A fantastic fleet of luxury charter yachts based across the Mediterranean and beyond are making their final preparations for the start of the summer charter season, which gets underway on 1st May.
As the winter season draws to a close, the Mediterranean begins to bask in glorious sunshine, warming up its beautiful waters and creating the perfect conditions for summer yacht charters. Accordingly, superyachts gather across the region getting ready for the busy season ahead.
Running from the start of May to the end of September, the summer charter season is always the most popular and, as a result, yachts tend to fill their calendars quickly. Therefore, make sure you book ahead, if you haven’t done so already.
Although most of the activity takes place in the Mediterranean, charters are possible elsewhere. The Bahamas and Florida are year-round destinations to visit by luxury yacht, while the sheer scale of Australia means there is somewhere to visit whatever the season.
The prime yachting hub of the West Mediterranean is the French Riviera. Stretching from Marseille in the west to Monaco in the east, the coastline still exudes the glamour and picturesque scenery which have been attracting the world’s elite for centuries.
Not to be missed is the Riviera capital, Nice, beautifully curving round the Bay of Angels, the lively seaside town of Cannes and its iconic La Croisette promenade, and the seductive resort of St Tropez made famous in the 1960s by French actress Brigitte Bardot.
Also attracting charter-goers to the Cote d’Azur is its glittering events calendar. Starting the season in style is the Cannes Film Festival swiftly followed by the Monaco Grand Prix, while spectacular yachting regattas are spread out across the summer months.
Within easy reach of the South of France and more laidback in pace is the French island of Corsica and its Italian neighbour Sardinia. Some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean can be found here alongside historic ports, red rock cliffs, delicious seafood and widely-acclaimed vineyards.
Colourful villages perch atop rugged cliffs and protected dive spots reveal underwater treasures
Alternatively, cruise the stunning Italian Riviera, where colourful villages perch atop rugged cliffs and protected dive spots reveal underwater treasures. Cinque Terre and its rolling hillsides make up a UNESCO protected park, while Portofino balances modern luxury with historical charm.
The beguiling Italian landscapes of vertical mountains, picturesque towns and lush forests continue along the Amalfi Coast, whereas Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, located off Italy’s south western tip, offset dramatic scenery with low-key bays and high-fashion with historical sites.
More island-hopping is possible in the Balearics. Located off eastern Spain, the archipelago is the Mediterranean’s newest superyacht hotspot, particularly the hedonistic haven of Ibiza. As well as an elite party scene, the island also offers laid-back luxury and easy access to Formentera and Mallorca.
Lapped by sparkling turquoise waters, the East Mediterranean has its own treasures to uncover. Attracting many yacht-goers is Greece and its 6,000 islands and islets. Whether you’re looking for alluring ancient history or island-hopping adventures, Greece offers myriad charter opportunities.
The two most popular island-chains to discover by superyacht are the Cyclades, home to blue-roofed villages such as Mykonos and Santorini, and the Ionian, defined by stunning beaches, pretty architecture and some of the best cuisine the Greek islands have to offer.
It’s not hard to understand the appeal of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, so called because of the brilliant hue of its waters. From exploring ancient Roman ruins to discovering hidden beaches, private coves and a rich underwater world, each day cruising here can be as action packed or relaxed as you wish.
Rife in natural beauty, charming terracotta rooftops and uninhabited islands, Croatia and Montenegro radiate romance and adventure
Growing in popularity as a charter destination are the charming Adriatic destinations of Croatia and Montenegro. Rife in natural beauty, charming terracotta rooftops and uninhabited islands, these two treasures radiate romance and adventure.
Away from the Mediterranean, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays Islands are at their best from May to September. One of the wonders of the natural world and a dreamlike archipelago of tropical islands, these are two must-see destinations.
Also in the South Pacific are exotic island-chains such as Fiji and French Polynesia, best known for the mesmerising island of Tahiti. Although this region experiences its winter from May to September, these are the best months to undertake a charter in as there is less rain and more pleasant temperatures.
For more information on planning a summer yacht charter, please speak to your preferred charter broker.
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