages that set the pace for adventure.

From there, Antigua rewards with a certain cluster of anchorages around Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour. Expect 14–20 knots most days, mornings that glow turquoise, and evenings that stay mild. A typical 20–30 mile hop between English Harbour and Jolly Harbour can be completed in 3–4 hours under a steady breeze. miguel, a local guide, notes that November swells ease, making nights calmer throughout the chain. For crews seeking adventure, Bequia and the Grenadines deliver pristine shores, coral gardens, and beaches such as Princess Margaret Beach on Bequia and Clifton Beach on Mustique, all within easy day sails and perfect for a match between pace and pleasure. This network marks a natural progression for a relaxed loop.

Further south, Martinique or Guadeloupe offer optional side trips that fit a calm November rhythm. The route can be tailored to match your pace, with tranquil lagoons, markets, and iconic spots in Fort-de-France and Pointe-à-Pitre. Daytime temperatures linger around 28°C and nights dip to the mid‑20s, while winds stay steady at 12–18 knots for longer hops that still feel relaxed. Such itineraries let crews forget crowded peak-season crowds, while the scenery remains beautiful and the turquoise sea marks every leg of the voyage. Nights can grow colder toward the Leewards, so pack a light layer for evening sails.

November Sailing Windows: Sri Lanka and Maldives Practical Guide

Choose Sri Lanka for the November window, then add a Maldives leg if you have 8-nights for a year-round sailing plan that suits couples and sailors alike.

Sri Lanka’s November window centers on the east coast. Plan a 5–7 day leg from Trincomalee to Passikudah and around Delft Island, using multiple bays and isles for anchorages. The seas stay warm and winds favor a relaxed rhythm, ideal for couples and sailors who prefer small, intimate coves over crowded harbours. Check local festival calendars to plan around peak times, or choose quieter stretches for uninterrupted sailing. For a luxury, chic experience, charter a small crewed yacht with generous deck space, giving every person onboard personal service and easy beach visits. If you’re chasing year-round sailing, this east-coast leg delivers dependable warmth and varied scenery, from calm lagoons to shallow bays perfect for snorkeling. You can begin each day with a sunrise sail, then anchor by a mangrove lagoon before dusk.

In the Maldives, November offers calmer transition winds and clearer seas after the southwest monsoon, with best options from late November through April. Plan a 6–8 day itinerary visiting Ari, Baa, and Lhaviyani atolls, hopping between isles with private beaches and lagoons. A luxury liveaboard suits couples seeking privacy and chic, on-deck relaxation. Each day includes two anchors or a beach stop and snorkeling, so you never stay too long in one place. The smallest isles provide secluded bays and idyllic beaches where you can swim and sunbathe. For divers and snorkelers, times around famous manta sites turn every ride into a memorable moment. The smartest approach blends diving-friendly routes with spa days on deck for warmth and comfort.

Smart planning means locking in a flexible schedule and choosing options for multiple anchorages. For Sri Lanka, target the mid-November window to catch the best reliability before the northeast winds rise; for the Maldives, aim for late November onward to enjoy calmer seas. basseterre luxury sets the tone on both legs: private chefs, a dedicated deck host, and discreet service on a small charter ensures every guest experiences personal attention. This plan works year after year. Know when to sail and when to anchor to maximize calm seas, while keeping an eye on the festival calendars that can fill popular spots. An 8-nights itinerary that links Sri Lanka’s east coast with a Maldives atoll run gives you year-round warmth, with beaches, calm seas, and unforgettable memories for every day. Begin with a sea breeze in the morning, then enjoy a beach stop and a sunset sail to cap the day.

Best Weather Windows for Sri Lanka and Maldives in November

Recommendation: Target the last week of November for Sri Lanka and the final half of November for the Maldives to lock in dry skies, calmer seas, and smoother yacht operations. These picks from trutravels begin with reliable temperatures and end with bliss on deck, offering a rich luxury experience that stands apart from the mediterranean crowds.

