Top 7 Best Mediterranean Yacht Charter Destinations

If you’re thinking about yachting then you really have to head to the Mediterranean. At Arburton we are specialists at organising yacht trips away and we know the best places to go. Here some of the best Mediterranean yacht charter destinations.

Have you always dreamt of sailing around the Mediterranean on a yacht charter?

Cruising the Mediterranean on a yacht charter is the ultimate dream holiday. There’s a rich diversity of cruising spots and countries to visit, and you could spend years exploring all the different regions, scenery, cultures, and cuisine that’s on offer.

The problem is choosing the best place for your Mediterranean yacht charter, as there are so many beautiful places you could go!

With so many incredible options, we understand that choosing your dream cruise spot is quite a challenge. That’s why we’ve listed seven of the best yacht charter destinations in the Mediterranean to help you make your choice.

1. Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast

Offering over a thousand unspoiled islands to discover on the Dalmatian Coast, it comes as no surprise that Croatia is one of the Mediterranean’s cruising hotspots in recent years.

With few of the islands inhabited, you’ll find that most of the tiny islands are quiet and secluded, leaving you and your guests to enjoy your Mediterranean yacht rental in privacy.

For ultimate tranquility, the Kornati Archipelago, located in the Northern part of the Dalmation Coast, is the perfect spot for peace and quiet in sublime surroundings.

However, if you do fancy a night or two away from the isolation, the summer resort island of Hvar is famous for its non-stop partying and vibrant beaches.

2. Italy’s Amalfi Coast

Italy’s Amalfi coast may be one of the most famous and photographed in the world, which is incredible considering it’s only 30 miles long.

It seems this dramatic coastline has it all – sparkling azure waters, gorgeous offshore islands, picturesque hillside villages, delicious seafood, and ancient ruins. You won’t get bored sailing the sea of the Amalfi Coast, that’s for sure!

As the coastline is a short one, it means you won’t have to travel far to pack in visits to the renowned Italian destinations of Positano, Cetara, Ravello, Sorrento, and Amalfi itself.

Still got time on your hands? Pompeii, The Bay of Naples, and the island of Capri are all a short cruise away.

3. Malta

Malta is a typically lesser-visited cruise destination, meaning it won’t be full of Mediterranean yachts.

This is a huge bonus, as you’ll have the opportunity to sail the seas of this underrated gem without the crowds.

Discover beautiful harbours, prehistoric ruins, and stunning coves and beaches that pit into the country’s diverse coastline. There you can expect to find rocky inlets, unique red sand beaches, and sparkling waters as you cruise the coast.

The best part about sailing Malta? The country offers the longest sailing season in the Mediterranean – you can even visit in December and expect fine weather!

4. The French Riviera

How could we make a list of the best Mediterranean yacht charter destinations without including the world-famous French Riviera?

The ultimate destination to be, the South of France dishes up delicious French cuisine, hosts incredible all-night parties, and is home to stunning stretches of sand to lounge on.

Some of the most famous yacht hubs of the Cote d’Azur area include Cannes, Nice, St Tropez, Antibes, and Monaco.

This is no sailing holiday for you if you’re seeking peace though. Expect The French Riviera to be thriving with life and activity all summer long.

When you are desperate for respite from the buzz you can, however, head to the island groups situated near Toulon. Porquerolles, Isle du Hyères, Ile du Levant, and the Iles du Lérins off Cannes are pretty much all serene and unspoiled.

5. Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

Despite the concerns of safe cruising that have plagued the Eastern Mediterranean over recent years, Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is one of the most stunning places for Mediterranean yacht charters to cruise.

After all, it offers more coastline than any other Mediterranean country to discover. It’s also home to a unique cultural mix of both Eastern and Western traditions.

The weather is flawless, and there’s no end of secluded coves, inlets, and bays to explore and take a retreat from the bustling cities on the mainland.

What’s more, Turkish cuisine is simply sublime, as are the warm and welcoming locals of the country.

6. Greece’s Ionian Islands

When we think about cruising the Mediterranean, often we picture the renowned Greek Ionian Islands, made famous by Mamma Mia!

Offering seven main islands and many islets to explore, these Greek islands are home to flat, clear waters, teeny fishing villages, authentic waterfront tavernas, and seafood to die for.

From Corfu in the North to Zakynthos in the South, each history-steeped island possesses a unique personality. You’re bound to adore one at the very least.

Expect the islands to feature lush forested mountains covered in pine, cypress and olive trees, and seas that range from the clear turquoise to a deeper and darker blue.

7. Spain’s Balearic Islands

While the Balearic Islands are a popular and crowded choice for yacht vacations, there is still plenty of sublime sailing to be had around these famous Spanish islands.

From visiting the vibrant party islands of Ibiza and Mallorca to discovering the secluded coves of the Southeast coast, there’s plenty to do depending on your interests.

Be warned – in high season there’s a lot of traffic and harbours can get heavily congested. Luckily, the sailing season extends almost year-round so consider visiting off-season for a less hectic experience.

Ready for Your Mediterranean Yacht Charter?

Usually, yacht charters in the Mediterranean operate roughly from mid-April to late October in most parts. However, in Malta and the Balearics, there’s no real beginning or end to the sailing season. So, you can sail the seas any time you like!

For quieter sailing, it’s best to avoid the peak holiday months of July and August, when most of Europe is on holiday at the same time.

A Mediterranean yacht charter offers endless possibilities of discovering the most beautiful parts of the area, and our team is here to help you plan the ideal yacht charter itinerary based on your and your group’s personal preferences. Discover more about our luxury yacht charters here.

Bon voyage!