The most popular destinations for a charter cruise

Part of our series on skippered boats. Wondering where in the world you can rent a boat and experience an amazing, unique summer? There are countless possibilities, and we’re happy to guide you through them.

Some of the most important questions to answer before a setting said are: Where to rent a boat? Where to sail? Where will I have the best sailing experience? We've got the answers. While boat charters are available worldwide, some destinations stand out as particularly ideal for sailing. We've rounded up the places we most frequently charter boats.

Europe's most popular sailing destinations

One advantage of most European destinations is their easy accessibility, whether by car, bus, train, or frequent and affordable flights.

Boat cruise in Croatia

Croatia remains the top destination in the yachting world. With 1,185 islands, islets, and reefs, it boasts the second most indented coastline in Europe. There’s always something new to discover, with thousands of bays and beaches. Croatia offers a well-developed infrastructure of marinas, jetties, and services. It’s highly recommended for those new to boating who want a quiet, safe, and comfortable experience.

Cruise in Croatia

Cruising in Croatia can be wonderful.

Charter cruises in Greece

For a less touristy experience, Greece offers a relaxing holiday with beautiful beaches and quiet coves. Some Greek beaches are reminiscent of the Caribbean. Additionally, Greek cuisine is among the best in the world, making it a delight for food lovers.

Boat rental in Italy

Cruising in Italy has surged in popularity recently. The yachting infrastructure is improving, transport links are excellent, and the stunning architecture of Italian towns is a delight. Northern Sardinia and Sicily are particularly popular cruising destinations, and Italian cuisine is world-renowned.

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Boat holidays in Spain and the Spanish islands

Whether you choose to cruise off the coast off mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, Formentera) or go to the more adventurous Canary Islands, a holiday in Spanish waters is always a fantastic experience. The warmth of the locals and excellent food and wine add to the charm.

Boat rental in Montenegro

Relatively undiscovered by tourists, Montenegro offers sailing conditions comparable to Croatia but with lower prices and more tranquillity. It’s also great for hiking enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for exploring on foot.

Mountains and sea in Montenegro

The majesty of the mountains and the sea in Montenegro offers amazing views.

Yachting in the Orient: the Turkish Riviera

Recently, the popularity of Turkey as a yachting destination has been increasing significantly. The Turkish Riviera offers beautiful azure waters, the coastal services are excellent and yet it is not overcrowded with boats or tourists. Plus, the prices in Turkey are very reasonable, especially in light of the rapidly increasing prices of services in Croatia. The most popular boats in Turkey are gulets, traditional wooden vessels.

Boat cruise in Slovenia

Slovenia’s coastline is short compared to other Adriatic countries, but it offers clean, peaceful nature and fewer tourists. It’s a great option for avoiding crowds and enjoying a quieter experience.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Check out our detailed sailing guides to the most popular sailing destinations in Europe

Cruising in the Nordic regions

If you prefer cooler climates, Nordic destinations like Sweden, Finland, and Norway offer a unique experience. Sailing past fjords and majestic hills provides stunning scenery. These countries offer a different type of sailing adventure with pristine nature and slightly harsher conditions.

Sailing in Northern Europe

Yachting in Northern Europe offers something completely different from a cruise in the Mediterranean.

Where to sail on a boat in the Caribbean?

The white beaches and incredibly azure waters of the Caribbean are unparalleled. A cruise in this region promises tranquillity, spectacular panoramas with palm trees, abundant underwater life for snorkelling, and sun-drenched days. The ideal season for a Caribbean cruise is autumn, winter or early spring. In the summer, there are hurricanes or storms that are best avoided. This is the most common choice of sailors for winter boating holidays.

Popular islands for sailing in the Caribbean include Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Martin, Antigua, or the Bahamas archipelago or the stunning British Virgin Islands. Cuba, with its unmistakable culture, is also worth a visit, as is the country of Belize, which, although landlocked, falls within the Caribbean because of its characteristics.

Caribbean Sea

There's no substitute for the sea in the Caribbean.

Boat holidays in Asia

Are you more into Asian exotics? Here, too, you can enjoy a wonderful sail along the coast or islands in the azure sea. The most popular sailing destinations are Thailand, which, in addition to stunning beaches, offers great gastronomy and interesting Buddhist monuments, or Malaysia, which has abundant underwater life for snorkelling and beautiful scenery.

Thailand boat

Cruising in Asia is extremely picture perfect.

Coast of Africa from the boat

Cape Verde, consisting of ten large and five small islands in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa, has become a popular destination in recent years. It offers a vibrant and lush coastline with exciting sailing opportunities. However, according to some captains, the absolute best sailing can be found in the Seychelles. Here, you’ll discover crystal clear waters, coconut palms, uninhabited pristine islands, and pleasant temperatures year-round. You also have the unique opportunity to pet endangered giant tortoises in one of the local national parks.

 Seychelles beach

Seychelles is picturesque.

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Price for a boat per week without compulory fees (end cleaning, bed linens, etc). Hire skipper for 1000–⁠1400 € a week and additional crew from 600 € a week. Contact us for more details.
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Veronika Vlkovská

Veronika Vlkovská

Sales Consultant

+420 779998122veronika.vlkovska@yachting.com