As Summer rapidly approaches, minds wander and dreams of warm waters and sandy beaches become an allure that proves too much to resist. Switch off the computer, divert the phone and forget about the stress of everyday life with a tantalizing yacht charter holiday. Convinced? Of course you are! The 212 Yachts team is already excited for Summer. We couldn’t help but think about some far away exotic locations that we believe are the perfect yacht charter destinations for 2020. We have decided to share them with you!
The Dalmatian Coast – Top Yacht Charter Destinations
Croatia’s enchanting Dalmatian Coast is slowly becoming one of the most sought after yacht charter destinations in Europe. Largely thanks to the mystical medley of over 1,000 islands that dot the coastline. With it’s Mediterranean climate and developing infrastructure, this delightful stretch of the Adriatic is drawing the attention of the yachting elite, who wish to sample something a little bit different from bustling ports and chic boutiques of the West med. With such a large selection of islands to drop anchor beside and explore, hidden coves and luscious sandy beaches remain untouched, just waiting to be discovered. If your itinerary of remote island hopping allows, make some time for the Ancient Greek, Roman and Venetian influenced walled city of Trogir, which was recently declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. Make your way to the coastal town of Split, famous for its idyllic sandy beaches and 5th century Diocletian’s Palace.
Then move onto the serenely green island of Mljet, which hosts one of eight national parks in the region. A yacht charter on the Dalmatian Coast simply isn’t complete without a stop in Dubrovnik, whose Unesco protected Old Town will give you your fill of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. If the ancient walls look familiar, it’s because they are frequently featured in Game of Thrones as the walls of King’s Landing. MY SO’MAR – a favourite of ours available to charter on the Dalmatian Coast in 2020.
The Amalfi Coast – Stunning Yacht Charter Destinations
Offering respite from the crowds of Rome, the Amalfi Coast is a 50 km stretch of dramatic cliff-top villages, picturesque harbors and peaceful beach coves. Getting this region into our selection of the best yacht charter destinations. A popular holiday destination with ancient Romans, becoming one of the most adored yacht charter destinations feels like the natural progression of such a stunning region. The rambling hills of Positano allows you to immerse yourself in this startling landscape, with a climb to the Church of the Santa Maria Asunta rewarding you with cultural wealth, not to mention the panoramic views of the glittering water far below. On your descent, stroll to the Formillo Beach, which offers the beauty of the Spiaggia Grande, without the crowds. A short cruise along the coast brings the stunning town of Amalfi into sight in all of its brightly colored glory.
A romantic hotspot, drop anchor and maybe drop to one knee on the Terrace of Infinity, gloriously perched in the hills in the Ravello. Sip fresh Limoncello in the charming piazzas and before setting sail once again, savor the culinary delights of one of the many Michelin Star restaurants that proudly call this beautiful town home. An elegant and peaceful region, blanketed in history and culture, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most stunning yacht charter destinations capable of stirring passion and awe in those who set eyes on her climactic shores.
The French Riviera – Yacht Charter Destinations on the Cote d’Azur
Of all iconic yacht charter destinations, the French Riviera remains at the pulsating core of the world’s super yacht culture. Every year, the newest, largest and most extravagant super yachts migrate to the region, with the bustling ports that dot the captivating coastline showcasing some the finest vessels in the water to date. Renowned for it’s lavish lifestyle, breathtaking landscape and divine climate, the French Riviera annually allures the world’s elite. With famous faces such as Elton John, Jay Z, Roman Abramovich and Brad Pitt (to name just a few) regularly holidaying in the region.
Monaco
Dock alongside some of the behemoths of the super yacht scene in the famous Port Hercules, savor the culinary ingenuity of the three time Michel Starred restaurant Louis XV or roll dice on the famous tables of the Mote-Carlo Casino. If you prefer to leave the gambling to others, visit the region in May and sit wide-eyed in the ecstatic streets of Monaco as Formula One cars hurtle by at speeds of over 280 km per hour.
