Private Yacht Charter Mediterranean
For private yacht charters, few destinations compare to the Mediterranean. In every port of call, yacht charter guests are greeted by charming Old-World architecture, vibrant culture, amazing food and wine, and lovely landscapes. The lively atmosphere and beautiful landscapes are why the Mediterranean is the world’s most popular summer destination for private yacht charters.
The region offers an endless variety of luxury adventures for visitors. From A-list affairs like the Cannes International Film Festival and the Formula One Grand Prix de Monaco, to the all-night parties of Ibiza and exclusive beach clubs of Sicily, yacht charter guests can relax, unwind and enjoy the good life on a private charter in the Mediterranean.
Want to learn more about private yacht charters in the Mediterranean? This overview gives you everything you need to know: When to go, where to go, and what to do on your private yacht holiday in the Mediterranean.
Where to Go: Best Private Yachting Destinations in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean is generally split into two regions – the West Med and the East Med. The West Mediterranean includes the French Riviera, Spain and Italy, and it has long been a playground for A-listers and jetsetters. In summer, the West Mediterranean is the center of the yachting universe, and there are plenty of destinations to explore.
Private yacht charters in the West Mediterranean are available in all the region’s best sailing destinations:
French Riviera
A playground for celebrities, jetsetters and royals, the French Riviera – which includes exclusive enclaves like Monte Carlo, Nice, Cannes and St. Tropez – is the world’s favorite summertime yachting destination. The area offers a variety of experiences: Amazing French-Mediterranean cuisine, fashionable beach clubs, A-list events, showy gardens to explore and high-street shopping.
Spain Balearic Islands
Spain’s Balearic Islands offer a true European yacht charter holiday experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the sun-soaked beaches, beautiful natural parks and vibrant cities of these glimmering islands. Ibiza, of course, is the region’s nightlife capital, well-known for its nightclubs that draw the world’s top DJs. Yet, Mallorca and Menorca also offer plenty to do and explore: from hiking and kayaking, to enjoying the region’s delicious wine.
Italian Riviera
Neighboring the Cote d’Azur, the Italian Riviera is the summer hangout of the world’s wealthy. Jetsetters flock to the beautiful Old-World Portofino every July to relax and unwind. The exclusive former fishing village is home to numerous upscale eateries, spas and dazzling villas. In San Remo, visitors can indulge in high-stakes gaming and fine dining, while nearby Cinque Terre offers a chance to explore quaint fishing villages.
Sicily
Sicily is bathed in sun, and the island is an amazing mediterranean yacht charter destination for numerous reasons. Visitors here can explore Roman and Greek ruins, explore historic ports of call, bathe in the sun on the island’s amazing beaches or explore volcanos. The nearby Aeolian Islands are also perfect for charters; visitors to the Aeolians can enjoy beautiful scenery, fine wine and the region’s laid-back culture. Stromboli, an active volcano, is another must-see stop here.
Amalfi Coast
Few places are as picturesque as the Amalfi Coast. The 13 villages of the region hug the white cliffs and overlook the sea, and for private charters, the coast serves as a dramatic backdrop for a beautiful cruising experience. Explore Amalfi’s amazing clifftop villas, indulge in the region’s to-die-for food and drink, or relax at world-class spas during your stay.
Corsica
Located off the coast of the French Riviera, Corsica offers a decidedly laid-back vibe, matched with history and cosmopolitan amenities. The island is home to numerous beaches, amazing history, and a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, biking and kayaking. If you want to avoid the bustle of the Riviera, head to Corsica.
Sardinia
Corsica’s Italian neighbor is known for its exclusive vibes; A-listers and celebrities flock here in the summer to enjoy the island’s sandy beaches and amazing spas. Sardinia continues to be a favorite yachting destination, thanks to its Caribbean-esque white-sand beaches, dramatic coastline, and lively cities and villages.
Best Time for sailing
The West Mediterranean is the world’s favorite summer yachting destination. The season peaks in July and August, as superyachts fill the harbors of Monaco, Italy and Spain. In summer, temperatures climb into the upper-70s and 80s, with steady breezes helping to keep guests cool.
The summer months also offer ideal cruising conditions. Steady winds, calm seas and bathtub-warm water temperatures. Although July and August are prime yachting times, the true yachting season stretches from April to October; the shoulder season months in June and September, for example, offer great value with fewer crowds.
Types of Yachts Available for Private Charters
In the Mediterranean, you’ll find a wide variety of vessels available for charter, from 50-foot motor yachts, to superyachts with accommodations for up to 12 guests. Available yachts include:
- Motor Yachts – Motor yachts are revered for their comfortable cruising, opulent designs, and beautiful multi-tiered decks. Motor yachts tend to move faster, allowing guests to see and do more, and they provide the best in cruising comfort.
- Sailing Yachts – A crewed sailing yacht provides guests with a classic sea-faring experience, and you’ll find sailing yachts of all sizes. This type of yacht is popular in the Mediterranean, thanks to the region’s excellent summer cruising conditions.
- Catamarans – Multi-hulled catamarans are revered for their steadiness and speed. There are motor cats and sailing catamarans available; each style offering a comfortable cruising experience.
