Sailing and Cruising

In your element

Under a full moon, chased by a gentle breeze, a leisurely sail at sunset can indeed be one of life’s great pleasures. Slip into the calm waters of Nha Phu Bay, on the shores of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, for a traditional wooden boat ride. Gliding along as the sun slips beyond the South Vietnam Sea offers a peaceful moment touched by magic while you enjoy a chilled bottle of bubbles with a loved one, and feel like the stars are out for just the two of you.

While sunset cruising is a popular and intimate excursion, it’s not always a solitary pursuit. Indeed, in the tropical waters of the Maldives at Six Senses Laamu and Six Senses Kanuhura, our traditional dhoni boat excursions are often joined by spinner dolphins. Spinners tend to be nocturnal animals so they rest hidden from view during the day and come out at sunset to hunt and play. They are named for their acrobatic displays in which they spin along their longitudinal axis as they leap through the air; jumping, twisting and splashing a special hello close to the boat. Curious dolphins often make an appearance on Balearic boat cruises to the beach-bejeweled island of Formentera at Six Senses Ibiza, where life moves at an unhurried and languid pace. 

Up the tempo at renowned surfing destination, Fiji, where epic breaks are a marvel of white-horse waves. To witness the ethereal magic of the sea at its wildest and most awe-inspiring, we offer a unique experience for those wishing to get a taste of the power of the ocean without donning a wetsuit or even getting wet feet at Six Senses Fiji. Hop aboard a comfortable boat to chase the surf around the Mamanuca Islands. Beyond the breaks, the boat journey, private or shared, is the perfect place to watch dolphins leaping through the waters, glimpse turtles gliding gracefully, and gaze at schools of vibrant fish darting through the glass-clear deeps.

Making waves

Nowhere do you feel further from the stresses of on-shore life than on a journey back in time on a classic Omani dhow. Developed by Six Senses Zighy Bay, the handcrafted Dhabab, which means golden in Arabic, is reminiscent of the golden age of Arabian voyages as it cruises the rugged Musandam fjords at a leisurely 10 knots.

Over a three-day, two-night odyssey, the Dhabab explores the coast of Musandam, where the Hajar Mountains tower over quaint fishing villages, stopping to rest along the way in secluded bays bursting with marine life. Time can be spent touring the fjords in kayaks (single or twin), snorkeling, hand-line fishing, perfecting your tubing skills, beach combing, swimming or doing absolutely nothing. There are also options to take a cooking class with the chef, book a bespoke dive to witness colorful corals, bring a spa therapist on board, and watch an onboard movie under the stars. 

From one traditional boat to another, no trip along the river at Six Senses Douro Valley is complete without an excursion on a Rabelo boat. This wooden cargo craft was used for centuries for transporting barrels of Port wine from the wine cellars of the Douro Valley to Oporto. River cruises offer a completely new perspective on the region’s vast vineyards and picturesque quintas as you float along, unhurried and free, either bathed in amber light on a serene morning cruise or watching the sky turn crimson on a romantic sunset voyage. Captained by a knowledgeable skipper providing fascinating information about the area's history, culture, and winemaking legacy, you’ll delve into the terroir's nuances and return ready to sample a glass of the region’s best.

Staying in Europe, head to the Aegean Islands to discover a region that is as wild, pristine and rugged as it is whimsical and wondrous. Many of the Aegean Islands, with their bleached-white sands, long coastal stretches and abundance of castles, are made to be approached by sea. Cruise at your own pace from Six Senses Kaplankaya and leave a few footprints as you go.

Sip and sail

Sailing away to our first Caribbean resort, jump aboard a sunset sail around Grenada’s spice island at Six Senses La Sagesse. Quaff the finest local rum as you bask in the sun-drenched beauty of the surrounding seascape, each sip a toast to the seafaring heritage of the Carriacou sloop and the tantalizing delights it carries. Discover the intricacies of matching the finest rums with locally hand-made chocolates. An immersive sea-faring gastronomic adventure, it promises to be an unforgettable voyage that transcends the ordinary in a setting as extraordinary as the flavors themselves.

Water as lifeforce

Just as we understand on a subliminal level that being in nature is good for us, being in or near water with its vibrant aura infuses a life-giving energy to mind, body, and soul. What are you waiting for? Set sail with Six Senses.