Words by Ocean Independence, a global leader in luxury superyacht sales, charter and management.
A dream luxury yacht charter location, the Mediterranean is packed with character and opportunities for fun on the water. From the velvety swathes of Sardinia to sophisticated boutique shopping in Cannes, there are infinite treasures just waiting to be discovered.
Summertime is when the beauty of the Mediterranean truly comes alive, where stunning landscapes are further heightened by different hues of light and visitors bring a heady buzz to personality-packed waterfront towns. Finding a favourite hot spot to enjoy a yacht charter amongst so many gems may prove tricky. With countless yachting havens commanding merits galore, this is why hand-picked recommendations and detailed discussions with a dedicated yacht broker are vital to capture the essence of your very personal getaway in the sun.
Cruise the Amalfi Coast and embrace ‘la dolce vita’
History and scenery blend to create an enthralling atmosphere on the Amalfi Coast. A yachting itinerary is perfect to fully explore such incredibly photographic shores, with captivating towns to tempt visitors at every port.
Historic Naples is decorated with a myriad of technicolour towns and perched villages, plus nearby the compact isle of Ischia boasts rejuvenation in the thermal springs. Classically smart, Sorrento is enduringly popular thanks to chic boutiques and stylish bars, while cliffside Positano exudes a luxurious resort town feel with views aplenty. Graceful Amalfi itself must not be missed, with tumbling cliffside appeal, steeped in romance and noted for excellent beaches. Take in the views when approaching the dramatic rocks of cosmopolitan Capri by yacht, a unique experience from the water.
Eating like a local comes easy on the Amalfi Coast. Traditional cuisine varies from region to region and tantalisingly fresh flavours result from ingredients ripened by the warm Italian sun. Birthplace of the pizza, in Naples enjoy the classic margherita or indulge in native speciality pasta alla Genovese. Lemons feature heavily thanks to hillside groves, resulting in refreshing gelatos or deliciously syrupy local limoncello that must be tried.
Beauty, atmosphere and glamour are abundant in Sardinia
A mix of chic beach clubs, boutique shopping and breath-taking natural beauty, Sardinia is a favourite yacht charter destination for many. Explore a coastline strewn with secluded coves and fingers of golden sand, where some of the best diving and water sports opportunities in the Med are found. The Costa Smeralda provides a mesmerising blend of charm and individuality; whether seeking glamour or privacy, this island has it all. Watch celebs stroll on Porto Cervo waterfront, heading for the eminent Hotel Cala di Volpe, where a world immersed in sophistication awaits.
Northern Sardinia abounds with phenomenal anchorages, some resembling white-sand beaches of the Caribbean. The marine paradise of Cala Granara on the Maddalena isle of Spargi is blissfully secluded amid Instagram-worthy scenery, no filter needed. Cala di Luna is for beach lovers: a tucked-away beauty sitting amidst rocky headlands where snorkelling is awe-inspiring and history buffs will appreciate archaeological finds nearby.
The Sardinian cuisine is sincere, tasty and created with Italian flair. Expect restaurants to serve local dishes with pride, created with the wealth of fresh produce available from both land and sea. There is no doubt this is inspiration for any dedicated onboard yacht chef to produce a range of innovative culinary delights to suit all tastes.
Extraordinary and striking, Sicily is overflowing with charisma
It is said that in Sicily they build things like they will live forever and eat like they will die tomorrow, which is entirely reflected in their culture. A veritable yachting haven that consistently delivers astonishing cruising grounds, the buzzing seaside towns and towering volcanoes bringing pervasive appeal.
Embark in the historic port of Palermo, guarded by iconic Monte Pellegrino, then cruise to stylish Taormina where restaurant terraces with achingly beautiful views serve animated diners. Cuisine here is local and delicious with a forthright approach – you will rarely eat anything not produced within a few miles of where you are sitting.
Explore the seven Aeolian Isles, each of them a treasure trove of discovery, creating a paradise for easy island-hopping amidst bright turquoise waters. Anchor up by Stromboli for front row seats to a light show, where the active volcano shoots liquid magma skywards or perhaps head ashore to enjoy the vibrant restaurant scene in spirited Lipari.
Discover a melting pot of extravagant delights on the iconic French Riviera
Needing no introduction, the French Riviera is a classic yacht charter hot spot. The undulating coastline beckons, dotted with sparkling villas and smart beach clubs, whilst picturesque medieval towns and dramatic scenery prove a big draw to yachting enthusiasts.
Pray for lady-luck at Monaco Casino, soak up the cool vibe in effervescent St Tropez and relish the calm anchorages of Cap Ferrat. Peace and quiet reign in the Porquerolles, where cicadas chat to a hypnotic beat and hideaway coves pepper the landscape. Drop over to fashionable Hotel du Cap Eden Roc for lunch, then Cannes Bay for an afternoon of water sports fun, then sample the dynamic nightlife of Juan-les-Pins just a short cruise away.
French cuisine is unmistakable, with the Riviera making no compromises. From the pinnacle of Michelin Star dining through to family run, local establishments sequestered in hilltop villages, the culinary journey will never disappoint.
Perfect for yachting adventures, the Balearics each tell their own story
Highly popular and much loved, the Balearic Islands boast countless locations that can be fully appreciated whilst on a yacht charter.
Mallorca combines character, culture and romance into one, where the landscape is lush and the people welcoming. Expect striking views, superb Mallorquin cuisine and no end of great anchorages that typify this fabulous island. Natural beauty is ubiquitous in whitewashed Menorca where kayaking, trekking and mountain biking are widespread shoreside pursuits. With a laid-back vibe, plenty of beaches and mouth-watering seafood served in littoral bistros, relaxation comes easily.
There is so much more to Ibiza, often dubbed the party isle. Thanks to consistent easterly breezes, 300 days of sunshine per year and endless natural beauty, it ranks as one of the top Mediterranean sailing hot spots. Marinas and anchorages are ubiquitous, while plenty of quaint villages linger amid secret coves, bordered by creamy sands. Yet if you are looking to party with the in-crowd, when the sun goes down make a beeline for Ibiza Town filled with illustrious nightclubs.
Neighbouring Formentera offers a blissful yachting getaway amidst a strikingly beautiful landscape. Serene and quiet, this is a textbook spot to soak up the atmosphere as you kick back with a sundowner on deck
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