The Yacht 2026 Charter Bucket List: Our Top Picks for Next Year

As the year draws to a close, now is the perfect time to start planning your 2026 yachting adventures. Chartering a yacht delivers an unparalleled blend of luxury, exploration, freedom, and relaxation—entirely on your terms, wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Next year promises an exciting mix of time-honored yachting destinations and emerging hotspots gaining serious traction. While the Mediterranean and Caribbean remain favorites for superyacht gatherings, an increasing number of charter yachts are venturing beyond the familiar to remote islands and uncharted waters. Explorer yachts and expedition-ready vessels are opening up thrilling possibilities for more adventurous, experience-driven itineraries.

The yacht charter landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, reshaping where and how guests choose to cruise. Remote, experiential destinations are just one part of the story. Eco-conscious chartering is gaining momentum, with itineraries designed to minimize environmental impact. Multigenerational charters continue their upward trajectory, offering experiences that resonate across every age group, no matter the destination. Meanwhile, wellness-focused yachting is becoming a defining trend for 2026 and beyond, with onboard specialists delivering everything from holistic treatments and nutritional programs to curated shore excursions centered on wellbeing.

From classic cruising grounds to pioneering new frontiers, 2026 promises to elevate the yacht charter experience like never before. Here are our top ten destinations to consider for your next unforgettable yachting vacation:

Indonesia 

Island-hopping in secluded luxury 

Indonesia has been making its way to many yachting bucket lists, and for good reason. With over 17,000 islands to choose from year-round, it is the perfect charter destination. Summer (June to September) brings the dramatic landscapes and rugged beauty of Komodo, while winter (November to April) is best for cruising the waters of Raja Ampat. Traditional sailing yachts chartering here add an authentic touch, and eco-conscious guests will appreciate the strict marine park regulations and culturally respectful opportunities. From world-class scuba diving and snorkelling, hiking into untamed, secluded beauty, spotting endemic wildlife, to relaxing while cruising past the most dramatic, remote landscapes. Otherwise, a hard-to-access location with limited infrastructure, yachting presents a perfect opportunity to explore Indonesia in 2026. 

Greek Islands

Iconic islands combined with under-the-radar spots

While not a new destination on the list, the Greek Islands have been luring in more and more yachts over the years and have become a standout favourite for yacht charters. Next year is expected to see another surge in chartering here. Alongside the classic yachting spots like Santorini and Mykonos, in 2026, why not explore more off the beaten track? Islands like Sifnos and Milos offer pristine and quieter anchorages far from the masses. Many head to Greece during the height of the Mediterranean summer season, but sailing in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn is also an option, with a temperate climate, gentler winds, and fewer crowds. 

Saudi Arabia, Red Sea

A rich past combined with a contemporary future 

This year, the Red Sea has emerged as one of the newest superyacht hotspots, driven by the opening of the NEOM Sindalah Marina and other luxury infrastructure, which is expected to continue welcoming more yachts for 2026 and beyond. Recent changes by the Suez Canal Authority and updated charter licenses have meant Saudi Arabia’s waters are now open and accessible to yacht charters. Yachting in the Red Sea offers incredible experiences, whether you dive into crystal-clear waters and untouched coral reefs, explore UNESCO sites like Al Ula to witness the contrast between old and contemporary with modern-day luxury, or visit Jeddah and its historic Al-Balad old town. The best time for cruising is November to March, when the weather is slightly cooler, making it more comfortable to enjoy various activities. 

Costa Rica 

Adventure and biodiversity at every turn

For 2026, Costa Rica is set to be a popular choice, and for many good reasons. One of the country’s standout selling points is its abundance of biodiversity, from the jungle-clad interior full of species to spot, to the many marine reserves surrounding both Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. A popular itinerary during the season from December to May typically spans from the Nicoya Peninsula on the northern Pacific coast down to the Osa Peninsula. From watersports like surfing, sportfishing, and scuba diving to activities and adventures in the rainforest ashore, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Adding to a Costa Rica yacht itinerary, and located around 550 kilometres off the mainland, is the UNESCO-protected and uninhabited Cocos Island, a volcanic national island park renowned for its spectacular underwater world. 