For Sri Lanka, the optimal window runs from late November into early December on the west and south coasts, as the southwest monsoon eases and the seas settle. Temperatures hover around 29–31°C by day with nights at 24–26°C, while winds soften to about 10–18 knots and seas stay in the 0.8–1.5 m range. This setup lends itself to easy hops between Colombo, Bentota, Galle, and Mirissa, with many sheltered anchorages for nights aboard and favorable conditions when you depart for coastal explorations. If you’re chasing culture and coastline, begin your route where tradition meets tropical charm, then discover hidden coves along the plata-blue waters before winter intensifies. Simplified itineraries suit families and couples alike, and there’s time to relax on deck after a day of safari-style life ashore.

In the Maldives, late November through early December marks the best window as the SW monsoon retreats and central atolls show clearer seas. Day temperatures range 29–32°C, nights stay warm around 25–28°C, and water temps cling to 28–30°C. Expect winds of 15–25 knots and seas of 1–2 m, offering steady sailing for island-hopping rounds from Malé to North Ari, South Malé, and beyond. Visibility for diving and snorkeling stays excellent (often 20–40 m), making it easy to fill days with activities and sunset cruises. Yachts depart on short hops between atolls, with times and routes flexible enough to suit your mood and preferred pace. This window is ideal for luxury charters that aim to discover secluded lagoons, quiet sandbanks, and vibrant reef life, whether you’re a first-time explorer or returning guest who wants a blissful, carefree pace.

Tips to maximize your November sailing: book early, as yachting calendars fill quickly for these windows; prioritize a mixed itinerary that balances on-water days with island visits to minimize fatigue and maximize sun hours. In Sri Lanka, plan a few coastal hops around second-half November to avoid heavier swells and enjoy calmer nights ashore; in the Maldives, choose central atolls for reliable nights with comfortable seas and shorter flights from the capital to your departures. This approach suits many styles–from intimate romantic cruises to family-friendly adventures–delivering reliable weather, memorable moments, and a mood of relaxed luxury on every leg of the journey. Discover where you can begin your adventure, and let the season’s rhythm guide your plans for when to depart and how to structure each day, so you return with stories of rich experiences rather than rushed schedules.

Sri Lanka Coastal Routes: Must-Visit Ports and Shoreline Highlights

Begin with a 7-nights southwest coast loop from Colombo to Kalpitiya, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Galle, then return to Colombo. This route suits November conditions, delivering multiple anchorages, pristine beaches, and easy shore visits for cruisers and sailors alike.

Top ports and shoreline highlights along the route:

• Colombo – sheltered harbor proximity to the city’s waterfront, sunrise over the horizon, and quick access to temples and markets; set the mood for your coastal adventure.
• Kalpitiya – a small town famed for shallow lagoons, dolphin sightings, and wide beaches; ideal for light cruising and water-sports before turning south.
• Bentota – long, pristine beaches, calm estuary cruising, and river safaris; anchor near the mouth and enjoy a calm getaway with chic beach bars.
• Hikkaduwa – vibrant reef system, clear waves for snorkeling from the boat, and a lively shore scene with local celebrations and fisheries history.
• Unawatuna – sheltered crescent bay, sandy shoreline, and easy shore excursions to coral coves; a perfect spot for a romantic sunset sail.
• Mirissa – famous for whale watching and a wide beach profile; favorable winds for calm afternoon sails and scenic shorelines.
• Galle – historic fort precinct, temples nearby, and a dramatic coastal walk along frescoed walls; capture the full autumn mood before heading north.
• Tangalle (optional extension) – more secluded beaches and tidal lagoons; pristine stretches for a quiet 1- or 2-nights stop.

7-nights itinerary snapshot:

1. Day 1 – Colombo to Kalpitiya: anchor by the lagoon, explore wind-swept dunes, and plan a dolphin-watching morning.
2. Day 2 – Kalpitiya to Bentota: cruise the coast, drop anchor by the river mouth, and enjoy a beachfront dinner.
3. Day 3 – Bentota to Hikkaduwa: sail past coconut groves, snorkel from the boat, and refresh with a sunset walk on the beach.
4. Day 4 – Hikkaduwa to Unawatuna: short hop, reef views, shore cafés, and temple visits in easy reach.
5. Day 5 – Unawatuna to Mirissa: open-water crossing with a horizon line of palms, whale watching options, and beachside chic.
6. Day 6 – Mirissa to Galle: glide into the fort’s harbor, stroll the ramparts, and sample regional seafood at sunset.
7. Day 7 – Galle to Colombo: final leg with a quiet cruise along the coast, return to harbor, and prepare for departure.

