The sunny seas of the Mediterranean have long been a vital part of countless trade routes, conflicts, and conquests. And the surrounding lands, volcanic islands, and ports tightly hold onto these memories. Moreover, the nation’s coastlines are an incredible portal to the past, which can only be understood fully from the water. Nothing compares to traversing the Mediterranean like a trip aboard a private yacht. Follow along and uncover the best Mediterranean yacht charter destinations for your next vacation.
Italy
Where better to charter a luxury yacht than in Italy? While there are many beautiful places in the world, it’s hard to beat Italy’s incredible history. Experience a past that is not only passed on through stories, books, and movies but also omnipresent in ancient buildings, monuments, and villages. Spend your Italian vacation aboard a luxury yacht, cruising the seemingly untouched coastlines and enchanting islands.
Amalfi Coast
A coastline famous for its charm, death-defying roads, and unrivaled cuisine, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s premier yacht charter destinations. Spend the day sailing the coast admiring the incredible cliff towns, vineyards, and citrus trees perched above the blue Tyrrhenian waters.
From Positano to the Porto di Maiori, fortresses, churches, and restaurants will impress and entice you to come ashore for a closer look. While there, venture to the island of Capri to explore the Blue Grotto and take in the views from high atop this magical island.
Just north of the coast of Naples, you can also choose to island-hop between Ischia, Procida, and the remote Pontine islands. In addition to many natural thermal baths, the islands feature incredible fresh food, olive oil, and local wines to make your trip one savor.
Sicily
Your Italian yacht charter options don’t stop there. Sicily is yet another perfect destination to spend your next vacation. While Sicily is bursting with natural beauty and ancient ruins, the east coast is home to a great mix of vibrant culture and serenity.
Begin your yacht charter from Taormina, the luxurious hilltop town just north of Mt. Etna, Sicily’s active volcano—head northeast of mainland Sicily for the green-hued waters and the black beaches of the Aeolian Islands. Then spend your days snorkeling, swimming, and photographing the quaint old harbors of these magical lands.
Sardinia
Even more wild adventures await you in Sardinia, Sicily’s northern neighbor. This rugged and mountainous island can be combined with France’s Corisca for an unforgettable yacht charter. Sail the Costa Smeralda’s Maddalena Islands and end your trip in historic Bonifacio. The inviting port towns have excellent restaurants and shopping. You can also take day trips to local vineyards or play a round of golf.
Italian Riviera
In northwest Italy, the Italian Riviera is also ideally suited for a luxury yacht charter. The Cinque Terre or five villages await you east of Genoa. A more laid-back Riviera will greet you on the western Ligurian coast with endless gardens, olive groves, and vineyards.
There are some excellent superyacht choices for your Italian charter, including Light Holic, which also charters in France and Greece. Be sure to peruse our motor yachts or contact us for more information.
Croatia | An Underrated Mediterranean Yacht Charter Destination
Unassumingly nestled between Italy and the Balkans lies the small country of Croatia. From Istria in the north to Southern Dalmatia in the south, this coastal nation features countless Mediterranean yacht charter destinations, from preserved medieval port cities to diverse groups of islands.
Istria and Kvarner
Explore the Roman ruins of Istria’s iconic coastal cities like Porec, Rovinj, and Pula before sailing south to the Kvarner region. You can explore the Krk, Cres, and Losinj islands for secluded bays, beaches, and untouched terrain. You can even go dolphin watching, visit wellness spas or get your adrenaline going with various water sports activities. Also, don’t forget about the island of Rab, where you can kayak, bike, or hike around medieval cathedrals and beautiful beaches.
Dalmatia
Northern Dalmatia is also home to intriguing islands like Pag and the Kornati Islands. National parks and coves are perfect for snorkeling, birdwatching, and hiking. On the mainland, stop and admire the waterfalls of Sibenik or the ruins in Zadar.
Further south, central and southern Dalmatia boast lively marinas and island towns with delicious cuisine and wines. On Brac, you can scuba dive, windsurf, or be amazed by the tiny wine producers making superior wines from indigenous Croatian varietals.
Next, sail to Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park to snorkel the protected reefs. If you’re interested in more nightlife and gastronomic experiences, visit the island of Hvar or the cities of Split and Dubrovnik. While you look out over the Adriatic Sea, you’ll feast on seafood, artisanal cheeses, and olive oil.
France
The South of France has become synonymous with glamour, prestige, and luxury yacht vacations. If you’d like to be well-entertained, take your charter to the French Riviera. Here, the world-famous cities of Monaco, Cannes Antibes, and St. Tropez offer incredible beaches, marinas, shopping, dining, and nightlife.
After touring the busy port cities, you can relax aboard your yacht, enjoying local French cheese, fresh bread, and wine. Or, head just inland, where you can visit the Pre-Alps National Park or go wine tasting at one of many picturesque Domaines.
West of the Riviera, you’ll find the coast of Provence. Also chic yet more laidback, the palm-tree-lined cities of Marseille, Toulon, and Hyères provide many opportunities to soak in the rich artistic heritage of southern France. Museums, churches, and fortresses illustrate the grandeur of France’s past. In addition, nature lovers will enjoy diving and hiking on the three small islands off the coast. In particular, Porquerolles is an excellent way to destress while bathing in clear waters.
