On a boat the wind decides many things: where you sleep, what time you leave, which side of the island is most beautiful that day. Knowing the winds of the Mediterranean helps you understand the captain’s choices and enjoy your holiday more.
The compass rose, in brief
In the Mediterranean the winds have traditional names indicating the direction they blow from: tramontana from the north, grecale from the north-east, levante from the east, scirocco from the south-east, ostro from the south, libeccio from the south-west, ponente from the west and maestrale (mistral) from the north-west.
Mistral (maestrale)
It is the north-westerly wind, cool and dry, bringing clear skies and limpid seas. In some areas, such as northern Sardinia and the Strait of Bonifacio, it can blow hard for several days. When the mistral sets in, sheltered anchorages are sought on the east or south side of the islands. Those who sail on the Emerald Coast know it well.
Scirocco
It comes from the south-east, hot and humid, sometimes laden with sand. The sky becomes hazy and the sea can rise on exposed coasts. With the scirocco, bays open to the north are preferred.
Libeccio
It blows from the south-west and can raise a sea on the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian coasts. When it is strong, exposed harbours become uncomfortable and the captain chooses alternative shelter.
Meltemi
It is the Aegean’s summer wind: it blows from the north, especially in July and August, and is often fresh in the Cyclades. It makes the days cooler, but can make crossings between islands demanding. That is why itineraries in Greece are built around its forecasts.
Bora and breezes
In the Adriatic the bora, from the north-east, arrives in gusts. In summer, along many coasts, daily breezes are more common than the big winds: calm in the morning, stronger in the afternoon, calm again in the evening.
What it means for your charter
- Long passages are often made in the morning, when the sea is calmer.
- The anchorage is chosen every day based on the wind forecast for the night.
- The itinerary is flexible: sometimes the order of stops is reversed so you always stay sheltered.
If you worry about the boat’s motion, read our tips on how to prevent seasickness too.
Frequently asked questions
Can the wind make us lose a day?
You rarely stay put: usually you change destination. If conditions are not safe, the captain may decide to stay in port or in a sheltered anchorage.
Which period has the least wind?
It depends a lot on the area. We recommend the best period and destination for your dates, among our destinations.
Want an itinerary built around the weather? Write to us and discover our crewed charters.
