Most popular boats to rent in 2024

In 2024, traditional brands such as Bavaria, Sun Odyssey and Lagoon will be among the most popular ships on charter. Yachtsmen valued comfort, reliability and ample space, especially for catamarans. In this article, we take a look at the season's most desirable models and what makes them so attractive for charter cruising. Which boats were the most popular for charter and what's so great about them?

As with every year, the Bavaria brand continues to dominate the top spots in sailing tour sales. It’s a classic choice for those who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday, with gentle sailing in the comfort and safety of a well-equipped boat. Whether sailors choose the smaller Bavaria 34 Cruiser or Bavaria 37 Cruiser models, or go for the longer Bavaria 40 Cruiser, Bavaria 41 Cruiser, or Bavaria 46 Cruiser, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. In fact, 99% of clients are satisfied with their Bavaria experience. These boats are a reliable option that delivers, both in terms of sailing performance (whether under sail or motor) and onboard amenities.

More and more sailors are seeking agile and adventurous sailing holiday, which has brought sportier boats to the forefront of charters this year. Models like the Oceanis 46.1, Oceanis 48, Oceanis 51.1 have become increasingly popular, as have boats from Slovenian manufacturer Elan, where sales are dominated by the Elan 45 Impression and Elan 40 Impression. These boats, despite having a more aerodynamic hull and being able to sail more nimbly, offer comfortable amenities and a pleasant stay on board.

Boats from the French shipyard Dufour have solidified their place in the charter statistics of 2024 and they’re likely to remain popular for many years to come. Models like the Dufour 460 Grand Large and Dufour 412 Grand Large were frequently seen sailing back and forth this year. Dufour boats are favoured for their stability, spacious sterns that comfortably accommodate larger groups, and often feature a large foresail. In addition, Dufour yachts come with premium amenities such as barbecues and air conditioning, making them a top choice for comfort and convenience on the water.

Sun Odyssey charters have performed particularly well this year. Whether it's the Sun Odyssey 34 or the larger Sun Odyssey 440, these boats offer great value, combining a balance of speed and comfort. They are available at attractive rental prices and provide a perfect middle ground for sailors seeking both a lively sailing experience and onboard comfort.

The stalwarts of the market, Lagoon catamarans, continue to dominate the sales statistics in 2024. These dual-hulled boats, such as the Lagoon 400 or Lagoon 42, are a common sight at sea. We offer Lagoon catamarans worldwide, so whether you're sailing in Croatia, Greece or Italy, or seeking an exotic destination, Lagoon is a trusted choice.

Overall, we've observed a growing demand for catamarans in the 2024 season compared to last year. More and more customers are choosing catamarans for their comfort and spaciousness. They’re especially popular with families, groups of friends, and even for corporate team building events. In tropical destinations, the shallower draft of catamarans is a significant advantage. For more details on the features of catamarans, check out why you should rent catamaran or our guide — First time on a catamaran: what you need to know.

What’s trending in boat equipment?

According to yachtswoman Jasmin, the trend in boat equipment is shifting towards increased self-sufficiency. Solar panels, drinking water generators, and wind turbines are becoming highly sought-after features. The aim is to make boats more environmentally friendly and less reliant on frequent port stops. Looking at the new 2025 models hitting the market, this trend is clearly taking hold, with solar panels gradually becoming a standard feature on many boats.

Everyone wants a good night's sleep on holiday, and air conditioning plays a key role in making that possible. It cools the boat, reducing night sweats and the discomfort of tossing and turning in the heat. While some sailors still enjoy sleeping on deck or in a hammock under the boom or at the bow, many of our clients insist on having air conditioning for a more comfortable experience.