8-nights extension suggestion for deeper exploration:

8. Day 8 – Colombo to Tangalle: longer offshore leg, reach pristine south-coast beaches, and settle into a tranquil bayside mood.
9. Day 9 – Tangalle to Hambantota: anchor near Bundala wetlands or add a land-side excursion to wildlife reserves.
10. Day 10 – Hambantota to Bentota return: retrace a portion of the route for better light and repeat snorkel or beach time.

Practical notes for the month: November offers favorable west-coast winds for cruising, with waves typically manageable along the main beaches. For a mood inspired by curacao or bimini, plan calm nights on pristine coves and shore-side chic dining after sunset. If you crave a Mediterranean feel, the Galle Fort precinct provides old-world charm, while October’s shoulder-season crowds ease getaways into a smooth rhythm. When you plan your trip, tailor the route to your pace, choose a smaller charter if you want intimate anchorages, and rely on local skippers who know tidal windows and temple-side shore visits. trutravels partners can help tailor an itinerarium for an 7-nights or 8-nights sailing window, matching your schedule and preferred tempo.

Maldives Cruise Options in November: Liveaboard vs Island-Hopping

November in the Maldives rewards intrepid travelers with clear ocean and calmer seas. A liveaboard delivers a continuous adventure across atolls, while island-hopping offers cultural escapes and the freedom to linger on boutique islands. For most travelers, a 5–7 day liveaboard trip includes 10–14 dives, with two to three dives per day plus occasional snorkeling sessions. Island-hopping typically spans 4–6 nights across 3–4 islands, with two guided dives or snorkeling days and plenty of time for beach strolls and sunset cocktails. Couples seeking a sweet rhythm of sea days followed by land breaks can enjoy a blissful balance between immersion and rest.

Arriving on Malé, you board a liveaboard vessel and set course through indian ocean reefs across Ari, Baa, or Vaavu atolls. You’ll meet reef sharks, turtles, and wildlife, plus vibrant coral gardens; manta rays may drift by Hanifaru Bay when conditions align, and you’ll often spot reef manta, nurse sharks, and a rainbow of reef fish. Dives are typically 2–3 per day, with a night dive offered on select boats. Accommodations come on a yacht-style vessel with en suite cabins, shaded sun decks, and meals onboard. Pricing sits around 350–650 USD per person per day; some operators present the same figure in plata. November is a shoulder period with calmer seas and clear water; December brings higher demand and price increases.

Island-hopping centers on stays in local guesthouses on inhabited islands. You arrive on Malé and move between Maafushi, Gulhi, Thoddoo, Fulidhoo, and other inhabited islets by speedboat; some itineraries include domestic flights for longer hops. Expect two daytime dives or snorkeling days on most itineraries, plus generous land time for culture, markets, mosques, and meals with locals. Prices run roughly 150–250 USD per person per night with breakfast or half-board. This option appeals to couples and solo travelers seeking a grounded escape with plenty of sun, sand, and authentic cuisine. If you compare Maldives with caribbean destinations, island-hopping offers a slower pace and intimate beauty. For a romantic moment, share a sunset on the deck with your lady by your side.

Destinationer och tips för november: Tips för liveaboards inkluderar Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll (Hanifaru Bay) och Vaavu Atoll för livfulla rev och vilda djur; Tips för ö-hoppning inkluderar Maafushi, Gulhi, Thoddoo och Fulidhoo för kulturella kvällar och byliv. Förvänta dig magiska solnedgångar, mjuka sandstränder och havsbrisar som sätter en behaglig rytm för varje dag. Ankommande i december bör planera tidigt för ett bredare urval och potentiella prisändringar, men november erbjuder redan utmärkt värde och lugnare hav. Oavsett om du söker en intim yachtliknande känsla eller en lokal kulturell flykt, levererar dessa alternativ en drömvecka i Indiska oceanen.

