Luxury Yacht Charter Mediterranean
Few destinations compare to the Mediterranean for luxury yacht charters. All across the region – from the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo, to the be-and-be-seen clubs of Ibiza – the Mediterranean is a veritable playground for jetsetters.
A yacht charter is the absolute best way to explore the Mediterranean’s stunning Old-World ports, sun-soaked beaches and cosmopolitan amenities.
A luxury yacht in the Mediterranean opens a world of travel possibilities.
In Spain, you’ll find the Balearic Islands – which include the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca. The island chain is well-known for its glimmering beaches, VIP nightlife, and world-class wine. Italy – another top Mediterranean yacht destination – offers cruising grounds to suit anyone’s tastes.
Explore the breathtaking and exclusive coastline in Sardinia, or escape to the Old World on the Amalfi Coast. Sicily’s ancient ports also make for a prime yachting destination.
Of course, the French Riviera represents the pinnacle of luxury yachting. From St. Tropez, to the high-stakes casinos of Monte Carlo, the Cote d’Azur draws superyachts and jetsetters from around the world during the Mediterranean’s summer yachting season. Here, visitors are welcomed in charming – yet chic – metropolitan hotspots like Cannes and Monte Carlo, and spend time exploring the upscale beach clubs of Antibes and St. Tropez.
In short, a yacht rental in the Mediterranean is an exclusive experience that provides charter guests the best of the best in dining, relaxation and adventure. Interested in Mediterranean luxury yacht options?
This short guide to charters in the Med provides a look at regions, things to do, and what to expect.
When to Go: Luxury Mediterranean Yachts Charters
The Mediterranean enjoys hot, sun-soaked summers, which makes the region one of the world’s best summer yacht destinations.
July and August are peak charter months, when temperatures climb into the upper-70s and 80s. During the high-summer season, guests are welcomed with ideal cruising conditions: Calm seas, warm water, and reliable breezes.
During peak season, many available super yachts book up well in advance; it’s recommended to book a summer charter as early as possible for the region.
The shoulder season offers a quieter, more relaxed experience
Want to avoid the bustle of July and August? Mediterranean charters are also available into early fall – September and October. The shoulder season offers a quieter, more relaxed experience, with temperatures staying in the mid-to-low 70s.
Plan Your Itinerary: Where to Charter in the West Mediterranean
Across the Mediterranean you’ll find diverse landscapes, each offering its own unique experience for visitors. From the bustle of the Riviera, to the solitude of Sardinia, these are some of the Mediterranean’s hotspots for yacht charters:
French Riviera
The French Riviera is one of the world’s most exclusive yachting destinations. And each summer, guests on mega yachts flock to the revered waters of the Cote d’Azur to cruise the coast here, exploring the region’s A-list beach clubs, festivals and soirées. Cannes is one of the French Riviera’s most recognizable destinations, known for its namesake film festival, as well as its upscale eateries and cobbled streets. Nice – another Riviera hotspot – boasts a sun-soaked coast that’s home to some of France’s top beach clubs, as well as plenty of modern amenities.
Monaco – which is actually a city-state within the French Riviera – represents the finest in Riviera glamour. Known for its 5-star restaurants – including several Michelin-starred spots – as well as high-stakes casinos, Monaco is a playground for those looking for luxury.
Balearic Islands
When the temperatures climb during Spain’s summers, visitors flock to the Balearics, an archipelago of several holiday islands that draw everyone from Hollywood A-listers, to royals. Ibiza might be the most well-known destination. Known for its VIP nightclubs, Ibiza is the Mediterranean’s ultimate nightlife destination. Yet, beyond the bustle of Ibiza, you’ll find plenty of quiet and relaxation.
Mallorca, the largest of the Balearics, offers plenty of wide-open natural locations to explore, including vineyards, olive groves and nature parks, while the UNESCO protected nature preserve on Menorca is the perfect place for a quiet respite.
Corsica
Located off the Cote d’Azur, the French island of Corsica offers a decidedly quieter yachting experience. The island is a natural playground. Boasting more than 300 miles of coastline and well over 200 beaches, many luxury sailing guests head to Corsica to relax and unwind. Corsica’s towns are known for their welcoming locals and laid-back island attitudes.
Ajaccio is a favorite Corsica yachting destination. Here, you can tour former palaces, including one owned by Napoleon Bonaparte. And Calvi, an Old-World outpost, provides the quintessential Corsica experience: Cobbled streets, alfresco dining, and amazing historic architectural sites that will inspire you.
Sardinia
Italy’s Sardinia is home to the Emerald Coast – a stunning stretch of shoreline that’s known for its dramatic cliffs and glimmering aquamarine water. Here, visitors are welcomed by a wide range of exclusive experiences – from couture boutiques, to Michelin-starred restaurants and 5-star spas. Porto Cervo is one of the island’s favorite outposts. Known for its super yacht-filled harbor, Porto Cervo boasts manicured beaches and exquisite architecture.
Cagliari is another popular itinerary stop on Sardinia super yacht charters. The town’s bustling center is home to packed alfresco cafes, eclectic shops and well-preserved ruins. Il Castello is a must-see, a palm-tree shaded castle overlooking the town below.
Amalfi Coast
The breathtaking cliffside towns and aquamarine waters of the Amalfi Coast make this one of Italy’s most dramatic stretches of coastline. The beauty is unparalleled, and it’s no wonder this is a favorite destination for honeymooners. Comprised of 13 towns, the coast offers plenty to explore.
