A decade or so ago, going to a festival was a coming of age experience - almost a rite of passage into adulthood. As the years roll on and the next generation of festival goers trudge sodden fields with trolley loads of cheap beer looking for a scrap of grass to set up camp, us former generations look for a way to relive that festival experience of our youth - but with a little more comfort and adventure!
First came glamping with pre-built yurts with comfy beds and en suite facilities. And then there were whole festivals of glampers with designated family areas so that these now slightly older young professionals could keep the festival flame going with their children in tow. But is it enough? In the age where we are increasingly time poor and our social media presence is more important than our Christmas card list, people are now looking for something different - an experience - to share with their friends and family.
So, what about mixing sailing and a music festival to create the perfect social friendly, music-loving, awesome experience ever? As it happens, you have quite a few options. Let us give you a rundown of the best
Træna Music Festival, Norway
The festival is held up in the Arctic Circle on the islands that are only accessible by boat - or in our case, yachts. As it’s mid-summer, not only do you have the adventure of your arrival, but the “midnight sun” never sets, meaning that the party truly lasts all 3-days! And for those seeking more adventure, the day before it all kicks off, there’s Træna Ocean Yacht Race from Sandnessjøen to the festival. Last one on the dock buys the beers! Book your festival adventure berth on one of our Træna trips here
Isle of Wight Festival, UK
With an annual attendance of over 58,000, the Isle of Wight Festival is one of the UK’s largest music festivals. Crowds descend on the island to watch A-list headliners - from Pharrell Williams to Fleetwood Mac - but this does cause an issue. Crowded Ferries. Many are now sidestepping queues at the ferry terminals and sailing over to Cowes where your yacht becomes your home for the 4 days - much better than a smelly tent. Talk to us about mixing your IOW Fest with a spot of yachting
ULTRA, Croatia
Quickly becoming THE festival of choice for young Brits, ULTRA combines not only a 3 day festival in Split, but a whole range of follow-up beach parties and meet-ups on the nearby islands. A true “work hard, party hard” attitude helps as you sail (or in some cases, race) between the venues for another alcohol and music filled day. Find out what packages we have available for ULTRA this year
Airlie Beach, Australia
As you’d expect from Australia, their approach to music festivals is somewhat more sedate in comparison to Croatia’s crazy scene. Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsundays - Australia’s answer to the ultra chilled BVIs. Anchor off the meandering shore and listen to 74 bands play over 3 days. After which you can pick up your hook and explore these amazing islands. Want to go “down under”? Drop us a line.
