6 top offshore experiences

With over 71 per cent of the world’s surface covered by water, it is fair to say that there are plenty of offshore experiences available no matter what your preference. Whether you’re looking to cruise around beautiful harbours, or pick up the pace with some exhilarating watersports, there is a vast array of options to choose from. We’ve picked a few of our favourites to give you a taste of some of the experiences on offer around the globe.

Hong Kong

Possibly one of the most remarkable destinations with a rare East-meets-West culture due to British colonisation and Chinese immigration. The extensive archipelago of 260 islands is home to strongly embedded Chinese traditions, mixed with a sprinkling of Western culture. We love seeing the city from a traditional Chinese junk in Hong Kong Harbour. These lightweight boats are famous for their red sails. The ultra-modern cityscape of Hong Kong is a sight to behold from a junk’s deck. Top tip? Try an evening outing during the nightly Symphony of Lights laser show over Victoria Harbour.

Vietnam

Sail among the magnificent limestone outcrops of Ha Long Bay. The Ha Long Jasmine Cruise is the perfect way to sail through the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. These traditional Vietnamese junks measure in at an impressive 55m in length. There is plenty of room for the 22 air-conditioned, en-suite cabins, a restaurant, and a lounge. This magnificent boat also has two unique suites. Each is equipped with its own Jacuzzi and balcony for and uninterrupted view of the bay.

Kerala

The backwaters of Kerala provide a beautiful and tranquil setting for a cruise aboard a converted rice barge. It’s the ideal way to explore this expansive area. These elegant barges float nonchalantly by the waterside villages, paddy fields, sandy beaches, and forested highlands. It’s the perfect chance to absorb an idyllic landscape whilst observing local wildlife, children playing in the water and fishermen casting their nets.

San Francisco

Climb aboard an America’s Cup Racing yacht in the San Francisco’s marina. What a fantastic chance to get to grips with a world-class racing yacht. You’ll be thrown in at the deep end to raise the huge 200m² mainsail and the jib sail after leaving the marina. You’ll then get the chance to try your hand at different roles on the yacht, including being at the helm! Even with your concentration focused on managing the yacht, it would be impossible to ignore your surroundings. You’ll sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, past the infamous Alcatraz Island and many other nearby San Francisco landmarks.

Cape Town

A kayak is a fantastic way to explore the wonders of Cape Town’s magnificent Atlantic coastline. The routes take in the most beautiful bays and beaches. Within minutes of leaving dry land, you can feel a thousand miles away from the busy city. A feeling of calm and serenity washes over you. With a guide behind you every step of the way you’re certain to paddle to every hotspot along the beautiful coastline. You might even see seal, dolphin and the southern right and humpback whale which make an annual visit to this spectacular coastline. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, set against the stunning backdrop of Signal Hill and, of course, Table Mountain.

Patagonia

The glacial lakes of this remarkable area are best navigated by kayak. Kayaking allows a unique and intimate perspective of one of Earth’s untouched landscapes. As you paddle in search of hidden glaciers, a true feeling of exploration is truly overwhelming. Small icebergs will float past with snow-capped mountains acting as the backdrop. However, if you’re looking for a less exhausting way to explore this region then a boat trip to one of the largest glaciers of the Northern Patagonia Icefield is perfect. The gigantic foot of San Rafael Glacier calves huge chunks of ice into The San Rafael Lagoon below with a thunderous roar. A sight not to be missed, providing an overwhelming respect for the power of nature in a beautiful setting.