Från kryddträdgårdar till havsstränder: Kulturhamnar och strandutflykter

Börja i Castries, Saint Lucia, med en två timmars vandring på kryddträdgård och marknad ledd av Miguel. Han guidar en provsmakning av muskotnöt, vanilj och kanel medan hamnens ljus glöder och ögonblicket av solnedgång lägger sig över bukten. Denna oförglömliga start blandar seglingsarv med kustkultur och passar både förstagångskryssare och återkommande resenärer, och utvecklas under hela resplanen när du rör dig mellan stånd och stränder.

På Grenada, känd som Kryddön, besöker en tre timmars utflykt en muskotplantage, en kakaogård och en färgstark hantverksby. Aromen av muskotnöt, kryddnejlika och kanel dröjer sig kvar hela dagen, med äventyr som blandar djungler med marknader. Ö-resenärer kommer att finna upplevelsen särskilt levande, och Grenada är känt för sina kryddor; många besökare återvänder med burkar och berättelser. Det ligger högt upp på brittiska val bland karibiska destinationer och erbjuder en livlig, kryddfylld kontrast till den tropiska kusten och inbjuder dig att smaka på smaker som påminner om Thailands marknader.

Cartagena, Colombia, levererar färg och historia i ett kompakt paket. En promenad genom den muromgärdade staden och Getsemaní-området avslutas med en solnedgång vid havet. Det europeiska inflytandet är synligt i arkitekturen, med spanska och koloniala lager som skapar en rik scen. Ögonblicket under "golden hour" får gatorna att glöda, och promenaden passar bra med smakrik gatumat för en oförglömlig smak av karibisk kultur, med stunder av lugna gränder och livliga torg.

Panama City erbjuder en modern kontrast till de tropiska hamnarna. En fyra timmars resplan täcker den gamla staden, buktområdet och en kanalutkiksplats, medan en enkelriktad skyttelbuss tillbaka till piren hjälper till att maximera tiden på fartyget. Panama-stoppet blandar havets skala med stadskultur och avslutas med en solnedgång över horisonten som matchar stämningen i säsongens seglingsval och upplevelser i hela regionen.

Planera din höstsegling: Visum, utrustning, budget och bokningstips

Börja med att ordna visum 6–8 veckor i förväg och reservera en återbetalningsbar hytt på en flexibel höst-säsongs rutt, så att du kan anpassa dig mellan exumas, miami och grekland om vindarna ändras.

Visum och dokument: bekräfta passets giltighet i minst sex månader och två tomma sidor; rådfråga din källa för landsspecifika regler; ett Bahamas-visum kan krävas för exumas; lägg till Schengen- eller USA-transitregler vid anslutning via Miami eller Grekland; ha digitala kopior och nödkontakter redo.

Viktig utrustning: solskyddsmedel som är säkert för korallrev, snabbtorkande kläder, en kompakt snorkelmask, en lätt regnjacka, vattenskor och en vattentät väska; ta med en kamera med extra batterier, en portabel laddare och ett litet skyddande fodral för elektronik; för turkost vatten och hisnande kustlinjestopp håller en tropisk väska utrustningen organiserad och en snabbtorkande handduk hjälper till mellan simturerna.

Budget: sätt en målsumma och lägg till 15–20 % marginal för hamnavgifter, skatter och mindre utflykter; leta efter rabatter under lågsäsong runt november och jämför erbjudanden från stora arrangörer och fristående aktörer; överväg avgångar från Miami för att spara på flyg; leta efter tidigbokningserbjudanden med ombordkredit eller inkluderade utflykter och undvik trånga perioder genom att boka 2–3 månader i förväg.

Bokningstips: skissa din drömrutt – exuma-kuster, karibiska ö-stopp eller grekisk ö-hoppning; kontakta en specialistagent som kan bekräfta visumtider, kryssningstillägg och hamntillgänglighet; begär en hytt midskepps för stabilitet och välj resplaner med tydliga avbokningsregler; den sociala kalendern ombord och den chica, färgstarka stilen ombord bidrar till en fantastisk höstresa; om du reser som ett par eller med en person, jämför dubbel- och enkelrumslösningar och lås datum på readagar för att få det bästa priset; Utöver priset, utvärdera värdet: vad ingår i utflykter, måltider och hamnavgifter; verifiera turkosvattenprognoser och hamndjupsdiagram innan du slutför.