Cannes
Further down the coast lies Cannes, famous for it’s annual International Film Festival and chic waterfront boutiques (not to mention our fabulous office in Port Canto), along with Saint Tropez, a now infamous haunt of the rich and trendy. Of course the region offers so much more than it’s vibrant metropolitan havens, with picturesque towns eloquently perched along the bucolic coastline.
Eze
The historic town of Eze is a must-see, with the surreal ‘Le Jardin Exotique d’Eze’ offering spectacular panoramic views of the dazzling blue waters that dance below, along with a wealth of tropical flora.
Antibes
Take a stroll along the historic walls of Antibes, and marvel at the enchanting art collection kept in the Picasso Museum. If you seek more solitude, explore the islands that lie off of the coast of Cannes, and explore the secluded beaches found along the untouched stretches of coastline. MY Harvest Moon – a real Riviera treasure, available to charter in 2020
The Dodecanese Islands – Greek Yacht Charter Destinations
The Dodecanese Islands are a truly enchanting collection of 12 larger and over 150 smaller Greek islands that peacefully rest in the mystical Aegean Sea, adjacent to the Turkish coastline that seems to permanently beckon on the hazy horizon. These Greek islands stand strong in the face of economic disparity, and the friendly locals combined with the breathtaking scenery make these islands one of the best yacht charter destinations for 2020.
Of the 26 populated islands, Rhodes is absolute essential component of any Dodecanese itinerary, with the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, once looming over the entrance of it’s ancient Mandrati Marina. The medieval old town acts as a portal into the ancient world, with dainty cafes and lively tavernas housed in stone buildings that glow golden as the sun sets on the world heritage site. While the Colossus is long gone, cruising into the Port feels serene, with it’s once mighty presence ever lingering in the warm air. Make the short crossing to Symi, where Venetian villas litter the tumbling hills.
Ensure a visit to the volcanic island of Nisyros, and savor the silky white sand of Kos’ endless beaches. The Dodecanese Islands offer seclusion and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. With un-spoilt islands and crystal clear waters that dance so elegantly in the warm Greek sun this region is in the top yacht charter destinations. Take advantage of this surreal yacht charter destination, as it remains alarmingly un-discovered and un-spoilt. MY Sunkiss – the perfect luxury super yacht, available to charter in 2020 in the Dodecanese Islands
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast – Up and Coming Yacht Charter Destinations
It is the sparkling blue waters of Turkey’s southwestern coastline that led to the affectionate title of the Turquoise Coast. Developing infrastructure is making this region more yacht friendly than ever before. The fusion of Eastern and Western cultures makes for an enchanting experience, unlike any other found on a Mediterranean yacht charter. A hub of civilization for millennia, the relics of ancient dynasties scatter the dramatic landscape that defines the region. To our pleasure, many ruins are perched precariously on cliff-tops that overlook surreal anchorages, making them delightfully accessible to the super yacht explorer.
A particular highlight are the Temples of Apollo and Athena, a 2nd century BC site of worship that is perhaps one of the most surreal and spectacular in the ancient town of Side. The nearby city of Anatlya features the impressive Hadrian’s Gate, or head west to explore the underwater ruins of an ancient city at Kekova. It seems that every bay along the Turquoise Coast is gleefully close to rich archeological sites, all of which have their own captivating story to share.
Once you’ve had your fill of crumbling temples, work off some of the calories donated by your yacht’s chef on the 500 km Lycian Way hiking trail, or bathe in the world-famous, delectably warm and crystal clear waters. For overnights, seek berths in the modern marinas, or drop anchor in one of many hidden coves that are protected by the jagged mountains that overlook them. We expect to see rapid growth in the popularity of the Turquoise Coast as a yacht charter destination, so explore it while it remains a secluded paradise! MY Various – a beautiful Sunseeker available to charter on the Turquoise Coast in 2020.
These are just our first round picks for the best yacht charter destinations in 2020. If you haven’t already packed your bags, stay tuned for more of our favourite locations, which we will announce in the coming weeks. For all of your yacht charter needs, contact 212 Yachts and we’d be delighted to help make your dreams a reality.