Weather and Winds
Understanding the weather and wind patterns in your sailing area is crucial for a safe and enjoyable yachting experience. Here, we provide an overview of typical weather and wind conditions in Croatia, Turkey, Greece, and the British Virgin Islands (BVI), helping you prepare for your journey.
Croatia
Cyclones and Anticyclones
The weather in the Adriatic Sea, is influenced by the movement of cyclones and anticyclones over central and southern Europe. Cyclones typically move from west to east across the Adriatic, bringing southerly winds (known as the jugo) along with warm, wet air, leading to cloudy and rainy conditions. As cyclones pass and anticyclones take over, the wind shifts to the northeast (bura), bringing cold, dry air. This clears the skies, stabilizes the weather, and temporarily lowers temperatures before sunny, stable weather returns, often accompanied by the daily summer maestral wind.
Summer and Winter Differences
During the summer, the north and south Adriatic regions experience similar weather, characterized by warm, sunny days, moderated by the maestral wind, low humidity, and mild nights. Sea surface temperatures range from 24° to 26°C. In late summer, the north cools more quickly at night, leading to cooler sea temperatures.
Tides, Currents, and Waves
Adriatic tides have small amplitudes and minimal impact on navigation. Currents are generally weak. Waves generated by the jugo are longer but less steep than those caused by the bura, which are shorter, steeper, and can exert greater stress on boats.
Squalls
Squalls, sudden and intense weather disturbances, are common in the Adriatic during summer. They approach swiftly from the west and are brief but can be severe. It's essential to seek shelter at the first sign of a squall to ensure safety.
Turkey
Cyclones and Anticyclones
Turkey’s coastal weather, particularly along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, is influenced by Mediterranean cyclones and anticyclones. Cyclones bring moist, southerly winds and rain, while anticyclones, moving in from the north or northeast, bring dry and clear weather. The meltemi, a strong northerly wind, dominates the summer and is typical from May until September, providing dry and stable conditions. It reaches its peak from mid-July until mid-August.
Summer and Winter Differences
The Turkish coastline experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. In summer, the meltemi wind provides relief from high temperatures, with sea temperatures ranging between 25° and 28°C. Winters bring more occasional strong southerly winds.
Tides, Currents, and Waves
Tidal ranges in Turkey are small and usually pose no threat to navigation. Currents are generally weak but can be stronger in narrow straits. The meltemi wind can create significant waves, particularly in the afternoon.
Squalls
Squalls in Turkey are less common than in Croatia but can still occur, particularly in the early autumn or late summer. Sailors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and seek shelter if necessary.
Greece
Cyclones and Anticyclones
Greece’s weather is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean cyclonic and anticyclonic systems. Cyclones bring southerly winds and rain, while anticyclones bring clear skies and northerly winds. The summer meltemi winds are a defining feature, blowing from the north and providing dry, stable conditions.
Summer and Winter Differences
Greece enjoys hot, dry summers with sea temperatures between 25° and 28°C, and mild, wet winters. The meltemi wind is strongest in the Cyclades, providing consistent sailing conditions but also requiring caution due to its strength and persistence.
Tides, Currents, and Waves
Tides in Greece are minimal and do not significantly affect sailing. Currents are generally weak but can be stronger in narrow channels and around islands. The meltemi can create rough seas, particularly in the Aegean Sea, with significant wave heights in open waters.
Squalls
Squalls are rare in Greece during the summer but can occur in transitional seasons. They typically come from the west and can be intense but short. It’s important to monitor weather forecasts and seek shelter if a squall is approaching.
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Cyclones and Anticyclones
The weather in the BVI is influenced by tropical cyclones (hurricanes) and the Bermuda High, an anticyclonic system. Hurricanes can bring severe weather during the hurricane season (June to November). Outside of this season, the trade winds, blowing from the northeast, dominate, providing stable and predictable conditions. Hurricanes only occur occasionally on the British Virgin Islands. On average, they happen about 4 times a year. However, hurricanes often do not make landfall on the BVI, but turn northward beforehand.
Summer and Winter Differences
The BVI has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically between 25° and 30°C. The winter months (December to April) are the dry season, with more consistent trade winds. The summer months are with higher humidity and the risk of hurricanes.
Tides, Currents, and Waves
Tidal ranges in the BVI are small, with minimal impact on navigation. Currents are generally weak but can be stronger in narrow channels and around reefs. The trade winds create moderate waves, which are usually manageable but can be challenging in exposed areas.
Squalls
Squalls in the BVI are most common during the summer months. These brief but intense weather events can bring heavy rain and strong winds. It’s essential to keep an eye on the weather and be ready to take cover if a squall is approaching.
Understanding the weather and wind patterns in these regions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable yachting experience with Orvas Yachting. Whether you're navigating the Adriatic, the Aegean, or the Caribbean, being prepared for the conditions you may encounter is key to a successful holiday trip.