The Maldives 

Far-flung tropical escapes 

Flung out across the Indian Ocean are the 1190 islands and 26 atolls of the Maldives. This archipelago continues to feature in those yachting bucket lists for those seeking a tropical escape away from the typical Caribbean crowds. The peak yachting season is from November to April, when calm and clear waters await. In 2026, a spring opening is planned within the Zamini Islands, which will be the first to host a superyacht marina in the Maldives. Alongside new amenities, there is plenty already on offer, including world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities in the coral reefs surrounding the islands, excellent spots for surfing, and endless powder white sandy beaches perfect for relaxation and soaking up serenity and privacy. 

New England 

Coastal charm, outdoor pursuits, and football fever 

The picturesque scenes, coastal charm, and rich sailing heritage have long been drawing yachts into New England. A perfect 2026 yachting destination can include iconic destinations such as Newport, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod, and more. While island-hopping here, you can choose to soak up the sailing history and Gilded Age, enjoy secluded anchorages, idyllic coastal cruising, and get ashore for hiking, cycling, and to explore the quaint villages full of culinary delights and boutiques. The best season to cruise is from late May to early October.  With the 2026 FIFA World Cup jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, Boston is one of the host cities and an ideal base to combine watching the competition with a yacht charter in New England. 

Corsica & Sardinia 

Rugged coastlines, pristine waters, and glamour

Why settle for one Mediterranean yachting destination when you can easily combine two? Corsica and Sardinia are within a stone’s throw of each other and offer excellent yacht charter itineraries full of watersports, activities ashore, and Mediterranean dining, allowing you to explore both in just one week. Known for its dramatic coastline, the iconic Bonifacio, and secluded bays, Corsica provides serene anchorages and scenic cruising. Meanwhile, Sardinia features long sandy beaches and chic spots along the Costa Smeralda, like Porto Cervo, as well as the Maddalena archipelago with islands great for snorkelling. For a 2026 summer yacht charter itinerary, it is essential to book early, especially to secure berths in the sought-after marinas. 

The Grenadines

Sail south to explore the true Caribbean 

A yacht charter must-visit list can’t go without a Caribbean destination, and for winter of 2026, the Grenadines are proving popular. Typically reserved for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-track Caribbean yachting experience, the Grenadines are an island chain full of reefs, beautiful anchorages, and authentic Caribbean experiences ashore. Frequently hailed as the ‘true Caribbean,’ itineraries here usually begin in Grenada and can include the laid-back sailing island of Bequia, the private luxury hideout of Mustique, idyllic beaches of Mayreau, and down to the Tobago Cays, a marine reserve full of snorkelling opportunities. 

Croatia 

Popular Mediterranean hotspots 

Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is a yachting haven, ideal for an island-hopping adventure exploring the country’s natural beauty and rich history. With over 1,200 islands to choose from, Croatia is a must-visit Mediterranean cruising location. The classic route is typically from Split to Dubrovnik, stopping at islands such as Korcula and Hvar. For those interested in getting further away from the crowds, the Kornati Islands are an excellent choice. This national park is perfect for nature lovers to explore the pristine and secluded anchorages. Summer is the preferred month, but chartering in Croatia from late spring to early autumn is also ideal for weather windows and fewer tourists ashore. 

French Polynesia 

South Pacific serenity awaits 

With five archipelagos in French Polynesia to choose from, this South Pacific region is the ultimate yachting destination for a 2026 charter. Two of the most popular are the Society Islands, including Tahiti down to Bora Bora, and the low-lying Tuamotus, where you will find the iconic Rangiroa and Fakarava for world-class drift diving. A yachting itinerary in French Polynesia can include underwater watersport adventures and cultural experiences ashore, such as visiting Polynesian villages, learning about the island’s traditions, and experiencing the famous pearl farming. May to October is optimal for trade winds and stable weather. Whether you are looking for ultimate tropical relaxation or adventures, French Polynesia delivers.