Greece
Arguably no other place in the Mediterranean warrants a luxury yacht charter like Greece does. While there are endless possibilities for adventures across Greece’s vast archipelago, some of the best yacht charter destinations are explored in groups.
Saronic Islands
The Saronic Islands are the easiest to access from Athens, offering natural beauty and unique experiences. Soak in the atmosphere of lively towns like Hydra, home to great local taverna restaurants, museums, and laidback island culture. Visit the many temples, museums, and neoclassical buildings on Aegina, or if you’re lucky, stop by in September during the annual pistachio festival.
Cyclades
By far, the most internationally known islands are the Cyclades. With Santorini and Mykonos leading the charge, this group of islands is the premiere spot for clubs, nightlife, and entertainment. Paros also features great beaches, ancient churches, and whitewashed shops overlooking the sea.
Ionian Islands
Scuba divers and snorkelers can find their paradise in the Ionian Islands off Greece’s west coast. Corfu, Kefalonia, and Ithaca are only a few top spots in this 12-island archipelago. Small villages reminiscent of Italian towns welcome guests with outstanding Mediterranean hospitality. On the water, blue caves and clear waters are met by white cliffs, making for a gorgeous sail.
Dodecanese
The Dodecanese enjoy a slow pace of life, traditional food, and majestic castles. Sitting off the coast of Turkey, they exemplify a fusion of culture, religion, and traditions left behind by various civilizations. Here, you can easily find your beach or off-the-beaten-path restaurant to absorb the mythology and incredible past of this fascinating part of the world. Numerous shipwrecks and sea life will entertain swimmers and divers searching for water adventures.
Sporades
On Greece’s eastern side, the Sporades Islands are distinctly different from the rest of the Greek islands. Incredible beaches combined with lush forested hillsides make the Sporades some of the most stunning green places to traverse on your luxury yacht charter. Vineyards, fruit orchards, and serene beaches provide many chances to walk, hike, and admire the islands.
Spain
Spain is quintessentially Mediterranean. Spaniards know how to enjoy life to the fullest from the very, very long lunches and the obligatory post-meal siesta. That’s why a luxury Mediterranean yacht charter is the ultimate way to take in everything Spain and its delightful people have to offer.
Along with its Mediterranean neighbors, Spain has some of the most welcoming and awe-inspiring luxury yacht charter destinations. In particular, the Balearic and Canary Islands boast ideal weather, sailing conditions, and vibrant culture.
Balearic Islands
The four islands comprising the Balearic are off the coast of Valencia and south of Barcelona. Moreover, these feature tremendous historical sites, cathedrals, and monuments depicting Spain’s 14th Century power.
- Mallorca’s capital of Palma is a must-see with a beautiful old town lined with Gothic architecture, La Almudaina Palace, numerous art museums, and gorgeous gardens. The island’s southern coast offers hidden beaches and inlets. You can even sail to Cabrera Marine Park to dive into a wild environment.
- On Mallorca’s western coast, you’ll find a mecca of all things hiking and biking. Adventure seekers can explore Valdemossa’s monasteries and countless monuments dotting the diverse landscape. While there, don’t miss the hidden Sa Capelleta village in the mountains near Sóller. If time allows, sail over to Menorca’s 13th Century Ciutadella.
- Heading southwest, you can visit the infamous island of Ibiza. Known internationally for its vibrant, star-studded nightlife, Ibiza is quite extraordinary. Quaint villages, wineries, and nature reserves like Ses Salines are worth exploring on this UNESCO-protected island.
- Ibiza’s small sister island of Formentera awaits you just a few miles south. Partake in scuba diving and water sports at Ses Illetes beach, or relax along the shores of Pujols beach. Looking to get away from the crowds? Instead, anchor in the tranquil waters of Cala Saona on the island’s west coast. After, you can sail to the beautiful beaches of the Migjorn sands while passing the Cap de Barbaria lighthouse.
Canary Islands
The volcanic Canary Islands are so astonishing that five of the seven islands are Biosphere Reserves. Each island features unique natural elements combined with distinct personalities.
- Lanzarote, one of the wildest, is home to lava tube caves, volcanic vineyards, and famous artwork from Cesar Manrique. Why not enjoy a concert in Los Verdes Cave or head 400 meters above sea level to the Mirador del Rio viewing point? Either way, you’ll be impressed by the architecture and artistry found throughout the island.
- Contrastingly, the largest island of Tenerife is home to the third-highest volcano in the world, Mount Teide. In addition, you can visit one of many massifs, landslides, and volcanic fields. All can be reached by foot, bike, or car, as the island has many routes, which also pass by exciting vineyards like Bodegas Monje.
- Another must-see is Gran Canaria Island. Incredible dunes and secluded beaches adorn the coastline, while archaeological sites sit amongst inland villages. So, if you want to explore the fusion of street culture in Las Palmas, tour the modernized port city. If you prefer visiting aboriginal sites and villages, head to the former capital, Gáldar. Whichever areas you choose, the natural abundance of fruit fields and vineyards throughout the island will delight you.
As you can see, there are extraordinary places to visit on your next yacht charter. For more information, please visit our luxury Mediterranean yacht charter itineraries and start planning today. Call CKIM Group at 321 777-1707.
Please call us today at 1 (321) 777-1707 or describe Your Vacation Vision to help you plan your fully-crewed private luxury yachting vacation! Inquire as soon as possible about your custom, crewed yacht charter.
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