You don’t often hear about Tunisia from North American cruisers who are contemplating sailing to the Med for a summer or two of enjoying the wonderful wine-dark sea. But, it is a hidden treasure that can solve several problems for sailors from non-Schengen countries.
The Schengen treaty covers almost all European and Scandinavian countries and limits the number of days sailors from outside the treaty area can spend on their boats.
So, if you are living aboard and want to spend a couple of years in the Med, you need to have non-Schengen ports where you can stay for the requisite number of days outside the treaty area.
Also, while the Med has a mild climate, the cruising season really runs from May through October. For the months of December through April, it is best to hunker down somewhere, hopefully in a marina that is not too expensive and relatively well served by yacht services.
Tunisia is just such a place. The country has boat builders and sailmakers that serve the European market. They have full-service marinas with modern Travel Lifts. They have expert craftsmen and marine service professionals.
Also, the climate in North Africa is milder than in Europe and the country is blessed with wonderful beaches. The country can be considered third world, but in fact the economy, political system, justice system and medical facilities are modern and stable.
And, you’ll enjoy the pleasures of discovering a new world of interestin food, music, architecture and the ancient traditions of Muslim North Africa. The British cruising community discovered Tunisia decades ago but Americans not so much. But it is a great option for escaping Schengen and wintering over. Read more here.
