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Sailors looking for an excellent cruising base would do well to consider Gibraltar; it’s the gateway to the Mediterranean and the perfect spot from which to discover the surrounding area. 

Gibraltar is a city and British Overseas Territory on the Iberian Peninsula’s southern tip. It is bordered by Spain to the north and is home to a population of around 34,000. The Rock of Gibraltar, a towering edifice of Jurassic limestone rising to 1,398 feet, dominates the landscape. 

Gibraltar Marinas 

Gibraltar boasts three excellent marinas: Ocean Village and Marina Bay to the north, close to the airport, and Queensway Quay, which is located in the territory’s historical naval harbour. Visitors can head to Gibraltar’s cruising grounds to enjoy beautiful sunny weather all year round – you can even spend Christmas Day soaking up the rays. 

Local Cruising Opportunities 

There are plenty of opportunities for some fantastic cruising around the balmy waters of Gibraltar. A cruise around Europa Point on the Costa del Sol makes for great sailing, taking in the views of Europa Point lighthouse, the dramatic chalk slopes of Gibraltar and Morocco in the distance.  

A cruise to the marina at Sotogrande, just 18 miles from Marina Bay, is also pleasant. The stylish and quiet development of Sotogrande is home to many leafy estates and sprawling villas, along with restaurants, shops and terrace cafes. Alternatively, sail to Puerto de la Duquesa, north of Sotogrande, where a selection of quayside cafes and restaurants can be found.  

Those keen to visit a Sunday market will appreciate a cruise to the popular resort and marina at Estepona, where there are also quayside terraces to stroll and atmospheric tavernas and bars to discover. 

Learn to Sail in Gibraltar 

There are a number of accredited sailing schools in Gibraltar, for those who are keen to start their own cruising adventures. Keen sailors like Alasdair Babber Shah have completed courses in Gibraltar, which offers some of the best waters for tidal training in the world. Alasdair Shah also holds the RYA Day Skipper license and other qualifications undertaken through RYA-accredited training centres. Classes in Gibraltar are available ranging from novice sailor to yacht master, and attendees will enjoy experiencing the territory’s rich marine life, including encounters with whales, dolphins, turtles, sun fish and even basking sharks. Benefitting from over 300 days of sunshine a year and a temperate climate, Gibraltar could be the perfect place to learn to sail.