Are you looking for the best way to explore the Mediterranean Sea? Consider a truly memorable experience: book a private luxury yacht charter! Few experiences can match sailing in the blue waters of the Med, Europe’s cradle of humanity. With its wonderful islands, including the Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily, as well as breathtaking coastlines such as the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast, you’ll never forget your time on a private yacht charter.
The natural beauty of island-hopping in the clear waters of the East Mediterranean and the West Mediterranean—from Malta to Croatia, Italy to Greece, France to Spain—offers you endless possibilities for the most memorable holiday of your life. Lodging aboard your Mediterranean yacht charter, a floating palace becomes your home away from home as you sail towards hotspots such as Capri, Portofino, and so many other iconic yacht charter destinations. Imagine the comfort, privacy, and flexibility your superyacht charter affords you, as you wake up to spectacular new harbors and coves each day.
Cruising grounds in the Mediterranean to visit with a sailing yacht
Here are some of the most popular charter vacation locations in the Mediterranean Sea, chosen because they offer the best experiences for those traveling aboard a luxury charter.
Italy: Whether strolling through the charming villages of Sicily and the Aeolian Islands, admiring the UNESCO-honored art of pizza-twirling in Naples, or sailing between the many coves of Sardinia and the wonders of Capri and Positano along the Amalfi Coast, Italy continually delights all of your senses. Luxury itineraries abound throughout the Italian islands and coastline, including Porto Cervo on Sardinia’s northern tip, which is full of nightlife hotspots; Portofino on the Italian Riviera; and the colorful seaside houses of the Cinque Terre, which is made up of five quaint fishing villages.
Luxury yacht rental on the Amalfi Coast
Greece: From the traditional whitewashed houses of the Greek islands to breathtaking Neolithic ruins and legendary beaches, Greece offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for those looking for a cultural holiday filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Acropolis of Athens, as well as for those seeking sun-drenched luxury resorts such as those in Mykonos or on the shores of Corfu, one of the most sought-after destinations in the Ionian Islands. Meanwhile, the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea are home to the uninhabited island of Delos, known as the birthplace of Apollo and resplendent with important archeological ruins.
Croatia: Numerous marinas, national parks and picturesque landscapes make Croatia an ideal destination for yachting enthusiasts. The island of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian Coast, boasts fragrant lavender fields and is renowned as a desirable summer resort destination. Croatian beaches are legendarily beautiful, with blue waters and plenty of sun. Be sure to stop in Dubrovnik, also on the Dalmatian Coast, to walk along its majestic city walls, which date back to the 13th century. From here you can head towards Montenegro.
The Balearic Islands: Ibiza, Formentera, Majorca, and Menorca are the islands that make up this archipelago in Spain. They're among the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and offer both natural beauty and a vibrant nightlife. Majorca in particular, with its forest-covered mountains and crystal-clear waters, has no shortage of wonderful places to explore by boat.
The Côte d'Azur: The southern coast of France is the perfect destination for those seeking luxury. The seaside city of Cannes is known worldwide for its annual Cannes film festival, while the glittering port of Monte Carlo in the neighboring country of Monaco hosts some of the most expensive yachts in the world. Monaco is also home to the world-famous Monaco Grand Prix, a Formula One racing event held in late May or early June each year. If you’re looking for the trendiest beach clubs and nightlife venues, St. Tropez is the perfect port of call for your private motor yacht.
Corsica: If you’re looking for a more rugged experience and want to visit pristine bays, then head towards Corsica. This Mediterranean island is off the beaten path and uncrowded even in high season.
Turkey: Whether traveling up the west coast or venturing south to ancient sites like Ephesus, Turkey allows travelers to learn about its rich culture and explore some enchanting hidden gems.
Boat rental: what type of boats are there?
In an area as vast as the Mediterranean Sea you can find all types of boats, but each particular kind is best suited to a specific area and its seas.
Sailing boats: Greece and its abundant winds make it the favorite choice for those who love sailing. Although a sailing boat doesn’t offer the outsize luxury you’ll find aboard a yacht, it’s an unparalleled choice if you’re seeking a holiday that offers up-close contact with the sea and its natural beauty.
Catamarans: This type of boat is widespread in Greece and Sardinia and has become very popular in recent years. Catamarans are an especially suitable choice for families because they offer excellent stability and a lot of space on board. In addition, their reduced draft lets you to get quite close to the shore.
Gulets: Gulets are large wooden boats traditionally made in Turkey. Their large size can accommodate a fair number of cabins, so they’re particularly suitable for larger groups. They’re not particularly fast boats, which makes them an excellent choice for those who want to explore at a leisurely pace.
Single-hull motorboats: This is the most common type of boat, found in different sizes and fittings. In Europe, single-hull motorboats are considered yachts when they exceed 10 meters in length, and superyachts when they exceed 24 meters. Megayachts, on the other hand, start at a length of 40 metres. Yachts defined as cruisers are those with ample space for cabins, while open yachts are those with more open space and therefore suitable for a day charter.
Gozzi: These are wooden motorboats typical of the Amalfi coast, and are also widespread in Tuscany and Liguria. They have a traditionally Italian style and are perfect for a daily rental that allows you to get up close to the coast. Gozzi are also available in a luxury version, which makes them similar to yachts and therefore suitable for multi-day cruises.
Useful tips for a Mediterranean yacht charter
Your first step is to choose which area you’d like to visit (Greece, Italy, France, Spain, etc.), after which you can check the private yacht charter agencies in the area.
Before choosing which boat to book, be sure to check the agency's cancellation policies, payment methods, and business reputation. Once you’ve chosen the vessel that's right for you, ensure safety equipment is included and ask about optional extras such as catering, on-board food and snacks, and landing and mooring fees in the various ports. Last but not least, double-check that the yacht is fully insured.