What to Do: Explore the Mediterranean
Mediterranean private charter itineraries are full of adventure, fine food and drink, historical landmarks to explore, beach clubs and incredible landscapes. Some of the region’s must-see destinations include:
Bosa, Sardinia
Although Sardinia is home to numerous picturesque villages and ports, historic Bosa is one of the best. Known for its vibrant, pastel-hued villas, the ancient port looks like it’s straight out of a painting. In Bosa, you must hike to the Castle, which overlooks town and the sea, for the best views on the island. You’ll also find a smattering of art galleries, alfresco wine bars, and museums to explore.
Etna, Sicily
A trip to Sicily wouldn’t be complete without a tour or hike on Mt. Etna. Europe’s tallest active volcano, Etna is a natural sight to behold. Explore the volcano by foot, helicopter, or ATV. Another option: See Stromboli, an active volcano in the Aeolian Islands; this is a perfect stop for yacht charters.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Menorca
Mallorca’s smaller neighbor has long been a protected UNESCO reserve, and the island is the perfect escape after a trip to bustling Ibiza. Hike or kayak the marshes on the island, or set up a beach picnic on one of the island’s hidden beaches. This is a great place to catch one of those classic Spain sunsets.
Taormina, Sicily
The Greek ruins at Taormina – a stunning amphitheater overlooking the sea – are one of the best historical landmarks in all of Italy. Built in the third-century BC, the theater offers incredible views of the surrounding town and mountains. Plus, in summer, theater companies host events here; be sure to catch one if you’re in town.
Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco
Monaco is home to some of the world’s most opulent gaming facilities, and the Casino de Monte-Carlo is a favorite among the superyacht set. Try your luck at baccarat, poker or roulette, or catch a performance from the resident ballet. The casino is a must-see.
Bonifacio, Corsica
The southernmost point on the island, Bonifacio is a must-do on any Corsica charter. The bustling port is naturally beautiful, as it’s surrounded by white cliffs and grottos. Nearby you’ll find great snorkeling at the Lavezzi Islands, and the city’s picturesque citadel is well worth the tour.
Nightlife Tours, Ibiza
Ibiza is known around the world for its all-night parties, and here you’ll find plenty of world-class clubs featuring top DJs. Plan a night out in Ibiza Town; Pacha is a favorite super-club here, as is Lio and HEART Ibiza. Your yacht is also the perfect location for hosting a private pre-party before your night out.
Best Beaches for Mediterranean Yacht Charters
From the peddle-beaches of the Amalfi Coast, to the Caribbean-esque white sands of Sardinia, the West Med is home to some of Europe’s most incredible beaches. Private yacht charters provide a chance to explore the best of the best. Some of the region’s favorite beaches include:
Loto Beach, Corsica
Located near quaint Saint-Florent, Loto Beach is a sun-soaked stretch of white sand surrounded by rolling hills. Measuring nearly a quarter-mile, the beach butts up to calm, turquoise waters that are ideal for sun bathing. Typically, with fewer crowds, Loto Beach is a perfect stop in route to beautiful Calvi.
San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily
A popular beach in northwestern Sicily, Spiaggia San Vito Lo Capo is a sheltered beach, which is overlooked by Mount Monaco, a towering granite crag. In town, there’s plenty to explore as well, making this a must-stop in northern Sicily.
Spiaggia Grande, Amalfi Coast
Spiaggia Grande, or Big Beach, lies just below the town of Positano, where the cliffs and villas tower above. In fact, the hotels here had to cut the beach right into the mountains. The result is one of the most picturesque beaches in all of the Amalfi Coast.
Paloma Beach, French Riviera
Located in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, the ultra-exclusive Paloma Beach is a favorite celeb-sighting spot for visitors. Half of the beach is private, with high-end beach clubs offer access to charter guests. Known for its beautiful aquamarine waters and upscale amenities, the beach is a must in the South of France.
Plage de Marinieres, French Riviera
This gorgeous stretch of sand is located away from the bustle of Nice. Tucked in front of the town of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the beach is perfect for swimming, water sports, and long beach walks (in fact, the beach measures nearly three-quarters of a mile.) Plus, it’s an ideal spot for travelers with kids; in summer, the beach has lifeguards on duty.
Cala Goloritze, Sardinia
Situated on the Gulf of Orosei, this amazing white-sand beach would be at home in the Caribbean. Thanks to a nearby river, the beach tends to have cooler waters, which makes this a must-stop during the sizzling summer days of July and August.
Cala Turqueta, Menorca
This hidden beach on Menorca (it’s surrounded by steep gorges and forests) make this one of the best spots on the island for a swim. There’s great snorkeling nearby, and the protected cove is known for its shallow aquamarine waters.
Cala Benirras, Ibiza
Ibiza has its fair share of incredible beaches, but Benirras might just be the best. The crescent-shaped beach is bathed in sun, and it has a lively vibe thanks to the drummers, dancers and fire-eaters that hang out and perform here. Another benefit: Cala Benirras is surrounded by a protected reserve, which gives it a quieter, more laid-back vibe.
Book a Mediterranean Yacht Charter with Worldwide Boat
Plan your dream private yacht charter in the Mediterranean with Worldwide Boat. We offer an exclusive collection of Mediterranean yachts for rent, as well as exceptional charter planning services. Contact a broker with Worldwide boat today to learn more.