Capri – a beautiful terraced town, tucked into a cliff-lined valley – is a must-see on luxury yacht rental. Known for its high-end jewelry shops, upmarket eateries, and stunning landscapes, Capri is one of the most exclusive towns in all of Amalfi. You’ll find numerous super yachts in Capri’s protected harbor. Positano is another must-visit town overlooking the sea, which is known for its brightly hued villas and flowering citrus gardens. And a visit wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Amalfi; the namesake town is home to one of the most picturesque beaches on the coast and a smattering of cliffside bars and cafes.
Sicily & Aeolian Islands
Sicily – the island just off the “toe” of Italy – is steeped in history. A melting pot of Roman, African and Greek culture, the island offers plenty for charter guests to do and see. Many explore the island’s most famous attraction – Mt. Etna – which happens to be Europe’s most famous active volcano. Although, if you’d prefer a quieter locale, you can visit Stromboli, a tiny island with its own volcano.
The ports of Sicily offer plenty of ancient charm. Syracuse is well-known for its ruins. The city’s Archeological Park is home to a beautiful Roman amphitheater, the Ear of Dionysius and Arethusa Spring, all must-see historical sites. The outlying Aeolian islands each offer an escape for luxury yacht holidays. Lipari offers a mix of culture and serenity, while Panarea is a fashionable resort town that attracts A-listers and jetsetters.
Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera might not enjoy the fame of its French counterpart, yet, this stretch of Italian coastline is just as charming. Many visitors flock to the ancient villages of Cinque Terre, where each cliffside town is more picturesque than the last.
Charter guests can spend a day hiking the trails between these villages, before relaxing at a beautiful anchorage. Here, many guests choose to explore cliffside vineyards, sample the traditional fare, or take in the beautiful scenery.
The ultra-exclusive Portofino – a summer destination for Hollywood A-listers and royalty – is another Riviera outpost, that’s well regarded for its upscale fine dining establishments, chic spas, and classic Old-World architecture. San Remo – which lies just east of the French border – is another exclusive enclave that draws visitors to its hilltop villas and Monaco-esque glamour. Many choose to spend a night at Casino di Sanremo – an opulent gaming complex – that rivals the glitzy casinos of Monaco.
What to Do on Your Luxury Yacht Sailing in the Mediterranean
Mediterranean yacht charters are packed full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences and breathtaking sights. Some of the top attractions and events in the region include:
1. Mt. Etna, Sicily
Towering above the city of Catania, Mt. Etna is a sight to behold. Europe’s tallest active volcano, which tops out over 10,000 feet. Hike the summit, if you’re up for the challenge, or book an ATV tour. Then, spend an afternoon exploring the colorful city of Catania below, which is home to outstanding restaurants, museums and markets.
2. Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, Sicily
Syracuse’s famed archeological site is home to the best-preserved Roman ruins on the island. The park’s main attraction is the Teatro Greco, a third-century amphitheater with seating for 16,000. You can also explore Roman ruins, grottos and catacombs on this sprawling site.
3. Villa Rufolo, Amalfi Coast
Hike to the top of the cliffside village of Ravello, for the best views in all of the Amalfi Coast. The villa is also a sight to see. Built in the 13th century, the villa has had many famous owners, and hosts ultra-exclusive summer concert series overlooking the sea.
4. Valle Delle Ferriere, Amalfi Coast
Located a short hike from the town of Amalfi, this natural reserve boasts a series of waterfalls and cascades. The reserve features a network of wooden walking paths that are shaded by chestnut trees, as well as medieval ruins. It’s the ultimate shoreside escape.
5. Reserve Naturelle des Bouches de Bonifacio, Corsica
The natural reserve at Bonifacio is the perfect place for outdoor adventures. The nearby Lavezzi Islands are an ideal spot for exploring, plus, there are numerous snorkel spots around the islands. In the park, you’ll also find a variety of landscapes. This is a beautiful place to relax and unwind.
6. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia
Sardinia’s beaches will make you feel like you’re in the Caribbean, thanks to their warm, sapphire waters and soft white sands. La Pelosa Beach, though, is one of the island’s best. Known for its shallow waters and striking appearance, the beach measures nearly a quarter mile long almost 200 feet wide in places. This is the perfect spot for soaking up the sun, windsurfing, swimming or snorkeling.
7. Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco
Monte Carlo is the world’s most revered luxury destination, and its famed centuries-old casino – the Casino de Monte-Carlo – is a testament to the region’s extravagance. Known for its high-stakes table games, on-site ballet, and world-class entertainment, the casino is a favorite stop on French Rivera yacht charters.
8. Boulevard de la Croisette, French Riviera
Cannes’ famed boulevard hugs the Mediterranean for more than a mile, and it’s one of the Riviera’s best promenades. The street is a favorite shopping destination; designer boutiques line the drive. Plus, you’ll find dozens of upscale restaurants and other attractions.
9. Nikki Beach, French Riviera
A luxury Mediterranean yacht charter wouldn’t be completed without a stop at one of the French Riviera’s famed beach clubs. And Nikki Beach is one of the most exclusive. Known for its A-list parties, chic duds, and beautiful views, the club in St. Tropez is a must-visit on any yacht charter.
Book your yacht charter in the Mediterranean now. Contact a broker with Worldwide Boat today to start planning your dream Mediterranean yachting vacation.
