Looking for the best places to visit on your Mediterranean yacht charter holiday? How about the most ideal locations for an intimate sailing trip? These three destinations offer not only the best of the Mediterranean but also some of the best boating in the world.
Introduction to Mediterranean Sailing
A Mediterranean yacht charter is the ideal way to explore the Mediterranean. Being onboard your own vessel gives you the flexibility to go where you want and to partake in the tradition of Mediterranean sailing that reaches deep into history.
Not only is the whole region known for excellent weather year-round, but there are also more islands here than you can imagine. As the center of the ancient world, this area is rich in history and diverse cultures.
With its wide range of picturesque landscapes and delightful villages all the way from Gibraltar to the Turkish coast, there’s more to see than you could explore in a lifetime.
Destination 1: The Amalfi Coast
One of the best experiences with a Mediterranean yacht charter is exploring the picturesque beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast or Costa d’Amalfi. This idyllic landscape has a handful of stunning towns and villages, like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, perched precipitously on cliffs over the sea. Bustling beaches and quiet bays alternate in this dramatic landscape, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Time to Visit: The weather here is fantastic from May to October, and you can expect calm seas and sunny days. The hottest months of July and August attract the highest numbers of visitors, so avoid them if you don’t like crowds.
Highlights: Sights you simply can’t miss include the historic town of Amalfi and the vibrant cliffside town of Positano. Walk the 3-5-hour Path of the Gods from Agerola to Positano for breathtaking views of the cliffs and sea below. And don’t forget to sample the local limoncello!
Sailing Tips: Winds come primarily from the south and are usually light in the morning and strengthening in the afternoon. Drop anchor in Cetera for a quiet, protected night’s stay, or rent a berth at any marina to be in the heart of the action.
Destination 2: The Greek Islands
Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete… the list of iconic islands goes on and on. Greece has as many as 6,000 beautiful islands, reachable with a Mediterranean yacht charter. Many are steeped in thousands of years of history and culture.
Best Time to Visit: Peak season for a Mediterranean yacht charter in Greece runs from April to October when the weather is fine. Major islands are busiest in July and August so head for smaller islands at this time to avoid crowds.
Highlights: Take in the Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes, the Knossos Palace on Crete, or the stunning caldera of Santorini. The nightlife in Mykonos is also world-renowned and not to be missed.
Sailing Tips: Choose a single region for a 1-2 week sail, such as the Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Mykonos), circumnavigating Crete, or hopping around the Northern Aegean (Limnos, Xios) between Greece and Turkey.
Destination 3: The Balearic Islands
South of Barcelona, you can experience the glamour and elegance of the Balearic Islands by flying to Palma de Mallorca and starting a Mediterranean yacht charter. Sail around rugged and stunning and exciting Mallorca, quieter Menorca, natural Formentera, and Ibiza, home to some of the world’s best clubs. You’ll experience great diversity in a surprisingly small area.
Best Time to Visit: Expect warm days and clear sailing from May through October. Summer is busy, while spring and fall offer clear, open seas.
Highlights: Visit the luxurious ports of Mallorca and explore this island’s northern coast from Cap Formentor to Dragonera. Cruise from Cuitadella to El Castel on Menorca’s incredible south coast. Or head to Ibiza for nightlife to remember.
Sailing Tips: Watch the wind and plan your trip accordingly. If it’s blowing from the south, head north, and vice versa.
Benefits of a Mediterranean Yacht Charter
Luxurious Experience
With a Mediterranean yacht charter holiday, you can experience untold comfort and luxury. Most yachts feature first-class amenities and personalized services from highly trained crews. You’ll sleep in comfortable cabins and dine on all the regional delicacies the Med has to offer.
Customizable Itineraries
You’re able to tailor your Mediterranean yacht charter experience to your personal preferences. You’ll have ultimate flexibility in planning your route or making sudden changes to wherever the whim and wind take you.
Accessibility and Convenience
Mediterranean destinations are never far apart. The next gorgeous beach or stunning town is usually only one-two hours sail away. While you’ll feel like you’re getting away from it all, all the amenities you’ll need are easy to access, from fine wines to sumptuous meals in some of the world’s best restaurants.
Best Sailing in the Mediterranean
Whether you’re interested in the romance of the Amalfi coast, the culture of the Greek islands, or the adventure of the Balearic Islands, a Mediterranean yacht charter is an ideal getaway. But be warned – with so many stunning views, vibrant cultures, and excellent sailing, you may never want to return home!
FAQ
What is the best time of year to sail in the Mediterranean?
Weather-wise, the best time to sail in the Mediterranean is between May and October, with the peak season being June to August when the weather is warmest. However, if you’re looking for solitude, you can still enjoy excellent sailing through the off-season if you don’t mind more rain and cooler weather.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean?
The cost of a Mediterranean yacht charter depends on the size of the vessel you’re chartering, the duration, and the season. Prices can vary from €5,000 to €50,000 per week (roughly $5,500-55,000).
Do I need a license to sail a yacht in the Mediterranean?
You will need a valid sailing license to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean. However, if you choose a crewed yacht with a captain, you won’t need a license.
