For those who need to vacation apart from crowds but still want to see the world’s iconic landmarks, sailing yacht cruises are the perfect way to explore and make friends. The ships offer something a little larger than a typical boat but are more private than a cruise liner. We ventured around the Mediterranean on one of Windstar Cruises’ classic sailing yachts, and witnessed why this type of small-ship cruising draws some of the vacation-savviest travelers, who have time and money to spend, but little patience for wasting a single bit of it. Here are seven reasons why sailing yachts are a great way to travel:

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It draws the type of person who loves to be right at the railing, soaking in every minute of “sail away.”

The experience was summed up a few years ago as “barefoot luxury,” because of the dressed-down charms that define a small-ship sailing cruise. But more than dress, small ship cruising is distinguished by a mindset.

It’s perfect if you like to see the world from different perspectives and through a unique lens, if you’re not afraid to ascend to breathtaking heights.

You can dress up for dinner, but this is what special occasion dining looks like: simple, sunset views, dining with a breeze.

In the mood for a swim? Here’s your pool.

In busy and hard-to-reach destinations, traveling with a small ship is the best way to avoid crowds and get the very best unobstructed views. Then, you head back to the ship when the big busses show up. It's smarter than overnighting, especially in places where you don't want to drive and can't walk far.

Possibly the best moment of a sailing yacht cruise is when people all around you are snapping photos of a magnificent ship in the distance—and you realize that it’s your vessel. While they can only admire from afar, you’ll soon be zipping over on a tender and sailing into the sunset, where tomorrow’s adventure awaits.